Should I take a gap year to do A level maths? need some advice pls

So I an in Y13 currently predicted AAB. I want to do a degree ideally in finance separately or accounting and finance, however I don't take Maths so I am limited from the big target unis like LSE, UCL and Warwick. I know I have a chance with unis like Nottingham, Durham etc but I want more.
That's why I'm considering doing a gap year to take a level maths and try my luck with LSE and UCL. Obviously downside is its an extra year but it allows me to save up money, strengthen my application by doing maths and gain more work experience and allows me to travel.

The only thing making me hesitate is my average gcses, being 9977665555 with a 6 in maths. Do I stand a chance at the top unis even with A level maths?
Advice would be appreciated as I want to get into a top university but I don't know if doing maths is worth it because of my GCSES.

Reply 1

llyww3

hey! I was in your position three years ago. However, in my case, I took A-level maths initially but received a C in the end. I was not satisfied with my results in maths. Then I decided to take an extra year off to retake A-level Maths and received an A*. And I believe it was worth it. The gap year that I took was the best in my life. I also got into the uni I wanted to go to and did the course I wanted to take. I'd say give it a shot; a year is enough time to learn and retain everything from A-level Maths, but keep in mind you'll need to work really hard because it's a difficult course. If you can get an A - A* in Maths, your chances of getting into UCL or LSE are high. Finance is a highly competitive course at both UCL and LSE, so getting at least two A*s is ideal.

Wish you all the best with your application process and whatever decision you make in the end!

Reply 2

ineedadviceplz

Thanks so much - given me some needed confidence🤣. Do you think my gcses are an issue or is a good grade in a level maths the overpowering factor? And do you think I can learn all of the content in a year - I know you did it and retook so just wanted to ask about the workload.