Should I bother applying to LSE for sociology if I don't meet the GCSE requirements?

I got a 5 in English Language, 5 in Foundation Maths, 5 in Combined Science, 5 in Sociology, and 4 in English Literature. I'm aware these grades fall quite significantly below their entry requirements (and are in a limited amount of subjects) so was concerned about applying at all. Key context for these grades being that I was not in education from year 7 to half way through year 11 due to mental health reasons, and when I did eventually attend I was in a special needs unit teaching myself all these subjects (hence why I was also made to take only core subjects). Sociology I requested specifically to still do because I did (and still do) have a genuine passion for the subject. I'm aware this would fall under extenuating circumstances, but would it be enough to make LSE essentially overlook my GCSE grades? Or would I still be significantly unlikely to be considered in comparison to other applicants that otherwise present as strong an application?

My predicted A-level grades are A*A*A (Sociology, Criminology, Media).

Reply 1

Ad.ellie

Original post

by Eggstatic

I got a 5 in English Language, 5 in Foundation Maths, 5 in Combined Science, 5 in Sociology, and 4 in English Literature. I'm aware these grades fall quite significantly below their entry requirements (and are in a limited amount of subjects) so was concerned about applying at all. Key context for these grades being that I was not in education from year 7 to half way through year 11 due to mental health reasons, and when I did eventually attend I was in a special needs unit teaching myself all these subjects (hence why I was also made to take only core subjects). Sociology I requested specifically to still do because I did (and still do) have a genuine passion for the subject. I'm aware this would fall under extenuating circumstances, but would it be enough to make LSE essentially overlook my GCSE grades? Or would I still be significantly unlikely to be considered in comparison to other applicants that otherwise present as strong an application?
My predicted A-level grades are A*A*A (Sociology, Criminology, Media).

Realistically, abit difficult but why not give it a try. It’s amazing where you are given your extenuating circumstances. Other aspects are important too, LSE really takes the PS in to account.

Reply 2

thegeek888

Original post

by Eggstatic

I got a 5 in English Language, 5 in Foundation Maths, 5 in Combined Science, 5 in Sociology, and 4 in English Literature. I'm aware these grades fall quite significantly below their entry requirements (and are in a limited amount of subjects) so was concerned about applying at all. Key context for these grades being that I was not in education from year 7 to half way through year 11 due to mental health reasons, and when I did eventually attend I was in a special needs unit teaching myself all these subjects (hence why I was also made to take only core subjects). Sociology I requested specifically to still do because I did (and still do) have a genuine passion for the subject. I'm aware this would fall under extenuating circumstances, but would it be enough to make LSE essentially overlook my GCSE grades? Or would I still be significantly unlikely to be considered in comparison to other applicants that otherwise present as strong an application?
My predicted A-level grades are A*A*A (Sociology, Criminology, Media).

As long as you submit in your reference your extenuating circumstances, then you should be fine.

Also, LSE only asks for AAB for BSc Sociology, which is significantly lower than many other courses at the LSE.

You must write a 'stellar' UCAS Personal Statement. Because the LSE judges your application heavily on the UCAS Personal Statement. 😉