Advice

Hello, I am currently in year 12 and I want advice on maximising my chances to get in to any one of, Cambridge, Warwick, imperial or any other russel group uni ( the other two option are not decided yet). I plan on studying computer science and I have an immense love for mathematics and cs. For my GCSEs i got: 9998888876. I currently do a levels maths, further maths and computer science and will do an EPQ in year 13. Any advice on maximising my chances to get in for cs? Does me doing 3 a levels instead of four limit my chances? I’m very lost help would be much appreciated :smile:

(edited 2 months ago)

Reply 1

gracea0119

Original post by UKSMWIEN

hi, I'm a year 13 and have currently received 4 offers to study engineering (all Russell groups).
definitely stick to just 3 a levels and the epq. Universities dont often care for 4 a levels as a lot of colleges don't allow it, and it's a LOT more work. Try and center your EPQ around computer science, as much as you college will tell you that you can research anything you want, there is definitely a lot of benefits of it being related to your chosen degree (perhaps even research the modules taught at the unis you're looking to go to and chose a research topic related to one of these modules).
I highly recommend applying to zero gravity, you get a mentor and access to loads of masterclasses and support with uni applications.
Also look into the UCL widening participation scheme, they host lots of in person and online masterclasses, some in computer science aswell.
Really try to actively participate in class, not only will it help you academically but it will also increase your chances of your teachers giving you good predicted grades, the higher your predicted grades the higher your chances are of getting into top unis and from my experience it makes the offers come through a lot faster compared to people who only just meet grade requirements.
I would also recommend the imperial mA*ths program, I'm not sure when the application deadline is but if you've missed it for this year definitely apply next year!
Another good thing to do is completing a MOOC (massive open online course), it doesn't take long and looks really good on a personal statement.
Also look into the Sutton trust summer school, UNIQ program, and other summer school programs, there's loads of free ones held by various unis and would looks great on an application.
Also your GCSE grades are really great so well done, most unis don't look at it but I know Cambridge does and they are definitely good enough for them
sorry I know this is a lot of information but hopefully it helps! let me know if you have any more questions