Is it worth resitting my gcses ?

I achieved 99887776 and D2* in my gcses. Two 9s in English, 8 in biology an 8 in maths , a 7 in chemistry physics and computer science and a 6 in music. I got a D2* in ICT. I'm currently doing fm, maths and biochem for a levels. I'm looking at applying to a Russel group university but I'm worried my gcses will hold me back. I'm looking at applying or UCL or Cambridge ( though that seems highly unlikely now ). I was really shocked at my gcse results and felt like I could have done better. I'm looking at applying for medicine but once again after my gcse results this seems unlikely. Would it be worth resitting chemistry and physics gcse and maybe even biology? And then possibly taking on a humanities gcse as I'm naturally good at humanities ( I would have to teach myself). I'm not sure :frown:

Reply 1

eshayana

Original post by Unleashedthebats

Firstly, congratulations on your excellent GCSE results—achieving 9s, 8s, and even a D2* is truly impressive! For competitive courses like medicine, GCSEs do play a role, but most Russell Group universities, including UCL and even Cambridge, don’t have strict requirements for perfect grades in every subject. They often look for strong grades in specific subjects, particularly sciences and English, but they also value your A-level performance, entrance exam scores (like the UCAT or BMAT for medicine), and interview performance.

With your current results, you’re already in a strong position. While some applicants might have all 8s and 9s, resitting GCSEs could be unnecessary and might even be risky, as universities sometimes prefer seeing progression from GCSE to A-level. Admissions tutors know that everyone has strengths in different areas, and they’ll likely be more focused on your A-levels now.

Considering your interest in medicine, focus on achieving top A-level grades in your chosen subjects, as well as preparing for any entrance exams and interviews. Showing passion and commitment through work experience or volunteering in healthcare settings will also help strengthen your application. Since you mentioned being strong in humanities, you might consider that as a backup option if you're also interested in fields like medical ethics or healthcare policy, where your humanities skills could be an asset.

In summary, it may not be worth resitting your GCSEs since you already have strong grades. Instead, focus on excelling in your A-levels, preparing for entrance exams, and building a well-rounded application. Cambridge and UCL are still within reach, and with your commitment, you’re likely to impress admissions tutors with your well-rounded profile and dedication to medicine. Hope this helps ♡