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UCL below requirements? a long shot?

I am predicted ABB in History, Biology and Psychology and have applied to 4 universities.
So far:
University of Manchester: Social Anthropology ABB (offer received) - this is my top choice
University of Exeter: Anthropology AAB (offer received)
University of Liverpool: Evolutionary Anthropology BBB (offer received)
Oxford Brookes University: Anthropology BCC - (offer received)

I have one space to add another university and I could go for another more realistic choice like Goldsmiths or SOAS but the courses there aren't my favourite and I don't want it to feel like a wasted choice. I fully know that, like Exeter, if I applied to UCL or Bristol (AAB requirement for both) there is a strong chance I wouldn't get an offer. So really I'm just wondering if its worth a shot or is super unrealistic. I really like the courses at both and UCL would mean I could live at home while studying. Any input would be appreciated!!

My options for my 5th choice:
UCL: Anthropology AAB
Bristol: Anthropology AAB
SOAS: Social Anthropology ABB
Goldsmiths: Anthropology BBB
Brunel: Anthropology and Sociology ABB
(edited 1 month ago)
Bristol - you will almost certainly get an offer, and its a far nicer Uni environment than UCL.
Are you eligible for a contextual offer? If so then no reason not to apply to UCL.

If you aren't eligible for a contextual offer it could be worth applying to as an "aspirational choice", as you're only one grade off. Anthropology is often undersubscribed, and so you may still get made the standard offer of AAB. You would need to achieve the standard offer on results day though!
Original post by notacluetbh
I am predicted ABB in History, Biology and Psychology and have applied to 4 universities.
So far:
University of Manchester: Social Anthropology ABB (offer received) - this is my top choice
University of Exeter: Anthropology AAB - above my predicted grades so not counting on an offer
University of Liverpool: Evolutionary Anthropology BBB - second choice
Oxford Brookes University: Anthropology BCC - more secure choice
I have one space to add another university and I could go for another more realistic choice like Goldsmiths or SOAS but the courses there aren't my favourite and I don't want it to feel like a wasted choice. I fully know that, like Exeter, if I applied to UCL or Bristol (AAB requirement for both) there is a strong chance I wouldn't get an offer. So really I'm just wondering if its worth a shot or is super unrealistic. I really like the courses at both and UCL would mean I could live at home while studying. Any input would be appreciated!!
My options for my 5th choice:
UCL: Anthropology AAB
Bristol: Anthropology AAB
SOAS: Social Anthropology ABB
Goldsmiths: Anthropology BBB
Brunel: Anthropology and Sociology ABB

Hi there! 😊

Congrats on your Manchester offer—that’s fantastic! For your fifth choice, Brunel could be a great option. Brunel has just been ranked 1st in the UK for Anthropology according to the National Student Survey 2024! The Anthropology and Sociology course combines real-world applications with contemporary sociological perspectives, giving you a versatile edge. It matches your ABB prediction, making it a balanced, realistic choice, and the campus offers a friendly, supportive environment while still being super close to central London.

Good luck! 🚀

Sophie
Brunel London Student Rep
Original post by notacluetbh
I am predicted ABB in History, Biology and Psychology and have applied to 4 universities.
So far:
University of Manchester: Social Anthropology ABB (offer received) - this is my top choice
University of Exeter: Anthropology AAB - above my predicted grades so not counting on an offer
University of Liverpool: Evolutionary Anthropology BBB - second choice
Oxford Brookes University: Anthropology BCC - more secure choice
I have one space to add another university and I could go for another more realistic choice like Goldsmiths or SOAS but the courses there aren't my favourite and I don't want it to feel like a wasted choice. I fully know that, like Exeter, if I applied to UCL or Bristol (AAB requirement for both) there is a strong chance I wouldn't get an offer. So really I'm just wondering if its worth a shot or is super unrealistic. I really like the courses at both and UCL would mean I could live at home while studying. Any input would be appreciated!!
My options for my 5th choice:
UCL: Anthropology AAB
Bristol: Anthropology AAB
SOAS: Social Anthropology ABB
Goldsmiths: Anthropology BBB
Brunel: Anthropology and Sociology ABB

Hi there,
Your list looks strong! For your 5th choice:

1.

UCL or Bristol (AAB):
These are long shots but not impossible. UCL, in particular, considers contextual offers for eligible students, which could lower the entry requirements. If you meet their criteria, it’s worth applying.

2.

SOAS (ABB):
A respected option with slightly lower requirements than UCL/Bristol. SOAS often has places available through Clearing, so you could keep it as a backup if needed.

3.

Goldsmiths (BBB):
A safer choice, though if the course isn’t appealing, it might not be worth adding unless you’re open to it.

Advice:
If UCL is your dream, apply—it’s a high-risk, high-reward choice, especially if you’re eligible for contextual offers. Otherwise, SOAS is a good middle ground with flexibility through Clearing.
Good luck!


MK
SOAS Student Rep
(edited 1 month ago)

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