Do universities care about how many subjects you take in IGCSE/GCSE?

I’m a Y10 student, taking 10 subjects (Core subjects + Geography, Computer Science, Economics, Chinese). I’m struggling with Computer Science, the grade achieved is only 4 (GCSE grade) in the latest term. I’m thinking to drop this subject, so I could focus more on the other 9 subjects. However, in such competitive situation, I’m wondering should I put more effort in CS, so as to achieve a good for all 10 subjects, or drop CS, so as not to put the other 9 subjects at risk. But even I could have good results in 9 subjects, I worry it’s still not competitive, as many students are taking 10/11 Subjects. Can anyone who has experience in applying universities give me some advice?

Reply 1

Jinglebells234

No I think as long as you have the core subjects and then 3 options it’s fine. Not all schools offer that many choices anyway. It’s better do well in your GCSEs then do so many. I would drop it. Because uni’s will look at your GCSE grades and if they see a 4/5 it will make you application less competitive

Reply 2

lorainlam

Original post

by Jinglebells234

Thank so much for your advice!

Reply 3

McGinger

Universities will clearly state any specific GCSE grades required on their websites - typically just Maths and/or English, depending on the degree subject you are applying for. These are not flexible - if you apply without the stated grades, you will get an immediate rejection by that Uni.

If you are applying for competitive Universities, or for competitive subjects at any University, they will also look at your overall GCSE profile as part of their assessment. This usually forms only a small % of your overall application score, but it can be the difference between 'offer' or 'no offer' where Unis have to choose between otherwise identical applications.

Most Unis look at your 'top 6' or 'top 8' GCSEs etc - so taking 10 is not going to get you any advantage, it'll just make it more likely that all your GCSE grades will be lower because iy was too much work, and therefore is essentially a waste of time.