how competitive is oxbridge psychology?

I'm in year 12 and oxbridge isn't my lifelong dream or anything, but I'd apply if I stood a chance. I've heard psychology is really competitive but I'm considering psychology and philosophy maybe so that could be less competitive ?? unless they consider all psych applicants holistically
My gcse grades are average 88887777665, my school doesn't think I should apply to oxbridge because I've had extenuating circumstances and they think my alevel grades will suffer too much but I think I'd be able to secure A*AA predicted. I've already been working on some supercurriculars and extra academics so I'm not too concerned on that end. just wondering if it's worth the stress or not?

If you have the predicted grades, apply. The only way to be sure of not getting an offer is to not apply.
Definitely don’t apply for a course that seems less competitive if you aren’t interested in all aspects of the course. Anecdotally, I know very strong applicants who went for “less competitive” courses and got rejected. I also know applicants with weaker stats on paper who applied to more competitive courses and got offers.
If you have extenuating circumstances, Oxford/Cambridge will take them into account. However, do secure that A*AA predicted because you need that. Look into any admissions tests you have for your course and prepare accordingly for them.
Even if you don’t get an offer, it will make you a much stronger applicant for your other uni choices. You have nothing to lose except one spot on your UCAS choices list. Best of luck!!

I'm in year 12 and oxbridge isn't my lifelong dream or anything, but I'd apply if I stood a chance. I've heard psychology is really competitive but I'm considering psychology and philosophy maybe so that could be less competitive ?? unless they consider all psych applicants holistically
My gcse grades are average 88887777665, my school doesn't think I should apply to oxbridge because I've had extenuating circumstances and they think my alevel grades will suffer too much but I think I'd be able to secure A*AA predicted. I've already been working on some supercurriculars and extra academics so I'm not too concerned on that end. just wondering if it's worth the stress or not?

Here is the PPL reading list: ppl-suggested-reading-list-June-2013.pdf
Also, here is "The Oxford University - Alternative Prospectus:"
College Suggester - Oxford University Alternative Prospectus
The TSA admissions test is very important in being selected and shortlisted for the interviews.
I wonder what your 8s and 7s in and the 6s and 5s at GCSE?
Are you taking A-Levels in Maths, Biology and Psychology?
You could always apply next year in October 2026 with your A-Level grades achieved and work experience, perhaps? Especially if you don't get your school sixth form to support your Oxford application?

My 8s are in English language, literature, physics, RE, 7s in maths, biology, chemistry, business, 6s in geography and art and 5 in german. I'm taking A Level Biology and Psychology but not maths I take economics as my third and EPQ. I'm definitely considering applying next year instead once I've got my grades but I'm not sure yet. thank you for the advice!