Applying with grades lower than the entry requirements

3

These uni things r giving me a headache😭, My predicted grades right now are ABC, and I have done an EPQ based on the subject I want to do, and predicted B/A for it. I have also done a foreign language and got a B on it. And I am thinking of applying for architecture at UCL, but my predicted grade is a bit lower than the entry requirements of AAB, is it still worth applying? If my portfolio is outstanding, how far is it going to get me?🤧🤧 My other choice would be Newcastle and Reading, is it a good choice?

Reply 1

UniofReading

Official Rep

14

Original post

by Gabrielleeeeeee

These uni things r giving me a headache😭, My predicted grades right now are ABC, and I have done an EPQ based on the subject I want to do, and predicted B/A for it. I have also done a foreign language and got a B on it. And I am thinking of applying for architecture at UCL, but my predicted grade is a bit lower than the entry requirements of AAB, is it still worth applying? If my portfolio is outstanding, how far is it going to get me?🤧🤧 My other choice would be Newcastle and Reading, is it a good choice?

Good afternoon,

It's always great to have an aspiration university and a safe university. This means you will have a backup and your dream university.

If you have specific admissions questions about your EPQ, you can email the university directly and ask their admissions office for their opinion. They may be able to offer you advice.

The University of Reading assesses every application on an individual merit basis, ensuring that every student's application is considered; this is the contextual offers scheme. However, this does not mean that every student receives an offer from the university.

If you have any course-related or general university questions, the University of Reading offers an ambassador scheme where prospective students can message current students. You can find more information here.

Good luck with your applications. If you have any further questions, please don't hesitate to let us know.

All the best,
Ella
Bsc Ecology

Reply 2

UniofReading

Official Rep

14

Hi, please email Admissions inquires 👉
[email protected] for any questions in your case. Reminder that we do also offer foundation programs - https://www.reading.ac.uk/ready-to-study/study/subject-area/foundation-programmes-ug with lower grade requirements - some even CCC (like I did and they were a great gateway and transition access way from a levels and uni. I can talk more about this too, just let me know! :smile:

Kind Regards,
Sid
- UoR Student Ambassador
- LLB Law w/ International Business (Yr1)
- Business Management (Foundation)
my working day is: thursday

Reply 3

LSBU

Official Rep

11

Original post

by Gabrielleeeeeee

These uni things r giving me a headache😭, My predicted grades right now are ABC, and I have done an EPQ based on the subject I want to do, and predicted B/A for it. I have also done a foreign language and got a B on it. And I am thinking of applying for architecture at UCL, but my predicted grade is a bit lower than the entry requirements of AAB, is it still worth applying? If my portfolio is outstanding, how far is it going to get me?🤧🤧 My other choice would be Newcastle and Reading, is it a good choice?

Hey, I totally get how you’re feeling applying to uni is stressful.

So, about UCL yes, the entry requirements are tough (AAB), but if you’ve got an outstanding portfolio, definitely go for it. Bartlett (UCL's school of architecture) is super competitive, but they care a lot about creativity and originality, not just grades. I’ve heard of people getting in with slightly lower predicted grades because their portfolio and interview were strong. So don’t rule it out just be prepared that it's a reach.

But, LSBU it’s honestly underrated. The studio culture here is super hands-on, the tutors are approachable (some still work in the field), and we have a lot of practical design work rather than just theory. It’s intense, but in a good way. And they actually look at you your ideas, your portfolio, your potential not just your grades.
I had predicted grades lower than what some unis were asking for, but LSBU saw value in my portfolio and how passionate I was. Plus, being based in London means there’s endless inspo and access to architecture firms, exhibitions, and talks.
So if UCL doesn’t work out, it’s not the end of the world. Focus on your portfolio, apply to a mix of places, and don’t sleep on unis like LSBU they give people real chances and solid support.
You’ve got this 💪🏼 and if you ever want to see examples of student work or what it’s like here, I’m happy to share more!

Reply 4

Jamie230

1

Original post

by Gabrielleeeeeee

These uni things r giving me a headache😭, My predicted grades right now are ABC, and I have done an EPQ based on the subject I want to do, and predicted B/A for it. I have also done a foreign language and got a B on it. And I am thinking of applying for architecture at UCL, but my predicted grade is a bit lower than the entry requirements of AAB, is it still worth applying? If my portfolio is outstanding, how far is it going to get me?🤧🤧 My other choice would be Newcastle and Reading, is it a good choice?

Honestly, I don't know what my grade was when i applied for uni. I did 2 courses before applying last year, an extended diploma in art and design (a level equivilent) and a foundation course in art. For my extended i got a merit, and for my foundation, i have no idea, i didn't get an email or letter, and i wasn't contacted by my college. However, i was offered 2 places and now study. I applied for 5 unis, as it was reccomended, and only one of them said they accepted my course. I think when you're applying, as harsh as it can sound, be reasonable with where you are applying for, but also go for the dream. Most universities will factor everything in, not just your grade, so don't limit yourself

Reply 5

Farja

1

hello,
Just wondering did you end up getting an offer from ucl? I have similar predicted grades.

(edited 3 weeks ago)

Reply 6

Gabrielleeeeeee

OP

3

Original post

by Farja

hello,
Just wondering did you end up getting an offer from ucl? I have similar predicted grades.

hey , hmm Yh abt that, I didn’t apply for it, as I have double checked that their entry requirements on their official website, saying that their minimum requirements must be met and it’s non-negotiable. Yet even though one of my grades have boosted up to an A*, I have still haven’t reached the entry requirements and alternatively are not eligible for contextual offer as well. So Yh… hopefully that help? How about you what university are u apply to?

Applying with grades lower than the entry requirements

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