Computer Science Uni Choices

Hi everyone,

I’m applying for Maths and Computer Science courses this year. My predicted grades are 4 A*s, and I’m sitting the TMUA in January.

So far, I’ve chosen the following universities:

Imperial College London – Mathematics and Computing
University of Warwick – Discrete Mathematics
University of Bath – Computer Science and Mathematics

I’m currently unsure about my fourth and fifth choices. I’m deciding between UCL, Durham, and Manchester. UCL would be my preferred option among these due to its reputation, but it requires the TARA exam, which takes place only a few days after the TMUA — meaning I’d need to prepare for two admissions tests at once.

Between Durham and Manchester, I understand that Durham has a stronger academic reputation overall, whereas Manchester offers a much livelier student life and city experience, though it might be slightly less prestigious.

I’d really appreciate any advice or opinions on which of these would be the best fit - (or any other unis which you think would be good)

Thanks!

Reply 1

McGinger

Imperial College London – Mathematics and Computing
University of Warwick – Discrete Mathematics
University of Bath – Computer Science and Mathematics

All of these, and UCL and Manchester, are mega-competitive courses. They get thousands of applications (yes, thousands) and every year they reject applicants who meet or even exceed their entry requirements. This means that you might not get an offer from any of these Unis, and therefore your other 2 choices need to be far more realistic since they might be the only offers you get.

Reply 2

dtspookyy

Original post

by McGinger

Imperial College London – Mathematics and Computing
University of Warwick – Discrete Mathematics
University of Bath – Computer Science and Mathematics
All of these, and UCL and Manchester, are mega-competitive courses. They get thousands of applications (yes, thousands) and every year they reject applicants who meet or even exceed their entry requirements. This means that you might not get an offer from any of these Unis, and therefore your other 2 choices need to be far more realistic since they might be the only offers you get.

i would rather apply aspirationally and if I dont receive offers I can find the same course in clearing which I wouldve otherwise used my choice on

Reply 3

McGinger

Original post

by dtspookyy

i would rather apply aspirationally and if I dont receive offers I can find the same course in clearing which I wouldve otherwise used my choice on

A risky strategy - what you want may not be in Clearing at all.

Reply 4

Kayak1

McGinger is correct, this is a risky strategy, you are highly likely to not find a course that suits you. Have a look at Sheffield or Newcastle (both great universities and highly regarded but perhaps a little less competitive)
Instead of this, you could simply apply to all highly competitive universities, hoping you get in, and you could soon take a gap year if you don’t receive an offer - instead of applying to a university which doesn’t appeal to you.
Either way it is completely up to you!!