Can I get into Cambridge/Imperial Maths? I have 3A* achieved and self studying FM

Hello,

I have already applied to Cambridge, Imperial, LSE and UCL for maths 2026 entry after achieving 3A*s in Maths, Physics and Economics and I am now studying Further Maths privately for which I am predicted an A* by my further maths tutor. I attended a mediocre private school that offered further maths, but I found the quality of teaching to be poor and also found that because of that I had to work much harder and spend more time on further maths than any other subject. During all of this, I also developed anxiety as I always felt overwhelmed with work. I did not tell many people that I dropped further maths when I did, my friends have informed me that I may not get into either Cambridge or Imperial as they want someone who can study 4 A level within year 12 and year 13, not separately. Has someone been in a similar situation as their words have induced a considerable amount of anxiety within me and I would love to hear if someone has taken this path and achieved success.

Thank you.

(edited 3 months ago)

Reply 1

Admit-One

Universities Forum Helper

(linking to the Cambs version of your thread to save people cross-posting advice).

Reply 2

UniofLawstudent2

Official Rep

Original post

by meaningless-appr

Hello,
I have already applied to Cambridge, Imperial, LSE and UCL for maths 2026 entry after achieving 3A*s in Maths, Physics and Economics and I am now studying Further Maths privately for which I am predicted an A* by my further maths tutor. I attended a mediocre private school that offered further maths, but I found the quality of teaching to be poor and also found that because of that I had to work much harder and spend more time on further maths than any other subject. During all of this, I also developed anxiety as I always felt overwhelmed with work. I did not tell many people that I dropped further maths when I did, my friends have informed me that I may not get into either Cambridge or Imperial as they want someone who can study 4 A level within year 12 and year 13, not separately. Has someone been in a similar situation as their words have induced a considerable amount of anxiety within me and I would love to hear if someone has taken this path and achieved success.
Thank you.

Cambridge, etc, do not have a formal requirement that Further Maths must be taken at the same time as your other A-levels.
Admissions tutors are primarily looking for evidence of academic ability, problem-solving skills, and genuine interest in the subject.
Excelling in Further Maths, even if studied privately, is a strong demonstration of both ability and determination.
Many students have taken non-traditional routes, dropping or adding a fourth A-level, studying privately, or taking a subject outside school, and still been successful in securing places at top universities.
What matters most is how you present your story: your dedication, self-motivation, and how you managed challenges like poor teaching or personal anxiety. Universities appreciate resilience and initiative as much as grades.

It’s normal for friends and peers to give opinions that increase anxiety, but try to focus on your achievements: 3 A* and predicted A* in Further Maths are excellent, and your extra effort shows strong commitment.
If you feel comfortable, you can also mention in your personal statement or interview the context of studying Further Maths privately, it shows your passion and perseverance.

Remember, your path may be different from others, but it doesn’t make it any less valid. Plenty of students have taken unconventional routes and succeeded at top universities. Keep believing in the work you’ve done, you’re clearly capable.

Best of luck,
Ulaw,
Alfred.

Reply 3

Admit-One

Universities Forum Helper

Original post

by UniofLawstudent2

Cambridge, etc, do not have a formal requirement that Further Maths must be taken at the same time as your other A-levels.

Not in the same sitting, (as its very common to take Maths in lower sixth and FM in upper), but many will have a requirement for it to be taken within the same 2 year period where it was an option. The thread starter here is taking it in a third year of study, which could weaken their application for places as competitive as Cambs and Imperial, which is why the advice is to communicate with their options ASAP to explain their situation.

Original post

by UniofLawstudent2

If you feel comfortable, you can also mention in your personal statement or interview the context of studying Further Maths privately, it shows your passion and perseverance.