Unsure on what Oxbridge will think of my a level choices

I do bio, chem and English lit. I wanted to keep my options open because I love sciences and English. I want to do either a degree in biomedical sciences or English lit at Oxbridge. I've looked and for some of the science courses I fit the entry requirements, although a lot require maths. For the English courses I should be fine. However, I just worry because my a levels aren't strictly stem or humanities, does this look less competitive or not appealing to Oxbridge because it doesn't show I'm interested in one specific thing. Also, my a levels make if hard for me to apply to supercurriculars schemes which could help me get into Oxbridge, like STEM smart because I'm sure you needed maths a level. And all these schemes which could make me more competitive, I’m missing out on, especially for science because every single one wants maths. And I know good supercurriculars are really important for Oxbridge
I just thought my choices were gonna be the best way to keep my options open, whilst still having a chance at Oxbridge, but now I don't know lol.

Reply 1

Kuriknowsbest98

17

Original post

by Anonymous

I do bio, chem and English lit. I wanted to keep my options open because I love sciences and English. I want to do either a degree in biomedical sciences or English lit at Oxbridge. I've looked and for some of the science courses I fit the entry requirements, although a lot require maths. For the English courses I should be fine. However, I just worry because my a levels aren't strictly stem or humanities, does this look less competitive or not appealing to Oxbridge because it doesn't show I'm interested in one specific thing. Also, my a levels make if hard for me to apply to supercurriculars schemes which could help me get into Oxbridge, like STEM smart because I'm sure you needed maths a level. And all these schemes which could make me more competitive, I’m missing out on, especially for science because every single one wants maths. And I know good supercurriculars are really important for Oxbridge
I just thought my choices were gonna be the best way to keep my options open, whilst still having a chance at Oxbridge, but now I don't know lol.

Honestly, your choices aren’t bad at all they actually show genuine interest in both sciences and humanities, which is a good thing if you’re not 100% sure yet. Oxbridge does like to see focus, but they also value intellectual curiosity, and taking a mix of subjects can demonstrate that you’re someone who engages deeply with multiple areas.
Yes, it’s true that some supercurricular schemes and STEM opportunities require Maths, which makes it harder to tick all the “traditional” boxes for science. But don’t panic Oxbridge admissions tutors are aware that students come from different combinations of A levels. For biomedical sciences, not having Maths can be a hurdle at some colleges, but it’s not an automatic dealbreaker if you’re strong in Bio and Chem, and you can demonstrate interest and engagement in other ways (like lab experience, research reading, summer projects, independent study).
For English Lit, your choices are perfectly suited, so that’s a solid backup or main plan. Also, supercurricular doesn’t have to be limited to structured schemes you can do personal projects, read widely, write essays or analyses, or even explore interdisciplinary stuff linking science and literature (Oxbridge loves initiative). That counts just as much as formal programs.

Reply 2

Scotney

20

https://www.uniq.ox.ac.uk/courses
Have a look at this and see if you can apply.My son did Bio,Chem,Geog and History A levels before gaining a place for Biology.His humanities helped him with his essays no end.
Also look out for relevant MOOC's.

(edited 1 month ago)

Unsure on what Oxbridge will think of my a level choices

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