Applying to top unis with achieved grades

So my predicted Alevels were awful, hoping to increase them massively come May. My GSCE's contextually are pretty mediocre. Chances of me getting into a top 5 uni in the UK for PPE next year with achieved grades?? Given I meet the min. requirements. GCSE's mostly 7s, 2x8s and 1x9. help pls if anyone has been in this situation.

Reply 1

Scotland Yard

Volunteer Team

Your GCSEs actually don't matter a great deal as long as you meet the entry requirements for them, which is usually a 5/6 in English and Maths. So if you work really really really hard and you get good A-levels, then yes, you can apply and have a reasonable chance of getting in wherever you'd like (although nothing is guaranteed, of course).

Reply 2

McGinger

All you can do is work your socks off - really work, don't just play at it - and see what grades you actually achieve in August. As above, your A level grades will be the big determinant, not your GCSEs.

Reply 3

hi_itsme

Original post

by Lolz1233

You could also consider applying through clearing. Exeter had PPE for clearing this year for BBB/BBC? I think, as long as you achieve grades similar to those in August, you could still secure a spot in 2026.