Irrelevant A levels
I am currently doing RS, Biology and Stats (yes, statistics A level), and I am interested in Law, and Politics and Philosophy (PPL, PPE, PP, LP or plain Law) type of degrees but I am worried about my university prospects since my subject combo is not the strongest or even relevant aside from RS (which is very slightly relevant) and I'd be competing against people doing English, History, Politics and so on, putting me at a disadvantage.
What are my chances of getting into 'good' universities and programs (below Oxbridge but still quite respected)? And what could I do to strengthen my chances?
PS: I originally did chem, bio and rs because I believed I wanted to go into health. Realised I was wrong and I would NOT do good in chemistry so I switched to stats really late (other subjects like politics, maths and psych said it was too late and did not let me switch to those, so stats was my last choice).
PS2: And if it's worth anything I'm also doing an EPQ dissertation on immigration ethics and policy.
What are my chances of getting into 'good' universities and programs (below Oxbridge but still quite respected)? And what could I do to strengthen my chances?
PS: I originally did chem, bio and rs because I believed I wanted to go into health. Realised I was wrong and I would NOT do good in chemistry so I switched to stats really late (other subjects like politics, maths and psych said it was too late and did not let me switch to those, so stats was my last choice).
PS2: And if it's worth anything I'm also doing an EPQ dissertation on immigration ethics and policy.
Reply 1
14
I don't think it's a terrible combination. Stats is a unique A level, so frame it as a strength rather than a weakness. Statistics and the law have quite an interesting history - that might make for some good reading material.
(edited 3 weeks ago)
Reply 2
20
As above, these three subjects are perfectly okay. Law has no required subjects at all, Unis just want 3 high grades. Economics and related degrees will need a Maths subject, you don't actually need A level Economics which might surprise you. You need to check the entry requirements for a range of different courses at a range of Unis. If Stats isn't stated as a alternative to Maths, then just email the Uni and ask. Stop over-worrying yourself by just guessing or assuming.
Reply 3
Original post
by McGingerAs above, these three subjects are perfectly okay. Law has no required subjects at all, Unis just want 3 high grades. Economics and related degrees will need a Maths subject, you don't actually need A level Economics which might surprise you. You need to check the entry requirements for a range of different courses at a range of Unis. If Stats isn't stated as a alternative to Maths, then just email the Uni and ask. Stop over-worrying yourself by just guessing or assuming.
Overthinking sabotages me more than it helps me, I'll admit it 😔 My worry is that if I apply to unis like KCL or UCL and I get the same grades as someone who did History, Pol, etc. they will most likely have the upper hand for acceptance. Howv, I'll try to excel and stop worrying.
Reply 4
20
Original post
by Arielle LuciaOverthinking sabotages me more than it helps me, I'll admit it 😔 My worry is that if I apply to unis like KCL or UCL and I get the same grades as someone who did History, Pol, etc. they will most likely have the upper hand for acceptance. Howv, I'll try to excel and stop worrying.
Marketing legislation means that all Unis have to be entirely up-front and honest about entry requirements - they must state clearly which, if any, A level subjects are essential or 'preferred'. There are no secrets, no 'info that only some people know'. If they prefer you to have 'an essay based subject' or 'two sciences' etc they must state that.
Look at the entry requirements carefully - and calmly. Make a list of the Unis/courses where you meet the entry requirements. Then if you still have any concerns go to Open Days and quiz the admissions staff - they will be entirely honest with you because they don't want to waste their own time processing pointless applications.
Reply 5
Original post
by McGingerMarketing legislation means that all Unis have to be entirely up-front and honest about entry requirements - they must state clearly which, if any, A level subjects are essential or 'preferred'. There are no secrets, no 'info that only some people know'. If they prefer you to have 'an essay based subject' or 'two sciences' etc they must state that.
Look at the entry requirements carefully - and calmly. Make a list of the Unis/courses where you meet the entry requirements. Then if you still have any concerns go to Open Days and quiz the admissions staff - they will be entirely honest with you because they don't want to waste their own time processing pointless applications.
Look at the entry requirements carefully - and calmly. Make a list of the Unis/courses where you meet the entry requirements. Then if you still have any concerns go to Open Days and quiz the admissions staff - they will be entirely honest with you because they don't want to waste their own time processing pointless applications.
Thanks a lot!
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