planning to apply to oxford ppe w/ natural science heavy background, any experience?
hey everyone!!
i'm planning to apply to oxford ppe, and my a-level subjects include physics, chemistry, further maths, and econ. i chose mostly natural science subjects and had lots of natural science extracurriculars because i thought that was my passion, but along the way i realized i'm way more interested in social sciences.
although oxford ppe does not have any required subjects, but i'm afraid my natural science background will hinder my acceptance compared to someone with a social science subject selection.
any advice would be highly appreciated, thank you so much!!
i'm planning to apply to oxford ppe, and my a-level subjects include physics, chemistry, further maths, and econ. i chose mostly natural science subjects and had lots of natural science extracurriculars because i thought that was my passion, but along the way i realized i'm way more interested in social sciences.
although oxford ppe does not have any required subjects, but i'm afraid my natural science background will hinder my acceptance compared to someone with a social science subject selection.
any advice would be highly appreciated, thank you so much!!
Reply 1
This will not matter, so long as you can do some activities relating to ppe for your ps and interview prep 🙂
Reply 2
The maths will be an advantage for economics. Physics and Philosophy are closely aligned in some respects as they both ask similar questions e.g. what is matter?
Reply 3
PPE at University of Oxford doesn’t require specific A-level subjects. What matters much more is how well you think, argue, and engage with ideas. Physics and further maths show strong analytical skills, which are very useful for philosophy and economics. Econ already aligns directly with the course.
What really counts is showing genuine interest in social sciences now. Have you done wider reading in politics or philosophy? Can you clearly explain why your interests shifted? That clarity and intellectual curiosity will matter far more than your subject mix.
If it helps, I found the Oxford PPE course page useful for understanding what tutors are actually looking for.
What really counts is showing genuine interest in social sciences now. Have you done wider reading in politics or philosophy? Can you clearly explain why your interests shifted? That clarity and intellectual curiosity will matter far more than your subject mix.
If it helps, I found the Oxford PPE course page useful for understanding what tutors are actually looking for.
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