Can you get into Cambridge or Oxford with 3 'A' grade A-Levels?

Question

I have the option of choosing 4 which is how students normally get in, but my mind is pondering about whether it will be too much.

Any opinions would be greatly appreciated.

Answer 1

The answer is yes BUT you need to understand that 3 A grades is a necessary rather than a sufficient condition of getting a place.  Oxbridge have more applicants with 3 A grades than there are places available, so they look for something extra.  Some applicants will be doing extra A Levels, some may be outstanding at sports or music, some may have done an interesting extended project, and so on.  

The other thing you need to remember is that, as well as A Level grades they will also look at GCSE and AS Level performance.  They will prefer applicants with straight A*s at GCSE and they will be aware of A Level units that have been re-taken.

Answer 2

unfortunately you'll be competing against people who have taken 5 A Levels. Plus 10 or 11 A*s at GCSE. If you really want to go and think you're Cambridge material, challenge yourself and take 4. If you don't succeed, chances are Cambridge will move too fast for you.  

Answer 3

I know plenty of people who've got in with 3 As. If you don't want to take 4 then take 3 and spend the extra time researching your subject so you can dazzle them at interview.

Answer 4

I'm not sure about Oxford, but I've been looking to apply for Cambridge myself and from their prospectus it says that you can apply and be accepted with 3 A levels but they would prefer 4.

Just because you have 3 doesn't mean that they're going to treat you any different from the people that have 4.

That's what the prospectus says anyway.

It says it all on their website.

Good luck =)

Answer 5

You can but you would have to show in your application that you are excellent in all areas. You need to show that you take an interest in your studies outside of school, are engaged in a lot of extracurriculur activities etc.

Answer 6

No, you need more than that or parents with a very high influence.