Is it necessary to take Physics as an A level if I want to do a Maths degree at Cambridge?

Question

I'm just about to start 6th form and my current subjects are Further Mathematics, French and English Language.

I want to do a degree at Cambridge in pure maths so I just wanted to know how important a Physics A level is to my chances of being accepted in 2 years time!

Please help!

=]

Answer 1

If it says "highly desirable" that basically means you will have to be someone they simply can't turn down to get in without it. You'll lose every tiebreak if they are choosing between you and other people who do have it.

And...I'm confused...you surely can't be doing Further Maths but not Maths?

I would seriously consider doing Physics. I think you will be harming your chances of getting in if you don't. Any chance you can do 5 AS levels? If you're Cambridge material it shouldn't be too much like hard work, especially not with Further Maths as one of them.

Answer 2

Typical A level offer AAA + STEP

Essential: A level Mathematics and AS Further Mathematics;

Highly Desirable: A level Further Mathematics, Physics. STEP normally required.

The websites might help you:

http://www.cam.ac.uk/admissions/undergra...

http://www.cam.ac.uk/admissions/undergra...

http://www.cam.ac.uk/admissions/undergra...

Hope this helps, good luck.  :-)

Answer 3

It's not really necessary to study Physics at A-Level at all if you're going to do a maths degree, but it will look good on your application. Just concentrate on the maths and you'll still get in if you do well.

Good luck!

Answer 4

Not necessary but it does say physics is "highly desirable".

Answer 5

I've just got into Oxford for maths and I did Physics but my friend did the same whereas she took History and Economics. It's not essential but it really helped for doing the mechanics side. Mind you, I don't know many other people starting the course with me who took it.