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Key Takeaways on A-Level Choices for Oxford & Cambridge
1. Why choices matter
Oxford and Cambridge look closely at your A-Level subjects. Some areessential(without them you will not be considered), others arestrongly recommendedand make your application more competitive.
STEM Courses
Mathematics (Oxbridge)
- Essential:A-Level Mathematics (both)
- Further Maths:
- Cambridge: effectivelyessentialfor most applicants
- Oxford:very strongly recommended
Natural Sciences (Cambridge)
- Essential:At leasttwoof: Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry, Biology
- Very common and strong combination:Maths, Physics, Chemistry
Medicine (Oxford & Cambridge)
- Essential:Chemistry (both)
- Strongly recommended:Biology
- Also valued:Mathematics
- Oxford typically expectsthreescience/maths A-Levels (e.g. Chemistry + Biology + Maths/Physics).
Engineering (Cambridge)
- Essential:Mathematics and Physics
- Strongly recommended:Further Mathematics
Computer Science (Oxbridge)
- Essential:Mathematics
- Highly desirable:Further Mathematics