That old chestnut - what GCSE grades are desirable for Oxbridge

[PamBeasleyHalpert]

Sorry I know it's been done before but just wanted to hear any recent information/experience.
I understand that Oxford looks at GCSE results more closely/puts more emphasis on them than Cambridge. If a student doesn't do AS Levels then are GCSEs looked at equally by both, along with predictions for A Level?
Thanks in advance

[stonecircle]

Surely all universities will need to look closely at GCSE results now A levels are two year courses?

[BubblesBuddy]

There is plenty of evidence on university web sites that they are looking at GCSEs for highly competitive courses. My DDs school always said at least 6 at A. How that translates to 8/9 grades I am not sure, but someone will no doubt say they had half an A and were fine! Many, on the highly oversubscribed courses will have more than 6 A for Oxbridge. Medicine used to average 10 A at Oxford. I think a broad spectrum of GCSEs is fine with the majority at very high grades. Recruiting universities won't care as much because they need bums on seats - look at clearing!