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Original poster

GCSE options

26 replies

Shallwejusteatchocolateinstead · 24/02/2026 22:54

What are the best gcse options for an oxbridge application. Do you need a language or to go all
academic or is it just coming out with 7 8 and 9’s that count, so long as you pick to allow the alevel route required.
Thanks

OP posts:
Manteiga · 11/05/2026 15:57

Oxford say:-"We recommend that candidates take those GCSE subjects that they enjoy the most and are confident in achieving good grades in."

https://www.ox.ac.uk/admissions/undergraduate/courses/admissions-requirements/uk-qualifications

Cambridge say:-"Of the Level 2 qualifications you are taking, we recommend as many as possible be academic in focus." I think they're talking about GCSEs vs BTECS and the like there. At any rate common sense would suggest that taking GCSE Photography or BTEC Level 2 Sport, say, alongside English, Maths, Triple Science, History, and French isn't likely to scupper anyone's chances.

https://www.undergraduate.study.cam.ac.uk/apply/before/accepted-qualifications

Check which qualifications we accept | Undergraduate Study

Find out which high school qualifications we accept, including A levels, IB and other UK and international diplomas and certificates.

https://www.undergraduate.study.cam.ac.uk/apply/before/accepted-qualifications

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