Applying to uni this autumn - how important is GCSE Maths 2020??

[buffbuff2020]

My son will be applying to do a degree in a Business related subject this autumn. Lots of the top unis are asking for a minimum B grade in Maths (we're in Wales, can't remember English equivalent).

My son had been predicted a B throughout Y10&11 but ended up being awarded a C. I personally think he was the victim of being a quiet, unassuming asian boy, but that would not have been grounds to appeal unfortunately. I am heartbroken and feel robbed but the system in Wales for appeal was basically 'dont even bother'

What are people's experiences of applying to uni where they did not meet the minimum GCSE requirements? Is there any point?

Thanks in advance!

Can't he resit? While most places, even highly ranked ones, won't specify any GCSE grades other than passing, Business is a competitive course and it would be a risk. That said decent A level grades would be more important so always worth a punt.

Depending on which uni he wants to go to and the course universities do have GCSE grade requirements.

He needs to check the universities he wants to apply to and make sure he’s got the grade they want.

I think the moment for resitting has passed now that hes come to the end of y12.

I've been looking at courses and most of the ones ive looked at (russell group at least) specfically state that a B in maths is a requirement. Im just wondering if people have experience of applying regardless of this and what the outcome was. He is able to meet the a-level requirements but his GCSE maths grade is a bit of a thorn in our sides

Not all RG unis will need a B. Warwick, QM, Cardiff for example. If he's determined not to resit then in the first instance I'd email those that do ask for a B, and ask how they'd view his application. Then make sure that at least two or three of his choices don't need the B, and take a risk on the others.

@titchy

Not all RG unis will need a B. Warwick, QM, Cardiff for example. If he's determined not to resit then in the first instance I'd email those that do ask for a B, and ask how they'd view his application. Then make sure that at least two or three of his choices don't need the B, and take a risk on the others.

Actually Cardiff was one of the ones asking for a B!

That's helpful advice though, I'll email a few and see how we get on.

Cheers

So it does! I'm surprised - as one of the lower ranked RG they might be more flexible if A levels are good though.

He needs to email btw. Not you.

I work at one of the unis that require the B in GCSE Maths & English, it really is non negotiable. If they would accept a C it wouldn’t state B & we’re so oversubscribed, especially for Business courses, it would be a no. If he won’t consider a resit, he could try submitting a Mitigating Circumstance form but if you didn’t appeal, it’s unlikely this would be accepted.

@Shinyflowers

I work at one of the unis that require the B in GCSE Maths & English, it really is non negotiable. If they would accept a C it wouldn’t state B & we’re so oversubscribed, especially for Business courses, it would be a no. If he won’t consider a resit, he could try submitting a Mitigating Circumstance form but if you didn’t appeal, it’s unlikely this would be accepted.

That's really helpful to know - although bitterly disappointing!

To be honest, the grounds to appeal in Wales were pretty appalling. You could only appeal if you believed there to be an administrative error in the school submitting your grade to WJEC.
(if you're interested: www.wjec.co.uk/home/summer-results-2020-everything-you-need-to-know#tab_0)

Thanks again - useful to have info from the horses mouth