Maths GCSE Grade (8 vs 9

[Kohikit]

DS is applying for Economics at uni. He has fabulous predictors with 4A*s in Maths , Further Maths, Economics and Geography.

Only thing I'm wondering is how the admissions dept will see the 8 in GCSE maths and not a 9. His only 8s at GCSE were in maths and physics the rest were 9s. My main question is does the admissions department care between an 8 Vs a 9 in GCSE maths.

And yes my DS did sit the TMUA exam. He is hoping to study at Cambridge, LSE, imperial etc for economics.

It won't really make any difference. That A level combination is excellent and 4 A stars predicted and all 8s and 9s is great. Though economics has a very low offer rate at Oxbridge, Imperial, LSE - in DDs year Cambridge was 1 in 10, Imperial 1 in 25, Oxford 1 in 18, LSE 1 in 15 or so. So need to be careful to have safer choices on as well (or have year out as back up plan). My DD applied in stages because of this and that was helpful - initially just Oxford and LSE then when she got Oxford offer she knew remaining where just for insurance choices.
LSE can be very slow and she didn't hear until May.

Entrance exams are very important to do well at. Interview wasn't too bad but needed to think about new things on your feet for Oxford one.

Thank you. You've answered everything I wanted.

Its worth looking at the course content as well especially if he would prefer geography / human related topics as well as maths. Imperial has very little geography related topics but obviously excellent for maths. Cambridge is maths heavy but also has several options in history, politics, development economics from year 1. LSE degree is very heavy on maths but does have opportunities for geography related topics.

Thank you. I know LSE allows optional modules. All the choices have been for "straight economics" except for imperials EFDS course.