Matching Subjects to University Courses

The Single Most Important Research Task

If you take away one practical action from this entire course, let it be this: before you finalise your A-Level choices, check the entry requirements for any degree courses you might be interested in. This is the single most effective way to avoid making a mistake that limits your options later.

University entry requirements are specific, publicly available, and non-negotiable. They are not hidden or mysterious. Every university publishes them on their website, and UCAS provides a central search tool. Checking them takes an hour or two. Not checking them can cost you years.

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Required vs Preferred vs Useful Subjects

When you look at university entry requirements, you will notice that subjects are described with different levels of importance:

Required Subjects

These are A-Level subjects you must have to be considered for the course. If you do not have them, your application will be rejected regardless of your grades, personal statement, or other qualities.