University replies confusing?

Question

I have had all my replies back from the Universities I have applied for this year.

In particular there is one that has given me a conditional offer 'Obtaining a Pass overall and grade C in Maths'. The thing about this is that it's nearing the end of the actual year and there is no way I can take the maths exam again before September.

I will be applying as a Mature student (if that counts for anything). Do you think they will still let me in if I gain a pass/merit in the course I am doing and take my maths exam within the Uni?

I am going to give them a call anyway and see, but I'd like to hear your views on this first.

I'm not currently taking a Maths class on the course I am taking (HND Software Engineering).

I called the University today and the person I spoke to said that the 'Administrator' over this course isn't in until next week and she didn't know how to answer my questions.

Answer 1

That's pretty normal. Basically, so far, you look good and they've accepted you. However, they don't want you to slack off and completely stop trying now that you've gotten in. So, they've given you a minimum level you need to do until the end of the year.

They say "Pass" because they want you to pass whatever classes you're still taking. At some schools, this might just mean a D. So, they want you to at least get a C in whatever math class you're taking.

If you're currently taking a math class, they want it to be for a letter grade so they can see a C. If it's too late to convert it so you're graded on a letter scale, you better call to see if that's ok.

Answer 2

From the course you're doing I wouldn't be overly hopeful about the Maths Grade C being waived, as it sounds like it's a minimum requirement.

However, university admissions people are very used to dealing with people who, for one reason or another, have mitigating circumstances when it comes to the requirements, so you should give them a call as soon as it is possible to do so.

The earlier you get to talk to someone, the more proactive you will look. However, be wary of badgering them as after Easter they get increasingly busy, and you don't want to brand yourself a nuisance before you've even got in the door!!

It is possible that they may attach a condition to your place (eg that you have to pass and gain a C in Maths within the 1st year of starting your course) before you can continue on the HND course.

Be frank, understanding and accepting of their decision, and very receptive to any advice the admissions officer gives you. You can only go forward from there.

Incidentally, it's better that you are advised by the correct personnel, so it's a good thing that the person you spoke to didn't take it any further with you as you could have been misadvised which could have had major consequences for you either way.

Good luck!

Answer 3

I went into University as a mature student and some courses will waive the conditions. Perhaps maths is important on the course you are applying for (it sounds like it is) I think you're right to give them a call.

Answer 4

I don't think universities can set a Maths GCSE paper, so I wonder if they have read your application correctly. They might think you are going to sit your Maths again this year. I would try and speak to the admissions tutor for the course to get it clarified. It may be they have a Maths test you can sit in place of the GCSE. We do at our institution.

Answer 5

Yes, I would give a call to the admissions people. I have never yet met someone on a uni staff that did not want to help if they could.

--That Cheeky Lad
(Working on second master's degree at the moment, psychology)

Answer 6

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