Can I get into Oxford or Cambridge if I have bad GCSE but good A-Levels?

Question

I have bad GCSE, but great A-Levels do I have a chance for Oxbridge? my GCSE at school were crap and I wasn't really trying, I got mostly C's and D's but I worked hard at college and got 3 distinctions in my BTEC nationals (equivalent to 3 A's in A-levels) and an 'A' in my maths A-level. I know that my GCSE does not reflect my true ability but do I still have a chance for Oxford university and Cambridge university?

Please answer.............

Answer 1

You would need to apply to get a result. Oxford and Cambridge can consider you based on your academic and extra-curricular activities,and your personal essay.

Are you trying to secure a scholarship? The University of London - King's,University,LSE,Royal Holloway,Imperial etc can also consider your application.

If you need to apply through UCAS let me know as I am a UCAS Advisor.

Answer 2

You might not get in, but apply anyway (you have five choices on the UCAS form). It's not impossible, but Oxbridge is pretty snobby.

They don't really go for BTEC's, I know they're technically equivalent, but they're not really available in truly academic subject.

If I was a gambling man, I'd bet against you. But go for it anyway, there is a slim chance.

If there is a marked improvement, they may make an exception (especially if you're well connected or your parents make a big donation).