Our general expectation is that students apply with three A-Levels, and we usually base our offers to applicants upon them having studied three relevant A-Levels. Our admissions teams are more concerned with a student being prepared for the course than them having a larger number of A-Level qualifications.

If, though, a student is applying for a maths intensive science course (e.g. Physical Natural Sciences or Chemical Engineering) and has the opportunity to take Further Maths as a fourth A Level alongside Maths, Chemistry and Physics, this can provide a strong basis for all the potential pathways within the degree.

Our interviewers and College admissions teams look for depth and passion for the chosen course in Cambridge applicants. Regardless of how many A Levels a student takes, we recommend super-curricular engagement to demonstrate this subject interest. In many cases this can be as much as, or more of, an advantage than taking additional A Levels.

Have a look at Trinity’s preferred A Level subject combinations page. For advice specific to Cambridge, have a look at the Subject Matters information pack, and be aware that individual colleges may have particular requirements.

Sometimes it’s hard to know where to start exploring beyond the curriculum so we have put together a dedicated webpage with all the information and resources in one place! You could also start by asking your subject teachers for advice, and speak to librarians at school or in your local public library, as they’ll be able to direct you to lots of books and resources. If there’s a university near you, it’s worth investigating whether you can get access to their library, which will have the sort of academic books and journals you need.

Trinity’s Prospectus has lots of information on the College and details about individual subjects. The official Cambridge University Prospectus has all the basics on courses and colleges – you can find it here. You might also want to take a look at the Alternative Prospectus – written by students for students, it’s especially useful if you’re trying to decide on a college, as it has crucial information like weekly rent, price of an average lunch, and an ‘ask a student’ button. Many colleges publish their own alternative prospectuses as well – check their websites.

Prospective applicants often worry about doing lots of extra-curricular activities like sports, music or volunteering. While these things are certainly worthwhile and it’s good to have a balance between academic work and activities outside the classroom, extra-curricular activities that aren’t related to your chosen course won’t affect your chances of getting a place at Cambridge. Instead, we focus on “super-curricular” activities: reading, research and taster courses relevant to your chosen university course.