For many students aspiring to study in the UK, the prestigious G5 universities are their dream academic destinations. However, with so many programs to choose from, students often feel lost, unsure of which university to apply to for their desired major.
In this guide, we at Pinnacle Global Academy (PGA) have compiled an overview of the G5 universities’ strongest programs, along with their A-Level requirements, essential subjects, and recommended electives. This will help you target your studies more effectively and step confidently towards your academic goals.
G5 Universities’ Top Programs and A-Level Requirements
University of Cambridge
University of Cambridge is renowned worldwide for its excellence in science education. Whether it’s engineering, mathematics, economics, or natural sciences, Cambridge’s programs stand out. The Natural Sciences program, in particular, is a flagship course, blending mathematics, physics, chemistry, and biology, and offering students the flexibility to tailor their studies.
Engineering
A-Level Requirements: A*A*A
Test Requirements: ENGAA
Interview: Yes
Applicants for Cambridge’s engineering program must take A-Level Mathematics and Physics, with a strong recommendation to also take Further Mathematics, Chemistry, Biology, or Computer Science.
Mathematics
A-Level Requirements: A*A*A
Test Requirements: STEP (Candidates must achieve a grade 1 or higher in STEP 2 or 3)
Interview: Yes
For aspiring mathematicians at Cambridge, A-Level Mathematics and Further Mathematics are mandatory, with A* grades required in both. A-Level Physics is also a common choice for math applicants.
Natural Sciences
A-Level Requirements: A*A*A
Test Requirements: NSAA
Interview: Yes
Natural Sciences is a cross-disciplinary program that is both a flagship and a unique offering at Cambridge. It requires students to take A-Level courses in the sciences, such as Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Mathematics, and Further Mathematics.
Economics
A-Level Requirements: A*A*A
Test Requirements: ECAA (Some colleges may require TMUA)
Interview: Yes
As one of Cambridge’s signature programs, Economics requires students to take A-Level Mathematics, with Further Mathematics being a recommended additional subject. A-Level Economics is also a popular elective.
University of Oxford
University of Oxford is globally recognized as one of the top academic institutions, with particular strengths in social sciences and humanities. Programs like PPE (Philosophy, Politics, and Economics), History, English Language and Literature, and Chemistry are among Oxford’s strongest offerings.
PPE
A-Level Requirements: AAA
Test Requirements: TSA
Interview: Yes
PPE is one of Oxford’s most prestigious programs, with many UK prime ministers having studied it. It’s a highly competitive course with an acceptance rate of around 10%. Oxford recommends A-Level Mathematics and History for PPE applicants.
English Language and Literature
A-Level Requirements: AAA
Test Requirements: ELAT
Interview: Yes
Additional Requirements: Written work
Oxford’s English Language and Literature program is ranked first in the UK and has held the top spot in the QS World University Rankings for six consecutive years. This program requires students to take A-Level English Literature or English Language and Literature, with Modern Languages or History as recommended electives.
History
A-Level Requirements: AAA
Test Requirements: HAT
Interview: Yes
Additional Requirements: Written work
As a global leader in humanities, Oxford’s History program is consistently ranked at the top in the UK. While A-Level History is not an official requirement, having a background in history provides a significant advantage for applicants.
Chemistry
A-Level Requirements: A*A*A
Interview: Yes
In the sciences, Oxford’s Chemistry program is a powerhouse. Applicants must achieve A* in both Mathematics and Chemistry, with an additional science or Further Mathematics recommended to enhance academic strength.
Imperial College London
Imperial College London is a beacon of scientific and engineering education, known for its deep research in the fields of science, engineering, and medicine. For those aspiring to pursue engineering, Imperial is the dream school, offering top-tier education in Electronic and Electrical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Biochemistry, Civil Engineering, and Earth and Planetary Sciences.
Electronic and Electrical Engineering
A-Level Requirements: A*A*A
Interview: Yes
As a popular and highly employable field, Electronic and Electrical Engineering at Imperial combines cutting-edge computer, electronic information technology, manufacturing, and engineering. Applicants must take A-Level Mathematics with an A*, and Physics with at least an A. Further Mathematics, Chemistry, or Computer Science are also recommended.
Biochemistry
A-Level Requirements: AAA
Biochemistry is another highly sought-after program with strong career prospects. It requires A-Level Chemistry, along with either Biology, Mathematics, or Physics.
Earth and Planetary Sciences
A-Level Requirements: AAA
Interview: Yes
One of the most popular programs at Imperial, Earth and Planetary Sciences, requires A-Level Mathematics with an A grade. Other suggested subjects include Biology, Chemistry, Geography, Geology, and Physics.
London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE)
London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE) focuses on social sciences and is highly regarded in politics, business, and finance. Programs in Finance, Management, and International Relations are among LSE’s strengths.
Finance
A-Level Requirements: A*AA
Test Requirements: TMUA (Mathematics)
Finance is a highly coveted program with excellent career prospects. LSE’s Finance program is ranked among the best in the UK, requiring A-Level Mathematics with an A*. A background in Further Mathematics is highly valued, making it a wise choice for prospective students.
Management
A-Level Requirements: AAA
LSE’s Management program requires A-Level Mathematics. Recommended subjects include History, Sociology, Further Mathematics, Geography, Biology, and Physics. This program also involves extensive essay writing, so choosing an essay-based A-Level subject is advisable.
International Relations
A-Level Requirements: AAA
In an increasingly globalized world, the importance of International Relations cannot be overstated. LSE’s program is highly regarded in the UK, with recommended A-Level subjects including History, English, Economics, Politics, Sociology, Geography, Psychology, and Philosophy.
University College London (UCL)
University College London (UCL) is a top comprehensive research university, consistently ranked among the top 10 worldwide. UCL offers a broad range of disciplines, with programs in Architecture, Education, and Psychology standing out as world leaders.
Psychology
A-Level Requirements: A*AA
UCL’s Psychology program is one of the best in the UK, ranked second globally in 2023, just behind Harvard University. UCL requires applicants to choose one or two A-Level subjects from Mathematics, Psychology, Chemistry, Biology, or Physics. With over 2,000 applicants in recent years and fewer than 200 admissions, competition is fierce, requiring excellent grades, personal statements, and recommendations.
Education
A-Level Requirements: AAA-ABB
UCL’s Education program has topped the rankings for nine consecutive years. Although the minimum entry requirements are lower, most successful applicants have achieved two A* grades. As a humanities-focused program, Education demands strong academic writing and critical thinking skills, so choosing an essay-based A-Level subject is recommended.
Architecture
A-Level Requirements: AAB
Interview: Yes
Additional Requirements: Portfolio
UCL’s Architecture program has consistently ranked among the top three globally, even surpassing MIT in some years. While the A-Level requirements are relatively lenient, competition remains fierce, so students should not take it lightly.
Conclusion
Applying to G5 universities is a highly competitive endeavor. No matter which program you are aiming for, your A-Level results are a critical entry point. Students still in the process of A-Level preparation should focus on their interests and strengths, carefully selecting relevant courses, and planning their application strategy well in advance to achieve their dream of attending a top university.
For more information on studying in the UK, follow Pinnacle Global Academy (PGA). We offer guidance on ALEVEL，IGCSE ，Competition and more. Don't be hesitate to contact us!
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