Resit English GCSE for PhD Application?

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the relevance of GCSE results for PhD applications at prestigious universities like Oxbridge. Participants confirm that while GCSE grades are considered, they hold less weight compared to A-level results, particularly in subjects relevant to the intended PhD field. A minimum of A-C in English, Maths, and Science is deemed acceptable, with a strong emphasis on achieving As at A-level for competitive programs. Resitting GCSE English is generally unnecessary for applicants with strong A-level performance and relevant degrees.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of the UK education system, particularly GCSE and A-level qualifications.
  • Familiarity with the application processes for PhD programs at universities like Oxford and Cambridge.
  • Knowledge of the importance of subject relevance in academic applications.
  • Awareness of grading standards and their implications for university admissions.
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the specific PhD application requirements for Oxbridge universities.
  • Explore the significance of A-level grades in competitive academic fields.
  • Investigate the role of GCSE results in university admissions beyond Oxbridge.
  • Learn about the impact of undergraduate degrees on postgraduate applications.
USEFUL FOR

Prospective PhD applicants, particularly those aiming for top-tier universities, as well as students seeking to understand the importance of their GCSE and A-level results in the context of higher education applications.

alias25
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I was wondering...say if i wanted to apply for a phD at oxbridge (ok I am being a bit ambitious), would my GCSE results be looked at?...i mean would they be significantly important?
beacause my english lang/lit GCSE isn't good..C/C but that was on a very bad day and i thought i actually failed english. . I was wondering if i should resit...best time would be during the first year, because I've heard most things are repeated A level i could get away with B for maths GCSE i guess, because of A in A level.
And even if i just managed just to improve to BB then i'd still be apply to good unis.
my GCSE
5A* (phys, chem, bio, ICT, astronomy)
1A (art)
2B (math, french)
3C (english lang/lit, welsh short course)

1A AS: bio
3As A2: math,chem,phys

Plus ill have an MPhys degree (hopefully else i wouldn't be going for a phD)

(got nothing much to do except think about silly little things like this)

so should i resit english lang/lit GCSE?
 
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Hi, I am starting a PhD this year and I don't actually remeber having to put down any of my GCSE results, they are interested in your ability at Physics, not your interpretation of Simon Armitage! The forms are online for most universities if you wanted to check, but I wouldn't worry, just get on with physics! And enjoy your time at uni!
 
I have a PhD from a top UK university - your GCSEs are better than mine... tho' I didn't work very hard in those days :biggrin:

In fact, my school grades are shocking :biggrin:

They'll never look at them.
 
If you've got A-C in maths, science and English, you're ok. But you won't be getting a Ph.D from Oxbridge with anything less than As at A level. Don't worry about your GCSEs, they're all fine.
 
I got into Natsci at Cambridge (undergraduate) and I have C/C in english GCSE, so i wouldn't worry.
 

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