UCAS


General Advice

You must be aware that Computer Science is an applied mathematics subject.  Therefore, a majority of universities will require you to have studied Maths and possibly Further Maths in order to make an application.  Further Mathematics is a particular requirement when making a combined honours application, for example Computer Science and Mathematics.

It is incredibly rare for any university to require CS A Level, as too few schools offer it.  Therefore, they would be discriminating against those who were not able to study it. 

Oxbridge

If you are considering applying to Oxford or Cambridge, there are additional requirements you must meet. 

Cambridge

You can access the Cambridge course requirements here.

Typical offer for CS is A*A*A with Mathematics and at least one other science based subject (for which CS counts)

Cambridge require you to undertake the CSAT (Computer Science Admissions Test) as part of an interview.  This is a series of mathematics based problems, testing your ability to problem solve.  You can find out more here.

Oxford

Oxford's offer is A-levels: A*AA with the A* in Mathematics, Further Mathematics or Computer Science.

Oxford require all candidates to take the Mathematics Admissions Test (MAT) as part of their application.

Imperial

You can read about Imperial's CS requirements here.

Imperial College typically has an A*A*A - A*AA.  They explicitly state that "If your school offers Further Maths, we expect you to take it".  Therefore, if you do not take Further Maths, you need to have a good reason for not doing so.  However, Imperial will take STEP qualifications in place of Further Maths.  They do not accept ICT, Business Studies and General Studies.  Preferred science subjects are Physics, Computer Science or Chemistry.

If you have not taken Further Maths, Imperial will probably require you to take AEA/STEP papers.

General Advice

Your personal statement is important, as it is your main opportunity to get noticed and accepted.  Many universities will base an offer on the quality of your persuasion.  In simple terms:

The following website will give you some sound advice.

For your personal statement, keep these questions in mind: