Subject choices, grade requirements and admissions test guidance for Oxford and Cambridge applications.
Book a Free ConsultationGetting into Oxford or Cambridge starts with A-Level choices. The right subjects signal that you have the academic foundation for one of the world's most demanding undergraduate programmes — the wrong choices can close doors before your application is even read.
Both Oxford and Cambridge strongly prefer "facilitating subjects" — those considered most rigorous and most useful as foundations for higher study. These are: Mathematics, Further Mathematics, the Sciences (Biology, Chemistry, Physics), English Literature, History, Geography, and Modern and Classical Languages.
Subjects that are less well regarded include General Studies, Critical Thinking, and some vocational or applied qualifications. Taking one non-facilitating subject alongside two strong academic subjects is generally fine; building an application around non-facilitating subjects is not advisable.
Maths is required. Further Maths is required or very strongly recommended. A third rigorous subject (Physics is the strongest choice) completes the combination. For Computer Science, Maths and Further Maths are essential.
For Natural Sciences at Cambridge, students typically need three sciences including Maths. At Oxford, specific science courses (Biology, Chemistry, Physics) require the relevant science and usually Maths. Further Maths is advantageous for Physical Natural Sciences.
Chemistry is required. Biology is required or very strongly preferred. Maths or Physics is the typical third subject. All four subjects at A-Level are studied by many successful medical applicants.
Maths is required. Physics is required or very strongly preferred. Further Maths is advantageous and expected by the strongest applicants at both universities.
No specific A-Levels are required for Law at Oxford (the LNAT is more important). Strong humanities subjects — History, English, Philosophy — are the most common choices and best demonstrate the analytical essay skills the course demands.
Take the relevant subject plus two other rigorous academic subjects. English Literature and History pair well with almost anything. Philosophy is respected at most universities though not always offered at A-Level — History and Maths are strong alternatives.
Our Oxbridge specialists work with students from Year 12, ensuring their A-level choices and academic depth align with what Oxford and Cambridge colleges look for at interview and offer stage. We're rated 4.8/5 on Trustpilot. Book a free consultation to discuss your subject strategy.
Oxbridge grade offers typically require A*A*A or A*AA. Many successful applicants hold results above their offer level. Aim for A* in your most relevant subjects and do not settle for a comfortable A where an A* is achievable with further effort.
A-Levels are the foundation, not the whole story. Most Oxford and Cambridge courses require admissions tests (MAT, STEP, PAT, ELAT, LNAT, TSA etc.) and all shortlisted applicants are interviewed. Begin preparing for admissions tests from Year 12 — they require skills and approaches rarely developed in standard A-Level teaching.
Our Oxford-educated tutors support students aiming for Oxbridge from A-Level subject choice through to admissions test preparation and interview coaching. We have helped students gain places at Oxford and Cambridge across a range of subjects. Book a free consultation to discuss your Oxbridge ambitions.
For more information, see the Oxford A-Level subject requirements.
Q: Which A-Levels are best for Oxbridge?
Oxford and Cambridge strongly prefer facilitating subjects: Mathematics, Further Mathematics, Sciences, History, English Literature, Languages and Geography. Always check the specific subject requirements for your intended course.
Q: Do you need Further Maths for Oxford or Cambridge?
Further Maths is required or strongly recommended for Mathematics, Physics and some Engineering courses. For other STEM subjects, it is highly advantageous but not always mandatory.
Q: What grades do you need for Oxbridge?
Most courses require A*A*A or A*AA at A-Level. Many successful applicants achieve grades well above the minimum offer. Strong admissions test scores and interview performance are equally crucial.
Q: Can I apply to Oxbridge with humanities A-Levels?
Absolutely. Oxford and Cambridge offer outstanding humanities courses in History, English, Philosophy, Classics, Law and more. Strong essay-writing skills and independent intellectual curiosity are what Oxbridge tutors are looking for.
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