Natural Sciences course requirements

Please note that in the following ‘science/mathematics subjects’ refers to Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Mathematics and Further Mathematics. It doesn’t include Psychology.

A Levels

The typical A Level offer is A*AA. To make full use of the flexibility of the Natural Sciences course you’ll find it helpful to have a strong knowledge base across a wide range of science and mathematics subjects.

Most students have at least three science/mathematics subjects at A Level and the minimum required is two, although this will mean a restricted choice of Part IA subjects. In these circumstances you’ll normally be expected to achieve the A* grade in one of the two science/mathematics subjects and we’d encourage you to take an additional science/mathematics AS Level. The more useful combinations are:

• A Level Biology, A Level Chemistry and AS Mathematics or Physics
• A Level Chemistry, A Level Mathematics and AS Physics
• A Level Physics, A Level Mathematics and AS Further Mathematics

International Baccalaureate

The typical IB offer is 40–42 points, with 776 or 777 at Higher Level. Please note that the advice above about A Level subject combinations also applies. For these purposes IB Standard Level subjects are broadly comparable to AS Levels, and IB higher Level subjects to A Levels.

Other examination systems

We expect applicants taking other recognised examinations to have A Level of understanding in science and mathematics roughly equivalent to those applying with A Levels. For details of entrance requirements for other qualifications, please see the Entrance Requirements page and consult any Admissions Tutor for further advice.