What do Universities look for?

In summary, universities in the UK have varying criteria for accepting physics students. While most top universities require an A in physics A-level, an excellent reference from teachers can also carry a lot of weight. It is important to encourage teachers to be generous in their predicted grades as this can affect admission decisions. In addition, universities may also look for bright and eager students who are genuinely interested in physics. Work experience will only be relevant if it is directly related to the field. It is recommended to contact admissions tutors for specific advice and to potentially increase chances of admission.
  • #1
DaveZZZ
2
0
What do the best uni's (UK) look for in a physics student? Does work experience or anything like that really matter? Do they look at your background? (e.g. I have awful physics teachers who always have hangovers and ask ME if what they're teaching is right(which it usually isn't)
 
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  • #2
It usually depends on the university. For instance, I tried to get into Cambridge once upon a time and the interview went like this (pretty much word for word :frown:)

interviewer:
"So, where are you studying your A levels?"

me:
[my college]

interviewer:
"Oh, do they actually send people to Cambridge?"

Surprise surprise I didn't get in.

But this is more the exception. Of course, most of the best universities will ask for an A at physics A-level simply because that's what the people you are competing against will have, but if you can get an excellent reference from your teachers that should also carry you a long way. If the reference requires your teachers giving a predicted grade try to encourage them to be generous. I have a friend who was simply not considered at a place because he was predicted A/B. No interview or anything. But of course, when his A-level results came in he got pretty much straight A's. Annoying eh?

I think (or maybe hope) that generally what they really look for is a bright eager person - "someone who doesn't immediately fall asleep as soon as we start talking about physics" I have heard it said.

Work experience will only count if it really is relevant. I guess they just judge that case by case. I think the best thing to do is simply phone up the admissions tutor and ask them (there will be contact details in the university prospectus probably). Trying to contact these people in person can often be very useful and they will hopefully give you lots of good advice.

Hope this helps. Good luck!

Matt
 

1. What qualities do universities look for in applicants?

Universities typically look for a combination of academic excellence, extracurricular involvement, leadership skills, and a strong passion for the chosen field of study. They also consider factors such as diversity, community service, and work experience.

2. How much do grades matter in the university admissions process?

Grades are an important factor in the admissions process, as they demonstrate a student's academic abilities and potential. However, universities also consider other factors such as standardized test scores, essays, and letters of recommendation in their evaluation of an applicant.

3. Are there specific courses or subjects that universities prefer to see on a student's transcript?

While universities do not have specific course requirements, they do look for a challenging and well-rounded high school curriculum. It is important for students to take a mix of courses in various subjects, including core academic subjects like English, math, science, and social studies, as well as electives in areas of interest.

4. How much do extracurricular activities matter in the university admissions process?

Extracurricular activities are an important consideration for universities, as they demonstrate a student's interests, passions, and leadership skills outside of the classroom. However, it is not necessary to have a long list of activities; universities value quality over quantity and look for a genuine commitment and impact in the chosen activities.

5. Can a strong personal statement make up for lower grades or test scores?

A strong personal statement can certainly help an applicant stand out, but it cannot completely compensate for low grades or test scores. Universities consider a holistic approach when evaluating applicants, so a strong personal statement can complement other strong aspects of an applicant's profile, but it cannot make up for significant academic deficiencies.

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