FAQs

Can I take Maths in Y12 and Further Maths in Y13 if I want to apply for undergraduate study at St John’s?

Applying

For courses where A-Level Mathematics is required by all colleges (Computer Science, Economics, Engineering, Natural Sciences), students taking A-Level Mathematics in Year 12, and A-Level Further Mathematics and only one other A-Level in Year 13 will be considered.

Can I take A-Levels early if I want to apply to study for an undergraduate degree at St John’s?

Applying

Applications are considered in their context and according to individual academic merit. Both St John's College and the University of Cambridge have targets for widening participation, but not quotas.

Can I take A-levels early?

Applying

We discourage students from taking public examinations early unless top grades will be obtained. The exception is when an applicant is studying A level Mathematics in Year 12 and A level Further Mathematics in Year 13. Demonstrating that you are able to cope with multiple demanding subjects at the same time is an essential part of showing you are suitably prepared for study at Cambridge.

Should I do three or four A-Levels if I want to apply to study for an undergraduate degree at St John’s?

Applying

Generally, you are expected to do very well in three A-Levels. Applicants are advised to develop broader and deeper knowledge of relevant subjects rather than accumulate additional A-Levels. However, applicants to science and Engineering subjects may find taking four A-levels in Mathematics and science subjects helpful for managing the transition to University. If you are taking more than three A-Levels, St John's College will typically expect you to complete these to a high standard.

What subject should I choose if I want to apply to study as an undergraduate at St John’s?

Applying

Subjects

Choose a subject you enjoy and feel you will do well in. Check course pages for the subjects you’re interested in and speak to your teachers about your options. For more information, see the College's subject pages or the University's Subject Matters information.

Can I reapply to St John’s for undergraduate study if my application is unsuccessful?

Applying

If you want to reapply, we recommend that you apply to a different college so that your application can be seen with fresh eyes. Before making a re-application to Cambridge you should always check with your shortlisted colleges that they are happy to accept a reapplication.

Can I apply to Cambridge from a university overseas?

Applying

You can apply if attending another university outside the UK. We would typically ask for a reference from a member of your institution and a current transcript. You will undergo the same application process as the wider field and will enter the course at Year 1. Transfers are not possible.

Can I apply to Cambridge from another UK university?

Applying

St John's only considers applications from students currently enrolled at other UK universities in exceptional circumstances or where there is a meaningful change of subject. Those applying from other UK universities must undergo the same application process as the wider field and will enter the course at Year 1. Transfers are not possible. Please be aware that your eligibility for student finance and/or a student visa may be affected by your having previously studied at another university.

Can I take a gap year if I am applying to study for an undergraduate degree at St John’s?

Applying

St John’s College welcomes applicants with gap years and has no objections to offering places to students who wish to take a gap year as long as it is indicated when the application is submitted. However, applicants are advised to keep up their subject knowledge in some way during the year. This may consist of relevant work experience (such as for Medicine), reading, or working through problems (such as for Mathematics).

Do I need to take an Extended Project (EPQ) if I want to apply for undergraduate study at St John’s?

Applying

Applicants are encouraged to undertake an Extended Project where available as they can be valuable training for independent study. However, specific achievement within an Extended Project will not normally be a requirement of any offer made.

Does Cambridge require specific GCSE grades?

Applying

Cambridge does not require specific GCSE grades for its courses, or as a general entry requirement. However, GCSE results (or comparable international qualifications) are an important performance indicator and are assessed within the context of the performance of the school/college where they were attained.

How much do my GCSE grades matter?

Applying

GCSE results are important for us to look at as a performance indicator, however, this is within the context of your performance within the school or college where they were attained, as well as any disruption you may have received during your education during that time. Therefore, strong performance in Years 12 and 13 can make up for a weaker performance at GCSE as they are assessed as part of the wider contextual evaluation of an application.

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FAQs

Can I take Maths in Y12 and Further Maths in Y13 if I want to apply for undergraduate study at St John’s?

Can I take A-Levels early if I want to apply to study for an undergraduate degree at St John’s?

Can I take A-levels early?

Should I do three or four A-Levels if I want to apply to study for an undergraduate degree at St John’s?

What subject should I choose if I want to apply to study as an undergraduate at St John’s?

Can I reapply to St John’s for undergraduate study if my application is unsuccessful?

Can I apply to Cambridge from a university overseas?

Can I apply to Cambridge from another UK university?

Can I take a gap year if I am applying to study for an undergraduate degree at St John’s?

Do I need to take an Extended Project (EPQ) if I want to apply for undergraduate study at St John’s?

Does Cambridge require specific GCSE grades?

How much do my GCSE grades matter?

contact us

Get in touch

Information