Can I Take Cambridge Physics and Edexcel Maths for My A Levels?
When choosing your A Level subjects, it's natural to have questions about the flexibility of your options and whether universities will have concerns. The short answer is, absolutely no problem at all. As long as you're covering the necessary subjects, universities won't mind if your A Levels come from different examination boards, such as Cambridge for physics and Edexcel for maths.
Understanding Exam Boards and Their Standardization
Ofqual, the British government regulator for qualifications, ensures that all A Levels, regardless of the examining board, are held to the same high standard. This means that whether you choose Cambridge A Level Physics or Edexcel A Level Mathematics, both will be of equal academic worth.
A Historical Perspective
It's worth noting that even 41 years ago, when different examination boards such as AEB and the University of London were prevalent, universities didn't show any preference or concern. For example, the author of this article completed AEB A level maths and physics, and London A level chemistry, and none of the universities to which they applied mentioned it. This illustrates that the choice of exam board is generally irrelevant to admissions committees.
Commonality in Exam Board Selection
Most schools allow each department to select their preferred examination board. Therefore, it is quite common for students to have A Levels from different boards. For instance, in the author's case, all their A-levels in chemistry, biology, and physics were from OCR, but it wouldn't have mattered if one of them were from Edexcel or another board.
University Admissions and Subject Choice
Universities, especially in the UK, are more interested in the subjects you choose rather than the specific examination board. While it's generally recommended to take three A Levels, including chemistry to complement physics and mathematics, universities won't be concerned if you choose different boards for these subjects.
Importance of Subjects and Board of Choice
Choosing subjects that align with your strengths and interests is crucial. For example, if your goal is to study a course that requires a strong background in physics and mathematics, the combination of Cambridge A Level Physics and Edexcel A Level Mathematics is an excellent choice. Both subjects are essential for careers in STEM fields such as science, engineering, and mathematics. Having a solid grounding in these subjects can significantly enhance your application to university programs.
Universities' Perspective on Exam Boards
It's important to understand that both Cambridge and Edexcel are highly respected, both nationally and internationally. They are viewed with equal academic rigor and standards. Even if some students joke about doing a "harder" board, it's mostly just friendly competition and doesn't impact university admissions.
Choosing the Right Board Based on Personal Preference
Some students may be hesitant about choosing different boards. However, it often comes down to personal preference. Perhaps one board's syllabus aligns better with your learning style, or you feel more confident with the teaching approach of one over the other. The most crucial aspect is performing well in both subjects, which will make the most difference in your application.
Conclusion and Final Thoughts
Pairing Cambridge A Level Physics with Edexcel A Level Mathematics is a solid choice that shouldn't negatively impact your university applications. It's always a good idea to check the specific entry requirements of the universities you're applying to, but rest assured that this combination is widely accepted and respected.
With the right preparation and a strong performance in your chosen subjects, you can achieve success in your A Levels and successfully navigate the application process to your desired university.