A Levels

[ML07]

Incoming classics student at UCL, with A*BBB in A Levels. I’m aiming for a first, but I’m worried my A Levels will hold me back for magic circle firms.

 

[Abbie Whitlock]

Incoming classics student at UCL, with A*BBB in A Levels. I’m aiming for a first, but I’m worried my A Levels will hold me back for magic circle firms.

Hi!

I would try not to worry too much. While some Magic Circle firms do have A-Level requirements (for example, I believe Slaughter and May asks for at least AAB), the others generally do not have strict A-Level cut-offs and instead look at your overall academic record. In fact, the fact you got an A* may mean that you'd still meet their AAB requirements overall (but I'd perhaps double-check with past applicants or the graduate recruitment team).

Given your grades, I think you are still in a strong position, particularly if you go on to achieve a 2:1 or first at UCL. Strong university performance can go a long way in demonstrating your academic ability, and firms will also be looking at your work experience, extracurriculars, commercial awareness, and motivations too.

I would focus on doing as well as you can in your degree and building up the rest of your application, rather than worrying about your A Levels. There is definitely no reason to rule yourself out from applying