Entrance Requirements

Entry Requirements

What you need to study at King Edward VI College

Before applying, it’s important to understand the academic entry requirements for our subject programmes. These are in place to help ensure that you’re set up for success.


🎓 Three-Subject Programme (Most Common)

To enrol on a standard three-subject programme, you’ll need:

  • A minimum of six GCSEs at grade 5 or above

📊 Did you know?
96% of King Edward’s students choose this option — it offers the right balance for most university and career paths.


➕ Four-Subject Programme

If you wish to study a four subject programme, you will need:

  • At least seven GCSEs at grade 7 or above

⚠️ Important:
Only about 4% of students take this path — usually those combining Mathematics and Further Mathematics. UK universities typically make offers based on three A-levels, so it’s often better to focus on three subjects and achieve top results.


📚 Subject-Specific Requirements

Some subjects have additional entry requirements (e.g. a minimum grade in that subject or related ones).
👉 Please check individual course pages for full details before applying.


❌ BTECs, CNATs and alternative qualifications

Please note:
BTECs,CNATs and other alternative qualifications do not count toward our college entry requirements. We consider GCSE subjects only.


✅ Final Tip

Choose a programme that reflects your strengths and ambitions. It’s not about taking the most — it’s about choosing what you’ll excel in.