Entry requirements
Qualification requirements
Typical Offer: ABB to BBB including Music, and Grade 6 (Grade B) in GCSE Mathematics, and Grade 8 Music Practical or demonstrated equivalent standard*
If you are taking an EPQ in addition to 3 A levels, you will receive the following offer in addition to the standard A level offer:
BBB including Music, and Grade 6 (Grade B) in GCSE Mathematics, and grade A in the EPQ, and Grade 8 Music Practical or demonstrated equivalent standard*
We are committed to ensuring that all students with the potential to succeed, regardless of their background, are encouraged to apply to study with us. The additional information gained through contextual data allows us to recognise a student’s potential to succeed in the context of their background and experience.
Students who are highlighted in this way will be made an offer which is lower than the typical offer for that programme.
Offers typically exclude General Studies and Critical Thinking.
*Equivalence to grade 8 is ascertained via audition. This can be done in person or by sending a video. We welcome students onto our programmes who are not at this level if their interests focus on other areas, such as composition, music technology and/or music history and ethnomusicology.
We do not accept Music Technology as meeting our Music subject requirement. We can accept a pass in Grade 5 Music Theory where Music is not studied as an accepted Level 3 qualification. This applies to all BTEC Music courses and similar including UAL and Rockschool.
We recognise Music practical and theory exams from ABRSM, Trinity, Rockschool and LCM.
We can accept a grade 5 in GCSE mathematics if you achieve grade B in A level Maths, Physics, Economics, Geography, Psychology or Business.
Specific offer is ascertained at interview.
Distinction, Distinction, Merit in the BTEC National Extended Diploma in Music and Grade 6 (Grade B) in GCSE Mathematics, and Grade 8 Music Practical or demonstrated equivalent standard*
OR
Distinction, Distinction in the BTEC National Extended Diploma plus B in A level Music and Grade 6 (Grade B) in GCSE Mathematics, and Grade 8 Music Practical or demonstrated equivalent standard*
*Equivalence to grade 8 is ascertained via audition. This can be done in person or by sending a video. We welcome students onto our programmes who are not at this level if their interests focus on other areas, such as composition, music technology and/or music history and ethnomusicology.
We do not accept Music Technology as meeting our Music subject requirement. We can accept a pass in Grade 5 Music Theory where Music is not studied as an accepted Level 3 qualification. This applies to all BTEC Music courses and similar including UAL and Rockschool.
We recognise Music practical and theory exams from ABRSM, Trinity, Rockschool and LCM.
We can accept a grade 5 in GCSE mathematics if you achieve grade B in A level Maths, Physics, Economics, Geography, Psychology or Business.
Specific offer is ascertained at interview.
We are committed to ensuring that all learners with the potential to succeed, regardless of their background, are encouraged to apply to study with us. The additional information gained through contextual data allows us to recognise a learner’s potential to succeed in the context of their background and experience. Applicants who are highlighted in this way will be made an offer which is lower than the typical offer for that programme.
60 credits with a minimum of 45 credits at Level 3, of which 30 must be at Distinction and 15 credits at Merit, to include 6 Distinctions in Music, and Grade 6 (Grade B) in GCSE Mathematics, and Grade 8 Music Practical or demonstrated equivalent standard*
OR
60 credits with a minimum of 45 credits at Level 3, of which 24 to must be at Distinction and 21 credits at Merit, to include 6 Distinctions in Music, and Grade 6 (Grade B) in GCSE Mathematics, and Grade 8 Music Practical or demonstrated equivalent standard*
*Equivalence to grade 8 is ascertained via audition. This can be done in person or by sending a video. We welcome students onto our programmes who are not at this level if their interests focus on other areas, such as composition, music technology and/or music history and ethnomusicology.
We do not accept Music Technology as meeting our Music subject requirement. We can accept a pass in Grade 5 Music Theory where Music is not studied as an accepted Level 3 qualification. This applies to all BTEC Music courses and similar including UAL and Rockschool.
We recognise Music practical and theory exams from ABRSM, Trinity, Rockschool and LCM.
We can accept a grade 5 in GCSE mathematics if you achieve grade B in A level Maths, Physics, Economics, Geography, Psychology or Business.
Specific offer is ascertained at interview.
We are committed to ensuring that all learners with the potential to succeed, regardless of their background, are encouraged to apply to study with us. The additional information gained through contextual data allows us to recognise a learner’s potential to succeed in the context of their background and experience. Applicants who are highlighted in this way will be made an offer which is lower than the typical offer for that programme.
We normally consider applicants who offer at least 1 Advanced Higher. Applicants presenting with only Highers will be considered on a case by case basis. Where Highers are taken over two years it might be expected that higher grades are achieved, particularly in any specific subjects required. For example, S5 – S6 (2 years): AABBB (A in specific subject) or S6 (1 year): ABBBB (A in specific subject).
Unless a more advanced level (Higher or Advanced Higher) is specified in the stated entry requirements, all applicants will be required to have achieved a pass in Mathematics and English at Standard Grade, Grade 3 or National 5, Grade C, the equivalent of GCSE Grade C/ Grade 4"
We are committed to ensuring that all learners with the potential to succeed, regardless of their background, are encouraged to apply to study with us. The additional information gained through contextual data allows us to recognise a learner's potential to succeed in the context of their background and experience. Applicants who are highlighted in this way will be made an offer which is lower than the typical offer for that programme.
Distinction, Distinction in the BTEC National Diploma in Music plus B in an A level and Grade 6 (Grade B) in GCSE Mathematics, and Grade 8 Music Practical or demonstrated equivalent standard*
OR
Distinction, Distinction in the BTEC National Diploma plus B in A level Music and Grade 6 (Grade B) in GCSE Mathematics, and Grade 8 Music Practical or demonstrated equivalent standard*
*Equivalence to grade 8 is ascertained via audition. This can be done in person or by sending a video. We welcome students onto our programmes who are not at this level if their interests focus on other areas, such as composition, music technology and/or music history and ethnomusicology.
We do not accept Music Technology as meeting our Music subject requirement. We can accept a pass in Grade 5 Music Theory where Music is not studied as an accepted Level 3 qualification. This applies to all BTEC Music courses and similar including UAL and Rockschool.
We recognise Music practical and theory exams from ABRSM, Trinity, Rockschool and LCM.
We can accept a grade 5 in GCSE mathematics if you achieve grade B in A level Maths, Physics, Economics, Geography, Psychology or Business.
Specific offer is ascertained at interview.
We are committed to ensuring that all learners with the potential to succeed, regardless of their background, are encouraged to apply to study with us. The additional information gained through contextual data allows us to recognise a learner’s potential to succeed in the context of their background and experience. Applicants who are highlighted in this way will be made an offer which is lower than the typical offer for that programme.
Distinction in the BTEC National Extended Certificate in Music plus AB to BB in two A levels and Grade 6 (Grade B) in GCSE Mathematics, and Grade 8 Music Practical or demonstrated equivalent standard*
OR
Distinction in the BTEC National Extended Certificate plus AB to BB to include A level Music, and Grade 6 (Grade B) in GCSE Mathematics, and Grade 8 Music Practical or demonstrated equivalent standard*
*Equivalence to grade 8 is ascertained via audition. This can be done in person or by sending a video. We welcome students onto our programmes who are not at this level if their interests focus on other areas, such as composition, music technology and/or music history and ethnomusicology.
We do not accept Music Technology as meeting our Music subject requirement. We can accept a pass in Grade 5 Music Theory where Music is not studied as an accepted Level 3 qualification. This applies to all BTEC Music courses and similar including UAL and Rockschool.
We recognise Music practical and theory exams from ABRSM, Trinity, Rockschool and LCM.
We can accept a grade 5 in GCSE mathematics if you achieve grade B in A level Maths, Physics, Economics, Geography, Psychology or Business.
Specific offer is ascertained at interview.
We are committed to ensuring that all learners with the potential to succeed, regardless of their background, are encouraged to apply to study with us. The additional information gained through contextual data allows us to recognise a learner’s potential to succeed in the context of their background and experience. Applicants who are highlighted in this way will be made an offer which is lower than the typical offer for that programme.
Offers will be based on exams being taken at the end of S6. Subjects taken and qualifications achieved in S5 will be reviewed. Careful consideration will be given to an individual’s academic achievement, taking in to account the context and circumstances of their pre-university education. Please see the University of Southampton’s Curriculum for Excellence Scotland Statement for further information. Applicants are advised to contact Admissions for more information.
Pass, with 32 to 30 points overall with 16 to 15 points at Higher Level, including 5 at Higher Level in Music, and Grade 6 (Grade B) in GCSE Mathematics, and Grade 8 Music Practical or demonstrated equivalent standard*.
*Equivalence to grade 8 is ascertained via audition. This can be done in person or by sending a video. We welcome students onto our programmes who are not at this level if their interests focus on other areas, such as composition, music technology and/or music history and ethnomusicology.
We do not accept Music Technology as meeting our Music subject requirement. We can accept a pass in Grade 5 Music Theory where Music is not studied as an accepted Level 3 qualification. This applies to all BTEC Music courses and similar including UAL and Rockschool.
We recognise Music practical and theory exams from ABRSM, Trinity, Rockschool and LCM.
4 in Higher or Standard Level Mathematics within the IB diploma can be accepted in lieu of Grade 6 GCSE. We can accept a grade 5 in GCSE mathematics if you achieve grade B in A level Maths, Physics, Economics, Geography, Psychology or Business.
Specific offer is ascertained at interview.
We are committed to ensuring that all learners with the potential to succeed, regardless of their background, are encouraged to apply to study with us. The additional information gained through contextual data allows us to recognise a learner’s potential to succeed in the context of their background and experience. Applicants who are highlighted in this way will be made an offer which is lower than the typical offer for that programme.
International Baccalaureate Career Programme (IBCP):
Offers will be made on the individual Diploma Course subject(s) and the career-related study qualification. The CP core will not form part of the offer. Where there is a subject pre-requisite(s), applicants will be required to study the subject(s) at Higher Level in the Diploma course subject and/or take a specified unit in the career-related study qualification. Applicants may also be asked to achieve a specific grade in those elements.
Please see the University of Southampton International Baccalaureate Career-Related Programme (IBCP) Statement for further information. Applicants are advised to contact their Faculty Admissions Office for more information.
ABB to BBB from 3 A levels including Music, and Grade 6 (Grade B) in GCSE Mathematics, and Grade 8 Music Practical or demonstrated equivalent standard*
or
AB to BB from two A levels including Music, and Grade 6 (Grade B) in GCSE Mathematics, and B from the Advanced Skills Baccalaureate Wales and Grade 8 Music Practical or demonstrated equivalent standard*
Offers typically exclude General Studies and Critical Thinking.
*Equivalence to grade 8 is ascertained via audition. This can be done in person or by sending a video. We welcome students onto our programmes who are not at this level if their interests focus on other areas, such as composition, music technology and/or music history and ethnomusicology.
We do not accept Music Technology in lieu of a Music Level 3 qualification (A level, BTEC etc).
We can accept a pass in Grade 5 Music Theory where Music is not studied as a Level 3 qualification.
We recognise Music practical and theory exams from ABRSM, Trinity, Rockschool and LCM.
We can accept a grade 5 in GCSE mathematics if you achieve grade B in A level Maths, Physics, Economics, Geography, Psychology or Business.
Specific offer is ascertained at interview.
We are committed to ensuring that all learners with the potential to succeed, regardless of their background, are encouraged to apply to study with us. The additional information gained through contextual data allows us to recognise a learner’s potential to succeed in the context of their background and experience. Applicants who are highlighted in this way will be made an offer which is lower than the typical offer for that programme.
H1 H2 H2 H2 H3 H3 to H2 H2 H3 H3 H3 H3 including Music, and Grade 6 (Grade B) in GCSE Mathematics, and Grade 8 Music Practical or demonstrated equivalent standard*
*Equivalence to grade 8 is ascertained via audition. This can be done in person or by sending a video. We welcome students onto our programmes who are not at this level if their interests focus on other areas, such as composition, music technology and/or music history and ethnomusicology.
We do not accept Music Technology as meeting our Music subject requirement. We can accept a pass in Grade 5 Music Theory where Music is not studied as an accepted Level 3 qualification. This applies to all BTEC Music courses and similar including UAL and Rockschool.
We recognise Music practical and theory exams from ABRSM, Trinity, Rockschool and LCM.
We can accept a grade 5 in GCSE mathematics if you achieve grade B in A level Maths, Physics, Economics, Geography, Psychology or Business.
Specific offer is ascertained at interview.
We are committed to ensuring that all learners with the potential to succeed, regardless of their background, are encouraged to apply to study with us. The additional information gained through contextual data allows us to recognise a learner’s potential to succeed in the context of their background and experience. Applicants who are highlighted in this way will be made an offer which is lower than the typical offer for that programme.
D3 M2 M2 to M2 M2 M2 in three principal subjects including Music and Grade 6 (Grade B) in GCSE Mathematics, and Grade 8 Music Practical or demonstrated equivalent standard*
*Equivalence to grade 8 is ascertained via audition. This can be done in person or by sending a video. We welcome students onto our programmes who are not at this level if their interests focus on other areas, such as composition, music technology and/or music history and ethnomusicology.
We do not accept Music Technology as meeting our Music subject requirement. We can accept a pass in Grade 5 Music Theory where Music is not studied as an accepted Level 3 qualification. This applies to all BTEC Music courses and similar including UAL and Rockschool.
We recognise Music practical and theory exams from ABRSM, Trinity, Rockschool and LCM.
We can accept a grade 5 in GCSE mathematics if you achieve grade B in A level Maths, Physics, Economics, Geography, Psychology or Business.
Specific offer is ascertained at interview.
We are committed to ensuring that all learners with the potential to succeed, regardless of their background, are encouraged to apply to study with us. The additional information gained through contextual data allows us to recognise a learner’s potential to succeed in the context of their background and experience. Applicants who are highlighted in this way will be made an offer which is lower than the typical offer for that programme.
Applicants must hold GCSE English language (or GCSE English) (minimum grade 4/C) and mathematics (minimum grade 6/B).
We can accept a grade 5 in GCSE mathematics if you achieve grade B in A level Maths, Physics, Economics, Geography, Psychology or Business
We welcome applicants with other qualifications eg. European Baccalaureate. You will be expected to attain an A level equivalent standard.
The University of Southampton requires all applicants to achieve at least a Grade 4 in English and Mathematics GCSEs (taken in England) or a Grade C in both subjects (where taken in Northern Ireland or Wales). Some degree subjects stipulate specific additional GCSE minimum grades, which will be specified as part of the individual degree programme entry requirements.
For more details on the suitability of your qualifications or foundation programme please contact the Faculty of Arts and Humanities Admissions Team at [email protected]
Additional entry requirements
English language requirements
| Test | Grade | Additional details |
|---|
| IELTS (Academic) | 6.5 | with no component below 6.0 |
All programmes at the University of Southampton are taught and assessed in the medium of English (other than those in modern foreign languages). Therefore, all applicants must demonstrate they possess at least a minimum standard of English language proficiency.
Find out more about the University’s English Language requirements
https://www.southampton.ac.uk/studentadmin/admissions/admissions-policies/language.page