Information for Prospective Undergraduates

More info about Economics at Essex

For admission to study economics at Essex, you need good academic qualifications - but not necessarily in any specific subjects. For example, you need not have studied economics, but English proficiency and at least GCSE equivalent level of mathematics are essential.

What qualifications do I need?

Although many qualifications are acceptable for admission, some are more acceptable than others. If you are studying UK A-levels you will be asked to obtain an overall aggregate point score but may also be asked to achieve specific grades in particular subjects. Conditional offers normally require at least grade B in two or more subjects at A2 in one sitting, rather than accumulating the aggregate points score over several years. This will ensure that you have the capability to cope with four university subjects simultaneously and intensively, which is what is required at degree level.

Are there any subjects I need to have previously studied?

Offers of admission may also ask for specific grades in certain subjects.
For example, if you are taking Economics A-level, you may be asked to achieve at least grade B. A-level Economics is not a pre-requisite for admission but, if you are taking it, your performance is important. Similarly, you may be asked to achieve particular grades in other relevant subjects that will signal your future success in economics. Relevant subjects are those with an academic focus, such as mathematics or history, and including others in the arts/humanities, social sciences and sciences.

What level of Mathematics do I need?

Entering economics students typically form a group with diverse mathematics backgrounds. The minimal entry requirement at Essex is at least a grade C in GCSE mathematics (or equivalent). More important than your mathematics background is your willingness to undertake study in mathematics as part of the degree. Economics at degree level is a problem-solving subject - modern economics uses mathematical tools as an efficient way to construct logical arguments.

Does Essex accept other qualifications?

In addition to A-levels, the University admits students to study economics with a wide range of qualifications all of which are considered on their academic merits. For some qualifications, minimum grades in specific subjects may be required. For others, such as the International Baccalaureate, all that is needed is the award of the diploma at a suitable overall standard (though a specific English language requirement may be stipulated for non-native learners).

What do I need for admission to study Economics at Essex?

Successful entrants to study economics at Essex should possess academic qualifications that show they are capable of studying a challenging subject in an intensive way. If a particular subject is specified in the offer, it is to provide evidence of this capability, not because particular background knowledge in that subject is required. The only exceptions to this are for degrees combined with a foreign language: BA in Economics with French, German, Italian or Spanish specify a qualification in the relevant language and the BSc in Economics with Mathematics requires an A-level in Mathematics (or equivalent). Specific background knowledge is not needed for single honours degree schemes in Economics, Management Economics, International Economics or Financial Economics.