This study - Predictive Effectiveness of Metrics in Admission to the University of Cambridge - investigated which factors at admission provided the best indication of future undergraduate potential. A Levels and GCSEs, aptitude tests, school background and gender were all considered.
A Levels are a strong indicator of degree potential
Researcher: Richard Partington - Chair of Admissions Research Working Party
School background is not a factor in Cambridge degree success
Researcher: Dr Geoff Parks - Director of Admissions for the Cambridge Colleges
This study - Academic Performance of Undergraduate Students at Cambridge by School/College Background - examined the distributions of results obtained in final examinations at the University of Cambridge by students who had attended UK independent, grammar and comprehensive schools, as well as other maintained sector institutions. The research found that students from different UK educational backgrounds did equally well at Cambridge.