Your Mathematics & Statistics University Application Action Plan

Your University Choices Overview

You've selected three highly prestigious universities with mathematically rigorous programs that share a strong focus on statistics:

Course Alignment Analysis: Your choices demonstrate excellent coherence. All three programs focus on mathematics and statistics, though with slightly different emphases. UCL focuses on the interplay between mathematics and statistics, LSE has a financial orientation, and Imperial offers a broader mathematical foundation with statistics specialization. This cohesive selection will allow you to craft a personal statement that addresses common themes while acknowledging the unique aspects of each program.

Grade Requirements & Admissions Tests

University	A-Level Requirements	IB Requirements	Admissions Tests
UCL	A*AA with A* in Mathematics and Further Mathematics	40 points (HL 7 in Mathematics)	STEP Paper (2) or Mathematics AEA (Distinction)
LSE	A*AA with A* in Mathematics (AS/A in Further Mathematics expected)	38 points (HL 766, with 7 in Mathematics)	TMUA encouraged
Imperial	A*AA - A*AA	39 points	TMUA required

Target Grades for Competitive Application:

• A-Level students: Aim for A*A*A with A* in both Mathematics and Further Mathematics
• IB students: Target 42-43 points overall with 7 in HL Mathematics: Analysis and Approaches

Essential Test Preparation:

• TMUA (Test of Mathematics for University Admission): Required for Imperial and encouraged for LSE
  • Action: Register for the next available test date
  • Action: Complete past papers available on the Cambridge Assessment Admissions Testing website
  • Action: Consider enrolling in a preparation course or finding a tutor specialized in TMUA
• STEP/Mathematics AEA: Alternative requirement for UCL
  • Action: If you decide to take STEP, start preparation early using resources from the Cambridge Assessment website
  • Action: Work through past STEP papers to develop problem-solving skills beyond A-Level

Note: UCL does not accept resits, and all three universities expect high achievement in Mathematics. Further Mathematics is expected for LSE and strongly preferred (though can be waived in special circumstances) for Imperial.

Personal Statement Action Plan

Your personal statement needs to demonstrate your passion for mathematics and statistics, readiness for academic rigor, and understanding of applications, particularly in finance. Below are recommendations aligned with key questions admissions tutors will be looking for answers to:

1. Why do you want to study this course or subject?

• Read foundational texts: "How to Lie with Statistics" and "Foundations of Science Mathematics" to develop insights into statistical reasoning
• Attend lectures: Find and attend the "Rethinking Keynesian Fiscal Stimulus" lecture at LSE or similar lectures (in-person or online) to show interest in financial applications
• Demonstrate intellectual curiosity: Note specific topics that intrigue you most (e.g., stochastic processes, financial modeling) and explain why

2. How have your qualifications and studies helped you to prepare?

• Connect classroom to applications: Describe how specific A-Level/IB topics in Mathematics have sparked your interest in statistical applications
• Develop computational skills: Take an online course in computational methods used in financial mathematics (e.g., Python for Finance, R for Statistics)
• Participate in mathematics competitions: Join UKMT Senior Mathematical Challenge or similar to demonstrate problem-solving abilities

3. What have you done outside of education to prepare?

• Gain practical experience: Seek a summer internship or work experience in an organization that uses statistics or financial modeling
• Apply statistics in real scenarios: Volunteer with non-profit organizations to analyze data for social or financial impact studies
• Enter essay competitions: Participate in essay competitions hosted by mathematics or economics societies to demonstrate written communication skills
• Join a reading group: Form or join a group to discuss mathematical and statistical concepts and their applications

Super-curricular Activities Timeline (Next 3-6 Months)

Month	Academic Activities	Practical Experience
Month 1	• Begin reading "How to Lie with Statistics" • Register for TMUA/STEP • Start weekly practice with past papers	• Research summer internship opportunities • Join online mathematics/statistics forums
Month 2	• Complete first book and start "Foundations of Science Mathematics" • Attend 1-2 online lectures on mathematical finance	• Apply for 2-3 work experience opportunities • Start an online course in statistical programming
Month 3	• Intensify TMUA/STEP preparation • Research a specific financial mathematics topic and write a short essay	• Begin volunteer data analysis project • Attend a relevant webinar or workshop

Key Focus Areas for Personal Statement: For LSE, emphasize your interest in financial applications of mathematics. For Imperial, highlight your interest in computational methods and problem-solving. For UCL, emphasize the interplay between mathematical theory and statistical applications.