The selection processes adopted for admissions of students is governed by the School Policy on Equal Opportunities Policies and Monitoring, and are as follows:
Each UCAS form is carefully checked and the following information is extracted:
If the predicted grades for Physics and Mathematics are DD or better at A level (or equivalent), BB or better at AS level, then the applicant is invited for interview. Very few (less than 5%) of applicants fallout side this category. Those that do (e.g. Access students, overseas students, etc.) are considered on an individual basis as candidates for Non-standard entry at undergraduate level.
After interview, taking into account the comments of the interviewer, the grades predicted on the UCAS form for forthcoming examinations, and the previously achieved examination results, a formal offer is sent to each student. For those who do not attend interview a formal offer is also made but without the extra knowledge gained from the interview.
After the results of the examinations are known all students who have failed to meet the requested grades are then reconsidered very carefully, on an individual basis, provided they have achieved a minimum level (specified by the University) in Physics and Mathematics.
The School Admissions Officer issues guidelines for the conduct of admissions interviews to all staff involved.
The School adheres to the University's procedures for recruitment of postgraduate research students.
In particular, before an offer of a place and/or studentships will be made, the applicant's academic qualifications, past experience and performance at interview must be demonstrated to be appropriate to the proposed field of study.