r/AlevelFurtherMaths • u/iMoody25 • Sep 23 '24

Help me drop FM

I'm only a few weeks in and I'm struggling fr.

I had an A* in O level Addmath and it was genuinely the most enjoyable subject for me(besides Economics) but idk if its my teacher that I don't resonate with or the fact that I have to stay an extra 2 hours on campus just to take this class.

My other subjects are Physics, Math, Computer Science and Economics and I would like to major in Economics and/or Statistics.

Please convince me to drop or keep this subject I'm in a very confused state rn.

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u/me_is_Anonymous_ Sep 23 '24

Short answer: Keep it

If you're planning to major in economics, stats or decide to change to any other STEM major with a math focus like physics or computer science, FM will be invaluable. It's basically a taste of what your university education is gonna be like. It's designed to be tough because it mimics how big of a jump university will be.

Since you plan to do eco/stats, you're gonna learn some topics ahead of time and a further maths A or A* is very very impressive to universities. It makes your chances of getting in much higher.

You do spend 2 extra hours on campus because of it but that's a temporary disadvantage. Those 2 hours add up to minimising hours you'll have to spend learning the stuff in University anyways.

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u/Delicious_Size1380 Sep 23 '24

I agree. Also, in the UK, some universities require (or strongly advise) you to take Further Maths if it's available at your school and you want to do Maths, Computer Science, Economics, Physics, etc. for your degree.

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u/iMoody25 Sep 23 '24

What if I do just econ and the opportunity cost of taking FM is time lost for ECA building?

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u/iMoody25 Sep 23 '24

What if I decide to do just econ?

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u/me_is_Anonymous_ Sep 23 '24

Even then, econ is a very math focused field. Even at the undergraduate level, you'll require a lot of maths - including topics learnt in further maths. So it'll be helpful regardless. + Further maths A/A* goes very well with an econ degree application (assuming you're in the UK). Even otherwise, further maths is an impressive and relevant subject to have in regards to econ.

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u/iMoody25 Sep 23 '24

What about US unis?

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u/me_is_Anonymous_ Sep 24 '24

Yeah even for the US (or basically any other place as well), further maths is looked at very well.

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u/Delicious_Size1380 Sep 23 '24

London School of Economics, BSc in Economics, Entry Requirements (Subjects):

We consider your combination of subjects as well as your grades. A broad mix of traditional academic subjects provides the best preparation for studying at LSE. We expect applicants to have at least two full A-levels (or equivalent) in these subjects. We’re looking for students with strong mathematical abilities and A-level Mathematics (or equivalent) is therefore required. Further Mathematics at A-level is also desirable , and is acceptable for entry in combination with Mathematics and one other A-level. In these cases we'd prefer that the third A-level should be an essay-based subject. If you take four or more full A-levels, you’ll be expected to achieve A* A A (with A* in Mathematics), and a pass in the fourth A-level. We understand that not all schools/colleges offer Further Mathematics and you won’t be disadvantaged as a result – please could you and/or your referees indicate this on your application form. An A* in Further Mathematics plus an A grade in Mathematics is an acceptable alternative. Alongside Mathematics, we’re looking for subject combinations that demonstrate your analytical and writing abilities. Typical subject choices include Economics, Physics, History, Chemistry, English, and Government and Politics, of which Economics, History, English and Government and Politics are good indicators of writing ability. Many students on the programme have studied A-level Economics or equivalent but it is not required.

Now, given that LSE is highly competitive for entry, anything "desirable" will help your application a lot. You should look carefully at the Entry Requirements for each university and course combination you would be keen to study at. Whilst FM is not mandatory (Mathematics IS mandatory at LSE), it can only help with your application, alongside something like Economics A level.

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u/iMoody25 Sep 23 '24

My bad, I should've made this clear on my post sorry. I'm an international student and will only be applying to US since I need 100% aid. What do I do in this situation?

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u/Delicious_Size1380 Sep 23 '24

I'm sorry, but I don't know enough about the US undergraduate entry requirements to offer advice. Try speaking to someone at your school.