<p>Luckily, I'm only a rising sophomore, so I have time to make arrangements, but I need to know what standardized tests are necessary and/or advisable for an American applying to UK universities, particularly Cambridge or possibly Oxford. Do I need to take cambridge A and O levels? My possible areas of study are math, physics or philosophy, in decreasing order of interest. I think they may have a math w/ physics option. Also, what scores should I be aiming for on the standardized tests? (I am not sure if AP is generally counted as standardized, but include it please. I am not at an IB school either.)</p>
<p>I think it’s SAT/ACT overall, then Subject Tests and AP Tests in your area. I’d do Subject Math 2, Calc BC, AP Physics B and C, Subject Physics.</p>
<p>A-levels in the UK are not really a US-style standardised test. They are a two year course of study taken in school which includes exams and coursework (other countries have tests called A-levels which are different. I am speaking about the UK only). You wouldn’t be able to take these alongside your usual US High school courses, so this would jeopardise your chances at US schools. Therefore I strongly advise against this route unless you are already enrolled in a British school.</p>
<p>My advice is to decide which course you want to apply for (and if you think you will change your mind don’t apply to the UK) and look up the required A-level subjects for that course online. Try to 5-6 APs grade 5 in similar subjects as required for A-levels. Or take IB in those similar subjects. Unrelated grades will likely be ignored (eg if you have AP calculus and apply for English, they’ll ignore that AP). However, do not change your APs on the off-chance you will get into Cambridge. Make sure you are also maximising your chances of getting into US schools.</p>