<p>Thank you so much for your reply! Yes, I do recognize that applying for admission to Oxford (in England) is based solely on examination scores/required grades. However, it is also based on merit and ‘age and stage.’ In stark contrast, the U.S. (in my experience, New York) could care less about actual talents and the most important tests. In my opinion, it seems as if a vast series of unimportant tests that do not matriculate are what counts and vapid tests are what qualify a good student (and are forced down the throats of students, all without any real learning). It’s more of a government/institutional problem for me, I suppose. As I’ve said before, merit, talent, and ardor should have some say.</p>
<p>I have read the Oxford website for information and I know the examinations/interview/course-requisites. I have already decided my courses and know that I must score high in each. I also understand that I need to have separate requirements for each course (for example, English; English Literature – must give an example of work).</p>
<p>***And: At least I will be taking really hard examinations on subjects of my main interests. I love Literature to the fullest extent and as long as it is in these subjects, there’s nothing for me to complain about. I am talking about taking trivial, unrelenting tests in High School and only caring about ‘stats’ that have no deep meaning and are not pertinent to one’s future studies. The whole thing feels robotic almost. </p>
<p>One question: You’re telling me there is no minor? If I want to study Philosophy as well, does this mean I must double-major? </p>
<p>*Also: Yes, I am strictly aware of the financial circumstances concerning Oxford. The only hope for any scholarship from Oxford is through Rhodes (and that, in itself, is a different story).</p>
<p>Again, thanks very much for the assistance!</p>