Overview
A*A*A at A-level, or 7 7 6 (42+ overall) in the IB. For other qualifications, please see the University entrance requirements page.
A-level/IB Higher Level or equivalent in Mathematics.
(Please note that IB applicants starting the new IB Mathematics syllabus are expected to take IB Higher Level 'Analysis and Approaches' if it's available at your school. If this isn't an option for you, please drop us an email at admissions@clare.cam.ac.uk and we'll be very happy to advise you.)
Apart from Mathematics, there are no other specific subjects required in preparation for the study of Economics.
Written work
Candidates will be asked to submit one essay, written in English. The essay should be related to any field of Economics – we do not make specific stipulations. You should choose the essay that you consider to be your best, but they should not be written specially for the occasion and, if possible should have been marked by a member of your school/college staff.
Economics at Clare
Economics studies a wide range of phenomena concerned with, and arising out of, the way society decides how to use its resources, with topics ranging from economic development, business cycles and macroeconomic policy, through to the workings of auction markets, the impact of transnational firms and the future of the environment.
While the Cambridge course particularly emphasises the application of mathematical and statistical techniques, it also draws on fields such as politics, history, philosophy and psychology, to provide students with a thorough grounding in all aspects of the subject.
Located close to the Faculty of Economics and with four Fellows in the subject, Clare has a long tradition of excellence in Economics. We believe supervisions are key to the success of our students and pride ourselves on providing high quality teaching, drawing on both the expertise of our own Fellows as well as that of Economists located in other Cambridge Colleges and departments.
Visit the University's subject page for more information.
Dr Juan Block's advice for prospective applicants: For a prospective Clare applicant eager to delve deeper into the field of economics, here is a great place to start! Begin by watching public lectures delivered by prominent economists such as Marshall, Keynes, Meade, and Stone, as these can provide valuable insights and historical context to economic theories. You can also use this website (https://www.discovereconomics.co.uk) to explore ‘Why study Economics? What Economists do? And how to get involved’. Additionally, participating in the Young Economics of the Year Competition and the Marshall Society's Essay Competition will not only test your understanding of economics but also allow you to engage with peers who share your passion and gain invaluable feedback. Additionally, the 'Economists in Ten' podcast offers a unique opportunity to gain a more intimate understanding of renowned economists through a series of ten thought-provoking questions. Special episodes on this podcast provide even more in-depth exploration. You can easily access this podcast on Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/44pI1bcAKbrA2fLZpwJF4X. These resources will not only deepen your knowledge but also demonstrate your commitment and enthusiasm for economics at Clare and the University of Cambridge more widely!
Melvyn’s research interest spans both theoretical and applied microeconometrics. Following the coronavirus pandemic, Dr Weeks is examining the relationship between decisions and decision makers under uncertainty. The research will explore the importance of links between the attributes of decision situations, the nature of evidence, together with the characteristics of the decision maker and those whose behaviour a policymaker wishes to affect. The motivation for this work is based on the recognition that how individuals respond to advice on how best to prevent transmission will be as important as government actions.
