Transitions
DP → University
Which DP mathematics course you take — and the grade you achieve — can determine access to certain degree programmes. Here is what you need to know early.
Course × degree compatibility
| Degree area | AI SL | AI HL | AA SL | AA HL |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mathematics / Pure maths | — | — | — | ✓ |
| Physics / Theoretical physics | — | — | △ | ✓ |
| Engineering (most) | — | △ | △ | ✓ |
| Computer science | — | ✓ | △ | ✓ |
| Data science / Statistics | △ | ✓ | △ | ✓ |
| Economics | △ | ✓ | △ | ✓ |
| Business / Management | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| Medicine / Biomedical sciences | △ | △ | ✓ | ✓ |
| Social sciences / Psychology | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| Arts / Humanities | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
✓ = typically accepted / common requirement. △ = accepted at many institutions but check specific requirements. — = usually insufficient; may require additional bridging. Always verify with target institution prospectuses.
Advice for Year 11 students
If you have not yet begun researching university entry requirements, start now. Entry conditions for mathematics vary by institution, country and even programme within the same university. The UCAS website, Swiss university admission offices and the Common App all publish entry requirements.
If you find that your chosen programme requires a mathematics qualification you are not currently taking, discuss this with your DP coordinator as soon as possible. Some universities offer bridging courses; others consider a combination of coursework evidence and interview performance; a small number offer conditional places with the expectation of external certification.