Undergraduate · LSE Econometrics and Mathematical Economics

LSE Econometrics and Mathematical Economics: quantitative readiness and the TMUA

LSE's BSc Econometrics and Mathematical Economics asks for A* in Mathematics and makes the TMUA mandatory. It also carries a note that is easy to miss: LSE says students are rarely admitted to the programme in the first year, because that is too early to commit to a research career in economics, and a limited number transfer in from other LSE programmes in the third year. Before anything else, an applicant should decide whether they are comfortable with how this affects their plans. Everything cycle-specific here is LSE's wording for 2027 entry; nothing below is a confirmed 2028 requirement.

Official information · last verified for 2027 entry

What LSE asks for in Econometrics and Mathematical Economics

Taken from LSE's BSc Econometrics and Mathematical Economics programme page and read on 31 October 2026. For a normal 2028-entry application, made in 2027, every requirement below is last verified for the previous cycle and may change; LSE's 2028-entry requirements and dates are awaiting publication.

A*AA with A* in Mathematics

The A-level requirement is A*AA with an A* in Mathematics. An A* in Further Mathematics plus an A in Mathematics is an acceptable alternative. The minimum GCSEs are English Language and Mathematics at grade B (6).

The IB: 39 points, 766 at Higher Level, 7 in Mathematics

The IB Diploma requirement is 39 points overall, with 766 in Higher Level subjects and 7 in Mathematics.

Mathematics required; Further Mathematics desirable

A-level Mathematics (or equivalent) is required. Further Mathematics is desirable, but LSE understands that not all schools offer it and says you will not be disadvantaged as a result.

The TMUA is mandatory

Applicants are required to take the Test of Mathematics for University Admission. LSE says the test is mandatory.

First-year admission is rare

LSE says students are rarely admitted to the programme in the first year, as this is too early to commit to a research career in economics. A limited number transfer in during the third year.

Official sources

Read on 31 October 2026 on LSE's BSc Econometrics and Mathematical Economics programme page, which describes 2027 entry. LSE's separate subject-combinations and contextual-admissions pages, English language requirements, fees, graduate-destination details and the 2028-entry values were not read or are not stated.

The course

A research-oriented degree built on mathematics and statistics

LSE describes the programme as giving a solid grounding in micro and macro economics and econometrics, with empirical methods used to test economic theories and hands-on experience of statistical programming. The first year provides a foundation in economics and the quantitative skills it needs, with courses in economic reasoning, calculus and linear algebra, elementary statistical theory, microeconomics, macroeconomics and econometrics, plus LSE100. The second and third years build on these, and the third year includes a dissertation in quantitative economics. Students study 12 units over three years and may apply for a year abroad with an exchange partner. LSE says almost all graduates go on to a graduate degree, often a PhD.

A rare route

What LSE says about first-year admission

LSE's page includes an unusual note: students are rarely admitted to the programme in the first year, because it is too early to commit to a research career in economics, and a limited number of students transfer to it from other LSE programmes in the third year to complete the dissertation in quantitative economics. It is still a programme with a UCAS code, entry requirements and a mandatory test. The honest reading is that the programme is selective on its own terms and that other LSE degrees can lead to it. Anyone applying should read that note carefully and ask LSE how it applies to them.

Choosing between courses

Econometrics, mathematics and economics, or economics?

LSE offers several routes into quantitative economics.

Choose Econometrics and Mathematical Economics if

you are confident in mathematics and statistics, want to learn how empirical methods test economic theory, and are interested in research.

Look at Mathematics and Economics if

you want a degree split equally between the two subjects, taught with more pure mathematics. The preceding LSE guide in this series sets out that degree.

Look at Economics or Finance if

you want economics or finance as the main subject. Each has its own guide and its own requirements.

Reading the offer

Mathematics at A*, with the TMUA as part of the application

The offer is A*AA with an A* in Mathematics, and LSE accepts an A* in Further Mathematics plus an A in Mathematics as an alternative. LSE wants subject combinations that show analytical and writing ability alongside Mathematics: typical choices include Economics, Physics, History, Chemistry, English and Government and Politics. If you take four or more full A levels, LSE says you are expected to achieve A*AA with A* in Mathematics and a pass in the fourth. The IB requirement is 39 points with 766 at Higher Level and a 7 in Mathematics. The TMUA is mandatory, unlike on the Mathematics and Economics degree, where it is encouraged.

Selection

What LSE says it looks for

LSE says it looks for logical thinking, quantitative skills and the ability to follow complex lines of mathematical reasoning, a creative and flexible approach to problem-solving, an ability to think independently, good communication skills, intellectual curiosity and self-motivation. The page describes no interview. LSE says competition for places is high, and the test, grades, subject combination, personal statement and teacher's reference are all part of how an application is read.

A decision framework

Three questions before you commit

This is Avandy's own framework, not LSE's.

Do you want a research-minded degree?

LSE says almost all graduates continue to a graduate degree. Think about whether that pattern fits your plans.

Are you comfortable with statistics and programming?

The course involves empirical work and statistical programming. Try an introductory statistics problem and see whether you enjoy the method.

Have you read LSE's note on first-year admission?

Decide how you will use your other UCAS choices and ask LSE how the note applies to you.

Planning for 2028 entry

Planning for 2028 entry: what carries over and what is awaiting publication

Applying for 2028 entry means applying in 2027, under rules LSE has not yet published for that cycle. Each item below carries one of two labels. Last verified for 2027 entry means LSE published it for the previous cycle and it may change. Awaiting publication for 2028 entry means LSE has not yet published it.

Grades, the Mathematics rule, the mandatory TMUA and the note on first-year admission: last verified for 2027 entry

These are the best guide to what to prepare. LSE has not confirmed them for 2028 entry.

UCAS deadline, TMUA dates and any change to selection arrangements: awaiting publication for 2028 entry

Check LSE's Econometrics and Mathematical Economics programme page for the 2028-entry values when they appear.

What to do now

Secure Mathematics at A*, plan TMUA preparation, and read LSE's note on first-year admission before choosing your UCAS options.

Support

Independent support with course choice and TMUA preparation

Avandy provides independent academic and admissions support. It is not affiliated with the London School of Economics and Political Science or any of its colleges or departments. Preparation sits within the Avandy Trinity Advisory Model: a Strategic Admissions Consultant, a PhD-level Academic Mentor and a Subject-specific Tutor, working to the actual requirements of each course. Mathematics, statistics and TMUA preparation help a student prepare for the test; Avandy does not promise an offer, and LSE says competition for places is high. No outcome is promised.

Questions

Questions applicants ask

What are the LSE Econometrics and Mathematical Economics entry requirements?

A*AA at A level with A* in Mathematics, or 39 IB points with 766 at Higher Level and 7 in Mathematics. This is LSE's wording for 2027 entry.

Is the TMUA mandatory?

Yes. LSE says applicants are required to take the TMUA and that the test is mandatory.

Do I need Further Mathematics?

It is desirable but not required. LSE understands that not all schools offer it and says you will not be disadvantaged as a result.

Can I be admitted straight into the first year?

LSE says students are rarely admitted in the first year and a limited number transfer in during the third year. Read the note and ask LSE how it applies to you.

Is there an interview?

The page read describes no interview.

Are these the rules for 2028 entry?

No. They are LSE's wording for the 2027 application cycle. Check the programme page again when LSE publishes its 2028-entry requirements.

Students and families

Talk to us about LSE Econometrics and Mathematical Economics

Tell us about the student's curriculum, their Mathematics and Further Mathematics and their TMUA preparation, the universities on the list, and the intended year of entry. A senior adviser will review the academic profile before recommending how to prepare.