A*AA with A* in Mathematics
The A-level requirement is A*AA, with an A* in Mathematics. An A* in Further Mathematics with an A in Mathematics would be an acceptable alternative. The minimum GCSEs are English Language and Mathematics at grade B (6).
Undergraduate · LSE Mathematics and Economics
LSE Mathematics and Economics: Further Mathematics and course fit
LSE's BSc Mathematics and Economics splits study time equally between the two subjects. It asks for A* in Mathematics, expects Further Mathematics to be taken where a school offers it, names IB Mathematics: analysis and approaches, and encourages but does not require the TMUA. The decision for a strong mathematician is whether they want a degree in which economics is half the programme, rather than LSE Economics or a pure mathematics course. 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 Mathematics and Economics
Taken from LSE's BSc Mathematics and 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.
Further Mathematics expected where offered
Where your school or college offers it, AS- or A-level Further Mathematics is expected to be taken and a grade A achieved.
The IB: 39 points, 766 at Higher Level, 7 in Analysis and approaches
The IB Diploma requirement is 39 points overall, including 766 in Higher Level subjects, with 7 in Mathematics: analysis and approaches.
The TMUA is encouraged, not mandatory
Applicants are encouraged to take the TMUA. The test is not mandatory, but a good performance may make an application more competitive.
Half mathematics, half economics
Your study time is divided equally between mathematics and economics, across 12 units over three years plus LSE100. UCAS code GL11.
Official sources
Read on 31 October 2026 on LSE's BSc Mathematics and Economics programme page, which describes 2027 entry. LSE's separate subject-combinations and contextual-admissions pages, English language requirements, fees, the applications and intake figures on the page (not used) and the 2028-entry values were not read or are not stated.
The course
An equal split, taught as one programme
LSE says study time is divided equally between mathematics and economics. In the first year you take six compulsory foundation courses and LSE100: Microeconomics I, Macroeconomics I, Mathematical Methods, Elementary Statistical Theory, Mathematical Proof and Analysis, and Abstract Mathematics and Algorithms. The second year adds Microeconomics II and Macroeconomics II, Further Mathematical Methods in calculus and linear algebra, Real Analysis, one of optimisation, differential equations, discrete mathematics or algebra and number theory, and options. In the final year you take mathematics courses to the value of one unit, advanced mathematical economics courses to the value of one unit and two units of options from mathematics, economics, statistics and finance.
Choosing between courses
Mathematics and Economics, Economics, or something more specialised?
LSE offers several quantitative degrees. They put different weights on mathematics and economics.
Choose Mathematics and Economics if
you are strong at proof and analysis, want to apply them to economic questions and want half of your degree to be mathematics, taught by the Department of Mathematics.
Look at LSE Economics if
your interest is economics first, with mathematics as the tool. The LSE Economics guide in this series sets out that degree's own requirements.
Look at Data Science or Finance if
your interest is data, statistics or financial markets. Those degrees have their own guides and subject rules.
Look at the next guide for a more econometric route
LSE's Econometrics and Mathematical Economics is a separate degree with its own mathematical expectations.
Reading the offer
A* in Mathematics, Further Mathematics expected, and one precise IB syllabus
The A-level offer is A*AA with an A* in Mathematics, and LSE says an A* in Further Mathematics with an A in Mathematics would be an acceptable alternative. Where your school offers Further Mathematics, LSE expects you to take it and achieve a grade A. LSE considers a combination of Mathematics, Further Mathematics and one other subject, and says you do not need to have studied Economics. The IB requirement is 39 points including 766 at Higher Level, with the 7 in Mathematics: analysis and approaches. That wording names a single syllabus, so a candidate studying Mathematics: applications and interpretation should check the position with LSE.
The TMUA and selection
An optional test and a whole-application read
LSE encourages applicants to take the TMUA but says it is not mandatory, and that a good performance may make an application more competitive. LSE reads each application as a whole: academic achievement including predicted and achieved grades, subjects and combinations, the personal statement, the teacher's reference and educational circumstances. It says it is looking for an equal interest in mathematics and economics, an understanding of the links between the two disciplines, and involvement in related extra-curricular activities such as mathematics competitions or Olympiads. LSE adds that competition is high and it cannot guarantee an offer even if you are predicted or achieve the standard requirements.
A decision framework
Three questions before you commit
This is Avandy's own framework, not LSE's.
Do you enjoy proof as well as calculation?
Mathematical Proof and Analysis and Real Analysis are compulsory. Read a short proof and see whether you want to write one.
Can you explain an economic idea mathematically?
Take a simple model, such as supply and demand, write it as equations and say what the maths shows. This is the link LSE says it looks for.
Is the TMUA worth your time?
It is optional here but may help. Weigh preparation against the other courses on your list that require it.
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 and Further Mathematics rule, the IB syllabus, and the optional TMUA: 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 Mathematics and Economics programme page for the 2028-entry values when they appear.
What to do now
Secure Mathematics and Further Mathematics, check the IB syllabus rule if relevant, and decide whether TMUA preparation fits your plans.
Support
Independent support with course choice and 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 and economics mentoring and TMUA preparation help a student prepare; Avandy does not promise an offer, and LSE says it cannot guarantee one even for applicants who meet the standard requirements. No outcome is promised.
Questions
Questions applicants ask
What are the LSE Mathematics and Economics entry requirements?
A*AA at A level with A* in Mathematics, or 39 IB points including 766 at Higher Level with 7 in Mathematics: analysis and approaches. This is LSE's wording for 2027 entry.
Do I need Further Mathematics?
LSE expects Further Mathematics to be taken and a grade A achieved where your school or college offers it.
Do I need to take the TMUA?
No. LSE encourages applicants to take it, but says it is not mandatory, and a good performance may make an application more competitive.
Do I need to have studied Economics?
No. LSE says you do not need to have studied Economics previously.
Is an offer guaranteed if I meet the requirements?
No. LSE says competition for places is high and it cannot guarantee an offer even if you are predicted or achieve its standard requirements.
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 Mathematics and Economics
Tell us about the student's curriculum, their Mathematics and Further Mathematics and their TMUA plans, the universities on the list, and the intended year of entry. A senior adviser will review the academic profile before recommending how to prepare.