Ahead of A-Level results on 13 August, The New Model Institute for Technology and Engineering (NMITE) has published a new report supporting one of the most distinctive features of its degree courses.
Unlike almost every other undergraduate engineering programme in the UK, NMITE admits students without a prior A-level (or equivalent) qualification in mathematics. The institute argues that mathematics is just one of a broader set of skills — alongside communication, design, problem-solving and critical thinking — that make a capable engineer, and that the ability to ‘think mathematically’ in real engineering contexts matters more than exam-style technique.
Every August, talented students rule themselves out of doing an engineering degree because of one grade: maths. That’s not fair, and our new evidence suggests it’s not necessary either.
James Newby, President and CEO, NMITE
Any gaps in prior knowledge are addressed early on through embedded maths teaching and opt-in support, rather than treated as a pre-requisite for entry.
James Newby, President and CEO of NMITE, commented: “As students across the country open their A-level results , we want anyone who didn’t get the maths grade they were hoping for — or didn’t take maths at all — to know that the door into engineering isn’t closed.
“Every August, talented students rule themselves out of doing an engineering degree because of one grade: maths. That’s not fair, and our new evidence suggests it’s not necessary either.
“We compared how our students at NMITE (New Model Institute for Technology and Engineering) perform throughout their degree, based on whether they arrived with a maths A-level or not. Across eight tests spanning every year of study, seven showed no meaningful difference between the two groups. The only gap appeared in the first few months — exactly where you’d expect one, before it closes.
“By the later years, students without maths A-level are often matching, and sometimes outperforming, those who had one. Gaining practical experience is just as important as a maths A-Level and that’s exactly why at NMITE we believe that learning soft skills on the job, alongside the theory is important.
“That raises an obvious question: if a maths A-level doesn’t predict who makes a good engineer, why does almost every course in the country still demand it? Fewer girls take maths A-level than boys, so this requirement isn’t just outdated — it’s actively pushing capable young women away from engineering.
“To anyone opening results this week who missed that grade, I want them to know that at NMITE it doesn’t disqualify you. What matters is whether you can think, design and solve problems like an engineer.
“We’d urge other universities to ask whether their own entry rules are backed by evidence, or just habit.”
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