Baek Kang-hyun, the South Korean child prodigy who entered high school at just 10 years old, has revealed that his Oxford University application has hit an unexpected barrier — his age.
The 13-year-old, already known for his exceptional academic record, explained the situation in a YouTube video titled ‘Applying to the University of Oxford’, uploaded on 6 September.
This was his first update in nearly six months, during which many of his followers had wondered what he had been up to.
Preparing for Oxford at 13
“Many people have been worried and curious about my recent activities, so I’d like to update you. Over the past year and a half, I have been preparing for studying abroad in the UK and studying for the International A-Level exams,” he shared.
Baek showcased an impressive transcript, earning the top grade, A*, in Mathematics, Further Mathematics, Physics and Chemistry.
He also revealed that he has been consistently achieving between 98 and 100 per cent in past papers for Oxford’s notoriously challenging Mathematics Admissions Test (MAT).
His dream? A place in Oxford University’s Computer Science course, one of the most competitive degree programmes in the UK.
The UCAS Roadblock
But despite his achievements, Baek’s Oxford application has hit a snag due to UCAS rules.
“To apply to Oxford, one must use the UK’s UCAS admissions website, but registration is not allowed for those under 13 years old. Without registration, I cannot receive a UCAS ID, take the MAT exam, or even apply. I directly called and emailed UCAS officials and Oxford’s admissions office,” he explained.
Oxford’s admissions team has reportedly responded with warmth and support. Baek said, “Oxford has been extremely kind and is doing their best for someone as young as me. UCAS and Oxford are currently discussing the issuance of my official ID.”
He now waits anxiously for a decision, expected before the end of September. If approved, Baek will sit the MAT on 23 October.
A strong performance would move him to the next stage: Oxford interviews scheduled for December.
These famously tough sessions last over an hour, often involving several rounds of deep subject questioning. Final admission decisions will follow in January.
A Remarkable Journey So Far
Baek’s story has long fascinated the public. First appearing on SBS’s Genius Search at just 41 months old, he stunned audiences by solving advanced mathematical problems and showing musical flair.
His IQ was once measured at 164 on the Wechsler scale and 204 on the Mensa scale.
In March 2023, he joined Seoul Science High School as the youngest ever enrollee, only to withdraw after one semester.
Initially, he said the decision was to focus on “creative activities,” but controversy arose after his father alleged school violence was the true reason.
Looking Ahead
Despite the uncertainty, Baek remains determined and optimistic about studying in the UK.
“After attending a cram school for about two months, I prepared for the A-Levels through self-study and have developed my own study methods.
If those preparing for studying abroad wish, I can share my know-how. I kindly ask for support from those who love me and for UCAS and Oxford to smoothly resolve the issue so I can take the MAT exam,” he said.
A 13-year-old with grades that most students twice his age dream of, now facing a UCAS age restriction. His Oxford University future hangs on whether rules can bend for a prodigy.
