Some airlines have a bug up their ass about academic qualifications, usually in connection to sponsorships. Clearly the best educated applicants are the best candidiates for the job.
BA, Thomas Cook and Excel are but 3 off the top of my head who get all excited about exam results. And no, I'm not all bitter - I have a good degree and my ATPL - just don't agree with the principle or with applicants funding their own type ratings.