University of Cambridge

The University of Cambridge ranks within the top 10 in major global rankings, including QS, US News, and THE. In the QS Rankings, it holds the #5 position, and the THE ranking also places it at #5. The US News ranking of #6 further strengthens its status as one of the world’s leading institutions.

Below is a summary of its 2025 rankings:

These rankings underscore Cambridge's prestigious position in the global academic community. Now, let’s check out its subjecwise performance.

University of Cambridge: Top Course-wise Ranking 2024-25

The University of Cambridge performs exceptionally well across all major subjects. In the QS rankings, Engineering is ranked #4 and Business course is ranked #5. 

Similarly, in the THE rankings, Medicine course is placed at #3 and Law course at #4. In the US News rankings, Humanities course is ranked #3, reflecting the university’s strong academic reputation across diverse disciplines.
Here are the subject-wise rankings for the University of Cambridge.

Unsure University of Cambridge’s performance for your chosen subject? Check out University of Cambridge Ranking 2025 for detailed insights and see how it stands globally!

The University of Cambridge's strong performance across various subjects reflects its excellence in academia. Now, let's explore its top 5 campuses.

Unlike general fall or summer intakes in the UK, the University of Cambridge offers three intakes: Michaelmas, Easter, and Lent. Since different courses have different timelines, understanding the intakes will help you prepare for your journey in advance. For undergraduates, the application deadline for the Lent intake is 15 October 2025.

The key dates for undergraduate applications are outlined in the table below:

Note: The deadline for various PG intakes varies by course. Check out the individual course page for the latest updates.

With a clear understanding of the admission criteria and timelines, you can now explore the diverse range of programs offered at the University of Cambridge.

The University of Cambridge has a competitive admission rate of 16.67%, with 6 applicants for every available seat. It offers three intakes: Michaelmas, Lent, and Easter terms. 

Applicants must meet academic requirements such as the IB, English language proficiency level (e.g., IELTS), and standardized test scores like the SAT or GMAT. Once accepted, students need to apply for a UK student visa.

To begin, it's crucial to familiarize yourself with the specific qualifications and standards expected by the university.

Admission Requirements

Admission requirements vary by course but typically require A-levels for undergraduate programs and a 2:1 for postgraduate programs. Standardized test scores like the SAT and GRE are accepted based on the program requirements. 

International students must demonstrate English language proficiency through tests like TOEFL or IELTS. Once you receive confirmation, you need to apply for a student visa using documents such as your passport.

Below are the admission requirements to study at the University of Cambridge:

Academic Qualification

The University of Cambridge accepts the International Baccalaureate (IB) for undergraduate applicants, with a score range of 40-42. International applicants must submit equivalent qualifications to secure admission. Proof of study must be shown through academic transcripts.

Here are the academic qualifications required.

Now, let’s check out the English language proficiency required for the University of Cambridge.

Language Proficiency

International students must demonstrate English language proficiency. The University of Cambridge accepts test scores in the form of TOEFL, IELTS, and Cambridge English tests.

Below are the accepted tests.

Note: EU students need competence in English at the C1 standard 

Next, let’s discuss the competitive exams accepted for admission.

Competitive Exams

The University of Cambridge accepts the ACT or SAT for undergraduate admissions. For programs like the MBA in the UK, the GRE or GMAT is required.

Here are the accepted tests.

Now, let’s understand the visa requirements to study at University of Cambridge.

Visa Requirements 

International students must apply for a student visa to study at the University of Cambridge. The required documents include the university acceptance letter and your passport, which must be submitted to the UK Home Office. 

Ensuring you follow the procedure and submit the correct documents will help minimize the risk of visa refusal.

Below are the admission requirements for studying at the University of Cambridge.

The above criteria generally apply to different programs at University of Cambridge. For program-specific requirements, check out the University of Cambridge Admissions page.

Having understood the admission prerequisites, it's equally important to be aware of the application timelines to ensure a timely submission.

The University of Cambridge offers 30 undergraduate courses and over 300 postgraduate programs, spanning business, humanities, and applied sciences courses. These include conventional courses like computer science and more unique ones like Egyptology.

Below are some popular programs available at the University of Cambridge.

• MPhil in Archaeological Research: Study human history through the analysis of material remains, from ancient artifacts to modern-day discoveries.
• Masters in Architecture: Combine creative design with technical knowledge to shape the built environment.
• Masters in Chemical Engineering and Biotechnology: Use chemical principles to develop processes and products that benefit society.
• MPhil in Scientific Computing: Understand algorithms, programming, and the theoretical foundations of computing.
• BA (Honors) in Economics: Explore the factors that influence wealth, poverty, and well-being across the globe.
• BA in Egyptian Archaeology: Study of ancient Egyptian civilization, including its language, culture, and artifacts.

Now, let’s check out the tuition fees for different programs at University of Cambridge.

Understanding the tuition fees at the University of Cambridge is essential for financial planning. At the University of Cambridge, the tuition fee for international UG students depends on the stream of study, such as engineering. A degree in humanities costs £27,024 (INR 31.4L), while engineering costs £41,124 (INR 47.9L). 

The table below outlines the tuition fees which make up the cost of studying in the UK for international students.

Note: Tuition fees may vary by course. Check the course page for accurate information.

Beyond tuition, it's important to consider the cost of living in Cambridge to budget effectively.

Living expenses encompass accommodation, food, study materials, and personal costs. Planning for these will ensure a comfortable student experience. On average, you will need £14,880 (INR 17.3L) for the annual cost of living in the UK at the University of Cambridge.

The table below provides estimated monthly living costs. 

To support students financially, the University of Cambridge offers various scholarships.

Program fees at UK universities vary for domestic and international students. For international undergraduates, fees range between £11,400 and £38,000 (INR 13.2L - INR 44.2L), while a masters, like an MS in UK costs £9,000 to £30,000 (INR 10.4L - INR 34.9L). 

Here are the program fees to study at the University of Cambridge.

Note: The currency conversions are based on the current exchange rate.

Now, let’s explore how much it takes to study at University of Cambridge for international students.

Cambridge supports 1,100 to 1,400 students annually through a wide range of 500 scholarships, both merit-based and need-based. These scholarships can reduce your financial burden by 20% to 100%, depending on the award.

Below is a breakdown of internal and external scholarships available for students.

Internal Scholarships

Internal scholarships are sponsored by Cambridge from its own funds or through endowments by donors. Students have the option of internal scholarships like the Cambridge Bursary Scheme, which offers a financial award of £3,500 (INR 4L) for students with financial need.

Here are some internal scholarships.

Now, let’s discuss some external top UK scholarships for Indian students to reduce study costs.

External Scholarships

External scholarships offer support from governments and foundations. Students planning to study at the University of Cambridge can apply for Chevening scholarships, which cover the complete cost of studying in the UK.

Here are some external scholarship options.

After exploring financial aid options, let’s now look at how the University of Cambridge supports your employment outcomes.

At the University of Cambridge, student life is vibrant and diverse, offering a wealth of opportunities beyond academics. With over 500 clubs and a student population representing 95 countries, the campus promotes a dynamic and inclusive environment.

Here are some key highlights of student life at Cambridge:

• Collegiate System: Each of the 31 colleges provides a close-knit community, offering accommodation, dining, and social events, creating a supportive environment.
• Societies and Clubs: With over 500 student-run societies, you can pursue interests ranging from sports and arts to academic and cultural activities.
• Sports: From rowing to rugby, numerous sports clubs cater to all levels, promoting physical well-being and team spirit.
• Cultural Events: Annual traditions like May Balls and Formal Halls offer memorable experiences, blending history with celebration.
• Support Services: Comprehensive support services, including career counseling and mental health resources, ensure your well-being throughout your studies.

Exploring the achievements of Cambridge's alumni further highlights the long-term value of its education. Let’s take a look at some of the university’s well-known alumni.

The University of Cambridge is renowned for its exceptional educational outcomes. Within just 15 months of graduation, 89% of students are either employed or continuing their studies. The university also ranks in the top 3 in the UK for graduate prospects.

Additionally, 91% of working graduates are in high-skilled roles, demonstrating the university’s commitment to preparing students for a successful future.

Key highlights of Cambridge's placement success include:

• High Employment Rate: Cambridge has the highest graduate employment rate in the UK, with 81% of graduates securing employment shortly after completing their studies.
• Diverse Career Paths: Graduates pursue opportunities across various sectors, including healthcare, education, finance, and information technology.
• Competitive Salaries: The average starting salary for Cambridge graduates is approximately £34,565 (INR 40.2L), reflecting the high value employers place on a Cambridge education.
• Global Opportunities: Graduates secure positions with leading international firms,  such as Deloitte, enhancing their global career prospects.

These outcomes underscore the university's dedication to preparing students for successful careers. Now, let’s find out the top recruiters hiring University of Cambridge graduates.

Top Recruiters

Cambridge’s global reputation makes it highly desirable for employers, ranging from software giants like Microsoft to biotechnology companies like AstraZeneca. Graduates can find a wide variety of roles, including software engineers, business analysts, and marketing managers.

Here are some top recruiters hiring graduates from the University of Cambridge.

• Mott MacDonald: Engineering and consultancy roles across infrastructure and development projects.
• Microsoft: Opportunities in software engineering, data analysis, and IT solutions.
• AstraZeneca: Roles in biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, and research development.
• Robert Bosch: Engineering, innovation, and management positions in technology solutions.
• Apple: Positions in software development, hardware engineering, and marketing.
• Siemens: Jobs in engineering, automation, and digital industries.

Now, let’s look at internship and co-op opportunities available for students of the University of Cambridge.

Internship and Co-op Opportunities

The University of Cambridge offers 6-8 week summer programs providing valuable hands-on experience in research. While there are no formal co-op programs, these internships allow students to gain practical exposure and enhance their academic learning through real-world projects.

During your internship at the University of Cambridge, you can undertake the following activities:

• Work closely with researchers, academic staff, and students.
• Undertake a research project, contributing to real-world academic work.
• Develop both academic and personal skills to enhance your future career.
• Gain hands-on, lab-based experience to complement your theoretical knowledge.

Apart from on-campus academic internships, students can seek external opportunities for 4 to 12 weeks during breaks. You can apply through the Handshake platform to find opportunities that match your interests and skills.

Next, let’s explore student life on campus at the University of Cambridge.

Cambridge has 333,629 living alumni, including heads of state and Olympic medalists. Its graduates have made significant contributions in diverse fields, such as Stephen Hawking in science and Charles Darwin in natural history.

Below is a selection of notable Cambridge alumni:

These individuals exemplify the diverse talents and impactful contributions of Cambridge's alumni community. Now, let’s see how Cambridge compares to other similar universities. 

The University of Cambridge consists of 31 colleges, including prestigious ones like Trinity College and King’s College. These range from the oldest, such as Peterhouse, to more modern colleges like Churchill College.

Below are the top 5 prominent colleges at the University of Cambridge.

• Trinity College
  • It has produced 34 Nobel Prize winners and some of the most influential thinkers in history, including Isaac Newton.
  • It is home to the famous Wren Library, which consists of rare books and manuscripts, such as the first edition of Milton's Paradise Lost.
  • Trinity has one of the highest financial endowments, amounting to approximately £2.19 billion.
• King’s College
  • The college houses the King’s College Choir, renowned for its exceptional performances, especially its annual Christmas Eve service.
  • It offers research opportunities at institutions like the Institute of Astronomy and the Centre for Climate Change. 
  • The college has produced prominent political figures like James Callaghan, former Prime Minister of the UK.
• St. John’s College
  • The college has state-of-the-art labs and research partnerships with world-leading institutions such as CERN and the Wellcome Trust.
  •  St. John’s has been at the forefront of scientific discovery. Professor Sir Gregory Winter, a former fellow, whose work on monoclonal antibodies earned him the Nobel Prize in Chemistry.
  • Notable alumni include Nobel laureate Sir Michael Atiyah (Mathematics) and economist John Maynard Keynes.
• Caius College
  • The college has close links with modern research institutes, such as the Cancer Research UK Cambridge Institute for collaborative research.
  • For engineering and Physics, it maintains a strong relationship with Cambridge's Cavendish Laboratory and other research hubs.
  • The Caius Innovation Hub provides mentoring, funding opportunities, and guidance for students wishing to turn their ideas into start-up ventures.
• Peterhouse
  • The oldest college in Cambridge, founded in 1284, Peterhouse has produced influential leaders such as former Prime Minister William Pitt the Younger.
  • It is the smallest undergraduate college at Cambridge, with fewer than 300 undergraduates. 
  • Traditional events like the formal hall (a traditional dinner with formal attire) and its May Ball are integral to the unique Cambridge experience.
• Clare College
  • The college is well-connected with research institutes like the Gurdon Institute, focusing on genetics and biomedical research.
  • It has undertaken sustainability initiatives like using sustainable energy sources, promotion of zero-waste practices, and development of eco-friendly initiatives.
  • Notable alumni include Sir Ian McKellen, a celebrated actor and LGBT rights activist and Michaela Coel, an Emmy-winning screenwriter and actress.

After a brief overview of the features of the University of Cambridge campus, let's discuss the admission requirements for students.

Comparing similar universities helps you make informed decisions by evaluating factors like tuition fees, average salaries, and the number of courses. For instance, the University of Cambridge has a QS ranking of #5 for 2025, which is significantly higher than the London School of Economics, ranked at #50.

Here's a comparison of the University of Cambridge with similar ones like the University of Oxford and the London School of Economics.

The University of Cambridge is consistently ranked among the top universities globally, holding a position in the top 10 across all major rankings. With its outstanding academic outcomes and world-class reputation, it is considered one of the best institutions for students seeking excellence in education.