University of Cambridge Admissions

The University of Cambridge stands as one of the oldest and most prestigious institutions in the world. Recently, only about 17% of undergraduate applicants made the cut. It runs on a term-based calendar and spreads its programs across 31 colleges, housing just under 25,000 students in total.

University of Cambridge admissions are known for being highly selective. But once you're there, you're not lost in a crowd. With a student-to-teacher ratio close to 5 to 1, you experience real conversations, not just packed lecture halls. 

Over the years, 125 Nobel Prizes have been awarded to people tied to Cambridge, with recognition in Chemistry, Literature, Economics, and more. The weight of that legacy still shows up in the way things are taught and explored.

So, if you're planning to study a master's in the UK, getting a clear sense of the University of Cambridge admissions and courses can help you move with confidence.

Before you focus on how to apply, you need to know exactly when to take action.

University of Cambridge Admission Dates

The University of Cambridge admits students mainly in the September intake. If you're aiming for a fall 2026 intake, the application window will likely open in September 2025. Missing this window can set you back an entire academic year, so it’s crucial to plan ahead and stay informed.

Here’s a look at the key deadlines for the upcoming fall term:

September (Michaelmas) (Fall)

This is the primary admission window. If you're applying for an undergraduate course, you need to submit your UCAS application by October 15, 2025. Funding applications usually close earlier than course deadlines, so plan your timeline with that in mind.

Check out the key deadlines for fall 2026 admissions in the table below:

Now that you’ve got the dates, let’s break down what actually happens between them.

University of Cambridge Admission Process

The Cambridge application process can feel complex, but breaking it down step by step can make it manageable. With deadlines like the UCAS application due by October 15th, 2025, staying organized is key.

Here’s how to get started:

Step 1: Submit Your UCAS Application 

• You can’t apply to both Oxford and Cambridge in the same year.
• Only one application to Cambridge is allowed per year.
• You can choose a specific college or submit an “open application” (campus code ‘9’) for a random allocation to colleges with lower application ratios.
• If you’re a mature student (21+), you must apply directly to one of the three mature colleges: Hughes Hall, St Edmund’s, or Wolfson.

Step 2: Complete the My Cambridge Application

After submitting your UCAS application, you’ll get a link to complete the My Cambridge Application. You’ll need to:

• Provide your academic transcripts from secondary school (with certified English translations if applicable).
• Answer course-specific questions (STEM applicants may need to submit topic lists).
• Submit letters of recommendation from your teachers or mentors that highlight your academic strengths and suitability for the program. 

Step 3: Submit a Personal Statement

When you write a personal statement for UCAS, you should focus primarily on your academic interests. 

• Share your passion for the chosen course.
• Highlight any relevant projects, readings, or activities that connect to your field of study.
• Skip general extracurriculars unless they directly relate to your course.

Step 4: Provide a School/College Reference

Your referee (teacher or counselor) must:

• Discuss your academic strengths and suitability for Cambridge.
• Mention any extenuating circumstances (e.g., health issues, disruptions) that affected your grades.

Step 5: Demonstrate English Language Proficiency

If you’re not a native English speaker, you must demonstrate your language skills by providing:

• IELTS: Minimum 7.5 overall (with at least 7.0 per section).
• TOEFL: 110 overall (with 25 per section).

Step 6: Attend Interviews

Shortlisted applicants will be invited for interviews in December:

• Interviews may be online or in person, depending on your college.
• Be ready to discuss academic problems and engage in subject-related discussions.

Step 7: Submit Written Assessments

Many courses require written assessments:

• Some assessments are completed before the interview (e.g., ENGAA for Engineering, NSAA for Natural Sciences).
• Others take place during the interview (e.g., problem-solving essays).
• Be sure to check course-specific requirements early.

Step 8: Receive Decisions & Meet Offer Conditions

You’ll receive decisions by late January:

• Offers are usually conditional on your A-level/IB (or equivalent) results.
• Common offer: AAA (A-level) or 40–42 points (IB), but requirements may vary by course and college.

Step 9: Visa and Financial Documentation (International Students)
Once you accept your offer:

• Submit proof of financial support (tuition fees and maintenance funds).
• Apply to get a CAS letter (Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies) from your college.
  Complete your UK student visa application with your CAS, proof of funds, and passport.

Feeling unsure about the University of Cambridge application process? Book a free one-on-one counseling session  with an upGrad expert for step-by-step support, from documents to visa prep.

With the admissions process outlined, it's time to take a closer look at the MS program application details.

University of Cambridge MBA Admissions

The Cambridge MBA is a prestigious 12-month program starting each September. Ranked #5 for Business and Management in the QS World University Rankings, it combines academic excellence and leadership development. 

Below is a breakdown of the University of Cambridge MBA admission criteria to study in Cambridge:

MBA Admission Requirements

You’ll need at least 2 years of professional experience to apply. While GMAT/GRE scores aren’t mandatory, they are recommended if you have strong quantitative skills. Your application will assess your academic background, leadership abilities, and professional experience.

Here’s a quick look at the essential MBA eligibility criteria:

Once you're familiar with the application requirements, the next step is to explore available MBA scholarships that can help finance your MBA in the UK.

MBA Scholarships

Cambridge offers several scholarships to help cover your tuition, with awards like the Cambridge MBA Scholarship for Professional Impact, providing up to £45,000 (INR 46L). Applying early can improve your chances of receiving one of these scholarships.

Here are some notable scholarships available for Cambridge MBA candidates:

If you're exploring postgraduate options beyond business, let’s now move on to the University of Cambridge Admissions for Master's education in the UK.

University of Cambridge MPhil Admissions

The University of Cambridge offers 157 full-time MPhil programs, with most application deadlines falling between September and December. Competition is intense, especially for science-related courses, where the acceptance rate is around 15%.

To understand where you stand and how to prepare, let’s take a closer look at the specific admission requirements for Cambridge’s MPhil programs.

MPhil Admission Requirements

To apply for an MPhil at Princeton, you need to get a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution. If you're an international student, your degree should be equivalent to at least three years of study. Admission is tough, with each department handling its own process.

Applicants are expected to submit the following:

Once you’ve reviewed the entry criteria, the next step is figuring out how to fund your studies. Here's what you need to know about scholarships at Cambridge University.

MPhil Scholarships

The University of Cambridge offers several fully funded scholarships to support postgraduate students. With funding ranging from £27,186 to £79,076 (INR 31.9L to INR 92.9L) annually, these scholarships can help reduce the financial burden of studying abroad. 

Here are some of the available University of Cambridge scholarships and fellowships that can help support your graduate studies:

After understanding the MPhil admissions, you might want to consider how other PG courses at Cambridge University differ in terms of requirements, duration, and focus.

University of Cambridge: Other PG Courses Admission

The University of Cambridge offers a 200+ postgraduate programmes beyond traditional graduate options, including MRes, MASt, MLitt, MSt, and professional degrees such as MFin and MCL. 

Each programme has specific requirements, let’s check the details before applying.

Other Postgraduate Course Admission Requirements

Postgraduate admissions often demand strong grades. Most courses like MRes, MSt require at least a three-year bachelor’s degree with a high 2:1 or above, along with proof of English proficiency, typically an IELTS score of 7.5 or a TOEFL of 110. 

Depending on the program, you may also need tailored materials like portfolios, essays, or a detailed research proposal. 

Here’s what you’ll need:

For those just kicking off their academic journey, check out the application process for undergraduate courses at Cambridge.

University of Cambridge Bachelor's Admission

The University of Cambridge stands for academic excellence, consistently ranking among the top universities in the world. Its unique collegiate system and excellent academic environment offer students an enriching experience.

Before you look at the eligibility and application details, it’s worth understanding why a Cambridge bachelor's degree carries such weight.

Advantages of Getting Into the University of Cambridge for a Bachelor's

Gaining admission to Cambridge means more than just a renowned name. You benefit from weekly academic supervision, over 100 libraries, and the flexibility to explore subjects before narrowing your focus. 

With up to £5,600 (INR 6.6L) in annual bursaries and study abroad options in 50 countries, the opportunities extend far beyond the classroom. 

Here’s a closer look at what makes the Cambridge undergraduate experience truly distinct.

• World-Class Tutorial System: Benefit from weekly supervisions with experts in your field, offering personalized feedback to deepen your subject knowledge.
• Flexible Interdisciplinary Approach: Courses like Natural Sciences allow you to explore multiple disciplines before specializing, offering flexibility in your education.
• Generous Financial Aid: The Cambridge Bursary Scheme offers UK students up to £5,600 (INR 6.6L)/year, while international scholarships like the King’s International Scholarship cover full tuition.
• Global Exposure: Take part in study abroad programs at 50+ partner universities or internships with organizations such as the UN and CERN.
• Collegiate Experience: Live in one of 31 historic colleges, each providing academic support, community activities, and a close-knit environment.

Now that you know why it’s worth aiming for, let’s look at what the university expects from applicants.

Bachelor's Admission Requirements at the University of Cambridge

Admission to the University of Cambridge is highly selective, with an acceptance rate of just 18%. Meeting the typical academic benchmark of AAA or 42 in IB is only the beginning. Personal statements, references, and written work are reviewed closely to assess subject interest and academic potential.

Here’s a look at the major requirements for studying in the UK.

Once you know the academic requirements, it helps to explore how you can support your studies financially.

Bachelor's Scholarships at the University of Cambridge

Cambridge offers solid financial support, so you're not held back by cost. You could receive over £35,000 (INR 41.1L) a year through study abroad scholarships based on merit or need. There’s also funding for academic excellence, travel, and unexpected financial stress.

Here’s a quick breakdown of the main Cambridge University scholarships available to you:

Applying is only half the story; let’s look at what life at Cambridge actually offers once you're in.

University of Cambridge Student Support Services

Cambridge offers comprehensive support designed to ease academic, personal, and practical challenges during your time here. From personalized mental health and wellness tips with an average three-day wait to international student guidance and disability accommodations for over 5,500 students last year, every service is built around your needs.

Here’s a closer look at the range of support available to you.

• Academic Support & Student Enquiry
  • The Student Services Centre provides writing help, tutoring, and study workshops.
  • The Enquiry Team assists with account issues, exams, and transcripts.
• Counselling & Mental Health
  • Confidential therapy and group sessions are available for mild to moderate mental health concerns.
  • A student advice line is there for urgent, immediate support when needed.
  • In the last academic year, the UCS achieved an average waiting time of just three working days for initial 75-minute appointments.
• Disability & Equity Support
  • The Accessibility and Disability Resource Centre supports students with disabilities and long-term medical conditions.
  • Personalized Student Support Documents (SSDs) outline your recommended support and accommodations.
  • In the last academic year, the ADRC supported 5,576 disabled students, a 17% increase from the previous year.
• International Student Support
  • Each year, the University of Cambridge welcomes over 3,300 international students from more than 130 different countries.
  • Dedicated advisors help you with visa issues, cultural adjustment, and campus integration.
  • Events are organized to help international students feel welcomed and supported.
• Career & Personal Development
  • The Careers Service helps with career planning, internships, resume building for a dream job, and networking.
  • You’ll receive tailored support to help you grow both academically and professionally.
• Student Support Officers (SSOs)
  • SSOs provide guidance on mental health, finances, accommodation, career planning, and study support within your department.
• Housing & Residential Life
  • Residence Life teams and Peer Support Assistants assist with settling into accommodations and offer support outside regular hours.
• Chaplaincy & Student Voice
  • The Chaplaincy provides spiritual and pastoral support.
  • The SRC ensures students have a voice in campus life, with access to activities and welfare initiatives.

With these services, Cambridge ensures you have all the support you need to make the most of your university journey.