We assess every application individually, and all admissions decisions are based solely on academic criteria – your ability and potential.
What are we looking for?
We look for different things in different people for different courses, which means there’s no blueprint for the perfect Cambridge student. However, there are elements our Admissions Tutors look for in every application:
Academic ability and potential
We're looking for students with the academic ability and potential to thrive at the University. Therefore, you should be aiming for excellent examination grades.
Typical A Level/IB offers and subject requirements are outlined on our course pages and guidance on a range of other qualifications can be found in our Entry requirements pages.
Our Post-16 subject choices webpage offers advice about how to choose the most appropriate subjects and subject combinations at A Level (or equivalent).
An ability to think critically and independently
We’re looking for an indication of your willingness to think logically while keeping your mind open to new ideas. You also need self-discipline, motivation, commitment, and the desire and potential to go beyond what you’ve learned so far.
Suitability and enthusiasm for your course
Finally, we’re looking for students who really want to learn about the subject they’ve applied for. While the degree you will receive at the end is important, you should think carefully about your options: which courses and subject areas will inspire your curiosity and commitment?
If you think you have these qualities, we’re looking for students like you and hope you’ll apply to join us at Cambridge.
How do we assess applications?
We want to give applicants as many opportunities as possible to demonstrate their strengths and potential. Therefore, each application is considered individually and holistically, using all of the following information:
- academic record
- school/college reference
- personal statement
- any written work submitted
- performance in any written assessment
- contextual data
- performance at interview
What's the most important part of my application?
Admissions Tutors consider all of the information available together before making any decisions. While the most recent academic performance carries the greatest weight, the relative importance of each element of the application varies because each student is different. No part of an application is considered in isolation; for example, a student’s performance at interview alone doesn’t determine the outcome of their application.
