15 OCT
Next application deadline:
15 October 2022
(6pm UK time)
The application process
The Cambridge application process is slightly different to other universities. You still need to apply through UCAS, however, at Cambridge the process starts earlier to give us time to collect and consider all of the application information. The steps below and the following pages will guide you through the process.
1. Choose a Course
You’re going to be studying to a very high level for several years so make sure you choose a course you’re personally interested in and will really enjoy studying! Check, also, that you meet the entrance requirements of the course you want to study.
2. Decide on your College
Where would you like to live when you’re here? In your UCAS application, you can apply directly to one of our 29 Colleges or make an open application.
3. Submit your application
You need to submit your UCAS application by 15 October – our institution code is CAM C05. Please note:
- Earlier or later deadlines may apply for Mature Students, Foundation Year and Organ Scholarship applicants.
- There's an additional application form if you're applying for the Graduate Course in Medicine.
- You can’t apply to both the Universities of Cambridge and Oxford in the same year.
- Some applicants will be required to submit an academic transcript.
After you’ve submitted your UCAS application, you will need to fill in an additional Cambridge-specific application form, which we’ll send you a link to by email.
4. Written assessment
Most applicants are required to take a written admission assessments. For some assessments you’ll need to ensure you are registered in advance via an authorised assessment centre, whereas for others this will be organised by your chosen Cambridge College, if you’re shortlisted for interview. Some applicants will also be asked to submit examples of their written work. You can find more information about admission assessments, including examples of specimen papers, on our course pages.
5. Interview
Everyone with a good chance of being offered a place is invited to attend an interview. If you decide to apply, you can find videos and full information on what to expect and how to prepare, in our interviews section.
6. Decisions
We’ll advise you of our decision before the end of January.
External consultants
We’re aware of private companies and individuals who offer, at a charge, information and advice on our admissions process, assessments and interviews. We DO NOT support or encourage any of these commercial enterprises. None of these companies/individuals has access to any information that’s not already available free of charge to all schools, colleges and individual students from College admissions offices, the Cambridge Admissions Office or Cambridge Students’ Union; and we’re unable to verify the accuracy of information these companies/individuals may provide. Please contact the admissions office at any College or the Cambridge Admissions Office for more information.