We'd like to reassure applicants that we're working hard to ensure a smooth and safe admissions process. Please read our latest advice for prospective students and offer holders.
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. You might also like to sign up to our new Applicant Webinar Series.
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:
- In some cases, different application deadlines might apply for International Students, Mature Students and Foundation Year 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 form – the Supplementary Application Questionnaire (SAQ). The SAQ collects information that isn’t on the UCAS application but which we find useful when assessing. We’ll send you a link to the SAQ by email. You can also find out about completing the SAQ and application dates and deadlines.
4. Written assessment
Most applicants are required to take a written admission assessment, either pre-interview or at interview, if interviewed. Some applicants will also be asked to submit examples of their written work.
5. Interview
Everyone with a realistic 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.