Sport, societies and the Students’ Union

Being at Cambridge isn’t all about studying. Our students work hard, but they get involved with the student community too.

There are loads of societies and activities for you to explore.

Sport and fitness

Cambridge has a range of competitive and recreational sporting opportunities. We know how important movement and sport can be for your mental and physical health.

You can start something new, continue a sport you love, or build your fitness.

Cambridge offers:

• more than 75 University sports clubs
• excellent sports facilities, including gyms, studios, and sports fields
• free opportunities to try new activities as part of our Give it a Go Programme
• University clubs that compete against other universities, and local and national clubs
• extra College sports facilities, teams, and inter-College competitions
• financial support to help with competitive sport and training to coach or officiate

Discover sport and fitness on the Sports Service website.

Elite student athletes

Cambridge is a Talented Athlete Scholarship Scheme Dual Career Accredited institution. This recognises our commitment to dual-career support for talented athletes in full-time education.

You may be eligible for the University of Cambridge Athlete Performance Programme if you:

• are a nationally ranked athlete
• regularly represent your country on the international stage

The programme that offers support to dual-career student-athletes. This includes:

• highly qualified and experienced staff who will work with you to enhance your performance
• support to balance your academic or sporting ambitions while at the University

Find out more about our Athlete Performance Programme on the Sports website.

Student societies and clubs

Cambridge has lots of student clubs for you to get involved with. They cover many interests and activities. Some are known beyond Cambridge, like the Cambridge Footlights, a cutting-edge comedy group.

You'll find societies and clubs covering:

• Community and charity
• Drama, including the latest student productions at our ADC Theatre
• Media, from student newspapers to student radio and TV
• Politics and activism
• Music across genres and styles
• Food and drink
• Games and hobbies
• Religion and culture

Find a list of societies on the Cambridge SU website.

Cambridge Students’ Union (Cambridge SU)

Cambridge SU campaigns and lobbies for change across the University. They focus on representing students and improving the student experience.

The SU supports student societies by running the annual Freshers' Fair, providing grants and a free bookable space for events.

Cambridge SU is also home to the Student Advice Service. This offers free, confidential and impartial advice and support to Cambridge students.

Find out more about the Cambridge SU

Every College also has its own students’ union (JCR) too. So, if you want to have a say in student affairs, consider running for election.