The University of Cambridge is the second oldest university in the UK, founded in 1209, and one of the most prestigious higher education institutions in the world. The University of Cambridge is ranked 1st in the UK (ahead of the University of Oxford) and 3rd in the QS World University Rankings 2015/2016. According to the Research Excellence Framework 2014, 87% of the university's research is world-leading or internationally excellent. For most majors Cambridge is the best university in the country or in the top 10 - anatomy and physiology, anthropology, architecture, chemistry, chemical engineering, computer science, economics, geography, geology, history, law, linguistics, mathematics, medicine, music, philosophy, politics, psychology and sociology, to name just a few. The University of Cambridge is the university with the most Nobel laureates - 90. Some of its other famous alumni include Charles Darwin, John Harvard (after whom the prestigious American university is named), Alan Turing, Ian McKellen, Sacha Baron Cohen, Hugh Laurie and many, many others.
The beautiful city of Cambridge, where the university is located, lies in the East of England along the River Cam and was granted city status in 1951. It is an interesting tourist destination thanks to its rich history and architectural landmarks. Getting around the city is mainly by bike or on foot. At times the atmosphere in Cambridge can feel slightly claustrophobic, but the city abounds in green spaces and open areas. Today it is a hub for high-tech industries similar to those in Silicon Valley.
Main programs and majors (For a detailed list, ask one of our advisors)
- Anglo-Saxon, Norse and Celtic
- Architecture
- Asian and Middle Eastern Studies
- Chemical Engineering
- Classics
- Computer Science
- Economics
- Education
- Engineering
- English
- Geography
- History
- History of Art
- Human, Social and Political Sciences
- Land Economy
- Law
- Linguistics
- Management Studies
- Manufacturing Engineering
- Mathematics
- Medicine
- Modern and Medieval Languages
- Music
- Natural Sciences
- Philosophy
- Psychological and Behavioural Sciences
- Theology and Religious Studies
- Veterinary Medicine
Key information
Duration of study:
3-5 years for Bachelor's programs
1-2 years for Master's programs
Academic year:
2 semesters - September and January
Start of the year:
September and January (for some programs only)
Admission deadline:
October 1 for medicine and veterinary medicine
October 15 for all majors
There is no deadline for Master's and PhD/doctoral programs, but the university advises applying as early as possible.
Admission requirements:
High school diploma with a minimum GPA of 5.8 and a 6 on both state matriculation exams, depending on the major. All applicants with a realistic chance of getting a place are invited to an interview at the university. For Master's and doctoral admission, a Bachelor's or Master's degree with a minimum grade of 5.0, and 5.5 for some courses.
IELTS
For Bachelor's programs, an average of 7.5, depending on the major, although some majors may accept 6.0-6.5. For Master's programs, between 7.0-7.5.
TOEFL
For Bachelor's programs, a minimum of 110, depending on the major. For Master's programs, between 100-110.
Cambridge English: Advanced/Proficiency
For Bachelor's programs, Cambridge English: Advanced - A-B; Cambridge English: Proficiency - A, B, C, depending on the major. For Master's programs, between 185-191 (Advanced: B-A; Proficiency: C).
Scholarships and loans
The tuition fee for Bachelor's programs is £9,000. The UK government provides student loans with favorable repayment terms. Students only start repaying the loan once they earn an annual salary of more than £21,000. For more information, ask one of our advisors.
Master's and doctoral programs range from £1,525 to £40,600; MBA - £44,960.
Accommodation:
University residence halls cost between £3,045 and £4,725 per year, depending on the hall and room type. Accommodation outside the university residence halls can cost between £4,936 and £6,488.