Icon

University of Cambridge: admission procedure, conditions and tuition fees

Education
Popular
Expats
United Kingdom
University of Cambridge: admission procedure, conditions and tuition fees

The British education system has always served as a benchmark of quality for educational systems around the world. In this system, a special place belongs to the University of Cambridge, which is one of the oldest and most prestigious higher education institutions in Europe. Learn more about the specifics of the admission procedure, conditions and tuition fees at the University of Cambridge

Get more information about UK
Get more information about UK
Click here


The University of Cambridge is known for its centuries-old history and rigorous standards of education. This university is a true elite institution that is one of the three oldest universities in the world. In particular, it is noted as a strong research center with advanced laboratories that develop science and help solve complex global problems.

The University of Cambridge consists of six schools and 136 faculties with numerous departments. Each student enrolls in one of 31 separate colleges, which provides an opportunity to establish personal contacts and develop an individual approach to learning.

In international rankings, Cambridge always holds leading positions, being recognized as one of the best universities in the world by various indicators and specializations.

Founded in 1209, the University of Cambridge has retained its important role in British education and the global scientific community. Its history and achievements demonstrate the impact of this university on the development of global education and science.

Structure and features of the University of Cambridge

The University of Cambridge originally consisted of only one college, Peterhouse, which was founded by Bishop Hugo de Balsham. Back then, various subjects were taught here, including theology, mathematics, logic, and philosophy. Since then, Cambridge has become a large and influential academic campus with 100 departments in various fields and 31 colleges, each with its own rules and traditions.

In Cambridge, each college has its own dormitories, real estate, libraries, churches with choirs and organs. There are also various student associations that focus on different interests, from music clubs and literary groups to sports teams and gaming clubs.

One of the most popular sports at the university is rowing, and competitions are held between colleges and annually with Oxford University, which is their longtime competitor in both sport and academics.

The university has 114 libraries, 8 museums, an observatory, a botanical garden, and a zoological garden. Queens' College is famous for its ancient sun and moon dial, which was made in the 17th century.

Today, 18,977 students study at the University of Cambridge, and surprisingly, 34% of them are foreign nationals. Cambridge continues to be a symbol of quality education and a top-notch educational institution that continues to attract students from all over the world.

Faculties of the University of Cambridge

Cambridge is a unique public educational institution known for its collegiate structure, which includes departments, colleges and faculties. The University offers study programs in 430 different specialties. The faculties, overseen by the General Board, specialize in the following key areas:

1. Biological sciences;

2. Humanities and Social Sciences;

3. Clinical medicine;

4. Arts and Humanities;

5. Modern technologies;

6. Physical Sciences.

Throughout its existence, the University of Cambridge has grown into a world leader and has produced 88 Nobel laureates, eminent scientists and influential political figures. Cambridge continues to be a symbol of education and scientific achievement, attracting talented students and leading scholars from around the world.

The cost of studying at the University of Cambridge

The University of Cambridge is known for its high tuition fees, making it one of the most expensive higher education institutions in the world. The cost of studying in Cambridge varies significantly depending on the chosen field of study and type of degree. For example, humanities majors are less expensive, with a rate of approximately $20,870 per year. Technical and economic majors require higher costs, ranging from $25,045 to $34,784 per year. But the highest costs are associated with medical specialties, where the cost of education is approximately $48,700 per year.

However, Cambridge provides students with the opportunity to receive financial support through scholarship programs, grants and financial funds, which allows them to reduce tuition costs or even receive full financial support.

In addition to tuition fees, students should also consider other expenses such as dormitory accommodation, travel, uniforms, stationery, food, and textbooks.

Given these costs and high admission requirements, the University of Cambridge remains an elite institution that is not accessible to every international student, but it provides an unrivaled opportunity to receive a high-quality education and join a top-notch academic community.

Admission procedure for international students at the University of Cambridge

Admission to the University of Cambridge is an important and responsible step in studying abroad. For Ukrainian applicants, this process requires some preparation and compliance with certain requirements.

It is important to consider the available programs and choose the college that interests you. It is recommended that you get advice from a specialized advisor who will help you choose the best program and college.

However, to make a successful application for admission to the University of Cambridge, you need to meet several requirements, which include:

1. A secondary education recognized in the UK or a one-year Foundation Year program;

2. High academic performance and excellent grades in specialized subjects;

3. A high level of English, confirmed by one of the certificates: IELTS Academic (7.5 points and above), TOEFL (110 points and above), CAE/CPE (scores above 190);

4. Pass an entrance test and an interview with the admission committee, depending on the chosen specialty.

The application process for admission takes place from June to October and also requires an interview or interviews in the countries determined by the university, which may include Canada, China, India, Malaysia, Pakistan, and Singapore. This process provides an opportunity for Ukrainian students to participate in the admission to a prestigious university and develop their academic capabilities.

Requirements for admission to the University of Cambridge

To apply to the University of Cambridge, applicants need to consider several important points. Firstly, a high school diploma is not enough for admission, and you need to complete an A-Level preparatory program or study at a Ukrainian university for one to two years.

The Cambridge Admissions Committee pays special attention to A-Level results, where candidates are expected to have high grades, in particular A grades in the British system. Also, important are achievements in the chosen field, such as victories in Olympiads, competitions, research, and participation in conferences.

For information about the possibility of entering Cambridge, applicants can contact a special department - Cambridge Admissions Office. It is also necessary to confirm English language proficiency with a score of at least 7.0 on the IELTS scale.

A-Level is the required level of education for admission to British universities. The large difference in the duration of school education in the UK and Ukraine (13 years versus 11 years in the Ukrainian system) makes A-Level mandatory for Ukrainian applicants who dream of studying at Cambridge and other British universities.

Entrance tests for international students at the University of Cambridge

An interview is required for admission to various specialties at the University of Cambridge, but other tests may be optional and vary from one specialty to another. For example, for applicants wishing to study mathematics, it is important to pass a test during the interview. Other majors related to language studies may require a test and an essay. And architecture majors may require the creation of a portfolio for evaluation.

It is important to note that the list of tests for the same majors may vary from college to college in Cambridge. Thus, applicants should carefully study the requirements of each specific college they plan to study at in order to prepare and submit successful applications for admission.

Thus, admission to the University of Cambridge is a great opportunity for applicants who seek to obtain a high-quality education and become part of the academic community of one of the most prestigious universities in the world. However, the admission procedure and requirements are high, so applicants should be prepared for serious preparation and competition.





Daria Rogova, Head of Insurance at Visit World


To move, travel or work safely in a new country, you will need health insurance. You can apply for an extended policy on our website here.




Products from Visit World for a comfortable trip:


Checklist for obtaining a visa and necessary documents in the UK;

Legal advice on immigration to the UK;

Travel insurance for foreigners in the UK;

Medical insurance all over the world.




Recommended articles

3 min

Travels What to see in London: unmissable attractions to visit tourists

What to see in London: unmissable attractions to visit tourists

" London is the capital of Great Britain". How many times have we heard this phrase and mentally imagined ourselves in this wonderful city? It's a place where the spirit of empire is felt in every stone, but at the same time London is always fashionable, modern and culturally rich. Learn more about the most interesting places in London that every tourist should see with their own eyes

23 Oct. 2023

More details

3 min

Education Higher education in the UK: admission requirements for foreigners

Higher education in the UK: admission requirements for foreigners

Isaac Newton, Jonathan Swift, Margaret Thatcher - these outstanding personalities had one thing in common - they received their higher education at UK universities. Their success is partly due to the high quality and rigor of education provided by British universities. Let's take a look at some of the specifics of admission for international students, the higher education system, and the cost of studying in the UK

24 Oct. 2023

More details

3 min

Employment Finding a job in the UK: the employment procedure for foreigners

Finding a job in the UK: the employment procedure for foreigners

The UK has always attracted foreigners as a country of opportunities for job search abroad. This country offers great prospects for those who are looking for new challenges and professional development. However, finding a job in the UK, especially as a foreigner, can be challenging. Find out more about the specifics of finding a job for foreigners and how to prepare for this process

27 Oct. 2023

More details

3 min

Travels The most interesting cities in Britain that every tourist should visit

The most interesting cities in Britain that every tourist should visit

The popularity of the UK continues to grow rapidly from year to year. The country offers visitors a variety of experiences - from rich history and cultural events to natural beauty and gastronomic traditions. Learn more about the most popular tourist cities in the UK that everyone should visit

26 Oct. 2023

More details