University of Cambridge International Student Guide
Admissions, Life & Support (2025)

🎓 Before You Apply: Key Steps

• Research Courses & Colleges: Decide on course options and check college preferences — some colleges have subject strengths or specific entry requirements.
• Entry Requirements: Check A-level, IB, or international equivalents; some courses require admissions tests (e.g., BMAT, LNAT) or written work.
• Academic References: Arrange strong references from teachers or supervisors early.
• English Language: Meet required IELTS/TOEFL scores if applicable and confirm accepted test dates.

📝 Application Process

1. UCAS (Undergraduate): Apply through UCAS by the early deadline (typically mid-October for Oxbridge).
2. Graduate Applications: Apply via the University’s admissions portal; check department-specific deadlines.
3. Admissions Tests & Interviews: Many courses require pre-interview tests and college interviews (often held in November–December).
4. Offer & Acceptance: If offered, follow the college and university instructions to accept and prepare supporting documents.

🛂 Visas & Immigration (International Students)

International students will typically apply under the UK Student route (previously Tier 4). Key points:

• Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS): Required for the visa application — issued by the University after conditions are met.
• Financial Proof: Show funds to cover tuition and living costs per UKVI requirements.
• Healthcare Surcharge: Pay the immigration health surcharge as part of the visa application to access the NHS.
• Work Rights: Student visas typically allow limited work hours during term and full-time during vacations — check your visa conditions.

🏠 Accommodation for International Students

• College Accommodation: Many colleges guarantee rooms for first-year undergraduates — a convenient and supportive option.
• Graduate Housing: University-managed and college options exist; early application is recommended.
• Private Renting: For later years or families, explore trusted lettings agents and beware of scams.

💷 Fees, Funding & Scholarships

Understand fees early — international tuition is higher for most courses. Explore:

• University Scholarships & Bursaries: Cambridge Trust, college awards, and departmental funding.
• External Scholarships: Gates Cambridge, Commonwealth, Chevening (where eligible), and home-country sponsors.
• Part-time Work: Restricted by visa conditions but can help with living expenses.

🩺 Healthcare & Wellbeing

• NHS Access: After paying the immigration health surcharge, students can register with a local GP.
• University Support: Colleges provide welfare officers, counsellors, and disability services.
• Mental Health: Cambridge offers counselling, peer-support groups, and wellbeing workshops — don't hesitate to use them.

📚 Academic Support & Study Life

• Supervisions: Small-group or one-to-one teaching (supervisions) is a hallmark of Cambridge — make the most of them.
• Libraries & Resources: College libraries, the University Library, and specialist department libraries offer study spaces and research help.
• Language Support: English language help and academic writing workshops are available for non-native speakers.

🌍 Settling In & Social Life

• Freshers' Activities: Join orientation events and Freshers' Fair to meet peers and societies.
• International Societies: Join cultural and language societies for community and events.
• Practicalities: Open a UK bank account, get a UK SIM, and register with your college and GP early.

🔒 Safety, Rights & Legal Support

• Know Your Rights: Students have employment and housing rights — consult the university's student union or legal advisory for issues.
• Emergency Contacts: Save college Porters, local emergency services (999), and campus security numbers.

✅ Final Checklist for International Applicants