Cambridge University: Open To International Students?

does university of cambridge accept international students

The University of Cambridge is one of the most prestigious universities in the world, with a rich history of shaping intellectual progress. The university welcomes applications from suitably qualified international students, recognising the value of a diverse student body. Cambridge has a competitive admissions process, with approximately 24% of its undergraduate students coming from outside the UK. International students must meet certain entry requirements, which vary depending on their country of origin and chosen course of study. The application process typically involves submitting predicted grades, taking admissions tests, demonstrating English language proficiency, and providing supporting documents such as personal statements and letters of recommendation.

Characteristics Values
Acceptance of international students The University of Cambridge welcomes suitably qualified international students.
Number of international students 24% of undergraduate students (around 3,116 students) are from outside the UK, representing around 95 countries.
Application fee Most international applicants are required to pay an application fee of £60 or $100.
Application fee waiver International applicants from countries on the OECD's Development Assistance Committee (DAC) list are eligible for an application fee waiver.
English language proficiency International students whose first language is not English may need to demonstrate proficiency through exams like IELTS or TOEFL. The minimum IELTS requirement is 7, while the TOEFL requirement is 600 with a 5 in the written test.
Admission tests Many courses at Cambridge require applicants to take admission tests such as the Test of Mathematics for University Admission (TMUA), the University Clinical Aptitude Test (UCAT), and the Law National Admissions Test (LNAT).
Academic requirements for US applicants To be admitted from the US, five AP scores of 5 are required, along with an SAT score above 1450 or an ACT score above 32. Some programs, especially in the sciences, require higher scores.
Acceptance rate for US applicants For 2022, the success rate for US applicants was 5.4%.

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International student application process

The University of Cambridge welcomes applications from suitably qualified international students. The university acknowledges the academic and cultural value of a diverse student body. Cambridge is one of the oldest and most distinguished universities in the world, with 24% of its undergraduate students (around 3,116 students) being from outside the UK, representing around 95 countries.

The application process for international students is the same as for all applicants to the University of Cambridge. Applications to UK universities, including Cambridge, are made through the Universities and Colleges Admissions Service (UCAS), which operates on a pre-qualification basis. Most international applicants are required to pay an application fee of £60, which supports the administration of the application process. However, international applicants from countries on the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) Development Assistance Committee (DAC) list are automatically eligible for an application fee waiver.

International students applying to Cambridge should refer to the university's general Entry Requirements webpage for specific information on accepted qualifications and their levels. While the website primarily focuses on GCE A Levels and the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IB), many other school and national examinations at an equivalent level are also acceptable.

For instance, the Caribbean Advanced Proficiency Examination (CAPE) is accepted with a typical offer based on Grade I in three two-unit courses in relevant subjects. The CAPE Associate Degree and CAPE Diploma are also accepted, provided the requirements are met. The University of Cambridge also accepts applications from students with Canadian High School Diplomas, but only if accompanied by additional qualifications such as College Board Advanced Placement Tests with grades of 5 in five or more AP Tests, or an IBO International Baccalaureate Diploma with scores of 776-777 in three IB Higher-Level Courses.

In some cases, the University of Cambridge may consider applications from students who are undertaking the first year of an undergraduate degree at a university outside the UK or have already completed a full undergraduate degree elsewhere. These applicants may apply for affiliated entry or use their current undergraduate study as evidence of their suitability for a degree course at Cambridge, provided they contact the relevant College Admissions Office for guidance.

International entry requirements

The University of Cambridge has specific international entry requirements for undergraduate study. While some qualifications, such as the Canadian High School Diploma, the Thanaweya A'ama/Al-Azhar General Secondary School Certificate, and the Egyptian STEM Diploma, are not considered suitable preparation for competitive applications, the university provides examples of qualifications that would be considered suitable for admission. These include the International Arab Baccalaureate (IAB) for Arts, Humanities, Social Sciences, and Psychological and Behavioural Sciences, with the requirement of studying relevant subject modules.

For applicants with the Matura /Érettségi Bizonyítvány (Secondary Education Graduation Certificate), typical offers are based on at least four subjects at grade 5 (jeles) and one at grade 4, with the expectation of taking the Higher (emelt szintu) examination in the required subject for the degree scheme. Applicants with the Stúdentspróf (bóknámsbraut/academic) (Matriculation Certificate) would typically need an overall score of 9.5, with 10 in individual subjects.

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English language proficiency requirements

The University of Cambridge is one of the oldest and most prestigious universities in the world, attracting talented students from around the globe. The university is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive community, recognising the academic and cultural value that international students bring. Cambridge welcomes applications from suitably qualified international students, with 24% of its undergraduate students (around 3,116 students) coming from outside the UK, representing approximately 95 countries.

International students whose first language is not English may need to demonstrate their proficiency in English to be admitted to the University of Cambridge. The university accepts various English language proficiency tests, including the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) and the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL). These exams assess an individual's ability to understand, speak, read, and write in English, ensuring they have the necessary skills to succeed in a university setting.

The minimum IELTS requirement is a score of 7, indicating a high level of English proficiency. For the TOEFL, the minimum requirement is a score of 600, with a minimum of 5 in the written test. Cambridge also accepts other English language proficiency tests, providing flexibility for applicants.

It is important to note that specific requirements may vary depending on the course and department. Some courses, particularly those in the sciences, may have higher English language proficiency standards. Additionally, the university may consider an applicant's performance in relevant regional or international Olympiads, Advanced Placement tests, or other academic achievements as part of their holistic admissions approach.

To maximise their chances of acceptance, international students are encouraged to showcase their academic excellence and highlight their unique qualities. This can be achieved through strong test scores, impressive recommendation letters, and well-prepared interviews. Given the highly competitive nature of admissions at Cambridge, with a low acceptance rate for international students, it is essential for applicants to present a comprehensive and outstanding application.

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Additional qualification requirements

The University of Cambridge is a diverse international community and welcomes suitably qualified international students. Cambridge values the academic and cultural benefits of a diverse student body, and the University seeks talent from the widest possible pool. Cambridge has a competitive admissions process for international students, with an acceptance rate of around 22% across the University.

International students applying to Cambridge must meet certain qualification requirements, which vary depending on the student's country of origin and chosen course of study. Here are some of the additional qualifications required for international applicants:

  • International students whose first language is not English may need to demonstrate English language proficiency through exams like the IELTS or TOEFL. The minimum IELTS requirement is a score of 7, while the minimum TOEFL requirement is a score of 600 with a 5 in the written test.
  • Students taking the Caribbean Advanced Proficiency Examination (CAPE) should aim for a Grade I in three two-unit courses in relevant subjects. Cambridge also accepts the CAPE Associate Degree and CAPE Diploma, provided the above requirements are met.
  • Applicants with the Kōtō Gakkō Sotsugyō Shōmei Sho qualification will need to provide additional qualifications to be considered for competitive courses. For Mathematics, offers will be conditional on achievement in the Sixth Term Examination Paper (STEP).
  • Canadian High School Diploma applicants must also provide additional qualifications, such as College Board Advanced Placement Tests with grades of 5 in five or more AP Tests, or an IBO International Baccalaureate Diploma with scores of 776-777 in three IB Higher Level Courses.
  • The Baccalauréat Libanais (General Secondary Certificate) is not considered suitable preparation for a competitive application to Cambridge. Applicants are advised to undertake further study before applying for an undergraduate degree.
  • International Arab Baccalaureate (IAB) students are only considered competitive for Arts, Humanities, Social Sciences, and Psychological and Behavioural Sciences courses. Applicants must ensure they are studying subject-relevant modules in their IAB.
  • US applicants are required to achieve five AP scores of 5, an SAT score above 1450, or an ACT score above 32. Some science programs may require higher scores of 1500 or 33, respectively.

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Application fees

The University of Cambridge is one of the oldest and most distinguished universities in the world, with a diverse international community. The university welcomes applications from suitably qualified international students, recognising the academic and cultural value of a diverse student body. Cambridge has a competitive admissions process for international students, with a focus on academic achievement and potential. The application process and selection criteria are consistent for all applicants, and the university does not give priority to those paying overseas fees.

Regarding application fees, most international applicants are required to pay a standard fee of £60. This charge supports the administration of the application process and the maintenance of the systems used. However, this fee is waived for applicants from countries on the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development's (OECD) Development Assistance Committee (DAC) list. It is important to note that this fee requirement also applies to EU applicants, except for residents of Ireland and the Crown Dependencies (the Channel Islands and the Isle of Man).

For Cambridge College in Boston, both undergraduate and graduate international students must complete an online application and pay a $100 application fee. International students at Cambridge College may also need to provide additional documentation, such as a photocopy of their visa and proof of financial capability.

While the University of Cambridge does not specify application fees on its website, it is important to note that the application process involves various expenses. These may include fees for standardised tests, English language proficiency exams, and other supporting documents. International applicants are encouraged to carefully review the admissions requirements and reach out to the university for specific information regarding application fees and potential waivers or scholarships.

Additionally, international applicants should be aware of the competitive nature of admissions at Cambridge. The university receives a large number of talented international applications, and the acceptance rate for international students can be low, as seen in the example of a 5.4% success rate for US applicants in 2022. Therefore, applicants should focus on showcasing their academic excellence and unique qualities to maximise their chances of admission.

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Acceptance rates

The University of Cambridge is one of the oldest and most prestigious universities in the world, widely considered to be one of the best. It welcomes applications from suitably qualified international students, recognising the academic and cultural value of a diverse student body. Cambridge has a wide-ranging admissions rate of around 22% across the university. However, acceptance rates vary significantly between courses, with Computer Science admitting around 8% and Anglo-Saxon, Norse and Celtic Studies accepting 59% of applicants.

The application process for international students at Cambridge is highly competitive, with admission based on academic achievements, test scores, personal statements, recommendation letters, and interviews. For example, the US success rate at Cambridge for 2022 was as low as 5.4%. International students may need to demonstrate English language proficiency through exams like the IELTS or TOEFL if English is not their first language. The minimum IELTS requirement is 7, while the TOEFL requirement is a score of at least 600 with a 5 in the written test. Cambridge also accepts several other English language proficiency tests.

In addition to language proficiency, international applicants must meet specific academic requirements. For instance, US applicants are generally expected to achieve five AP scores of 5, an SAT score above 1450, or an ACT score above 32. Some science programs may require even higher scores, such as an SAT of 1500 or an ACT of 33. Cambridge also requires subject-specific admissions tests for most courses, such as the Test of Mathematics for University Admission (TMUA) and the University Clinical Aptitude Test (UCAT).

International students applying to Cambridge are typically required to pay an application fee of £60 or $100, depending on the fee structure in their country. However, applicants from certain countries, as listed by the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), are eligible for an application fee waiver. Overall, while Cambridge welcomes international students, the acceptance rates vary by course, and the admissions process is highly competitive, with strict academic requirements and language proficiency expectations.

Frequently asked questions

Yes, the University of Cambridge welcomes applications from suitably qualified international students. 24% of their undergraduate students are from outside the UK, representing around 95 countries.

The entry requirements for international students vary depending on the country and qualification. For example, applicants taking the Caribbean Advanced Proficiency Examination (CAPE) would need to achieve a Grade I in three two-unit courses in relevant subjects. Meanwhile, students from the US need five AP scores of 5, an SAT score of above 1450, or an ACT score above 32.

International students applying to the University of Cambridge are required to pay an application fee of £60. However, students from countries on the OECD's Development Assistance Committee (DAC) list are automatically eligible for an application fee waiver.

International students whose first language is not English may need to demonstrate English language proficiency through exams like the IELTS or TOEFL. The minimum IELTS requirement is 7, while the minimum TOEFL requirement is 600 with a 5 in the written test.

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