Introduction to University of Cambridge: 2025 Admission Guidelines and Popular Subjects
The University of Cambridge, located in Cambridge, England, is a public research university established in 1209, making it the third oldest university in continuous operation in the world. As one of the most prestigious elite universities, it often ranks alongside the University of Oxford in global rankings, collectively referred to as "Oxbridge," leading other UK institutions.
Cambridge has an outstanding reputation in academia and is a member of the G5 super elite universities, which includes the five top universities in the UK (Cambridge, Oxford, London School of Economics, Imperial College London, and University College London). By 2020, 70 alumni had received Nobel Prizes, and by 2019, Cambridge alumni, faculty, and researchers had won 11 Fields Medals and 7 Turing Awards.
With its historical significance, renowned colleges, and university buildings, Cambridge attracts students from around the world. The university’s library is one of six legal deposit libraries in the UK, housing around 9 million items, including maps and musical scores, with about 100,000 new items added each year through legal deposit, purchases, and donations.
University of Cambridge — Ranking
Cambridge is globally recognized as one of the top higher education institutions, renowned for its excellent academic research and teaching quality. The university consistently ranks at the forefront in various global university rankings, attracting outstanding students and scholars from around the world. Cambridge’s academic reputation is not only due to its rich history and traditions but also its innovative research and diverse learning environment, fostering an atmosphere that inspires students to pursue excellence and make a profound impact globally. Whether in natural sciences, humanities, or engineering, Cambridge showcases its leadership in all fields.
- QS World University Rankings 2025: 5th
- Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2025: 5th
Applying to the University of Cambridge
Students planning to apply to Cambridge can submit their applications through the UCAS platform, which opens in September and closes on October 15 each year. Applicants need to submit predicted grades, a personal statement, and a reference letter through the platform.
Admission Requirements for the University of Cambridge
The threshold for admission to Cambridge is quite challenging. The university aims to select students with exceptional academic abilities and potential, assessing not only academic performance but also depth of understanding in subjects, critical thinking skills, and research capabilities. Through a diverse set of entrance exams and interview processes, Cambridge strives to attract outstanding talent that can thrive in a rigorous academic environment.
Academic Requirements
Academic performance is one of the most important indicators for admission to Cambridge, ensuring that admitted students have a strong academic foundation and potential. Applicants typically need to achieve excellent results in A-levels, IB, or other internationally recognized qualifications. Common entry standards include:
- HKDSE: Must achieve 5 in core subjects and 5* in one or two elective subjects.
- IB: Scores between 40-42.
- A-level: A*AA or higher.
- IELTS: Minimum of 7.5 overall, with no less than 7.0 in each component.
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Entrance Exam Requirements
Cambridge's entrance exams cover various disciplines, typically including mathematics, science, literature, and other related fields, aimed at testing students' logical reasoning, problem-solving abilities, and critical analysis skills. Through these exams, Cambridge seeks to select candidates who can excel in a rigorous academic setting.
Specific subjects require designated entrance tests:
- UCAT for Medicine
- LNAT for Law
- ESAT for Engineering and Sciences
- TMUA for Computer Science and Economics
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Personal Statement
Cambridge hopes to understand applicants' motivations and passion for their chosen field through the personal statement. It is an essential part of the application process, allowing candidates to showcase their uniqueness and personal background. A strong personal statement reflects the applicant’s experiences, thought processes, and aspirations, helping them stand out among a competitive pool.
If you plan to enroll in September 2026, be aware that UCAS (the UK university application system) will reform the format of the Personal Statement. The new rules will require applicants to answer three specific questions instead of free-form content. Given the new rules and requirements, it’s best to seek professional guidance to master the new criteria and increase your chances of success.
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Interview Process
Applicants will face open-ended questions designed to challenge their logical reasoning and critical thinking abilities. In this environment, examiners look to see students' creativity and enthusiasm for academic inquiry. The interview is not only an opportunity for applicants to showcase themselves but also a critical moment for them to understand the academic culture at Cambridge.
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Tuition Fees
Cambridge’s tuition fees vary depending on the discipline and student status (local vs. international). International students can expect fees ranging from approximately £25,734 to £67,194 annually, depending on the program. Understanding these costs is crucial for students and their families, as they must also consider living expenses, accommodation, and other miscellaneous costs.
Popular Subjects at Cambridge
- Architecture
- Chemical Engineering
- Economics
- Law
- Maths
- Medicine
- Psychology
- Physics
Architecture
Cambridge’s architecture has been a powerhouse of creativity and innovation for decades, offering architecture courses that transcend traditional boundaries and emphasize design thinking, sustainability and the profound impact of architecture on communities. The course perfectly combines theoretical knowledge and practical skills, promoting an in-depth understanding of the built environment. Students engage in real-world projects, hone their design skills, and prepare to address the complex challenges facing contemporary society.
Law
Renowned for its outstanding faculty and rigorous curriculum, Cambridge’s Law is a global center for legal education and research. The college offers a comprehensive range of courses from criminal law to international law, ensuring students have an in-depth understanding of legal principles and their applications. An emphasis on critical analysis and problem solving prepares graduates for a variety of legal careers, from practicing law to formulating policy and advocating for justice.
Medicine
The University of Cambridge's Medicine has excellent standards of medical education and research, with its medical curriculum integrating scientific knowledge, clinical skills and patient care into a comprehensive training programme. Students benefit from close links with world-class hospitals and research institutions, ensuring they are at the forefront of medical innovation and healthcare delivery. The emphasis on evidence-based practice and research prepares graduates to make significant contributions to medicine.
Introduction to Cambridge University Colleges
Cambridge University has a total of 31 colleges, three of which are specifically for women (New Hall, Newnham, and Lucy Cavendish), while two accept only graduate students (Clare Hall and Darwin). Each college operates independently, with teaching responsibilities shared between the colleges and the university departments. Notably, Trinity College and St John's College have established technology parks that provide facilities for startups, significantly contributing to Cambridge's reputation as a hub for innovation and technology.
Arts and Humanities
The Faculty of Arts and Humanities comprises eight colleges, the University Language Centre, and various interdisciplinary research centers, including the pioneering Centre for Research in Arts, Social Sciences and Humanities (CRASSH). Although it is one of the smaller faculties at Cambridge, it makes extensive contributions to the arts and humanities disciplines, offering a comprehensive range of subjects and expertise. The faculty is highly regarded for its teaching, research, student supervision, and external collaborations.
Biological Sciences
The Faculty of Biological Sciences conducts diverse research and teaching that encompasses animal, human, plant, and microbial sciences, spanning from atomic and molecular levels to tissues, organs, entire organisms, populations, ecosystems, biodiversity, and human behavior. The faculty places significant emphasis on interdisciplinary research related to health and disease, agriculture, conservation, and the environment, with strong links to clinical practice, public service, social policy, and the bioeconomy.
Clinical Medicine
Cambridge University’s Clinical Medicine faculty is considered one of the most prestigious medical schools globally, topping the medical rankings in the Complete University Guide, followed closely by the medical schools of Oxford, Harvard, and Stanford. Approximately half of the clinical training in the Cambridge medical curriculum takes place at the Cambridge Biomedical Campus, with the other half conducted at regional hospitals and general practices in East England.
Humanities and Social Sciences
The Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences at Cambridge employs innovative teaching practices and interdisciplinary approaches to enhance student engagement. The faculty's education team regularly undertakes significant research activities in the humanities and social sciences and establishes focus groups to facilitate diverse student participation in various research endeavors.
Physical Sciences
The Faculty of Physical Sciences at Cambridge comprises eight departments, Cambridge Zero, the Isaac Newton Institute, and the Scott Polar Research Institute. It promotes students’ understanding of the physical world through excellence in observational, theoretical, and experimental sciences, applying relevant methods to address challenges in biology, technology, medicine, social sciences, and the humanities.
Technology
The Technology faculty at Cambridge consistently ranks among the world's leading centers for teaching and research in technology disciplines. It excels in education, research, engagement, and technological innovation to tackle challenges in business, society, the environment, and healthcare.
Notable Alumni of Cambridge University
Cambridge University boasts a rich academic tradition and a deep historical background, nurturing numerous influential alumni who have achieved remarkable accomplishments across various fields, including science, literature, politics, and business. From Nobel laureates to political leaders, these distinguished individuals have left a significant impact on global society.
Literature
Elizabethan playwrights Christopher Marlowe, Thomas Nashe, and Robert Greene are among the first professional writers in England. John Fletcher, known for collaborating with Shakespeare on notable works such as "The Two Noble Kinsmen" and "Henry VIII," is also a prominent literary figure from Cambridge.
Mathematics and Science
Stephen Hawking, one of Cambridge's most renowned alumni, began his undergraduate studies in physics at the university in 1959 and pursued graduate studies at Trinity Hall, earning a PhD in applied mathematics and theoretical physics in 1966, specializing in general relativity and cosmology.
Biologist Charles Darwin’s time at Christ's College sparked his passion for the natural sciences, leading him to become a renowned naturalist, geologist, and biologist, famous for his contributions to evolutionary theory.
Technology
Many Cambridge alumni have driven some of the greatest technological advancements globally and founded leading tech companies. Notable figures include Demis Hassabis, co-founder and CEO of the British AI company DeepMind, and Sophie Wilson and Steve Furber, co-founders of a British semiconductor and software design company, all recognized as "Cambridge people."
As one of the most prestigious higher education institutions worldwide, Cambridge University attracts outstanding students from around the globe with its remarkable academic achievements and rich traditions. Understanding the admission requirements and tuition structure is crucial for prospective students. As entry exams and interview requirements evolve, applicants need to demonstrate their uniqueness and potential through academic performance, personal statements, and interviews.
If you have any questions about Cambridge University or other educational options, feel free to contact our team. We are happy to provide professional guidance to help you achieve your educational goals and future aspirations.
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