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Cambridge University Admissions 2025: Application Deadline, Requirements & Costs

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Cambridge University Admissions
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International students can apply via the UCAS or My Cambridge Application portal for undergraduate applications and via the official Cambridge website for graduate admissions. Mentioned below are the University of Cambridge application deadlines for the year 2025

  • UCAS Application Deadline: Oct 15, 2025
  • My Cambridge Application Deadline: Oct 22, 2025
  • Graduate Application opens in early September 2025.

Gates Cambridge Scholarship Deadlines

  • Applications open: Early September 2025

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University of Cambridge Admissions 2025

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Commonly asked questions
Q:   What GPA is needed for Cambridge?
A: 

It is tough to be a part of the University of Cambridge admissions because this university is quite selective in finding the best candidates. As a result, international students are required to have a competitive GPA. According to some unofficial sources, a competitive GPA for a Cambridge application is 3.8 or higher on a 4.0 scale.

Q:   Do you need anything other than A-levels to get into Cambridge University?
A: 

Yes you will have to be an all rounder. International students to stand out in Cambridge University admissions,  applicants should strictly focus on presenting a postive view of themseleves, beyond just academic A Levels. Students should highlight their unique experiences, interests, and perspectives which will help the examiner or the interviewer understand the potential of the applicant. Students must talk about experiences and challenges that they have overcome as that shows how the candidate takes tasks during tough times. But again, students must not over do things and boast about themselves in the mode of explaining themselves. As that gives total a negative impact on the student if done so. 

 
Q:   What is a perfect University of Cambridge Application like?
A: 

 A perfect application means exceptional academic achievment, intellectual excitement, and a strong values and mission on goals. A perfect appliction showcases an outsanding academic performance, often including with top grades and standardized scores. But Cambridge just dosn't accept students by grades as it sees students beyond academic, the ideal applicant showcases extracurrcular acitivies, reasearch, passion for learning and projects that are unique in it's own. 

Moreover, a standout application means that it also conveys a unique story that makes the applicant very different and unqiue from other applicants. This could be through personal essays, Recomendations and many more. Cambridge University wants students who will contribute meaningfully to the university showcasing a good leadership, commitment and engagement. Hence this is what is a good or a perfect application like. 

University of Cambridge Eligibility and Fees 2025

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Commonly asked questions
Q:   What are the entrance requirements for international students at the University of Cambridge?
A: 

The University of Cambridge is very selective in finding the right candidates for the courses offered here. The acceptance rate stands at 21.49% meaning out of every 100 applications, only 21 to 22 students were rolled out an offer letter. 

International students are required to put their best foot forward to receive an offer from this university. 

Q:   Do you need 4 A levels for Cambridge?
A: 

A Levels stand for advanced level, and they are UK-based academic qualifications that are taken by students between the age group between ages of 16 to 18 years. They focus on in-depth knowledge of particular subjects and are recognised by Cambridge and the rest of the world. As an international student, these levels are not required, but the candidate must have passed with the highest scores possible. 

 

University of Cambridge Admission Process

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Commonly asked questions
On Admissions
Q:   Does the University of Cambridge take an application fee?
A: 

The University of Cambridge application fee for most international students applying for undergraduate course is £60. The application fee for postgraduate course will be between £50 – £75. For MBA course, the application fee is £165. For postgraduate courses, the application fee payment can be made online through the applicant’s portal of the University of Cambridge. It can be paid via main card providers Visa and Mastercard (Both debit and credit card for each). Right now, the university is not accepting American Express.

Q:   How much GMAT score is required for Cambridge University?
A: 

To take admission to the University of Cambridge, the applicants have to take either the GMAT or GRE. As such, there is no specific score range but the university’s current reported average GMAT score is around 687 with the median at 700  (Mid-80% range is 630-740). Note that the GMAT or GRE score must be valid at the point of application (scores are valid for five years).

Q:   How can I get admission to Cambridge University for MBA?
A: 

To get admission to the University of Cambridge MBA course, the applicants must meet all the below-given eligibility requirements:

  • An Undergraduate degree
  • A minimum of two years’ of work experience (Current average class average is six years’ work experience)
  • GMAT / GRE score
  • A reference from a supervisor
  • Ability to finance your MBA
  • UK Student Visa
  • Essay questions
  • English language requirement

Also Check: Top-Ranked MBA Universities in UK

University of Cambridge MBA Admissions 2025

2 courses 12 months - 1 year
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69.4L - 95.9L

iconEligibility Criteria

  • Undergraduate Degree with 70% aggregate
  • Accepting Exams: GMAT, GRE, IELTS
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Commonly asked questions
On MBA/PGDM Admissions
Q:   Is Cambridge University good for MBA?
A: 

University of Cambridge MBA is one of the most popular courses offered by the university and students across the globe desire to pursue this course. Mentioned below are some of the unique features of Cambridge University MBA:

  • Business school excelling in research and teaching;
  • Global companies recruit MBA students: 94% of the university’s the latest class was employed 3 months out, in 24 countries, with an average package salary of GBP 96,429 (INR 1 Cr);
  • Experiential, team-based learning;
  • Diverse, experienced and academically-abled candidates: University of Cambridge attracts the most able candidates – the mean average GMAT score for the MBA current class is 690;
  • Interpersonal skills will also be developed; and
  • Students shall also become skilled in the practice of management and core business principles in a global context.

Conversion Rate: 1 GBP = INR 104.16

Know more about studying MBA in UK for Indian Students

Q:   How can I get admission to Cambridge University for MBA?
A: 

To get admission to the University of Cambridge MBA course, the applicants must meet all the below-given eligibility requirements:

  • An Undergraduate degree
  • A minimum of two years’ of work experience (Current average class average is six years’ work experience)
  • GMAT / GRE score
  • A reference from a supervisor
  • Ability to finance your MBA
  • UK Student Visa
  • Essay questions
  • English language requirement

Also Check: Top-Ranked MBA Universities in UK

University of Cambridge Application Process

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Commonly asked questions
On Application Process
Q:   What is the level of difficulty in getting into Cambridge University?
A: 

The difficulty level at Cambridge University is quite high. As the acceptance rate at the university is between 18-21%.That means only 18-20 students are selected to get into Cambridge. However that dosn't mean it's impossible to get into the university. As Students should do certain things which helps them to get into Cambrisge. A basic suggestion is, they should highlight their unique experiences, interests, and perspectives which will help the examiner or the interviewer understand the potential of the applicant. Students must talk about experiences and challenges that they have overcome as that shows how the candidate takes tasks during tough times. But again, students must not over do things and boast about themselves in the mode of explaining themselves. As that gives total a negative impact on the student if done so. 

Q:   How long does it take to hear back from Cambridge?
A: 

University of Cambridge admission decision details are given below:

  • Undergraduate Courses: Students receive their admission decisions by the End of Jan.
  • Postgraduate Courses: Final decision on the application is sent to students by email. Alternatively, students can also track the progress of their application via the applicant portal. If the applicants have submitted their application before the general funding deadlines in Dec or Jan, then they shall receive a formal decision on their application by Mar-End. Majority of the offers are made in Feb and Mar.
Q:   What does it feel like to be an Indian studying at the University of Cambridge?
A: 

As per a student review who graduated from the University of Cambridge, it feels like diving into Harry Potter world. Some of the great things that an Indian student will discover are: 

  • Formal halls for meals;
  • Wonderful architecture and history;
  • Multitude of departments; and
  • Large international and Indian crowd.

University of Cambridge Admission Data Undergraduate students

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Commonly asked questions
On Admission
Q:   Which one is better - University of Cambridge or University of Oxford?
A: 

Oxford MBA and Cambridge MBA are one of the best institutes in the world and in the world to do MBA programs at. The Oxford and Harvard MBA are on the top MBA universities in the world by QS MBA ranking in 2024. Both provide unqiue curriculum which foster students with great knowledge. Both of them are best ranked universities to study in the UK for international students. They offer the best Master of Business Administration (MBA) programme to students with better placement opportunities. Below is the comparison for Oxford MBA and Cambridge MBA:We have compared them below in terms of their MBA fees, ranking, and placements:

MBA Universities MBA First-Year Tuition FeesQS  Ranking in the World 2024MBA Placement Rate
University of Cambridge 
INR 57 L - 72 L
2

£ 92,501 (INR 98,35,151_)

University of OxfordINR 29 L - 82 L3 £83,410 or INR 88 L
Q:   Can an average student get into University of Cambridge?
A: 

The University of Cambridge is surely one of the toughest universities to get into. The University has just an acceptance rate of 18-21%, which means only 18-21 students can get into the university out of hundreds. Hence it could be difficult for a mediocre or an average student to get into University of Cambridge. However, it’s not impossible. The basic requirement the university asks for is a GPA of 3.0 or above from an accredited university and a good ELP score. Lastly, the Cambridge takes a holistic approach and doesn’t just consider marks but sees multiple factors in the student's profile. These factors include Leadership,  Work experience, essays, LOR and interviews that the students give during their admission process. 

Q:   What are some of the helpful tips for students starting their first-year at the University of Cambridge?
A: 

University of Cambridge is one of the most prestigious universities in the world and students around the world desire to pursue their higher education here. Some of the tips for students starting their first-semester at the University of Cambridge are:                 

  • Be humble and interact with as many people as possible;
  • Attend as many as winter parties and formal halls;
  • Try not to miss out on the classes. University of Cambridge faculty is world-class so do not miss out on this opportunity;
  • Last but not the least, develop your personality. Try to embody Cambridge ethics in your body language and not only in your brain. 

Cambridge University
Students Ratings & Reviews

4.3/5
Verified Icon3 Verified ReviewsInfo Icon
Student Views (Based on Reviews)
  • 33% students never faced discrimination in this university
Vibe of Campus
Academically oriented
Multi-dimensional
Friendly
Stressful
Internships4.3
Part time work4.3
Post study jobs4.3
Quality of faculty4.3
Student Life4
Value for money4.7
Public transportation4.3
Safety5
Indian Food4
Permanent Immigration3.3
Aarushi Relan Verified Icon
Master of Law (LLM) - Batch of 2025
4.5
The journey to Cambridge - fulfilling my passion for research and study.
Tips: Studying at Cambridge has truly been a dream come true for me, something I have aspired to since my undergraduate days. It's essential to be academically driven to thrive at a university like this, and that includes having the motivation to tackle independent study projects. Personally, I've always been passionate about long hours of research and deeply committed to my studies, which has helped me embrace the challenges here.
Likes (Indian Food): The University of Cambridge offers fantastic food options, with a wide range of Indian cuisine available, including North Indian, South Indian, and Nepalese dishes. Even the local supermarket stocks Indian spices, biryani mixes, and ready-to-eat Indian meals, making it easy to enjoy familiar flavors.
Dislikes (Permanent Immigration): The United Kingdom is presently experiencing an economic recession, which has created some uncertainty around settlement and immigration opportunities. While I remain that conditions will improve by the time I graduate, the situation appears somewhat unpredictable at this stage.
Total Monthly ExpensePound 1300
Prepping time for classes35 hours/Week
Expected Annual SalaryPound
Reviewed on 5 Oct 2024Read more
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R
Rohit Shukla Verified Icon
MPhil in Public Policy - Batch of 2025
4.3
Academic, immersive and nerve wrecking experience.
Tips: Cambridge is a world-class university that is very rigorous academically. If you think getting in is tough, wait until you start studying your course. The professors are genuinely helping and profound in their scholarship. The support provided by the university is also immense but even after all of this, you should be the one who needs to do hard work.
Likes (Value for money): I went to Cambridge on a full scholarship which funded my stay, tuition and airfare fees and therefore, I actually saved some money instead of spending on it. Other than that, I would say that apart from technical and professional courses at any UK university, courses in humanities are always less preferable to spend your money on.
Dislikes (Permanent Immigration): Although I would like to settle in the UK permanently, it is becoming increasingly hard to settle there with tightening immigration rules and the local population's outlook towards immigrants in general. The economy is also weakening in the UK and with the slowdown the chances of getting good jobs are diminishing.
Total Monthly ExpensePound 1500
Prepping time for classes15 hours/Week
Expected Annual SalaryPound 34000
Reviewed on 4 Oct 2024Read more
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T
Teresa Etheredge Verified Icon
MPhil in Criminology - Batch of 2021
4
Great learning environment.
Tips: Students should be prepared to adapt to the environment. The biggest adjustment was the difference in culture, food, and people. These are some of the differences you'll need to navigate. I didn't apply for any scholarships, so I'm not familiar with that process. Overall, I am satisfied with the university, my course, and the country.
Total Monthly ExpensePound 6150
Prepping time for classes30 hours/Week
Expected Annual SalaryPound 55000
Reviewed on 15 Aug 2025Read more
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University of Cambridge Admission FAQs

Q:   Does the University of Cambridge take an application fee?
A: 

The University of Cambridge application fee for most international students applying for undergraduate course is £60. The application fee for postgraduate course will be between £50 – £75. For MBA course, the application fee is £165. For postgraduate courses, the application fee payment can be made online through the applicant’s portal of the University of Cambridge. It can be paid via main card providers Visa and Mastercard (Both debit and credit card for each). Right now, the university is not accepting American Express.

Q:   Can Indian students get scholarship in Cambridge University?
A: 

Yes, some of the scholarships for which Indian students are eligible to study at the University of Cambridge are given below:

  • Gates Cambridge: It is applicable for students studying at the Master's and PhD levels and the award value is GBP 30,000 - GBP 60,000 (annual)
  • Cambridge Trust Scholarship: All scholarships under this are available only for study at the University of Cambridge. It requires the students to apply to the university through normal application form and as per the relevant deadlines. Note that the trust does not offer full-cost scholarships for MBA (Master of Business Administration) and MFin (Master of Finance) programs.
Q:   Is Cambridge good for LLM?
A: 

The Law Faculty at the University of Cambridge offers a world-renowned, internationally respected LLM program. This course offers highly qualified and intellectually outstanding students the opportunity to pursue their legal studies at an advanced yet supportive environment. LLM course at the University of Cambridge attracts students of the highest caliber, from both common and Civil Law jurisdictions.

Q:   How hard is it to get into Cambridge University as an Indian?
A: 

According to unofficial sources, the University of Cambridge acceptance rate is between 18% - 21%. In short, getting into the University of Cambridge is extremely difficult. On average across all subjects, the university has itself stated that it usually receives six applications per place, but naturally, there is variation between courses. Generally, admissions tutors at the University of Cambridge consider all of the information available in the application before making any decisions. However, academic performance carries the greatest weight. In all, each application is considered individually and holistically by the University of Cambridge by analyzing all of the information:

  • Academic record;
  • Personal statement (sop);
  • School / college reference;
  • Any written work submitted;
  • Performance in any written assessment;
  • Contextual data; and
  • Performance at interview.
Q:   How much does it cost to go to Cambridge MBA?
A: 

According to the fees specified by the University of Cambridge itself, the fee for the MBA class 2024/25 was GBP 64,000 (INR 61.13 L). Also, the living expenses shall be approximately GBP 17,668 (INR 16.87 L). The living expenses are based on one person living in Cambridge alone. Some of the scholarships that are applicable to students pursuing MBA at the University of Cambridge are: 

  • Gates Cambridge Scholarship - MBA
  • Snowdon Cambridge Scholarship

 

Q:   Which famous Indians went to Cambridge?
A: 

Three Indian Prime Ministers studied at the University of Cambridge namely Jawaharlal Nehru, Rajiv Gandhi, and Dr. Manmohan Singh. Other Indians who studied at the University of Cambridge are:

  • Srinivasa Ramanujan: Indian Mathematician
  • Harivansh Rai Bachchan: Hindi Poet (Father of Amitabh Bachchan)
  • Prathiba Singh: Sitting Judge of Delhi High Court
  • Amartya Sen: Nobel Prize-winning Economist
  • Zia Mody: Indian Corporate Lawyer and Businesswoman
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Loveleen Sharma

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Loveleen is a seasoned content writer with 4+ years of experience, currently writing for Shiksha. When he is not writing and helping students, he can be found at the movies, reading fiction, and learning a new language.

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