Who we're looking for

Applying to Cambridge

If your examination record and predictions are good, then your chance of being admitted is approximately one in five.

While your grades are very important, the following are also important elements of your application:

• your school reference
• any written work that you submit (or do at interview)
• your performance in any tests that you're required to take
• your personal statement
• your performance at interview

Competition for places is strong so a lot of time is spent assessing each applicant individually.

What are we looking for?

We treat and assess everyone individually and look at – and for – different things in different people for different courses. Consequently, there’s no magic formula that will guarantee you’re made an offer of a place. However, we can generalise a little.

Admissions Tutors are looking for the students they believe:

• have the most academic potential
• are best suited to the course applied for
• will most benefit from what we're offering, whatever their background

Academic ability and potential

We’re looking for students with the academic ability and potential to flourish at the University. Therefore, you should be aiming for excellent examination grades. The typical A Level/IB offer and subject requirements are outlined on the relevant course pages. Details about entrance requirements for other examination systems can be found on the Entrance Requirements page.

Motivation and independent thought

We look for an indication of your ability to think critically and independently, and your willingness to argue logically but to keep an open mind to new ideas also. You need self–discipline, motivation and commitment as well, and the desire and potential to go beyond the limits of what you've learned so far.

Passion for your course

We look for students who really want to learn about the subject they've applied for and aren't just interested in the degree at the end – important though this is. Think carefully about why you've chosen your course. Instead of choosing the course you think you ought to do, think about the subject you're most passionate about and want to study for the next few years purely for enjoyment.

If you think you have these qualities, we’re looking for students like you and would encourage you to make an application. Information about how to apply to the University can be found in the Applying section.