International Cambridge
International Life for Staff and Students
Cambridge is a modern and vibrant community which celebrates other cultures and traditions. There are over ninety student societies in the University which are dedicated to international themes. In addition, many Colleges host societies, lectures and social gatherings which highlight the history, politics and customs of foreign lands. Indeed, there are numerous opportunities for members of the University and the general public to learn about other parts of the world simply by participating in the various offerings each month in Cambridge.
International staff and students
The student body at Cambridge reflects the international spirit, with over 120 nationalities from every Continent save Antarctica represented. Fifteen percent of the undergraduate students and almost fifty percent of the postgraduate students are from outside the UK. Thus, while the University is a publicly funded institution committed to the education of home students, it is also a resource for people from around the world who thirst for knowledge and show exceptional promise.
Thirty percent of the academic staff originate from outside the United Kingdom, from postdoctoral researchers to holders of established Chairs. This diversity of backgrounds is part of what makes the University's teaching, research and extra-curricular cultures thrive.
Support for international staff and students
International students and staff are supported through various units, including:
The Accommodation Service helps both UK and international students and scholars find suitable places to live within the Cambridge area. Its online searching facility is available for those coming to Cambridge from abroad, and is a useful way to learn about the types of rooms and houses which are available within the area even whilst still abroad. Although it is possible to secure housing whilst abroad, the Accommodation Service recommends that people come to Cambridge and view the housing before entering into a binding agreement.
The Careers Service provides information and guidance to University students and alumni. At any one time, there are a number of career opportunities with international firms, and the Careers Services publishes guides on Careers in North America and Asia which are particularly aimed for students from those regions.
The Cambridge University Students' Union offers support to both home and international undergraduate and postgraduate students. It supports student societies, gives welfare advice and also represents student interests on various national and University bodies.
All students and many teaching staff are members of Colleges, which support individuals in various academic and pastoral ways. Students, particularly undergraduates, are taught and live in Colleges. Postgraduate students, particularly those arriving at Cambridge from outside the UK, are almost always housed initially in College accommodation. College facilities vary, but often include dining rooms, sports fields and gyms, library, church and meeting space. Most of all, Colleges are a place of interdisciplinary, international and peer-level support for both students and fellows (academic staff). In addition, Colleges often host international visiting scholars, run international activities and foster international links.
The Graduate Union caters specifically for postgraduates and has an international flair as so many postgraduates are from abroad. It provides a wide range of services and social activities, and also represents the interest of postgraduates on University committees.
Learn about visas and immigration, student exchanges, orientation and visiting the University.
The Language Centre provides language learning opportunities for all student and staff at Cambridge. It runs the English for Academic Purposes programme, which offers additional support to international students who need help in English. The Language Centre also offers opportunities for students and staff to improve or acquire foreign language skills.
The Newcomers and Visiting Scholars Group is dedicated to helping newly-arrived visiting scholars, staff and families adjust to life in Cambridge. It organises social and cultural activities and is often an excellent way for newcomers to meet one another and receive the friendship and advice of seasoned Cambridge residents.
The title of this document is:
University of Cambridge: International Life for Staff and Students
URL:
http://www.cam.ac.uk/international/life.html
Last updated: 11/02/2011