The University of Cambridge has always welcomed people from around the world. This includes those who are seeking refuge from persecution or conflict. The University’s mission is to encourage learning and research.
In February 2024, the University signed the pledge to become a University of Sanctuary. This is a commitment to be a welcoming place.
Support for students
The University provides support for students as they prepare to enter university.
We have a robust Access and Participation Plan to provide this support.
As part of this plan hundreds of outreach initiatives and events are run around the UK. These include:
- Neaco
Targeted outreach activities to support the most disadvantaged young people. - Insight
GCSE tutoring and other development programmes to build academic confidence. - Realise
An information service for applicants. It helps those from under-represented backgrounds apply to Cambridge. - HE+
This provides access to activities and advice to help students prepare for university. - Apply: Cambridge
A specialist and free programme designed to support students to make successful applications to the University of Cambridge.
We also offer a Foundation Year programme. This is a full-time, residential programme that prepares students to study at Cambridge.
Financial support and scholarships
Cambridge Bursary
The Cambridge Bursary Scheme provides free financial support of up to £3,500 a year for your Cambridge fees or living costs.
Rowan Williams Cambridge Studentship
This is a full-cost award available to undergraduate and postgraduate students. This is for students from:
- an area of instability, zone of conflict, at risk of discrimination, persecution, violence of human rights
- refugees
- asylum seekers
Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program
This is a fully-funded scholarship from Africa to pursue a master’s degree.
Undergraduate Financial Assistance Fund
This is a Cambridge fund that provides up to £3,000 to undergraduate students in financial need. Check the eligibility criteria.
Postgraduate Financial Assistance Fund
This is a Cambridge fund that provides up to £3,000 to postgraduate students in financial need. Check the eligibility criteria.
The Crane Medical Fund
This fund provides awards of up to £1,800 to students for support with medical costs.
Humanitarian Response Fund
The humanitarian response fund supports students affected by conflict or humanitarian crises.
Support for academics
The University is part of the Council for At Risk Academics (Cara) network. Cara offers fellowships to academics in danger. It helps them and their families find a safe place to continue their work.
Cambridge University Help for Ukraine was launched in 2022. It provided support to academics and students. This included:
- fully funded residential placements for academics and PhD students
- clinical placements for medical students
- help for academics still working in Ukraine
Student organisations
Cambridge University Amnesty International a student group of Amnesty UK, and part of the worldwide movement of Amnesty. They campaign on a range of issues including rights for refugees.
Cambridge University Law Society Pro Bono participates in projects offering free legal advice.
Student Community Action organises volunteering opportunities for students in and around Cambridge. The aim is to create a closer connection between students and the local community.
Solidaritee Cambridge focuses on supporting refugees in the the community. They host education and fundraising events.
Student Action for Refugees (STAR) raises awareness around refugee issues. It provides volunteer opportunities to work with refugees and asylum seekers.
Cambridge Student Union offers students an opportunity to participate in widening participation efforts.