Higher education in Cambridge 2024

Cambridge is universally recognized as the most popular and most famous university city among all countries of the world. The history of its development began several centuries ago. As for the geographical location, Cambridge is located in the immediate vicinity of London, namely in the county of Cambridgeshire. The county of the same name is home to the top oldest university in Europe, while millions of foreign teenagers from any country in the world seek to receive elite higher education in Cambridge.

The World University Centre offers English, foreign students the most prestigious education in the best universities in Europe and the world. Multidisciplinary universities are among the world's top research centres. Universities offer specialized educational programs of bachelor's, master's, PhD. Cambridge is one of the centres for teaching creative specialties.

Modern education in Cambridge provides international qualifications and is famous for its highest level in a wide range of subjects. Centuries–old traditions are combined with the latest methodological pedagogical developments and excellent technical equipment of educational buildings - this is how the famous English quality is achieved. The diploma of an university in Cambridge is recognized in more than 180 countries around the world and opens up excellent career opportunities.

The British framework for higher education is tiered into distinct stages: a bachelor's degree (which lasts between 3-4 years based on the specific university), followed by postgraduate programs, including a master's degree (1 year) and a doctoral degree (4 years). There's also the MBA option. For aspirants eyeing universities in Cambridge and looking to enter this esteemed higher education system, one must be at least 18 years of age with an English proficiency level of 6.5 IELTS or 580/237 TOEFL. Moreover, a crucial prerequisite for admission into higher education institutions in Cambridge is a document validating the completion of secondary education, which should be equivalent to the British GCSE/A-Level.

Should there be any discrepancies regarding the admissions criteria set by universities in Cambridge, prospective students can bridge the gap by undertaking two-year A-Level studies, the International Baccalaureate (IB), or one-year University Foundation Courses in England. By the age of 16 and with an English proficiency of 5.5 IELTS, students can enroll in the A-Level program, available at boarding schools, state colleges, or international institutions.

One of the standout benefits of securing a secondary education in England, especially for those aiming for higher education in Cambridge, is the elimination of entrance exams. Instead, admissions to universities in Cambridge are determined by the points accumulated in the concluding exams, ensuring a more streamlined and objective evaluation process.

Kevin McDonnell

Specialist in International Students of the University of Sussex

What advice do you have for those who want to go to top universities in the UK? 

Carefully consider all the information about the university of interest, including the cost - prices vary greatly, so you need to understand what options you will financially pull. Carefully prepare for tests in English (IELTS in the first place) - this will be needed for admission to any British university. Consider the courses that interest you more than others, and check the academic requirements for them, make sure that you have time to study this area well in your high school.

The admission process for universities in Cambridge is streamlined and centrally managed through the UCAS (Universities and Colleges Admissions Service). As part of the application, students are expected to provide:

• Their anticipated final exam scores or existing scores.

• A personal statement: a brief essay outlining their professional aspirations and the reasons behind their chosen field of study.

• A selection of up to six universities in Cambridge they're keen on joining.

It's standard for universities in Cambridge to issue decisions on applications they receive. Given that these applications are typically submitted by January—before final exams are taken—most offers are "conditional" on the eventual exam results. Once these results are in, the definitive admission status is conveyed.

Prospective students tend to gauge their chances well in advance. This is facilitated by the annual university rankings in the UK, which provide indicative score thresholds. For prestigious institutions like Oxford and Cambridge, the bar is set high with a typical score of 100 points (the pinnacle score). However, gaining a place isn’t just about scores; applicants must also clear university-specific exams and face personal interviews. It's worth noting that for these premier universities, applications need to be dispatched by the preceding September.

Cambridge provides more than just academic enrichment; it promises a vibrant student life. The university, steeped in centuries of tradition, offers a diverse range of cultural and athletic experiences. Whether it's horse riding, football, tennis, swimming, rowing, or golf, there's something for every enthusiast. Moreover, each higher education institution in Cambridge curates its set of events like debates, thematic gatherings, and group trips to local theaters, museums, and exhibitions.

Pursuing higher education in Cambridge is undeniably a significant financial commitment. Here's a snapshot of the expected fees:

• Short-term and advanced courses: Starting from £2,450.

• Bachelor's degree: From £21,000 per annum.

• Master's degree: Around £24,000 annually.

• MBA: Beginning at £16,000 per year.

• Doctoral studies: Approximately £24,000 each year.

• Preparatory courses: Between £7,000 to £10,000 per trimester.

The annual fees can fluctuate between £10,000 and £22,000, contingent on the faculty and specific university. Humanities typically offer the most economical rates, seldom surpassing £12,000. Technical fields hover around £17,000, while business disciplines like economics, political science, law, and management in leading universities can demand up to £20,000. Medical courses are similarly priced, with fees ranging from £17,000 to £22,000.

While Cambridge doesn't offer budget spots, international students have opportunities to secure scholarships or grants to mitigate the substantial higher education fees. Additionally, students can work part-time (up to 20 hours weekly during a trimester). If this job aligns with their academic pursuits, it could even enhance their CV, counting as an internship or genuine work experience.