University preparation 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.

For more than one year Cambridge has been assigned the status of elite education and individual success, while simultaneously occupying top positions in the rankings of the best universities in the world. In addition, graduates of the ranking University of Cambridge later become famous scientists, Nobel laureates, as well as successful businessmen.

For foreign students, there are two main types of university preparation courses in Cambridge: those directly organized and conducted by the universities and those coordinated alongside national educational centers. To enroll in these programs, international students typically need a certification of complete education and a successfully passed language test.

• University Foundation Certificate (UFC): Ideal for students who have already decided on their future university (except Oxford and Cambridge). The UFC is typically conducted at the universities by the same faculty, allowing students to become familiar with the university environment. The program can also be found in private schools specializing in preparing international students for university. It runs for a year and aids students in enhancing their English proficiency and getting the required academic preparation.

• Certificate of Higher Education (CHE): This course is a combination of the Foundation program and the first year of a bachelor's degree. Lasting 46 weeks, successful graduates can directly proceed to the second year of their university degree.

• A-level Program: Best suited for ambitious students targeting elite institutions like Cambridge and Oxford. Conducted over two years at private language schools, students select specific subjects to study and take exams, the results of which play a crucial role in university admissions in Cambridge. Presently, the A-level is a premier pathway to UK universities.

• International Baccalaureate (IB): Another esteemed university preparation course in Cambridge, the IB is recognized in over 100 countries. Over two years, students study six disciplines, which helps in gaining admission to numerous universities globally.

Kevin McDonnell

Specialist in International Students of the University of Sussex

Do all schools provide ESL courses for foreign students? How important is it?

Yes, universities offer an English language course for foreign students, but keep in mind that for enrollment you will still have to have some knowledge (usually it is B2-C1 on the CEFR scale) - otherwise you simply will not enter the university, which means that ESL will not be available to you. Support is offered to students who have been able to enroll but are still experiencing a little difficulty – but ESL will not become a major part of your studies, so you should not rely on it too much.

For those aiming for postgraduate studies in Cambridge, there are specialized preparation courses available.

• Diploma Program: Aimed at university students in their home countries who aspire to study in the UK. This program corresponds to the first year of a bachelor's degree, helping students transition smoothly into UK university life. It lasts a year and leads directly to the second year of a bachelor's degree.

• Pre-Masters and Pre-MBA Programs: Designed for certified professionals aiming for a master's or doctoral degree in the UK. Duration varies between 1-2 semesters based on the chosen field and language proficiency.

• Graduate Diploma: For those who want a master's degree in a different specialization than their undergraduate degree. Lasting from 6-12 months, it's perfect for professionals looking to switch fields or expand their knowledge.

Studying in Cambridge is an investment in quality education:

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

• Bachelor's degree: from £21,000/year

• Master's degree: from £24,000/year

• MBA: from £16,000/year

• Doctoral studies: from £24,000/year

• University preparation course fees: £7,000 to £10,000/trimester.

While there are no budgetary accommodations, scholarships and grants might offset a significant portion of the tuition. Additionally, students can work part-time, up to 20 hours a week, during the term. If this work is related to the student's field of study, it might also count as valuable experience or internship.