About the University of Cambridge
The University of Cambridge is one of the oldest and most prestigious universities in the world. It is located in the town of Cambridge — just an hour from the city of London. The university is a collegiate public research institution and home to more than 18,000 students and 9,000 staff. There are 31 colleges, some of which date back to the 13th century, and more than 100 academic departments.
A brief history
Founded in 1209, the University of Cambridge’s 800-year history makes it the fourth-oldest university in the world and the second-oldest university in the English-speaking world.
General information
Cambridge's 6 schools are spread across the university’s colleges: Arts and Humanities, Biological Sciences, Clinical Medicine, Humanities and Social Sciences, Physical Sciences and Technology.
Quick facts about Cambridge
- Average undergrad degree: 3 years course specific
- Setting: Small city in county Cambridgeshire, UK
- Residential Status: Primarily on campus
- Number of Undergraduates: 12,350 (approx)
18,400
57%
A*A*A-AAA
40-42
Cambridge FAQ
What is Cambridge's QS World University Ranking?
#7
What is the median starting salary of Cambridge graduates?
$50,000 AUD
What is the percentage of international students at Cambridge?
36%
How hard is it to get into Cambridge?
While Cambridge’s overall acceptance rate is approximately 20%, for many courses the rate is much lower. Cambridge is one of the most competitive schools in the UK.
How many colleges does Cambridge have?
31
What is Cambridge's student-faculty ratio?
12:1
What's the easiest way to get into Cambridge?
There is no easy way to get into Cambridge! But starting early and seeking guidance from resources like Crimson can increase your chances by 400%
Six popular courses
Economics
Cambridge's economics course provides a sound understanding of core, pure and applied economics. Students study economics in depth, alongside mathematics, statistics, history, sociology and politics.
Medicine
Cambridge's medicine course provides the education and training required to be one of tomorrow’s doctors, reflecting the latest advances in medical sciences and practice.
Law
Analysis and interpretation, logical reasoning, ethical judgement, political liberty and social control: Law at Cambridge allows undergraduates to see law in its historical and social contexts.
Natural Sciences
Natural Sciences is the framework within which most science subjects are taught at Cambridge, offering a wide range of physical and biological science subjects from 16 departments.
Mathematics
Cambridge is renowned for its excellent mathematics course. Equally challenging and rewarding, it offers the opportunity to study a wide range of subjects: from abstract logic problems to black holes.
Human, Social and Political Sciences
Cambridge's HSPS degree encompasses politics and international relations, social anthropology and sociology. Students specialise in 1 or 2 of these subjects while enjoying further course flexibility.
Virtual tour of the University of Cambridge
Notable alumni
Cambridge boasts some of the most accomplished alumni in the world including 92 Nobel Laureate affiliates whose prizes cover every category. The university has educated eminent mathematicians, scientists, politicians, lawyers, philosophers, writers, actors and heads of state with notable graduates including Charles Darwin, Prince Charles, physicist Robert Oppenheimer and actor Ian McKellen.
Watch Some Of Our Cambridge Videos
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76
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94
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15
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224
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218
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198
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128
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164
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151
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215
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372
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95
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15
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151
LSE
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King's College London
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