Planning to study in the UK? The University of Cambridge acceptance rate is the first number every ambitious student should know. Founded in 1209, Cambridge is one of the world's most prestigious universities and one of the most competitive. Here's everything you need to understand before applying.
What Is the University of Cambridge Acceptance Rate?
The overall undergraduate acceptance rate at Cambridge is approximately 17–21%, meaning roughly 1 in 5 applicants receives an offer. In the 2024–25 cycle, over 22,000 applications were submitted, and around 4,700 students were admitted.
For international students, the rate is typically lower, between 8% and 18% for undergraduate programs and 10–12% for postgraduate courses.
Acceptance Rate by Course
Not all programs are equally competitive:
| Course | Acceptance Rate |
| Medicine | Below 10% |
| Computer Science | ~10–12% |
| Engineering | ~12–15% |
| Economics | ~15–18% |
| Natural Sciences | ~20–22% |
| Modern Languages / Classics | 40%+ |
Subjects like medicine and computer science are the most selective, while humanities programs offer comparatively better odds.
Admission Requirements for International Students
To be considered, international applicants typically need:
- A-Levels: A*A*A to A*AA (course-dependent)
- IB Diploma: 40–42 points with strong Higher Level scores
- IELTS: 7.5 overall (minimum 7.0 in each section)
- TOEFL iBT: 110+
- Subject-specific admissions tests (STEP, BMAT, ENGAA, CSAT, LNAT)
- Personal statement via UCAS + two academic references
Cambridge also interviews approximately 75% of shortlisted applicants, rigorous academic conversations that test thinking and problem-solving.
UCAS Deadline: 15 October, earlier than most UK universities, so plan ahead.
Scholarships Available
Cambridge offers generous funding for outstanding international students:
- Gates Cambridge Scholarship: Fully funded (tuition + living costs)
- Cambridge Trust Scholarship: Partial or full tuition coverage
- Commonwealth Scholarship: For students from Commonwealth nations
- College-specific awards: Vary by discipline and eligibility
Deadlines typically fall between November and March. Research early.
How to Increase Your Chances
- Achieve top predicted grades in relevant subjects
- Start admissions test preparation at least 6 months early
- Write a subject-focused, specific personal statement
- Practice interview-style problem-solving out loud
- Apply to the right college and compare how other top UK universities' acceptance rates vary to set realistic expectations
Plan Your Accommodation Early
Getting into Cambridge is only half the journey, securing the right place to live is equally important. Acolyte Living helps international students find fully furnished, student-friendly housing near top UK universities, with all bills and Wi-Fi included.
Their 90-day support program covers move-in coordination, local orientation, and settling-in assistance-so you can focus on academics from day one. Use the cost of living calculator to plan your monthly budget in Cambridge before you arrive.
Wondering how the right accommodation improves your social life abroad? The right housing can make a huge difference to your overall university experience.
Conclusion
The University of Cambridge's acceptance rate reflects its world-class standards. With fierce competition, especially for international applicants, early preparation, strong academics, and a strategic application are non-negotiable. Start your journey well in advance, and take care of your housing early too.
Ready to apply? Sort your accommodation stress-free with Acolyte Living and focus on earning your place at Cambridge.
FAQs
Q1. What is the Cambridge acceptance rate for international students in 2026? It ranges between 8% and 18% for undergraduates and 10–12% for postgraduate programs, depending on the course.
Q2. Which Cambridge courses are the hardest to get into?
Medicine and Computer Science are the most competitive, with acceptance rates below 12%.
Q3. What IELTS score does Cambridge require?
A minimum of 7.5 overall, with no individual section below 7.0.
Q4. Does Cambridge interview international students?
Yes, Cambridge interviews approximately 75% of applicants. Interview preparation is essential.
Q5. Are scholarships available for international students at Cambridge? Yes, including the fully funded Gates Cambridge Scholarship, Cambridge Trust Awards, and Commonwealth Scholarships.
