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Details
Useful dates and deadlines 201112
SpringSummer 2011 Open days, Oxford and Cambridge Student Conferences, HE fairs September 2011 early 1 9 12 20 30 UCAS Apply open for applications for 2012 entry Deadline: applications for Organ Scholarships (see p142) Deadline: applications from students wishing to be interviewed in particular overseas countries (see p29) Deadline: applications for Choral Awards (see p142) Deadline: applications from students wishing to be interviewed in particular overseas countries (see p29) Deadline: applicants for Medicine and Veterinary Medicine must have registered to take the BMAT (see p132) Deadline: applications for all undergraduate courses. UCAS application to be received by UCAS and, for applicants from outside the EU, Cambridge Online Preliminary Application (COPA) to be submitted (see p131) Deadline: completion and submission of Supplementary Application Questionnaire (SAQ) for most applicants (see p132) BMAT taken by Medicine and Veterinary Medicine applicants

October 2011 15

22

November 2011 2 December (first three weeks) 2011 Interviews in Cambridge (some may be a little earlier) January 2012 early end 28 1 Decisions posted to applicants and winter pool takes place (see p134) Final decisions to pooled applicants Deadline: applications for Instrumental Awards (see p142) Deadline: second round applications to the mature Colleges (Hughes Hall, Lucy Cavendish, St Edmunds and Wolfson, see p27)

February 2012 March 2012

MayJune 2012 A Level, IB and other examinations taken including STEP, where required for Mathematics and other applicants (see p140) August 2012 A Level, IB and other results published and confirmation of conditional offers that have been met 201213 University Term Dates Tuesday 15 January Friday 15 March (Lent Term) Tuesday 23 April Friday 14 June (Easter Term) All students must ordinarily be available to study in Cambridge for the full duration of their course (with the exception of a year abroad where part of the course). Tuesday 2 October Friday 30 November (Michaelmas Term)

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DETAILS

Elsewhere in this Prospectus we outline what the University has to offer, detail the courses that are available and introduce the Colleges. If the prospect of studying at Cambridge appeals to you, this section guides you through the application process. DETAILS

Applying to Cambridge
Applying to Cambridge My point of view
Easy as 1, 2, 3
At Cambridge (as at Oxford) the process of applying starts earlier to allow time for interviews to be organised your UCAS application must be submitted by 15 October 2011 for entry in 2012 (or deferred entry in 2013) (other application deadlines apply for those wishing to be interviewed overseas and for some mature applicants). However, the process is otherwise much the same as that for other universities and is summarised in the three steps below.

Step
1: Research

Action
Choose a course

Page reference
p3295

Choose a College (or decide on an open application) p96127 My teacher gave me some extra books to read and though I didnt really learn anything truly useful from them, the aim was to be able to show I was capable of reading some more advanced material. I was unbelievably nervous about my interview I couldnt eat or sleep well, and Im used to nerves from performing music and drama so we did a few practice interviews, which went terribly! But in the actual interview they were only interested in making me feel as comfortable as possible, and the nerves immediately dissipated. I love my College but, of course, theyre all just as good! Id spent hours narrowing my choices, then on an open day stumbled upon my College and instantly thought it was the most gorgeous one. Theyre all slightly different so just choose somewhere you like on an open day. Dont choose based on staff, they may change! Before I arrived, I wish I knew that youre not expected to prepare anything! However, the extra reading I did turned out to be fairly useful and its a good idea to have a good general knowledge on the topics you like before you start.

Step
2: Action

Action
Submit your UCAS application online
1

Page reference
p131 p132

Submit your Supplementary Application Questionnaire (SAQ)

Step
3: Selection

Action
Submit school/college essay(s) or sit admissions tests, as required Attend an interview Our decision and offers

Page reference
Relevant course pages and p132 p133 p134

www.cam.ac.uk

My advice?
In your interview, dont give a textbook answer over your own opinion they ask these questions because they want your own opinion!

Jeff, Bath

Applicants living in countries outside the EU and applicants for the Graduate Course in Medicine will both need to submit an additional application.

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Cambridge Colleges

College Porter

UCAS application
In order to apply to Cambridge for 2012 entry (or deferred entry in 2013) you must submit a UCAS application by 15 October 20112. Applications to UCAS are made online using Apply, the web-based application package. Your school or college will be able to advise you about the process. If youve left school or college or are a resident abroad, contact UCAS (see p148) for more information. Once youve submitted your UCAS application, you can check on its progress online through UCAS Track. You also need to submit another application in addition to your UCAS application if youre: living outside the EU (see below) applying for the Graduate Course in Medicine (see p83) eligible to be considered under the Cambridge Special Access Scheme (see below) also applying for a Choral Award or Organ Scholarship (see p142)

Cambridge Special Access Scheme (CSAS) (for UK and EU students)

The Cambridge Special Access Scheme (CSAS) is designed to ensure that applicants who have experienced particular personal, social or educational disadvantage can be accurately assessed. All Colleges support the CSAS. You are eligible for the Scheme if either of the following apply: few people from your school/college proceed to higher education AND your family has little or no tradition of studying for a degree your education has been significantly disrupted or disadvantaged through health or personal problems, disability or difficulties with schooling

To be considered under the Scheme, you should apply in the normal way, but your referee should also complete the additional Special Access Scheme form (available online at: www.cam.ac.uk/admissions/undergraduate/apply/) by 15 October 2011. The form asks for additional information to enable applicants to be assessed more fairly and appropriate levels for conditional offers to be set. For more information about the CSAS, contact the Cambridge Admissions Office (telephone: 01223 764025; email: csas@cao.cam.ac.uk) or a College admissions office.

Applying from outside the EU

If youre currently living outside the EU, in addition to your online UCAS application, you need to submit a Cambridge Online Preliminary Application (COPA)3. If your family home is outside the EU but youll be attending school/college within the EU at the time of your application, you dont need to submit a COPA. For most students, the deadline for receipt of their UCAS application and COPA is 15 October 2011. However, if youd like to be interviewed in one of the countries where we conduct overseas interviews, earlier deadlines may apply. For more details, please see p29 and refer to our website at: www.cam.ac.uk/admissions/undergraduate/international/.

Once your UCAS application has been received here in Cambridge it will be acknowledged by the College you applied to. Open applications are allocated to Colleges shortly after the closing date.

There is an overseas application fee associated with the COPA, as well as an interview fee for those who are interviewed overseas. Please see the website for more information and guidance.

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There are earlier deadlines for applicants wishing to be interviewed in particular overseas countries (see p29), and some mature students applying to one of the mature Colleges may be able to apply after this date (see p27).

Applying to Cambridge

DETAILS

DETAILS
Most students get around by bike or on foot

Institute for Manufacturing

Applying to Cambridge

Supplementary Application Questionnaire (SAQ)

Shortly after submitting your UCAS application youll be asked via email to complete a Supplementary Application Questionnaire (SAQ) online. To make a valid application to the University of Cambridge you must submit your SAQ by the deadline set. In the majority of cases this will be 22 October 20111. The SAQ ensures we have complete and consistent information about all applicants. It also enables us to collect information thats useful when assessing applications but thats not part of the UCAS application; for example the topics youve covered as part of your AS/A Level (or equivalent) courses (which helps our interviewers decide which questions to ask). Full guidance on the SAQ is available on our website at: www.cam.ac.uk/admissions/ undergraduate/apply/saq.html. If youre unable to complete the SAQ online (eg because you dont have a valid email address or as a result of a disability) we will send you a paper version to complete.

School/college essays For a number of our courses, mainly in the arts and social sciences, youre asked to send sample essays that youve written as part of your school/college courses. These should be as submitted to your teachers, and marked by them. The Cambridge College that assesses your application will tell you if and when they would like this work sent. If youre asked to send in some work its a good idea to make a photocopy before submitting it so you can reread it before your interview. Bio-Medical Admissions Test (BMAT) All applicants for Medicine and Veterinary Medicine are required to take this test, after making their application and before interview. The test is used to assess scientific aptitude and focuses on scientific abilities relevant to the study of Medicine and Veterinary Medicine. The BMAT is also used by some other universities. Applicants are responsible for ensuring they enter for the BMAT by 30 September. The BMAT test will be on 2 November 2011.

Applicants take the test when theyre in Cambridge for interview and are required to answer one question in one hour. (Applicants who are interviewed overseas sit a slightly dierent version of the test, see the Faculty of Law website for details). No prior knowledge of the Law is required or expected. You dont need to register in advance your College will contact you about the arrangements and theres no charge associated with taking the Cambridge Law Test. Further information about the test, including specimen questions and answers, is available on the Faculty of Law website at: www.law.cam.ac.uk/admissions/. Thinking Skills Assessment (TSA) You may be asked to take the Cambridge Thinking Skills Assessment test, either online or on paper, when you come for interview. This test assesses critical thinking and problem-solving skills and is used by a number of Colleges for the following courses: Chemical Engineering Computer Science Economics Engineering Land Economy Natural Sciences Politics, Psychology and Sociology

Additional work or tests

Depending on the course and College you apply to, an interview may be the only additional assessment we undertake. Alternatively, you may be asked to: submit one or two school essays, which may be discussed at interview take a further test either when you attend for interview or beforehand (either a subject-based test organised by your College or one of the tests outlined below)

Information about the test and how to enter can be found on the BMAT website (www.bmat.org.uk). Any queries about the test should be made to the BMAT Support Team (telephone: 01223 553366). There is an entry fee for this test and details are available on the BMAT website. If youre a UK student, were concerned that the entry fee shouldnt deter you from applying. Applicants in receipt of certain financial support may apply for their BMAT fees to be reimbursed. Please contact the BMAT Support Team for more information. Cambridge Law Test Most Colleges require applicants for Law to take the Cambridge Law Test, which is designed to provide an assessment of your potential for our Law course. Its used as an additional piece of information alongside your school/college examination results, the other information provided in your application, and your performance at interview when making admissions decisions.

Theres no need to register in advance for the TSA (Cambridge) and theres no charge associated with the test. The College dealing with your application will contact you about the arrangements if theyre using it. More details and example questions can be found on the TSA website at: www.tsacambridge.org.uk.

For further info...

Admissions tests www.cam.ac.uk/admissions/ undergraduate/tests/

Information about the additional forms of assessment used by each College for each course can be found on our website (www.cam.ac.uk/admissions/undergraduate/ tests/).

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1 If a different deadline applies to you, your College will notify you of the date. If youre in any doubt about the deadline, please contact your College as soon as possible.

Pembroke College

College library

Interviews
Interviews are an important part of our selection procedure and we try to interview everyone with a realistic chance of being offered a place. Every year we interview over 80 per cent of our applicants. If you have a good examination record and a favourable reference, youre likely to be invited to interview. However, due to the level of competition for places, there are applicants each year who are not interviewed. Form of interviews Most interviews take place in the first three weeks of December (though some may be earlier) so please dont make any unbreakable commitments for this period. The exact form and length varies from College to College, and between subjects, but typically youll have two interviews of 2045 minutes each. Your College will send you full details and if youre asked to stay overnight, theyll provide accommodation. Preparing for the interviews Youll probably want to prepare for your interview but dont over-rehearse itll be obvious to the interviewers. However, you can: practise talking about your work and discussing your interests and opinions with a teacher watch our short film Interviews in Action online read our Cambridge Interviews: the facts booklet, also available online

In addition, wed encourage you to read around the subject youve applied for. We expect you to be aware of major developments in the field and to be able to explain why you want to study the discipline. If youre applying for a course thats new to you, such as Law, you should be able to demonstrate that you know what the subject entails. During the interviews Interviewers know you may be nervous and arent trying to catch you out. They want to see how you work through problems and take on new ideas. Often there arent right or wrong answers to the questions asked, and the way you arrive at an answer may be of greater interest than the answer itself. The key thing to remember is to be yourself. Interviewers may ask about interests or experiences that you mentioned in your application. If youve expressed a particular interest in an author, a recent article/programme, or some work youve done be prepared to be asked about it.

For further info...

Interviews www.cam.ac.uk/interviews/

My interview preparation consisted of making notes which clarified my answers to some basic questions, such as why I wanted to study at Cambridge and why I chose my subject. Reading was also crucial as Id heard that interviewers were keen to know whether youd read around your subject. Something which seemed to go down well in my interviews was being able to mention books Id read since applying, which werent on my personal statement it shows that your interest isnt limited to wanting to sound impressive on your personal statement. The fantastic thing about Cambridge courses is the flexibility to create unusual subject combinations which may not be offered elsewhere, and within those options to choose papers which appeal to your specific interests. The main difference with school which stuck me when I arrived was the increased initiative I was expected to take with my work; research and extensive extra reading were suddenly a big deal and my own responsibility. While I really enjoy the new depths of understanding this opens up, it can be difficult to discipline yourself about independent study, especially when noones checking exactly what youre doing.

Applicant Toolkit
The Cambridge Admissions Oce has developed an Applicant Toolkit, designed to provide information and resources to guide you through the application process. You can access the Toolkit at: www.cam.ac.uk/applicant-toolkit/.

I wish someone had told me to bring waterproof trousers and wellies! Cambridge can get incredibly wet and cold so having waterproof stuff (and definitely a waterproof bag for work) is a must.

Grace, London

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My advice?

Applying to Cambridge

My point of view

DETAILS

DETAILS
Memorial Court, Clare College

By the Cam on Midsummer Common

Applying to Cambridge

Our decision
After the interviews, there are three possible outcomes. 1. Youre made an oer If youve already gained the qualications required, you may be made an unconditional oer. If youre still studying, an oer will usually be conditional and dependent on achieving certain grades in the qualications youre taking. 2. Your application is pooled Although impressed by your application, your College may not have a place for you or may want to look at other applicants before conrming their last oers. As such, your application may be put in the winter pool and you could be: asked to attend another interview in early January at a dierent College oered a place at another College without a further interview

The winter pool

The winter pool is held in January and is designed to ensure that the best applicants are oered places, regardless of the College they originally applied or were allocated to. Around one in ve applicants are pooled, and, of these, around one in four receives an oer of a place.

Accepting your oer

If youre oered a place, youll be informed by the College and through UCAS. You must reply, observing UCAS requirements and deadlines. If you accept Cambridge rmly you must meet the conditions of your oer (if conditions are attached) by the deadline set by UCAS. In a few cases, applicants who havent quite met the conditions of their original oer may still be oered a place, either at their original College, or at another College following a small summer pool.

Clearing and the adjustment period

The University of Cambridge doesnt normally enter Clearing nor will places be available in the August 2012 adjustment period. If your examination results are much better than expected and you wish to try for a place at Cambridge, youll need to apply in the following years admissions round.

If no College is able to oer you a place, the College you applied to/were allocated to will contact you, normally by the end of January. 3. Your application is unsuccessful On average, we receive around ve applications for each place, so every year we have to turn down students with good grade predictions whom we would like to have taken. Disappointing though this is, we hope youll have found the process a useful experience and valuable preparation for your other university choices. Dont let the prospect of not getting a place put you o applying. We cant oer you a place if you dont apply to us. Wherever you come from, whatever your school or college, if you think youve got something to oer, and weve got something to oer you, wed encourage you to apply.
The Avenue, Trinity College

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Corpus Christi College

Gonville and Caius College

Frequently-asked questions
Is there an age requirement? The vast majority of undergraduates are 18 years or older when they come into residence. If youll be over 21 when you start your course youre classied as a mature student (see p267). All students need to demonstrate that they have the maturity and personal skills to cope with university level study, and will be able to gain full benet from the course when admitted. If youll be under the age of 18 on admission you should seek advice from a College Admissions Tutor as early as possible to discuss your application. If youre interested in applying for Medicine, please see the information regarding age on p80 as well. Applicants wholl be under the age of 16 on admission may also be subject to additional requirements and restrictions in order to comply with legislation. Can I take a gap year and defer my entry? About one in ten students coming to Cambridge takes a gap year before starting their studies. This year can be a useful time to improve skills, earn money, travel and generally gain maturity. If you state your wish to defer entry on your UCAS application, youll probably be asked about your plans at interview, so be prepared to talk about your year out. Please note: if youre applying for Mathematics most Colleges have a preference for immediate entry if youre applying for Engineering many Colleges generally prefer applicants to take a year out, to gain some industrial experience its not possible to defer entry for the Graduate Course in Medicine all applications in this admissions round for this course must be for 2012 entry

Is it possible to transfer to Cambridge from another UK university? The Cambridge Colleges dont normally consider applications from students attending other UK universities applying to study the same or a very similar subject at Cambridge. If you wish to apply for a dierent subject from the one youre currently studying at a UK university, we would assume that youd had a change of heart and would consider your application. In both circumstances you would need strong support from your current university tutor. A reference or letter of recommendation from him/her will be required for the Cambridge College to consider your application. If youre in the nal year of a Bachelors degree at another UK university, you are, of course, welcome to apply for admission as an aliated student (see below and p27). Can I apply for an undergraduate course if I already have a degree from another university? If youre a graduate with an approved degree from another university, you can apply to take a Cambridge BA course as an aliated student, and take a degree in a year less than usual. See p27 for more information. I go to a state/private school will this disadvantage my application? No. The University of Cambridge and its Colleges are committed to oering admission to students of the highest intellectual ability and potential, regardless of background. We dont discriminate, for or against, applicants because of the type of school they attend. You can nd our Admissions Policy online at: www.cam.ac.uk/admissions/undergraduate/ info/policy.html.

Whats the Universitys position on exam resits? At Cambridge, students are regularly assessed by examination and theres no opportunity to resit any exams (with the exception of professional qualifying examinations in Medicine and Veterinary Medicine). Therefore, its important to demonstrate that you can cope with the pressures associated with taking exams by achieving as highly as possible rst time in any form of assessment. However, we appreciate that even very capable students may have bad days when an exam doesnt go quite to plan. As such, a students application is unlikely to be adversely aected by their resitting one or two modules. On the other hand, there would be concern about an applicants potential to be successful at Cambridge if they need to resit numerous exams, particularly where only a marginal improvement is achieved. What work experience do I need to have? For many of our courses, theres little in the way of relevant work experience that applicants could undertake and so its not expected or required. However, for vocational courses, such as Medicine and Veterinary Medicine, having some work experience in an appropriate setting is useful. As well as demonstrating commitment to your intended career, it gives you the opportunity to acquire greater understanding of the dayto-day realities and pressures associated with that career. What extra-curricular activities will help my chances of admission? As our admissions decisions are based on academic criteria (ability and potential), your participation (or not) in specic extracurricular activities isnt taken into account (unless its relevant to the course youre applying for) and doesnt aect your chances of being made an oer of a place at Cambridge.

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However, you should consider the importance that your other university choices may place on extra-curricular activities when composing your personal statement.

Applying to Cambridge

DETAILS

Before applying, you need to check that you have, or are likely to achieve, the right grades at the right level and in the right subjects for the course youve chosen. DETAILS

Entrance Requirements
Entrance Requirements My point of view
Course requirements
For many Cambridge courses prior knowledge of certain subjects is required, and all Colleges expect such subjects to be passed, normally with an A or A* grade at A Level/grade 6 or 7 at Higher Level of the IB (or equivalent). Some courses (eg Asian and Middle Eastern Studies, Law, Philosophy) dont require you to have studied the subject before, although you should have read enough about the subject to know what it entails. When assessing applicants for all courses we consider not only the individual A Level/IB Higher Level (or equivalent) subjects being offered but also the combination of these. We generally prefer applicants to have taken certain subjects or subject combinations because we believe that theyre more likely to provide you with an effective preparation for study at the University of Cambridge. The subject requirements and preferences for each course are given within the Courses section (p3295), defined as follows: In my spare time I tend to hang about with College friends, either in College or in town. Im not a big clubbing fan, but there are loads of excellent pubs and bars and we go to formals quite often as theyre a really fun and cheap way to have a nice meal. Essential subjects required by all Colleges Highly desirable subjects required by most Colleges Desirable subjects required by some Colleges Useful subjects that provide a useful preparation but arent required

AS/A Levels
AS Levels Cambridge applicants are encouraged to study either four or five AS Levels in Year 12 and we normally expect good A grades in relevant subjects at AS Level. Applicants taking five subjects wont be at an advantage compared with those taking four. Separate certification at AS Level in the case of subjects being studied at A Level isnt required and applicants not cashing in AS Levels wont be disadvantaged. All applicants are asked to report (in the Supplementary Application Questionnaire, see p132) the results of all AS and A Level modules taken to date, whether certificated or not. Colleges wont make unconditional offers on the basis of AS Level grades alone. A Levels Most applicants to Cambridge are studying three or four A Level subjects. For advice about suitable subject choices please see the appropriate course entry (p3495) and the Undergraduate Admissions website. As has been the case for the last two years, the standard conditional A Level offer for 2012 entry will be A*AA. The subject in which the A* is to be achieved is unlikely to be specified in most cases. All Colleges modify offers to take account of individual circumstances. For example, lower offers may be made to students applying through the Cambridge Special Access Scheme (see p131), whose potential hasnt been realised at school because of significant educational or personal disadvantage. On the other hand, more challenging offers may be set where some doubt exists and the alternative is no offer. Critical Thinking Please note that A Level Critical Thinking isnt considered an acceptable third A Level subject for any courses at Cambridge. While it is regarded as a worthwhile addition to your portfolio of qualifications as a fourth AS or A Level subject, its unlikely to be part of a conditional offer.

Living in College is really good, as youre near all of the facilities you need, as well as all of your friends. I was pooled to my College and because its an all-girls one I was very wary (thinking itd be weird). However, going to an offer holders event completely changed my mind. The College has a lovely atmosphere, the people are friendly and the foods great. My accommodation is pretty basic as I asked for the cheapest room, but the bathrooms and kitchen are all really nice and modern.

Please also check College-specific requirements with the College youre intending to apply to. If you havent yet decided on a course, advice about the most appropriate subject combinations can be found in our Subject Matters leaflet, available online at: www.cam.ac.uk/admissions/undergraduate/ requirements/.

My advice?
I over-estimated the amount of free time Id have, so Id advise good time awareness and management from the start. Work hard, but dont over-stress youre at university to have fun as well! Make the most of freshers week as you can make some excellent friends, and stick at it, even if the first term seems really hard once youre into the Cambridge rhythm its much easier.

www.cam.ac.uk

Lianna, Huddersfield

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Laundry day

Key Skills and General Studies We expect you to be proficient in essential key skills, but dont require you to have completed the Key Skills qualification. Please also note that, while there can be wider educational benefits in taking General Studies, its not included in the academic assessment of Cambridge applicants.

Scottish Highers and Advanced Highers

We normally expect applicants with Scottish qualifications to have achieved a minimum of four A grades at Higher Grade, plus Advanced Highers. Offers will usually require AAA in three Advanced Highers. In some cases two Advanced Highers and an additional Higher may be acceptable. For advice about suitable subject choices please see the appropriate course entry (p3495) and the Undergraduate Admissions website. Please note that for these purposes, Highers are broadly comparable to AS Level subjects, and Advanced Highers to A Levels. If youre studying towards a Scottish Baccalaureate qualification youre expected to offer three Advanced Highers as part of it. Applicants who are prevented from studying more than two Advanced Highers due to reasons outside their control are considered on a case-by-case basis and are advised to contact the College to which they intend to apply as early as possible.

Welsh Baccalaureate
Applicants taking the Advanced Diploma in the Welsh Baccalaureate are expected to have studied three subjects at A Level as part of their qualification. Offers are conditional on achievement in the A Levels within the qualification rather than the overall Baccalaureate award (please see p136 for A Level guidance).

Extended Project
We welcome the introduction of the Extended Project and encourage you to undertake one as it helps you to develop independent study and research skills which will ease the transition from school/college to higher education. However, completion of an Extended Project wont be a requirement of any offer made.

Irish Leaving Certificate

Applicants from the Republic of Ireland who are studying towards the Irish Leaving Certificate are eligible to apply. A typical offer for the Irish Leaving Certificate is AAAAA at Higher Level. Applicants for Medicine and Veterinary Medicine may be asked to take an IGCSE (or equivalent) in the science subject not taken within the Irish Leaving Certificate.

AQA Baccalaureate
Applicants taking the AQA Baccalaureate should note that this is an acceptable qualification for entry to Cambridge. However, offers are conditional on achievement in the A Levels within the qualification rather than the overall Baccalaureate award (please see p136 for A Level guidance).

Cambridge Pre-U
Students who are either studying towards the full Cambridge Pre-U Diploma or certain Principal Subjects within the qualification alongside A Levels are eligible to apply. Conditional offers are set on an individual basis but are likely to include achieving Distinction level grades (D2 or D3) in Principal Subjects.

International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme

Offers are regularly made on the International Baccalaureate, requiring scores between 40 and 42 points out of 45, with 776 or 777 in the Higher Level subjects. For advice about suitable subject choices please see the appropriate course entry (p3495) and the Undergraduate Admissions website. Please note that for these purposes, Standard Level subjects are broadly comparable to AS Levels, and Higher Level subjects to A Levels.

Getting exam results at the Senate House

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Entrance Requirements

DETAILS

DETAILS
College Porters

Trinity Hall

Entrance Requirements

My point of view

Access to HE Diploma
Applicants to Cambridge studying the Access to HE Diploma are generally expected to achieve to a standard equivalent to conditional A Level offers. Therefore, a typical offer would require attainment of the Access to HE Diploma with Distinctions in all relevant subject units. Applicants may be asked to meet certain subject-specific requirements as well, such as an additional A Level in Mathematics or demonstration of an aptitude for languages. For further information please see the website (www.cam.ac.uk/admissions/ undergraduate/mature/requirements.html) or contact the Access Officer at the Cambridge Admissions Office (telephone: 01223 765728; email: mature@cao.cam.ac.uk).

Diplomas
Only the Advanced Diplomas in Engineering, Manufacturing and Product Design, and Environmental and Land-based Studies provide appropriate preparation for certain Cambridge courses, and are acceptable for entry as detailed below: the Advanced Diplomas in Engineering and in Manufacturing and Product Design are acceptable for Engineering as long as you have taken specified options within the Additional Specialist Learning component (see p76) the Advanced Diploma in Environmental and Land-based Studies is acceptable for Geography, Land Economy and Natural Sciences (Biological) as long as you have taken two appropriate A Levels within the Additional Specialist Learning component. In the case of Natural Sciences (Biological), these should be A Level Chemistry and either Biology, Mathematics or Physics A Level. The requirements for Geography and Land Economy are more flexible (see the relevant course entries)

I didnt even consider Cambridge until I sceptically came on a school visit, but from then onwards I didnt want to study anywhere else! Id say choose your College based on where you think youd feel at home for three or more years. I chose mine simply because I visited and left with such a great impression of it. It just felt right. Life in College is one of mutual support and camaraderie I feel like Im part of one giant College family. Due to the short terms and reasonably priced College-owned accommodation, my accommodation costs have been significantly lower than elsewhere. Also, Cambridge is small so youre unlikely to have many travel costs. Some of the restaurants and pubs can be a bit expensive, but theyre nothing like London prices. Before I arrived, I was mainly worried about feeling stupid and not being able to cope with the course, and that everyone would be a workaholic. These worries vanished almost instantly. Whilst the works intense and the students are bright, were all in the same boat and everyones very supportive.

European Baccalaureate
If youre studying towards the European Baccalaureate, please note that successful applicants are typically asked for 8590 per cent overall, with 90 per cent in those subjects that relate most closely to the course they wish to study.

French Baccalaureate
Typical offers for applicants taking the French Baccalaureate (including the International Option) are 16 or 17 (mention trs bien) out of 20. Applicants are also usually asked to achieve 16 or 17 in specific subjects.

VCE and Applied A Levels, GNVQs and BTECs

VCE A Levels, Applied A Levels, GNVQs and/or BTECs are not an ideal preparation for most Cambridge courses, where the emphasis is more academic than vocational. As such, these qualifications cannot, unless otherwise stated, be used to replace the essential and highly desirable A Level subjects listed for each course. However, if the essential and highly desirable subjects are covered, a sixunit VCE or Applied A Level could be taken instead of a third A Level or as an additional fourth broadening subject. This combination of A Levels and VCE or other qualifications may be acceptable for some courses. Potential applicants taking these qualifications are advised to seek further advice from a College Admissions Tutor.

German Abitur
If youre studying towards the German Abitur, please note that applicants are typically asked for an overall score of between 1.0 and 1.3, with 14 or 15 in those subjects that relate most closely to the course they wish to study.

SATs and Advanced Placement Tests

Prospective applicants from Canada and the USA taking SATs and Advanced Placement Tests should note that offers are usually made on an individual basis. In addition to high passes in the High School Diploma and the SAT, successful applicants have normally achieved 5s in at least five Advanced Placement Tests in appropriate subjects.

My advice?

www.cam.ac.uk

If youre someone who enjoys being challenged, both intellectually and creatively, then Cambridge is for you. By applying, you have nothing to lose and everything to gain.

Joe, Luton

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Studying in the UL

Other qualifications
If youre taking any other qualification (including the Advanced International Certificate of Education offered by Cambridge Assessment), its a good idea to contact the Cambridge Admissions Office (see p148) as early as possible to check that it provides an appropriate preparation for the course you hope to study. Whatever system youre being educated in, Cambridge requires top grades in the highest level qualifications available for school students.

Applicants studying for a mixture of qualifications

Were happy to consider applicants taking a combination of qualifications drawn from different examination systems, such as Scottish Advanced Highers and A Levels or A Levels and IB Higher Level subjects, providing that the individual qualifications are acceptable and any subject requirements are met. Conditional offers will normally be in line with the typical offers made when the qualifications are taken on their own. However, the exact details depend on the applicants individual circumstances. In cases where an applicant is taking the same (or very similar) subjects in different examination systems, for instance taking both A Level Physics and Pre-U Physics, its not possible to give general guidance about the likely offer level, as any offer is tailored to the applicants individual circumstances.

English language requirements

If your first language isnt English, its essential that your English language skills are good enough for you to undertake an intensive and challenging academic course thats taught and examined in English. As a result, you may be asked to achieve a formal English language qualification as part of the conditions of your offer (see p28).

I didnt apply directly to my College and was a bit apprehensive when I found out I had been pooled I even considered turning down the offer! Now I know that wouldve been an enormous mistake as its become a home from home. Even though I was academically strong I didnt think Id fit the Cambridge student profile. However, that stereotype is a complete myth there are so many different types of people at Cambridge from all walks of life. Before I came here, I also thought it would be all work and not much play, which daunted me quite a lot. I thought Id miss out on all the fun my friends at other normal universities would be having. I was so wrong! There are so many groups and opportunities to pursue here and you can easily fit in as little or as much as you want to.

My advice?
Dont get disheartened, even if you think your interview went disastrously, they know youre nervous and arent judging you theyre just trying to see if and how youd get on here. I was so nervous in my interview that I fell off my chair!

Jenni, Swansea www.cam.ac.uk 139

Student accommodation

Entrance Requirements

My point of view

DETAILS

DETAILS
Downing College library

Faculty of Mathematics cafeteria

Entrance Requirements

My point of view

Sixth Term Examination Papers in Mathematics (STEP)

STEP Mathematics is a series of three examination papers used to assess aptitude for university study in Mathematics. STEP is based on material thats common to the core of A Level Mathematics (and therefore requires no further knowledge). The questions are designed to test qualities like insight, originality, and the ability to use standard techniques in unusual ways and situations. Colleges can also read applicants examination scripts and so assess particular strengths or weaknesses which may not be conveyed in the overall mark. STEP is used as part of almost all conditional offers in Mathematics (including Mathematics with Physics) and Computer Science with Mathematics. Some Colleges may use STEP for other courses: Churchill may, in exceptional circumstances, ask for STEP as part of conditional offers in Engineering if there are concerns about the mathematical skills of the applicant, but will not normally do so if the applicant is taking A Level Further Mathematics Magdalene may ask for STEP as part of conditional offers in Computer Science Peterhouse may ask for STEP as part of conditional offers in Engineering and Natural Sciences, depending on mathematical background St Edmunds may ask for STEP as part of conditional offers in Economics

Preparing for STEP Past papers are available on the STEP website and from the STEP Support Team at Cambridge Assessment. We encourage you to look at these to familiarise yourself with the style, format and time constraints of the exams. The University runs an intensive STEP Mathematics study course. Offer-holders from non-selective state schools that are unable to support STEP Mathematics may be invited to attend. You can also find advice on the Faculty of Mathematics website (www.maths.cam.ac.uk/undergrad/ admissions/).

For further info...

STEP STEP Support Team Cambridge Assessment 1 Hills Road Cambridge CB1 2EU Telephone: 01223 558455 Email: stepinfo@cambridgeassessment.org.uk www.stepmathematics.org.uk

Applying to Cambridge was both exciting and daunting. Preparing for my application, I just kept on looking into new and interesting areas of my subject that arent found in the A Level syllabus. I also had a mock interview in November which helped me get used to the style of an interview and also the pressure Id be under. The things I like about my course are its breadth (as I didnt know what area Id end up favouring), the interesting discussions in supervisions, and the wide variety of papers available in the third and fourth years, allowing for in-depth study. The things I dislike are that some lecturers have unique styles which are hard to follow, and Saturday morning lectures! Its a lot of work too. The teaching/learning here benefits those who put the effort in, and youre expected to have the interest and impetus to do a lot of work off your own back.

My advice?
Just keep delving deeper into your subject and make sure youre applying for the right subject. Research it thoroughly instead of just applying on a whim the same course may be taught very differently elsewhere, and this may or may not suit you.

STEP is graded S (Outstanding), 1, 2 and 3 (Satisfactory) and the grades required as part of an offer vary by College. Applicants taking Mathematics A Level are normally asked to take papers I and II, while those taking Mathematics and Further Mathematics A Levels normally take papers II and III. STEP is administered by Cambridge Assessment and papers are sat immediately after the A Level examination period. You need to speak to your school or college about registering for the examinations, which is done through Cambridge Assessments secure online entry system.

www.cam.ac.uk

Luke, Dorset

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Applicants to Cambridge often ask what are my chances of getting in? or how many applicants normally apply for a given course? Find the answers to these questions below. DETAILS

Application Statistics
On average we receive around five applications for every place available. This means that difficult decisions have to be made about which students to admit and a great deal of time is spent considering all of the information gathered about each applicant. Despite application numbers varying considerably each year, our moderation system means that success rates are very similar from College to College. This is because the pool results in many students (746 for 2010 entry) receiving an offer from a College other than the one they applied to, or were allocated to through the open application system. For more information about the pool and how admissions decisions are made, please see p134. You can find more information about each course, including graduate career destinations, at: www.admin.cam.ac.uk/ univ/camdata/. Theres also more statistical information on our website (www.cam.ac.uk/ admissions/undergraduate/statistics/) and in the special issues of the University of Cambridge Reporter (www.admin.cam.ac.uk/ reporter/).

Applications Acceptances
47 181 464 149 181 272 1,342 103 1,798 875 337 731 139 230 1,143 86 1,196 1,742 226 580 157 2,378 254 798 111 446 15,966 21 66 37 48 84 76 169 44 336 203 101 199 31 56 213 23 232 280 24 164 57 637 45 124 46 78 3,394

Course 2010 entry

Anglo-Saxon, Norse, and Celtic Archaeology and Anthropology Architecture Asian and Middle Eastern Studies Classics Computer Science Economics Education Engineering English Geography History History of Art Land Economy Law Linguistics Mathematics Medicine Medicine (Graduate Course) Modern and Medieval Languages Music Natural Sciences Philosophy Politics, Psychology and Sociology Theology and Religious Studies Veterinary Medicine Total

For further info...

Application and admission statistics www.cam.ac.uk/admissions/ undergraduate/statistics/

Notes These statistics refer to applications made in October 2009 either for entry in October 2010 or deferred entry in October 2011. These gures include 2,029 open applications (13 per cent of the total). These applicants were allocated to Colleges and thereafter treated in the same way as all other applicants.

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Are you an organist, a singer/chorister or an instrumentalist of a really high standard? If youd like to combine further specialist musical experience with a Cambridge degree, you should consider applying for one of our Music Awards. DETAILS

Music Awards
Music Awards
Choral and Organ Awards
Almost every College in Cambridge has a chapel that fosters the musical traditions associated with the church alongside the wider repertoire of organ, choral and chamber music. Student organists and choristers provide music for regular chapel services, and to do this contribute regular hours of practice. They also perform in College concerts, where a much wider range of music can be presented, and some undertake summer tours in this country or abroad. They form a very important strand of the rich musical life in Cambridge, and if you have the talent and the readiness to commit yourself to rehearsals and choral services, you could be part of it. Open days in 2011 for those interested in an Organ Scholarship or a Choral Award will be held on 3 and 4 May (organists) and 5 May (singers). You dont have to attend an open day, but it does provide the chance to see what musical standard is required, the commitment necessary in terms of weekly practices, and the breadth of musical opportunities offered. Booking is required for these open days. The nature of the Awards varies from College to College, but they all include a small financial award, and some support for music lessons. To apply you must submit the Cambridge Online Preliminary Application (COPA)1 by the appropriate deadline: Organ Scholarships 1 September 2011 Choral Awards 12 September 2011

Instrumental Awards Scheme

The Instrumental Awards Scheme enables gifted musicians to reach a high standard of performance in chamber music. As an Awardholder, youre expected to give priority in your music-making to rehearsals with your ensemble about six hours a week. Award-holders receive a small financial award (called an exhibition), professional coaching of their ensemble and usually a subsidy for instrumental lessons. Players of violin, viola, cello, flute, oboe, clarinet, bassoon, French horn or piano are eligible to apply, and you need a Distinction at Grade 8 of the Associated Board or similar to be of the standard required. The application process for the Scheme takes place once applications for academic places have been considered and offers have been made. If youre made an offer of a place and are interested in applying for an Instrumental Award, you must download the application form from the website (see left). This must be submitted to your College by 28 February 2012. If you meet the conditions of your offer, youll be asked to attend an audition just before the start of the academic year. Youll be notified of the date and time of this by 15 September 2012. For further details see College websites, which provide information about the musical activities undertaken and enjoyed by their Award-holders.

For further info...

Music Awards Information about all the Music Awards, including a short lm can be found at: www.cam.ac.uk/admissions/ undergraduate/musicawards/ Choral Awards Dr David Skinner Director of Music Sidney Sussex College Cambridge CB2 3HU Email: dgs38@cam.ac.uk Organ Scholarships Mr Andrew Arthur Director of Music Trinity Hall Cambridge CB2 1TJ Email: aa373@cam.ac.uk Instrumental Awards See individual College websites or contact any College admissions oce. Alternatively, contact the Director of the Instrumental Awards Scheme: Dr Andrew Jones Selwyn College Cambridge CB3 9DQ Email: avj1000@cam.ac.uk

Some Colleges reserve some or all choir places for audition by students when they arrive in Cambridge. Even if youd prefer to try this route, it might help you to seek further information beforehand.

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There is an application fee associated with the COPA. Please see the website for more information and guidance.

If youd like to meet us admissions staff or students and find out more about applying to and studying at the University and Colleges, you can take advantage of one of our many open days and events, either in your own area or in Cambridge. DETAILS

Open Days and Events

Open days in Cambridge
You dont have to attend an open day to apply to Cambridge but visiting us does give you a chance to absorb the atmosphere, find out more about the admissions process, courses and facilities, and ask any questions you may have. The University and Colleges organise a large number of open days for Year 12 (or equivalent) students each year, so the only question is, which day is best for you? Cambridge Open Days (see below) A College open day (see p144) A department open day (see p145)

Cambridge Open Days

7 and 8 July 2011 The University of Cambridge and the Colleges will be opening their doors to prospective applicants in Year 12 (or equivalent) for the Cambridge Open Days in July. Both days offer the same programme of talks and opportunities to talk to staff and current students. All subjects will be offering course presentations/information stands as part of these events. In some cases tours and additional sessions will also be available for which separate booking may be required (please check the relevant department websites). Some Colleges will be open all day for Cambridge Open Day visitors without the need for separate booking. Others will be holding their own College open day in the mornings for which separate booking is required and, as such, will only be open to Cambridge Open Day visitors in the afternoon (please check the relevant College websites). For more information and to book a place please consult the website or contact the Cambridge Admissions Office.

During a school assembly, some students gave a talk about Cambridge and what it offers us as students. It sounded amazing, and after visiting on an open day I fell in love. When I applied, I expected to be shunned immediately for my accent and upbringing but I couldnt have been more wrong. There are people here from all over the world and, most importantly, all accept each other, regardless of where youre from, who you are or your background. Ironically, last year I gave the same talk Id heard at my school all those years before! Cambridge offers more to do socially than any place Ive ever been previously. Before arriving, the only activity I took part in was squash once a week. Now Im captain of the squash team; play lacrosse, netball, football and rugby; and row. I also organise entertainment and charity events for my College and go out far more frequently than I did back home. Its pretty manic, especially with a degree thrown in!

The University also organises specific events for mature students and those at FE colleges (see Events in Cambridge, p146) as well as open days for students interested in applying for one of the Music Awards (see p142). Staying over The Cambridge Tourist Information Centre (located just off Market Square) can provide information about accommodation in and around the city. On occasion, some Colleges may be able to accommodate visitors to open days. However, you must arrange this in advance with the College.

For further info...

Cambridge Tourist Information Centre Peas Hill Cambridge CB2 3AD General enquiries: 0871 226 8006 Accommodation: 01223 457581 www.visitcambridge.org

For further info...

Open days Contact the Cambridge Admissions Oce or the appropriate College/department. Cambridge Admissions Oce Telephone: 01223 768677 Email: opendays@cao.cam.ac.uk www.cam.ac.uk/opendays/

My advice?
As long as you organise your time well, you can do everything you want and more, and leave with far more than just a degree as a result. The opportunities are here, you just have to take them.

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Greg, Manchester

Open Days and Events

My point of view

DETAILS
The Backs

Open Days and Events

College open days

Cambridge students are admitted by Colleges, not departments, so College open days give you the opportunity to pick up a wide range of useful information (College open days cover all courses offered by the College unless otherwise indicated). Typically, an Admissions Tutor will introduce the College and youll be shown round the grounds and facilities, probably by some of the students. Directors of Studies will be available to discuss in detail the Universitys courses and the supervision system, and outline any specific requirements at their College. Please note that visiting a particular College doesnt commit you to applying to that College: you can attend whichever College open day is convenient for you and apply to any College (or make an open application) afterwards. To book a place, contact the appropriate College or consult the College website (see p98).

February
22 Christs

March
15 19 21 22 23 Christs Magdalene (specied subjects), Newnham (sciences), Robinson (Q&A) Trinity Hall (sciences) Trinity Hall (arts) Trinity Hall (Law)

April
6 15 30 Sidney Sussex Churchill Fitzwilliam, Pembroke, St Catharines

May
7 14 Downing, Fitzwilliam, Pembroke (Land Economy and Music) Emmanuel (pm)

June
27 28 29 Girton, Trinity (arts) Emmanuel, Trinity (sciences) Jesus, St Catharines, St Johns

July
3 6 7 Hughes Hall Christs, Magdalene (pm), Newnham, Pembroke (Law), St Catharines, Sidney Sussex Churchill, Clare, Corpus Christi, Gonville and Caius, Kings (sciences), Magdalene, Murray Edwards, Pembroke (arts), Peterhouse, Queens, Robinson, St Johns, Selwyn, Sidney Sussex, Wolfson Churchill, Clare, Corpus Christi, Gonville and Caius, Homerton, Kings (arts), Magdalene, Pembroke (sciences), Peterhouse, Queens, Robinson, St Johns, Selwyn, Wolfson St Edmunds

8 9

August
31 Downing

September
3 9 10 13 14 15 16 17 22 23 24 26 27 28 Fitzwilliam Downing Selwyn Homerton (pm) Murray Edwards (pm), Sidney Sussex Sidney Sussex Corpus Christi, Downing, Peterhouse Newnham, St Johns Queens (pm) Churchill, Clare (arts), Kings, Robinson (Q&A) Clare (sciences), Girton, Pembroke (pm) Trinity Hall Christs Emmanuel (pm)

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Providing subject information to prospective applicants

Cambridge Open Days

Department open days

Throughout the year there are a number of department open days that focus on the specific course(s) in the faculty or department. Youll get to meet some of the lecturers, and see the libraries and other facilities. The staff and students may be able to answer broader questions about life at the University as well, but if youd like to see other places in Cambridge on the same day please check the timetable when you book. To book a place, contact the appropriate department (see p3495).

March
14 16 17 18 Archaeology and Anthropology Theology and Religious Studies Classics (Oxford and Cambridge event, in Oxford), Theology and Religious Studies Asian and Middle Eastern Studies, Linguistics, Modern and Medieval Languages

May
7 Mathematics: see also 14 May Students interested in studying Mathematics are invited to visit one of these Colleges in the morning and the Department of Applied Mathematics in the afternoon. Please book your place in advance with one of the participating Colleges: Clare, Corpus Christi, Downing, Fitzwilliam, Gonville and Caius, Kings, Murray Edwards, Newnham, Pembroke, Queens, Robinson, St Catharines, St Johns, Selwyn, Trinity, Trinity Hall 14 Mathematics: see also 7 May Students interested in studying Mathematics are invited to visit one of these Colleges in the morning and the Department of Applied Mathematics in the afternoon. Please book your place in advance with one of the participating Colleges: Christs, Churchill, Emmanuel, Girton, Jesus, Magdalene, Peterhouse, Sidney Sussex

June
29 Anglo-Saxon, Norse, and Celtic

July
6 Law 7 All subjects contribute to the Cambridge Open Days (see p143). However, the following department also oers morning activites for which additional booking is required: Veterinary Medicine 8 All subjects contribute to the Cambridge Open Days (see p143). However, the following departments also oer morning activities for which additional booking is required: Education, Land Economy, Veterinary Medicine

If you cant make it to an open day

Sightseeing visits If you cant make an open day, youre welcome to visit us at another time. The College and department grounds are open for most of the year for you to walk round. However, there are restrictions and/or charges for tourists at certain Colleges and at certain times, such as during exams, so you should check in advance. If youd like to speak to College staff about admissions during a visit to Cambridge, please contact the Colleges Admissions Office in advance to arrange this (see College contact details on p98).

Following in the Footsteps tour If youre unable to visit us on one of our open days, you can visit us virtually on our website through our interactive Following in the Footsteps tour. Following in the Footsteps highlights key parts of the city and University through photographs, text and audio. You can view and listen to the tour online or download it to your mp3 player and listen to it when walking around Cambridge itself. To access the tour, see our website at: www.cam.ac.uk/opendays/.

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DETAILS

DETAILS
Cambridge Admissions Oce

GEEMA Summer School participants

Open Days and Events

Events near you

Higher Education fairs and UCAS Conventions The University of Cambridge is represented throughout the year at regional Higher Education (HE) fairs and UCAS Conventions across the country. Our representatives are happy to chat with you and answer any queries you, your parents and your teachers/HE advisers may have about applying to and studying at the University. Dates of the UCAS Conventions that well be represented at can be found on our website. Oxford and Cambridge Student Conferences Each year the Universities of Cambridge and Oxford organise a series of joint conferences for Year 12 (or equivalent) students and their teachers/HE advisers. The conferences are normally held in March/April in locations across the UK and are designed to provide up-to-date information on courses available, the application and admissions procedures and student life at both universities. The conferences are free to attend but places must be booked as admission is by ticket only. Further information is available at: www.studentconferences.org.uk.

Events in Cambridge
Subject Matters Bright students fail to gain places at top universities each year because they havent chosen the right A Level/IB Higher Level (or equivalent) subjects. The Subject Matters events, for Year 11 students, highlight the importance of subject choices and offer practical help to those about to choose their options. Please see the website for more details. Subject Masterclasses The Subject Masterclasses provide an opportunity for Year 12 students from any school or college to explore topics of interest beyond whats covered at A Level/IB Higher Level and to experience some typical firstyear undergraduate teaching at Cambridge. The Masterclasses involve one or two taster lectures/workshops, which are delivered by some of the Universitys leading academic staff. They also include an overview of the admissions procedure and student life. Please see the website for further information. Challenge Days Challenge Days offer Years 10 and 12 students at maintained sector schools and colleges an insight into teaching and learning at Cambridge. Students participate in a variety of activities including introductory sessions on higher education and Cambridge and subject taster sessions, as well as having lunch in one of the Colleges and meeting current undergraduates. Please see the website for more details. Residential events A number of residential Easter and summer schools are organised each year to give UK students from Years 10 to 12 an insight into university life. These include subject-specific Sutton Trust Summer Schools for Year 12 students. Further details are available online.

Events for Black, Asian and Minority Ethnicity (BAME) students GEEMA (the University Group to Encourage Ethnic Minority Applications) has been running for over 20 years and offers a programme of one-day and residential events in Cambridge for UK students from ethnic minority backgrounds. GEEMA can also arrange visits to schools and colleges around the UK. For further information, please see the website. FE students The University of Cambridge organises a number of events, including an open day and summer school, to enable FE students to learn more about studying at Cambridge. Details about these events are available online. Mature students The University of Cambridge welcomes applications from mature students (those aged 21 or over) and further information can be found on p267. The University organises a number of events specifically for mature students and details are available on the website.

For further info...

Events Further information about the events listed above is available on the website and from the Cambridge Admissions Oce. Cambridge Admissions Oce Telephone: 01223 333308 Email: admissions@cam.ac.uk www.cam.ac.uk/admissions/ undergraduate/events/

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CUSU oces

Students at the Cambridge Open Days

Student-run events and initiatives

CUSU Target Campaign The Target Campaign is a completely studentrun initiative, supported by the University and its Colleges. Each year about 1,000 Cambridge students visit state schools across the country to give relevant information to those who are thinking about applying, and provide an opportunity to hear about the University from a students perspective. CUSU Shadowing Scheme The biggest student-run widening participation initiative in the country sees Year 12 students from state schools without a tradition of top university entry come to Cambridge for three days in February. While here, prospective students spend time shadowing a current undergraduate whos studying a subject theyre interested in. Other student-run initiatives In addition to these initiatives, CUSU runs a number of other events and activities for students considering Cambridge, including: a Mature Students Shadowing Scheme, which offers prospective mature applicants the opportunity to shadow a current mature student for a day Cambridge Explained Days, providing an opportunity to see life at Cambridge firsthand Ask a Student, offering the chance to ask a current undergraduate specific questions about a course or College

Teachers, tutors and HE advisers

Events for teachers, tutors and HE advisers A number of events for teachers, tutors and HE advisers are organised annually by the Cambridge Admissions Office and several of the Colleges, including the residential HE Advisers Conference in September. These events provide up-to-date information about the University, including the application procedure and the range of outreach activities on offer. Details are available at: www.cam.ac.uk/ admissions/undergraduate/teachers/. College Area Links Scheme The Area Links Scheme links every Local Authority in England to a specific Cambridge College to help build effective relationships with schools and colleges. There are also links between Cambridge Colleges and Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland. Each College runs its own programme of activities for schools/colleges in their link regions. Theres no expectation or obligation for students to apply to the relevant Link College and participation in Area Links Scheme initiatives doesnt influence whether Colleges invite applicants for interview or offer them places. Please also note that the Area Links Scheme doesnt preclude schools/colleges from contacting, or being contacted by another College. See our website to find out which College youre linked with at: www.cam.ac.uk/ admissions/undergraduate/arealinks/.

Travelling to the University

Cambridge is a busy city and wasnt built with modern traffic flows in mind, so its best to visit the centre where many of the University buildings and Colleges are situated on foot. By car If youre planning to drive to Cambridge, we strongly recommend that you use the Park and Ride scheme as parking is limited and several city centre roads have restricted access, open only to buses and taxis or at particular times of the day. Information about the Park and Ride scheme is available online at: www.cambridgeshire.gov.uk/ parkandride/. Disabled parking is available throughout the citys car parks and on some streets. Please check in advance with the Cambridge Tourist Information Centre (see p143) or on our website at: www.admin.cam.ac.uk/univ/disability/ guide/city/parking.html. By bus Cambridge bus station is centrally located, and there are frequent buses from the railway station to the city centre. The Uni 4 bus service runs from the Madingley Road Park and Ride site through the University and College areas of West Cambridge and on to Addenbrookes Hospital via Trumpington Street (Monday Friday only). By train Cambridge is well-connected by train and the station is located approximately one mile from the city centre (around 20 minutes on foot). Theres a taxi rank outside the station and buses run frequently between the station and city centre. By air The nearest airports to Cambridge are Stansted (30 miles) and Luton (40 miles). Theres a direct train link to Cambridge from Stansted and buses regularly run from Stansted, Luton, Heathrow and Gatwick to the city centre.

For further info...

Student-run events and initiatives CUSU Access Ocer Telephone: 01223 333313 Email: access@cusu.cam.ac.uk www.cusu.cam.ac.uk/prospective/

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DETAILS

Should you have any further questions after reading this Prospectus, please get in touch. Our directory below provides some useful contacts if you want to find out more about the University and Colleges. DETAILS

Finding Out More

Finding Out More
Cambridge Admissions Office (CAO)
Fitzwilliam House 32 Trumpington Street Cambridge CB2 1QY Telephone: 01223 333308 Fax: 01223 746868 Email: admissions@cam.ac.uk CAO can offer general advice to prospective applicants and their advisers about applying to and studying at Cambridge. Further copies of this Prospectus and leaflets about interviews and student finance are available online or by contacting CAO. www.cam.ac.uk/admissions/undergraduate/ www.facebook.com/cambridgeadmissions/

Cambridge University Students Union (CUSU)

Old Examination Hall Free School Lane Cambridge CB2 3RK Telephone: 01223 333313 Fax: 01223 333179 Email: access@cusu.cam.ac.uk CUSU provides lots of information and advice for prospective applicants on their website. They also run the Target Campaign and Shadowing Schemes (see p147). www.cusu.cam.ac.uk/prospective/ www.applytocambridge.com

Colleges
(See p96127) If you want to find out more about a College, you can do so by getting in touch with College admissions offices using the contact details listed on p98. Many Colleges also produce their own prospectuses and have information on their websites. www.cam.ac.uk/admissions/undergraduate/colleges/

Disability Resource Centre (DRC)

Keynes House Trumpington Street Cambridge CB2 1QA Telephone: 01223 332301 Textphone: 01223 764085 Fax: 01223 766863 Email: ucam-disability@lists. cam.ac.uk Disabled students and/or students with a chronic illness are encouraged to consult the DRCs website and contact the DRC as early as possible for advice and guidance. Please note that publications can be provided in alternative formats on request from the Cambridge Admissions Office (see above). www.cam.ac.uk/disability/

Postgraduate Study
Board of Graduate Studies 4 Mill Lane Cambridge CB2 1RZ Telephone: 01223 760606 Email: admissions@gradstudies. cam.ac.uk The Board of Graduate Studies is responsible for a wide range of postgraduate courses, including PhD, MSc, MLitt and MPhil degrees and certain Certificates and Diplomas. www.admin.cam.ac.uk/offices/gradstud/

Universities and Colleges Admissions Service (UCAS)

UCAS Customer Service Unit PO Box 28 Cheltenham GL52 3LZ Telephone: 0871 468 0 468 Text Relay Service: 18001 0871 468 0 468 (callers in the UK with hearing difficulties) Email: enquiries@ucas.ac.uk Applications to Cambridge are made through the Universities and Colleges Admissions Service (UCAS). Once your application has been submitted youll be able to monitor its progress using UCAS Track. www.ucas.com

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Credits
Editorial
Cambridge Admissions Forum Cambridge Admissions Office and contributors Sciences Department of Chemical Engineering and Biotechnology: p73 (left) iStockphoto: p73 (right), p77 (right), p79 (right), p81 (right), p83, p85 (right), p87 (right), p89 (right), p93 (right) James Appleton: p75 (left), p77 (left), p79 (left), p87 (left), p89 (left), p91 (both), p93 (left) Luke Church: p75 (right) Mark Mniszko: p81 (left) Department of Earth Sciences: p85 (left) Colleges Samantha Bartram*: p96 Mark Mniszko: p99 (left), p103 (right) Tim Rawle: p99 (centre) Sir Cam: p99 (right) Keith Heppell: p100 (left), p106 (left, right), p127 (left, right) Andy Sims: p100 (centre, right) Prasanthi Ratnakumar*: p101 (left) Lidia Kuhivchak*: p101 (centre) Catriona Reid*: p101 (right) Jan Leaver: p102 (all) Barry Everitt: p103 (left) Matt Dyson: p103 (centre) Kelly Neaves: p104 (all) Serita Rana: p105 (left) Andrew Houston: p105 (centre), p113 (left, centre) Fitzwilliam College: p105 (right) Girton College: p106 (centre) Dan White: p107 (all) Tim Gray: p108 (left) Homerton College: p108 (centre, right) Jonathan Taylor: p109 (all) James Appleton: p110 (left), p121 (all), p124 (right), p125 (left) Jesus College: p110 (centre, right) Kings College: p111 (left, right) Geoff Robinson: p111 (centre) Nigel Luckhurst: p112 (all) Nigel Hawkes: p113 (right) Murray Edwards College: p114 (left) Claude Schneider: p114 (centre) Oli Green: p114 (right) A Goulimis: p115 (left) Ute Stock: p115 (centre) Newnham College: p115 (right) Pembroke College: p116 (all) David Ross: p117 (left, centre) Peterhouse: p117 (right) Tom Allwood: p118 (left) Brian Callingham: p118 (centre) Jet Photographics: p118 (right) Jonny Baker: p119 (all) Perry Hastings: p120 (all) St Johns College: p122 (all) Selwyn College: p123 (all) Caroline Penn: p124 (left, centre) Trinity College: p125 (centre) Bruce Head: p125 (right) Crispin Alexander: p126 (left) Phil Ewels: p126 (centre, right) Wolfson College: p127 (centre) Details Mark Mniszko: p128, p131 (left) James Appleton: p130, p131 (right), p132 (right), p133 (My Point of View), p134 (top right, bottom), p136, p137 (top right, bottom), p138 (top left, My Point of View), p139 (top left), p140 (top right, My Point of View), p143, p145 (both), p146 (left), p147 (left) Niels Jakobsen*: p132 (left) David Joseph*: p133 (top left) Sarah Holt: p133 (top right), p134 (top left), p135 (both) Yachao Wang*: p137 (top left) Keith Heppell: p138 (top right), p139 (bottom, My Point of View), p140 (top left), p147 (right) University Library: p139 (top right) Alexander Johnson*: p144 GEEMA: p146 (right)

Design
iDentity Creative

Print
Pindar plc

Photography
* indicates photographers who are undergraduate students at the University of Cambridge Cover James Appleton Welcome James Appleton: p3 (right), p4 (My point of view), p5 (My point of view), p6, p8 (both), p9 (bottom), p11 (top right, My point of view), p12 (left), p13 (top left, My point of view), p14 (top left, My point of view), p16 (My point of view), p17 (My point of view), p18 (My point of view), p19 (top right, My point of view), p20 (top right, My point of view), p21 (all), p22, p23 (right), p24, p25 (both), p28, p29 (left), p30 (all), p31 (top right) Keith Heppell: p5 (right), p7 (both), p11 (top left), p12 (right), p16 (bottom), p17 (top left, top right), p19 (top left), p26, p27 (all) Redback Design: p9 (top left), p31 (My point of view) Mark Mniszko: p3 (left), p9 (top right), p31 (top left) Fakhirah Badrulhisham*: p4 (bottom) Thomas White*: p5 (left), p11 (bottom) CUSU: p10 Hannah Copley*: p13 (top right), p15 (bottom) Department of Physical Education: p14 (top right, bottom), p15 (top left, top right) Katrina Stewart*: p18 (bottom) Sarah Holt: p23 (left), p29 (right) Courses Arts Keith Heppell: p32, p37 (left), p55 (left), p57 (left) Department of ASNC: p35 (left) iStockphoto: p35 (right), p37 (right), p39 (right), p41 (right), p45 (right), p47 (right), p49 (right), p57 (right), p59 (right), p61 (right), p63 (right), p65 (right), p69 (right), p71 (right) James Appleton: p39 (left), p43 (right), p45 (left), p49 (left), p51 (left), p53 (left), p63 (left), p65 (left), p71 (left) Mark Mniszko: p41 (left), p47 (left), p61 (left), p67 (right), p69 (left) Faculty of Classics: p43 (left) Alistair Tuxworth: p59 (left) Adam Merton: p67 (left)

Please note
Every eort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information in this Undergraduate Prospectus at the time of going to press. However, changes and developments are part of the life of the University and Colleges and alterations may occur to fees, courses and services described in this Prospectus. Please refer to the Undergraduate Admissions website for the most up-to-date information. The University and Colleges reserve the right, without notice, to withdraw courses, amend fees, vary the content and delivery of programmes etc at any time before or after the applicants admission. The University accepts no responsibility for any errors, nor for the failure of a College to comply with the procedures here described.

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Credits

DETAILS

DETAILS

Course Index
Aerospace and Aerothermal Engineering see Engineering Akkadian see Archaeology and Anthropology Anatomy see Natural Sciences, Medicine Ancient Near East see Archaeology and Anthropology Anglo-Saxon, Norse, and Celtic Arabic see Asian and Middle Eastern Studies, Theology and Religious Studies Archaeology and Anthropology Architecture Asian and Middle Eastern Studies Astrophysics see Natural Sciences Land Economy see also Economics, Law 56 Languages see Anglo-Saxon, Norse, and Celtic; Asian and Middle Eastern Studies; Classics; Modern and Medieval Languages Latin, Classical see Classics, Modern and Medieval Languages Latin, Insular see Anglo-Saxon, Norse, and Celtic Law see also Land Economy 58 Linguistics 60 Management Studies Manufacturing Engineering Materials Science see Natural Sciences Mathematics see also Economics, Natural Sciences Mechanical Engineering see Engineering Medicine Medicine (Graduate Course) Mesopotamia see Archaeology and Anthropology Middle Eastern Studies see Asian and Middle Eastern Studies Modern and Medieval Languages Music Natural Sciences Neuroscience see Natural Sciences Norse, Old see Anglo-Saxon, Norse, and Celtic; History Oriental Studies see Asian and Middle Eastern Studies Palaeography see Anglo-Saxon, Norse, and Celtic Pathology see Natural Sciences, Medicine Persian see Asian and Middle Eastern Studies Pharmacology see Natural Sciences, Medicine Philosophy Physical Sciences see Natural Sciences Physics see Natural Sciences Physiology see Natural Sciences, Medicine Plant Sciences see Natural Sciences Politics see Politics, Psychology and Sociology Politics, Psychology and Sociology Portuguese see Modern and Medieval Languages Psychology see Computer Science; Politics, Psychology and Sociology; Natural Sciences Religious Studies see Theology and Religious Studies Russian see Modern and Medieval Languages Sanskrit see Theology and Religious Studies Sociology see Politics, Psychology and Sociology Spanish see Modern and Medieval Languages Structural Engineering see Engineering Theology and Religious Studies 54 Veterinary Medicine Information and Computer Engineering see Engineering Instrumentation and Control see Engineering Irish, Medieval see Anglo-Saxon, Norse, and Celtic Islamic Studies see Asian and Middle Eastern Studies Italian see Modern and Medieval Languages Japanese Studies see Asian and Middle Eastern Studies Welsh, Medieval see Anglo-Saxon, Norse, and Celtic Zoology see Natural Sciences 92 70 95 95 78 80 83

Course Index

34

36 38 40

Biochemistry see Natural Sciences Biological and Biomedical Sciences see Medicine, Natural Sciences Biology see Natural Sciences Biomedical Engineering see Engineering Chemical Engineering 72 Chemistry see Natural Sciences Chinese Studies see Asian and Middle Eastern Studies Civil, Structural and Environmental Engineering see Engineering Classics see also Modern and Medieval Languages 42 Computer Science see also Natural Sciences 74 Drama see Education Earth Sciences see Natural Sciences Economics see also Land Economy Education Egyptology see Archaeology and Anthropology Electrical and Electronic Engineering see Engineering Electrical and Information Sciences see Engineering Energy and the Environment see Engineering Engineering English English, Old see Anglo-Saxon, Norse, and Celtic Environment see Engineering, Geography, Land Economy French see Modern and Medieval Languages Genetics see Natural Sciences Geography 50 Geological Sciences see Natural Sciences German see Modern and Medieval Languages Greek, Classical see Classics, Modern and Medieval Languages Hebrew Studies see Asian and Middle Eastern Studies, Theology and Religious Studies History History and Philosophy of Science see Natural Sciences History of Art

62 64 84

44 46

66

76 48

68

52

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General Index
Access initiatives Access to HE Diploma Accommodation Addresses, contact information Admissions Office, Cambridge (CAO) see also individual College entries Admissions tests Affiliated students Age at application Applicant Toolkit Application and admission procedures Application statistics AS and A Levels 131, 1437 138 4, 167, 20, 223 148 143, 146, 148 132 27, 135 26, 80, 135 133 5, 27, 29, 1305 141 136 Interviews Irish Leaving Certificate IT provision, internet and email access JCR (Junior Combination/Common Room) Language Centre Law Test, Cambridge Libraries and collections Map of Cambridge Mature students Museums Music Music Awards Offers Open applications Open days Organ Scholarships Overseas students Oxford and Cambridge Student Conferences Pakistan scholarships Part-time courses Postgraduate study Qualifications for entry Resits Scholarships see Financial information Scottish qualifications Sixth Term Examination Papers in Mathematics (STEP) Social activities Special Access Scheme, Cambridge (CSAS) Sport Statistics, application Students Union, Cambridge University (CUSU) Study abroad Summer schools Supervisions Supplementary Application Questionnaire (SAQ) Target Campaign Teacher training Teachers events and information Teaching Term dates Tests, admissions Thinking Skills Assessment (TSA) Transfer from another university Transferable skills Travelling to Cambridge Tripos system UCAS application UCAS campus codes Visas and immigration Visiting Cambridge 1821, 81, 93 31 31 142 137 2831, 131, 1379 Welfare Widening participation Winter pool Work experience 29, 133 137 8 11, 17 9 132 89 inside back cover 267 9 10, 13, 142 142 3295, 134, 13640 97 1435 142 2831, 131, 1379 146 31 33 148 26, 289, 13640 135 137 140 105, 28 131 145 141 11, 19, 147, 148 7, 41, 589, 62, 77 31, 146 7, 18 132 147 467 147 4, 69, 18 129 132 132 135 25 147 5, 33

Baccalaureate examinations 1378 BAME students events see GEEMA BMAT (Bio-Medical Admissions Test) 132 Bursaries and scholarships see Financial information Cambridge, the city Cambridge Admissions Office (CAO) Cambridge Commonwealth and Overseas Trusts Cambridge Online Preliminary Application (COPA) Cambridge Special Access Scheme (CSAS) Canada scholarships Care leavers Careers Childcare Choral Awards Clearing (UCAS) Clubs and societies Colleges Counselling Service Course index Courses Dates and deadlines for applications Deferred entry Diplomas Disabled students Drama Employment English language proficiency Entry requirements see also individual course entries Exchange schemes Extra-curricular activities Fees and expenses Financial information: international students Financial information: mature students Financial information: UK and EU students Frequently-asked questions Gap years Gates Cambridge Trust Graduate destinations Group to Encourage Ethnic Minority Applications (GEEMA) Health and student welfare Hong Kong scholarships India scholarships Instrumental Awards International Baccalaureate International students 10, 143, 145, 147 143, 146, 148 31 29, 131, 142 131 31 21 245 19 142 134 125 4, 167, 18, 26, 96127, 144, 147 19 150 5, 67, 3295 27, 29, 129, 1312, 142 76, 78, 83, 135 76, 138 201, 81, 93, 148 13 23, 245 28, 139 5, 26, 289, 13640 7, 41, 589, 62, 77 105, 135 17, 223, 267, 30 27, 2931 27 223 135 76, 78, 83, 135 27 245 146

29 1437 4, 11, 1821 131, 1467 134 7, 41, 62, 77, 82, 924, 135

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27, 29, 1305 978

General Index

DETAILS

The University and Colleges of Cambridge are located across the city. These maps indicate the main College sites as well as the locations of departmental buildings and other notable offices. DETAILS

Maps of the University

Maps of the University
The undergraduate Colleges of the University Location of subjects/offices within main University sites

1 2

Christs Churchill Clare Corpus Christi Downing Emmanuel Fitzwilliam Girton Gonville and Caius

B E L B B K B C B E B L F B B J K E

Anglo-Saxon, Norse, and Celtic Archaeology and Anthropology Architecture Asian and Middle Eastern Studies Classics Computer Science Economics Engineering English Geography History History of Art Land Economy Law Linguistics Management Studies Manufacturing Engineering

Aberdeen Edinburgh Newcastle Leeds Manchester Birmingham

3 4 5 6 7 8 9

Glasgow

G Chemical Engineering

N Education

10 Homerton

Nottingham 11 Hughes Hall

12 Jesus

Cambridge
Cardiff Exeter

13 Kings 14 Lucy Cavendish 15 Magdalene 16 Murray Edwards 17 Newnham 18 Pembroke 19 Peterhouse 20 Queens 21 Robinson 22 St Catharines 23 St Edmunds 24 St Johns 25 Selwyn 26 Sidney Sussex 27 Trinity 28 Trinity Hall 29 Wolfson E G D E G

London
Southampton
50 miles

A Mathematics G Medicine B B K B
Modern and Medieval Languages Music Natural Sciences Philosophy

G Politics, Psychology and Sociology B Theology and Religious Studies K E F G I J

Veterinary Medicine Language Centre Careers Service CUSU Offices University Library

H Old Schools (Administration)

Disability Resource Centre (DRC) M Cambridge Admissions Office (CAO)

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University of Cambridge, 2011. All rights reserved. Printed on 100 per cent recycled content. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted, in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording, or otherwise, without prior permission.

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