UK University · Ranked #2
University of Cambridge: Acceptance Rate & Admission Requirements (2026)
University of Cambridge, located in Cambridge, England, is a selective UK university with an acceptance rate of about 17.5%. Ranked #2 in the UK in our dataset, it offers a realistic target for well-prepared applicants: strong-but-not-perfect profiles are regularly admitted, and a thoughtful application can meaningfully move the needle.
The University of Cambridge is a world-leading research university with a collegiate structure, celebrated for its contributions to science, mathematics, and the arts over more than 800 years.
This guide breaks down University of Cambridge's selectivity, the academic profile of admitted students, how its application deadlines should shape your strategy, and the programs it is best known for — followed by answers to the questions applicants ask most.
University of Cambridge admission statistics
- Acceptance rate
- 17.5%
- Home fees
- $11,500
- International fees
- $46,250
- Enrollment
- 12,850
- Type
- Public
- Location
- Cambridge, England
How hard is it to get into University of Cambridge?
University of Cambridge's 17.5% acceptance rate makes it selective but realistically attainable for well-prepared students. Unlike the most elite schools, applicants who clearly meet the academic profile have a solid chance, and a strong application — coherent essays, relevant activities, a clear narrative — can be decisive rather than merely a tiebreaker.
For students at or above the school's academic profile, University of Cambridge is a target rather than a reach. A focused, well-edited application can be the difference, so it is worth real effort here.
Academic profile of admitted students
As a UK university, University of Cambridge does not use the SAT or US-style GPA. Admission is driven primarily by predicted and achieved grades in school-leaving qualifications (such as A-levels or the IB), subject-specific entry requirements for the chosen course, and — for many courses — an admissions test and/or interview. Applicants should research the exact grade requirements for their specific course rather than a single university-wide threshold.
University of Cambridgeapplication deadlines & strategy
- • Early Action: Oct 15
- • Regular Decision: Jan 25
University of Cambridge offers a non-binding Early Action deadline of Oct 15, with Regular Decision closing Jan 25. Early Action lets you submit early and receive a decision sooner without any obligation to enroll, so there is little downside to applying EA if your application is genuinely ready by Oct 15 — a rushed early application is worse than a strong regular one.
Whichever round you choose, give recommenders at least three to four weeks of notice and budget time for essay revisions — the strongest applications are rarely written in the final week before Jan 25.
Notable programs at University of Cambridge
- Natural Sciences — a research-intensive area well-supported by the institution's faculty.
- Engineering — typically a more selective track with specific math and science prerequisites.
- Mathematics — a research-intensive area well-supported by the institution's faculty.
- Computer Science — a perennial high-demand field with competitive secondary admission at many schools.
- Economics — one of the most popular majors nationally and a strong feeder to graduate and professional study.
University of Cambridge is particularly known for Natural Sciences, Engineering, Mathematics, Computer Science, and Economics.
Strong programs matter for admissions because many schools admit by college or major, and a credible, specific interest in one of these areas — reflected in your coursework, activities, and essays — is far more persuasive than a generic application.
Cost of attending University of Cambridge
Tuition at University of Cambridge depends heavily on fee status. Home (UK) students pay around £11,500 per year, while international students pay approximately £46,250 — a difference of about £34,750 annually. International applicants should factor this gap, plus living costs in Cambridge, into their planning, and verify the exact fee for their specific course since rates vary by subject.
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University of Cambridge: frequently asked questions
- What is the acceptance rate at University of Cambridge?
- University of Cambridge has an acceptance rate of 17.5%, which makes it selective. For students at or above the school's academic profile, University of Cambridge is a target rather than a reach. A focused, well-edited application can be the difference, so it is worth real effort here.
- What is the application deadline for University of Cambridge?
- University of Cambridge's application deadlines: Early Action is Oct 15 (non-binding); Regular Decision is Jan 25. Submit a few days early to avoid last-minute portal problems.
- Is University of Cambridge affordable for international students?
- University of Cambridge is a UK university. Home (UK) students pay about £11,500 per year while international students pay roughly £46,250; budget for living costs in Cambridge on top of tuition.
- How much does it cost to attend University of Cambridge?
- Tuition at University of Cambridge depends heavily on fee status. Home (UK) students pay around £11,500 per year, while international students pay approximately £46,250 — a difference of about £34,750 annually. International applicants should factor this gap, plus living costs in Cambridge, into their planning, and verify the exact fee for their specific course since rates vary by subject.