How To Apply

Cambridge’s collegiate structure means that every student of the University must also be a member of one of the colleges. Degrees and other qualifications are administered and awarded by the University, but admission to a college is a requirement of enrolment in any course. Of the 31 colleges, six are graduate colleges, taking just over one third of all graduate students in the University.  For many older students (you must be over the age of 21 when you commence study at Cambridge) – the more relaxed environment offered by graduate colleges is more congenial, with the emphasis on graduates as the heart of the community, given priority in matters such as excellent accommodation, tutorial support and college activities. Further information for disabled applicants is also available.

Why choose Hughes?

Your choice of college is a decision about the kind of place you wish to live and socialise during your time in Cambridge, as well as a choice based on the facilities available to you as a student member. This page is intended to give you a brief idea about what makes Hughes Hall special.

Hughes Hall

• is the oldest of the University of Cambridge’s 6 graduate colleges, offering facilities and support appropriate for older students.
• has a distinguished academic reputation supported by the fellowship and senior members of college drawn from many University departments and disciplines.
• has dedicated and experienced Tutors and Directors of Studies attuned to the needs of mature and affiliated students.
• offers a friendly, lively and civilised atmosphere promoting academic and extra-curricular aspirations for all students.
• has first-class accommodation within the college campus, available to all single undergraduate and affiliated students throughout their course. Students marking Hughes as their first choice of college are normally given priority in their choice of accommodation throughout their course.
• is the closest of all the graduate colleges to the town centre.
• has a campus comprising of both attractive older buildings with quiet, relaxing gardens and a modern well appointed accommodation block with study bedrooms, common areas, a large dining room and combination room.
• is a truly international community, with a great diversity of nationalities.
• offers a relaxed and non-hierarchical college environment. There is no distinction made between the fellowship and the student body at meal times or during any function organised by the college.
• has a distinguished sporting reputation with many opportunities for competitive and non-competitive activities.
• holds formal halls serving excellent food that is the envy of many other colleges in Cambridge.
• offers a programme of concerts, seminars and talks organised by the college, as well as a busy social calendar organised by the MCR. There are regular events to suite all tastes.