While it can seem daunting, the process for applying to Cambridge is much the same as that for other universities. At Cambridge the process starts earlier to allow time for all of the application information to be gathered and considered, and applicants are asked to indicate a college preference or submit an ‘open’ application on their UCAS form.
The application process is outlined on the University’s website – click here to find out more
UCAS
Applications to UCAS are made online using the UCAS Apply web-based application system. Your school or college will be able to advise you about the process. If you’ve left school or college or are a resident abroad, you should contact UCAS for more information.
Your UCAS application must be submitted online using UCAS Apply by the deadline of 15th October for the first admissions round. The UCAS institution code for Cambridge is CAM 05, and the campus code for Hughes Hall is 7.
There are earlier application deadlines for applicants wishing to be considered for interview overseas which can be found on the Overseas Interviews page.
Hughes Hall also offers a second admissions round, the deadline for which is the 1st March. This is specifically designed for those who are currently undertaking shorter courses, such as Access to HE Courses, or self-studying A-Levels.
However, if you are also applying to multiple universities, you can make your application to us by the general UCAS Deadline, which is 25 January 2023. Please note that some subjects only accept applicants in the first round. View the full list here.
Your Personal Statement
Personal statements allow students to tell us about their subject interest, and the process of writing a personal statement can often help a student better understand their academic interests and intellectual motivations. Admissions decisions at Cambridge are based solely on academic criteria (ability and potential). Personal statements are sometimes used as a basis for discussion at interview. In a personal statement we are looking for applicants to:
- explain your reasons for wanting to study the subject
- demonstrate your enthusiasm for and commitment to your chosen course
- express any particular interests within the field
- outline how you have pursued your interest in the subject in your own time
UCAS also provides further guidance.
References
You will need an academic reference. References are most effective when they are written by someone who is familiar with your academic work, as well as your recent history. For more information advice your reference please see the UCAS website.
My Cambridge Application and Additional Applicant Information Form (AAIF)
Once you have submitted your application via UCAS, you will be invited to complete two additional sets of questions. The first is ‘My Cambridge Application’ which will be emailed to you from UCAS. The second is the Additional Applicant Information Form will be provided to you by Hughes Hall and will take the format of an on-line survey.
Both forms provide additional details to allow us to understand more about your personal circumstances and educational background. The information is used to inform the next stage of the application process, such as interview questions or appropriate adjustments to interview formats.
The deadline for completion of My Cambridge Application is 22nd October for the 15th October UCAS deadline and 8th March for the 1st March UCAS deadline.