Applying to Cambridge

Student-written guidance for Computer Science applicants. Check current requirements on the official course page and with your College.

What you submit

The application includes UCAS, your school reference, the Cambridge application form, admissions testing and interviews for shortlisted applicants.

See Personal Statement, Admissions Test and Interview Preparation.

Entry requirements

Check the course page for grades and subject requirements. Mathematics is central to the course, and Further Mathematics requirements depend on your qualifications and school provision. Colleges may set additional conditions.

Choosing a College

Colleges teach the same course and sit the same exams. Compare accommodation, location, size and support, as well as any extra admissions requirements.

Peterhouse and Trinity also require the CSAT. An open application is another option. See the College list.

Rough timeline

Prepare during spring and summer. Test registration, UCAS and Cambridge form deadlines fall before interviews, which usually take place in December. Check the official dates for your application cycle.

Register for admissions tests separately; submitting UCAS does not book a test.

What helps

Practise unfamiliar maths problems and explore a computing topic you enjoy. Be ready to discuss what you tried, learned and found difficult.