If you're currently studying at another institution and would like to undertake supervised research at Cambridge, you may be able to apply as a visiting student.
Visiting students come to Cambridge for a fixed period (typically up to one year) to carry out research. Visiting status does not lead to a Cambridge degree, and you will remain registered with your home institution.
If you are interested in becoming a visiting research student, contact the department you'd like to join. They can provide initial advice on available options and how to apply.
Applying to be a visiting student
Apply via the Department
Most visiting students apply directly through the relevant department. Departments usually have their own application processes, so you should contact them for guidance.
If you plan to visit for more than a year, your application will require approval from the Postgraduate Committee after it has been accepted by the department.
If your application is accepted by the department and you do not require formal registration, you will be informally registered as a visiting student. The department may charge a fee for the duration of your visit.
Apply via the Applicant Portal
You must apply formally through the Applicant Portal if any of the following apply:
- You require College affiliation (which connects you with a specific Cambridge College).
- You are transferring with a supervisor from another institution, and you need to remain registered at that institution but you also want formal recognition that you're visiting at Cambridge.
- You are receiving a scholarship that requires formal registration for funding purposes (for example, funding from the Commonwealth Scholarship Council (CSC)).
- You want a formal transcript at the end of your period of visiting study.
If you apply via the Applicant Portal and your application is accepted, you will be formally registered as a visiting student.
Formally registered visiting students are charged a fee equivalent to the University Composition fee for PhDs in the relevant department.