Apply using the Applicant Portal
The Apply Now button on the right will take you to the Applicant Portal. There, you can create and submit your application and supporting documents, and you can also request your references.
An application is only complete when:
- you have submitted your application and supporting documents via the Applicant Portal
- you have paid the application fee if applicable. For further information on application fees, and which courses require an application fee, see here.
- your referees have provided their references.
Proving that you meet the English Language Requirement:
All teaching and assessment on CISL's postgraduate-level programmes is in English. The University of Cambridge requires all applicants to demonstrate competence in the English language at a very high level before they begin their proposed course of study. Adherence to this requirement is strict.
Applicants that are a national of a majority English-speaking country are not normally required to take a language test. However, individual circumstances may lead to this being set as a condition of an offer. Majority English-speaking countries, as defined by UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI), are listed here.
Applicants who are not a national of a majority English-speaking country will likely be required to take a test and as such we recommend early investigation of test options available, including waiting list times and preparation requirements.
If applicants are required to take a test as part of their offer conditions the test must meet the University’s English language requirement.
It is not necessary to have met the Language requirement at the point of application, but applicants are advised to make arrangements to sit a test as soon as possible if this is applicable to them.
Selection Process
Applications are considered as they are received (rolling admissions). Applicants should expect to receive an update on the progress of their application within six weeks of applying.
Things You'll Need
You should start preparing the things that you'll need when you apply. These will be mandatory, unless specifically flagged as optional.
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Two referees willing to give you a reference
Either academic or professional – please see our References guidance for more information about which type you need. Your referees will need to have submitted their reference by the course deadline. - Transcript
- CV/resume
- Evidence of competence in English
If required - please see our Competence in English guidance for more information. - Core - Reasons for Applying (2500 characters) (mandatory)
- Core - Research Proposal (document upload) (mandatory)
You will need to include an A4 paper that describes the following: Your existing leadership role or the potential to occupy a leadership role. Your clear commitment to sustainable development demonstrated through previous qualifications, work experience or voluntary activities. Your motivations for undertaking a postgraduate degree focused on global sustainability challenges. - Core - personal statement (document upload) (mandatory)
- Core - Employer Support Letter (document upload) (optional)
- ICE - MSTSLFLEX - Impact of Stage 1 and 2
- Core - Professional Qualifications (document upload) (optional)
Gates Cambridge Scholarships
If you wish to be considered for a Gates Cambridge Scholarship you will also need to provide the following:
See Gates Cambridge for more information.
How to Find a Supervisor
CISL will match students with a suitably qualified supervisor.