Applications for AIM: Master’s 2025 are now closed. Register your interest to be notified when applications reopen in 2026.
The information below relates to the 2025 programme and will be updated for 2026 in due course.
What is AIM: Master's?
AIM: Master's is a free support programme to help MPhil applicants prepare a research proposal for their application to the University of Cambridge.
Support is provided over 4 weeks via interactive online sessions and one-to-one mentoring.
The programme is open to MPhil applicants to selected Arts and Humanities courses who meet the eligibility criteria.
AIM: Master's is separate from the admissions process, and participation in the programme does not guarantee acceptance onto a postgraduate course.
What to expect
The 4-week online programme runs from 15 September to 10 October 2025.
During this time, you'll be paired with a Cambridge postgraduate researcher. They will provide one-on-one mentoring to help you turn your research interest into a concrete question with a tangible plan.
You will also attend a series of interactive online information sessions, totalling around 6 hours over the 4 weeks. These will cover a range of useful topics to support you with your application to Cambridge.
Following the 4 weeks, you will have 2 weeks to write and submit a draft research proposal.
Eligibility criteria
To take part in AIM: Master's, you must:
- Meet the core eligibility criteria for all AIM programmes
- Not have received an offer for, be currently undertaking, or have already completed a research Master’s or PhD course
- Be planning to apply for an MPhil course at the University of Cambridge that:
- Requires a research proposal as part of the application
- Is offered by a department within the School of Arts and Humanities
- Starts in the 2026-27 academic year
You can check individual course requirements in the Course Directory.
How to apply
Applications for AIM: Master’s 2025 are now closed. Register your interest to be notified when applications open in 2026.
Contact us
If you have any questions about AIM: Master's, please get in touch with the AIM team at aim@postgraduate.study.cam.ac.uk, and we will try our best to help.