The Postgraduate Application Process at Cambridge
To apply to the University of Cambridge, you must submit your application online through the Applicant Portal.
Some courses not administered by the Postgraduate Admissions Office may follow a different process. Always check your course page for application guidance.
Before you apply
Before starting your application, work through the following steps to make sure you know what to expect and have everything you need:
- Choose a course
- Check you meet the entry requirements
- Check the application deadline
- Find a supervisor (if you need one)
- Calculate your fees and costs
- Research funding opportunities
- Explore the Colleges
- Choose your referees
- Prepare your supporting documents
How to apply
Once you’ve completed the steps above, you’re ready to start your application.
1. Start your application
Go to your course page and select Apply Now. This will open the Applicant Portal.
2. Register or sign in
Register for an Applicant Portal account or sign in if you already have one.
3. Complete and submit your application
Your application is considered complete when you:
- Complete all sections of your application
- Upload your supporting documents
- Pay the application fee, unless you are eligible for an application fee waiver
- Submit the application by the relevant application deadline
- Ensure your referees have submitted their references through the Referee Portal by the same application deadline
You do not need to wait until your references are submitted to submit your application.
International applicants
If you're an international applicant, check International student applications for some other steps you may need to complete as part of your application.
Applying for funding
If you’d like to be considered for University funding, you can indicate this in your portal application.
Please note:
- Your application must be completed in English and use Latin script throughout, including in the names of people and institutions.
- You need to submit a separate application (with separate supporting documents) for each course you wish to apply to.
- You must complete and submit your application yourself. Applications from agents are not accepted.
After you apply
Once you've submitted your application, you can:
- Track your application and update your details as needed.
- Find out how your application is assessed and when you’ll hear back.
- Prepare for an interview, if you need one
- Review what to do after you receive your application outcome.
If you receive an offer
- Check how to meet the conditions of your offer
- Check visa requirements (if you need one)
- Find out how to change your start date if necessary