At Cambridge, we're committed to promoting diversity and inclusion. We want to make postgraduate study accessible to students from all backgrounds.
We recognise that many factors can shape a student’s path to postgraduate study. That’s why we offer specific support and opportunities to applicants from groups currently underrepresented in our postgraduate community.
Who we work with
We engage with every applicant sensitively and fairly to identify the most talented applicants from all backgrounds.
We're particularly keen to increase applications from groups including:
- UK students from ethnic groups currently underrepresented in postgraduate study at Cambridge
- Students from low-income backgrounds
- Mature students
- Students with caring responsibilities
- First-generation students (whose parents or immediate caregivers did not go to university)
- Students who have experienced being in care as a young person
- Students who did their first degree at less research-intensive institutions
Why widening participation matters
We want our postgraduate community to include people from a wide range of backgrounds, perspectives and lived experiences.
A diverse student community contributes to Cambridge’s open and intellectually stimulating environment.
Widening participation helps more people benefit from the opportunities Cambridge can offer, and makes Cambridge a more rewarding place to learn for everyone.
How we can help you
Funding
There are funds dedicated to widening participation and diversity. You can search for University funding on the Postgraduate Funding Search.
There is also a range of College and department funding available.
Make sure you research all your funding opportunities. Check the application and eligibility requirements and deadlines for each opportunity. Find out more about postgraduate funding.
Application fee waiver
There is normally an application fee when you apply for a postgraduate course.
Applicants from certain backgrounds and countries don't have to pay the fee. Depending on your circumstances, your fee may be waived automatically or you may need to submit a request.
Find out if you're eligible for an application fee waiver and how to get it.
Support with your application
We run a free applicant support programme, with mentoring from current students and academics, to help you prepare your postgraduate application.
See the AIM applicant support programme for details.
Research placements
Our summer research placements give Home undergraduates from underrepresented backgrounds the opportunity to gain research experience and develop their skills.
Transitioning from another university
Studying at Cambridge may be different from your previous university experience. We have resources to help you prepare for postgraduate study and settle into life at Cambridge.
Our CamGuides for Masters and PhD students cover topics including:
- research practices at Cambridge
- how to prepare for your degree
- the academic software we use
- how to manage study resources
- settling in and who can help you on your journey
CamGuides for Masters students
CamGuides for PhD students
Student support
All Cambridge students can access a range of support services during their studies.
Find out more on the Student Support website
Contact us
If you have questions about widening participation at Cambridge, or would like to discuss the support available to you, please contact us via our contact form.