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List of Best Universities & Colleges in Cambridge, UK for International Students

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Fiona
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Cambridge, a city steeped in rich academic tradition, boasts some of the world's most prestigious universities. From the historic University of Cambridge to innovative institutions like Anglia Ruskin University, you'll find a variety of programs that cater to diverse interests. Universities in Cambridge offer a unique blend of culture and academic rigor, making it an ideal destination for your higher education journey. Dive into our comprehensive blog to explore your options and find the perfect fit for your aspirations.

Table of Contents

 

Why Study in Cambridge, UK?

Cambridge, UK, is a city where history meets academic brilliance, making it an ideal destination for students seeking world-class education. Whether you’re pursuing cutting-edge research or simply soaking in the city’s timeless charm, studying in Cambridge is an unforgettable experience. Some of the reasons to study in Cambridge are:

  • Historic Academic Hub: Cambridge is globally renowned for its academic excellence, home to the prestigious University of Cambridge. The city has a rich history in education and research, making it a highly sought-after destination for students from around the world. The academic environment is both inspiring and challenging, offering numerous opportunities for personal and professional growth.

  • Student-Friendly Atmosphere: A significant portion of Cambridge’s population consists of students, creating a welcoming and vibrant atmosphere. The city is known for its inclusivity, and international students feel at ease blending into the local culture. There are numerous student clubs, societies, and events to help students socialize and integrate into the community.

  • Excellent Connectivity and Transport Links: Cambridge is well-connected to other major cities in the UK, with direct trains to London and other regions. The city’s transport system is efficient, and students can easily navigate through the city by bus or bicycle.

  • Thriving Cultural and Social Scene: Cambridge offers a rich cultural experience, with world-class museums, art galleries, theaters, and historic landmarks. The city has plenty of student-friendly pubs, cafes, and restaurants where students can relax and unwind.

Top Universities & Colleges in Cambridge for International Students

Cambridge is a city steeped in academic tradition and innovation, renowned for its world-class educational institutions. Each university here provides a unique atmosphere and specialized courses, making Cambridge an ideal destination for students pursuing higher education.

Below given is the list of top universities & colleges in Cambridge: 

  • University of Cambridge
  • Trinity College
  • St John's College
  • King’s College
  • Peterhouse
  • Clare College
  • Corpus Christi College
  • Queens’ College
  • Fitzwilliam College
  • Christ’s College
  • Churchill College
  • Darwin College
  • Downing College
  • Emmanuel College
  • Girton College
  • Gonville & Caius College
  • Homerton College
  • Hughes Hall
  • Jesus College
  • Lucy Cavendish College
  • Magdalene College
  • Murray Edwards College
  • Newnham College
  • Pembroke College
  • Robinson College
  • Selwyn College
  • Sidney Sussex College
  • Wolfson College
  • St Catharine’s College
  • St Edmund’s College
  • Trinity Hall
  • Lucy Cavendish College
  • Anglia Ruskin University
  • Cambridge School of Visual & Performing Arts (CSVPA)
 

Let’s delve into the top universities in Cambridge and their offerings:

1. University of Cambridge

Founded in 1209, the University of Cambridge is one of the world's oldest and most prestigious universities. With a diverse student population of around 23,000 from over 140 countries, it has earned its reputation for academic excellence. The University of Cambridge is part of the prestigious Russell Group, known for research-intensive universities in the UK.

The University offers over 100 undergraduate courses and 300+ postgraduate courses across various disciplines.

University Type

Public University

Establishment Year

1209

QS World University Rankings 2025

5

Popular Programs

Law, Computer Science, Engineering, Economics, Medicine

Intakes

Michaelmas Term (October), Lent Term (January), Easter Term (April)

Estimated Fee Structure

GBP 45,000 (INR 49,85,430)

Admission Requirements

  • GPA: 3.7+

  • TOEFL iBT: 110

  • IELTS: 7.5

  • GMAT: 700+

  • GRE: 320+

It is also important to know that there are 31 autonomous colleges and numerous student societies under the University of Cambridge which provides an enriching environment for both academic and extracurricular activities. Now let us understand them in a detailed manner:

2. Trinity College

Trinity College is the largest Cambridge college founded in 1546 which is known for its academic excellence. It has a rich history of Nobel laureates, with famous alumni including Isaac Newton, Lord Byron, and Stephen Hawking. The college fosters an inclusive atmosphere while maintaining high academic standards, and it is associated with many research initiatives globally.

Specializations

Mathematics, Engineering

Tuition Fees

GBP 10,336 (INR 33,23,620)

Eligibility

  • GPA: 4.0
  • TOEFL: 110
  • IELTS: 7.5
  • SAT: 1500

3. St John's College

Founded in 1511, St John’s College is one of the larger colleges with a student body of around 1,000 undergraduates and postgraduates. The college is well-known for its outstanding architecture, including the iconic Bridge of Sighs. It also offers strong support for research and innovation through its numerous scholarships and fellowships.

Specializations

Law, Natural Sciences

Tuition Fees

GBP 10,995 (INR 33,61,180)

Eligibility

  • GPA: 3.8
  • TOEFL: 110
  • GRE: 320
  • IELTS: 7.5

4. King’s College

Established in 1441 by King Henry VI, King’s College is renowned for its impressive Gothic chapel, which is a focal point of the university. It has a strong emphasis on the arts, humanities, and social sciences. King’s is known for its progressive culture, inclusivity, and dedication to social justice initiatives. 

Specializations

History, Philosophy

Tuition Fees

GBP 11,322 (INR 29,98,570)

Eligibility

  • GPA: 3.7
  • SAT: 1450
  • IELTS: 7.5
  • TOEFL: 108

5. Peterhouse

Peterhouse is one of the oldest of all the Cambridge colleges. It maintains a close-knit community with just over 400 students, allowing for a personal and supportive academic environment. The college prides itself on its intimate teaching settings and strong academic performance in the natural sciences.

Specializations

Physics, Computer Science

Tuition Fees

GBP 11,000 (INR 13,01,750)

Eligibility

  • GRE: 320
  • TOEFL: 105
  • IELTS: 7.0
  • GPA: 3.7

6. Clare College

Clare College is well-known for its strong programs in music, law, and social sciences. The college is associated with a long tradition of academic excellence and inclusivity, offering scholarships to students from diverse backgrounds. Clare is also famed for its beautiful gardens and historical buildings along the River Cam.

Specializations

Law, Music

Tuition Fees

GBP 10,500 (INR 11,63,260)

Eligibility

  • SAT: 1480
  • TOEFL: 109
  • IELTS: 7.5
  • GPA: 3.8

7. Corpus Christi College

Corpus Christi College provides an intimate learning environment. It has a strong reputation in law and classics, with many notable legal scholars and historians as alumni. Corpus Christi is also known for its collection of medieval manuscripts and historical archives. The college is very selective, maintaining a rigorous admission process with a focus on academic performance.

Specializations

Classics, Law

Tuition Fees

GBP 10,924 (INR 12,10,240)

Eligibility

  • SAT: 1400
  • TOEFL: 107
  • IELTS: 7.0
  • GPA: 3.6

8. Queens’ College

Queens' College, established in 1448, is known for its stunning architecture, particularly the Mathematical Bridge. It also has strong connections with international research institutions, making it a hub for global academic collaboration. The college has an inclusive culture, with a growing focus on environmental sustainability.

Specializations

Social Sciences, History

Tuition Fees

GBP 10,467 (INR 11,59,610)

Eligibility

  • SAT: 1420
  • IELTS: 7.0
  • TOEFL: 105
  • GPA: 3.7

9. Fitzwilliam College

Founded in 1869, Fitzwilliam College is one of the newer colleges at Cambridge. It is known for its modern architecture and strong academic programs in politics, economics, and management. Fitzwilliam maintains a focus on widening participation and admits a higher number of students from underrepresented backgrounds.

Specializations

Economics, Management

Tuition Fees

GBP 11,229 (INR 12,44,030)

Eligibility

  • GRE: 315
  • TOEFL: 106
  • IELTS: 7.0
  • GPA: 3.6

10. Christ’s College

Christ’s College is famous for its academic rigor, particularly in biology and history. It is home to several notable alumni, including Charles Darwin. The college has a high acceptance rate for students pursuing research in natural sciences and offers generous funding for graduate research programs.

Specializations

Biology, History

Tuition Fees

GBP 10,600 (INR 11,74,340)

Eligibility

  • GPA: 3.9
  • SAT: 1480
  • IELTS: 7.5
  • TOEFL: 110

11. Churchill College

Churchill College, founded in 1960 in honor of Sir Winston Churchill, has a strong focus on science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). It offers a range of programs in engineering and physical sciences, and its modern campus is known for its progressive research in these areas.

Specializations

Engineering, Physics

Tuition Fees

GBP 11,500 (INR 12,74,050)

Eligibility

  • GRE: 325
  • TOEFL: 108
  • GPA: 3.8
  • IELTS: 7.5

12. Darwin College

Darwin College, founded in 1964, is a college specializing in postgraduate research programs. It is one of the international colleges at Cambridge, with a strong focus on multidisciplinary research. The college is known for its excellent support for graduate students and frequently collaborates with other institutions for research projects.

Specializations

Research, Interdisciplinary Studies

Tuition Fees

GBP 8,750 (INR 9,69,390)

Eligibility

  • GPA: 3.7
  • GRE: 310
  • IELTS: 7.0
  • TOEFL: 106

13. Downing College

Founded in 1800, Downing College is known for its beautiful neoclassical architecture and wide lawns. It has a strong focus on law and medical sciences, with its law students consistently performing well in national rankings. The college has a vibrant student life and a high placement rate for graduates, particularly in legal professions and healthcare.

Specializations

Law, Medicine

Tuition Fees

GBP 11,277 (INR 12,49,350)

Eligibility

  • SAT: 1400
  • TOEFL: 105
  • IELTS: 7.0
  • GPA: 3.5

14. Emmanuel College

Emmanuel College, founded in 1584, is well-known for its academic excellence in theology, political science, and economics. The college maintains strong links with both national and international research bodies. Emmanuel is also known for its historical library, which houses a collection of rare books and manuscripts.

Specializations

Theology, Political Science

Tuition Fees

GBP 10,900 (INR 12,07,580)

Eligibility

  • SAT: 1450
  • TOEFL: 107
  • IELTS: 7.0
  • GPA: 3.7

15. Girton College

Girton College is the first women's college in Cambridge, has since become coeducational but remains proud of its commitment to gender equality. It is known for programs in modern languages and psychology, and it maintains a strong commitment to social responsibility and environmental sustainability.

Specializations

Psychology, Modern Languages

Tuition Fees

GBP 10,658 (INR 11,80,770)

Eligibility

  • GRE: 315
  • TOEFL: 106
  • IELTS: 7.0
  • GPA: 3.5

16. Gonville & Caius College

Gonville & Caius College, established in 1348, is one of the oldest and most prestigious colleges at Cambridge. It is particularly known for its medical sciences programs, and many of its alumni have made significant contributions to the medical field. The college offers a supportive academic environment and regularly ranks high in student satisfaction.

Specializations

Medicine, Natural Sciences

Tuition Fees

GBP 11,150 (INR 12,35,280)

Eligibility

  • GPA: 3.8
  • TOEFL: 110
  • SAT: 1500
  • IELTS: 7.5

17. Homerton College

Homerton College is the largest college in terms of student population under the University of Cambridge. It is known for its educational studies programs and has a strong reputation for teacher training. The college also offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate degrees, focusing on the arts and humanities.

Specializations

Humanities, Medicine, Performing Arts

Tuition Fees

GBP 10,775 (INR 11,93,730)

Eligibility

  • SAT: 1400
  • IELTS: 7.0
  • TOEFL: 105
  • GPA: 3.6

18. Hughes Hall

Hughes Hall, established in 1885, is one of Cambridge’s graduate colleges. It offers postgraduate degrees across multiple disciplines, with a particular focus on law, economics, and public health. The college provides strong support for career development and research projects.

Specializations

Law, Public Health

Tuition Fees

GBP 10,970 (INR 12,15,330)

Eligibility

  • GRE: 320
  • GPA: 3.7
  • TOEFL: 106
  • IELTS: 7.5

19. Jesus College

Jesus College has a reputation for excellence in both the arts and sciences. It offers a wide range of programs but is particularly known for its theology, engineering, and computer science courses. Jesus has a vibrant student community and a supportive environment for extracurricular activities.

Specializations

Theology, Engineering

Tuition Fees

GBP 11,486 (INR 12,72,500)

Eligibility

  • SAT: 1450
  • GPA: 3.6
  • IELTS: 7.5
  • TOEFL: 108

20. Lucy Cavendish College

Founded in 1965, Lucy Cavendish was originally an all-women’s college, but it now admits students of all genders. It focuses on promoting access to higher education for non-traditional students and offers a variety of courses in law, humanities, and sciences. The college has a reputation for inclusivity and diversity.

Specializations

Law, Humanities

Tuition Fees

GBP 11,100 (INR 12,29,740)

Eligibility

  • GPA: 3.6
  • TOEFL: 105
  • IELTS: 7.0
  • SAT: 1400

21. Magdalene College

Magdalene College is one of the oldest colleges in Cambridge, founded in 1428. Known for its small student body, it creates a close-knit and supportive environment. The college is famous for its ancient Pepys Library, which houses Samuel Pepys' collection of manuscripts and early printed books.

Specializations

History, Law, Engineering

Tuition Fees

GBP 11,187 (INR 12,39,370)

Eligibility

  • SAT: 1420
  • IELTS: 7.5
  • TOEFL: 107
  • GPA: 3.7

22. Murray Edwards College

Murray Edwards College, founded in 1954, is one of the three women-only colleges at Cambridge, supporting women in higher education, particularly in STEM fields. The college is known for its modern architecture and diverse community, welcoming women from various backgrounds. Murray Edwards emphasizes leadership and empowerment, offering a variety of mentorship and career development programs.

Specializations

STEM, Social Sciences, Economics

Tuition Fees

GBP 11,750 (INR 13,01,750)

Eligibility

  • GRE: 310
  • SAT: 1440
  • TOEFL: 106
  • GPA: 3.7

23. Newnham College

Newnham College is another of Cambridge’s prestigious all-women’s colleges. Newnham has a rich history of feminist scholarship and has produced many prominent female leaders, including Germaine Greer and Emma Thompson. The college boasts beautiful gardens and is committed to fostering a supportive, inclusive environment for women scholars.

Specializations

English Literature, Biology, Political Science

Tuition Fees

GBP 10,975 (INR 12,15,890)

Eligibility

  • GPA: 3.6
  • TOEFL: 105
  • IELTS: 7.0
  • SAT: 1400

24. Pembroke College

Pembroke College, founded in 1347, is known for its academic rigor and interdisciplinary approach, Pembroke supports a broad range of studies but excels in History, Economics, and the natural sciences. The college is also famous for its beautiful architecture, including its chapel designed by Sir Christopher Wren. Pembroke has a vibrant student community with a strong focus on sports, arts, and music.

Specializations

History, Economics, Natural Sciences

Tuition Fees

GBP 11,394 (INR 12,62,310)

Eligibility

  • SAT: 1430
  • TOEFL: 107
  • GPA: 3.7
  • IELTS: 7.0

25. Robinson College

Robinson College is the newest Cambridge college, founded in 1977. Its modern, red-brick buildings are a contrast to the traditional architecture of other colleges. Robinson is known for its liberal, progressive approach to education, and it actively fosters a sense of community and inclusivity. Although a newer college, Robinson offers a wide range of subjects with strong representation in the humanities and social sciences.

Specializations

Architecture, Philosophy, Politics

Tuition Fees

GBP 11,130 (INR 12,33,060)

Eligibility

  • GPA: 3.5
  • IELTS: 7.0
  • TOEFL: 105
  • SAT: 1400

26. Selwyn College

Founded in 1882, Selwyn College has a reputation for being one of the friendliest and most welcoming colleges in Cambridge. It offers a wide range of subjects, with particular strengths in Law, Economics, and the natural sciences. The college places a strong emphasis on a balanced student experience, combining academic excellence with extracurricular activities, particularly in music, drama, and sports.

Specializations

Law, Economics, Natural Sciences

Tuition Fees

GBP 11,020 (INR 12,20,870)

Eligibility

  • SAT: 1450
  • TOEFL: 108
  • IELTS: 7.5
  • GPA: 3.7

27. Sidney Sussex College

Sidney Sussex College, founded in 1596, is known for its central location in Cambridge and its focus on producing well-rounded students who are both academically excellent and engaged with the wider world. The college has a rich history, with its chapel being the burial place of Oliver Cromwell. Sidney Sussex has a reputation for fostering a supportive and collaborative student atmosphere.

Specializations

History, Law, Political Science

Tuition Fees

GBP 10,890 (INR 12,06,470)

Eligibility

  • SAT: 1420
  • TOEFL: 106
  • IELTS: 7.0
  • GPA: 3.7

28. Wolfson College

Wolfson College is one of the more modern colleges at Cambridge, established in 1965. Wolfson is known for its inclusive ethos and focus on research, with strong academic programs in Sociology, Public Policy, and Economics. It is one of the few colleges at Cambridge that is actively involved in outreach and community engagement, encouraging students to apply their research to real-world problems.

Specializations

Sociology, Public Policy, Economics

Tuition Fees

GBP 11,100 (INR 12,29,740)

Eligibility

  • GPA: 3.6
  • GRE: 315
  • TOEFL: 107
  • IELTS: 7.0

29. St Catharine’s College

Founded in 1473, St Catharine’s College, often referred to as "Catz," is known for its academic rigor and vibrant student life. St Catharine’s fosters a collaborative academic atmosphere with close ties between students and faculty. It is situated in the heart of Cambridge, making it an ideal location for students who wish to engage in the city’s cultural and academic life.

Specializations

English, Economics, History

Tuition Fees

GBP 11,235 (INR 12,44,690)

Eligibility

  • GPA: 3.7
  • SAT: 1450
  • IELTS: 7.5
  • TOEFL: 108

30. St Edmund’s College

St Edmund’s College offers a wide variety of programs, with strong departments in Medicine, Law, and Business. St Edmund’s has a reputation for providing a supportive environment for postgraduate students, offering both academic and professional development opportunities. The college is noted for its inclusivity and diversity, attracting students from all over the world.

Specializations

Medicine, Law, Business

Tuition Fees

GBP 11,700 (INR 12,96,210)

Eligibility

  • GRE: 320
  • TOEFL: 110
  • IELTS: 7.5
  • GPA: 3.8

31. Trinity Hall

Trinity Hall, established in 1350, is one of the smaller but older colleges in Cambridge, originally founded for the study of law. It remains a hub for legal studies, but it also has strong programs in the social sciences and humanities. Trinity Hall is known for its scenic riverside setting, providing students with an intimate and focused academic community.

Specializations

Law, Social Sciences, Humanities

Tuition Fees

GBP 10,600 (INR 11,74,340)

Eligibility

  • SAT: 1480
  • TOEFL: 108
  • IELTS: 7.5
  • GPA: 3.8

32. Lucy Cavendish College

Lucy Cavendish College was originally founded in 1965 as a college for female students, but it has since become one of the most diverse and inclusive colleges at Cambridge, now open to students of all genders and ages. Lucy Cavendish specializes in encouraging students from underrepresented backgrounds to apply to Cambridge. The college is also known for its emphasis on lifelong learning and professional development.

Specializations

Law, Medicine, Social Sciences

Tuition Fees

GBP 11,100 (INR 12,29,740)

Eligibility

  • GPA: 3.5
  • IELTS: 7.0
  • TOEFL: 105
  • SAT: 1400

33. Anglia Ruskin University

Established in 1858, Anglia Ruskin University (ARU) has grown into a vibrant institution with over 40,000 students enrolled globally. Located in the heart of Cambridge, it is known for its focus on innovation and practical learning, attracting students from over 100 countries.

The University offers more than 200 undergraduate and postgraduate programs across various fields, with a particular emphasis on healthcare, business, and arts.

University Type

Public University

Establishment Year

1858

Anglia Ruskin University World Ranking 2025

901-1000

Popular Programs

Business, Nursing, Psychology, Engineering, Architecture

Intakes

September, January, May

Estimated Fee Structure

GBP 15,000 (INR 16,61,810)

Admission Requirements

  • SAT: 1100
  • GPA: 2.8
  • IELTS: 6.5
  • GMAT: 580
  • GRE: 300

34. Cambridge School of Visual & Performing Arts (CSVPA)

CSVPA is a specialist arts institution located in the heart of Cambridge. It was founded in 1985 and offers high-quality education in visual and performing arts with a focus on individual student development. The small class sizes and hands-on teaching approach make CSVPA a standout institution for creative students. CSVPA offers a range of undergraduate and postgraduate degrees in disciplines like art, design, fashion, and performance. 

University Type

Private University

Establishment Year

1985

CSVPA World Ranking 2025

NA

Popular Programs

Fashion Design, Graphic Design, Acting, Music, Visual Communication

Intakes

September, January

Estimated Fee Structure

GBP 19,000 (INR 21,04,960)

Admission Requirements

  • GPA: 2.0
  • TOEFL iBT: 72
  • IELTS: 5.5
  • PTE: 42
  • No GMAT or GRE required for admission

From the Desk of Yocket

Cambridge is a city that blends history, innovation, and academic excellence, offering a wide range of universities for every kind of learner. Whether you're aiming for a prestigious program at the University of Cambridge or seeking creative development at CSVPA, you'll find opportunities to grow in this vibrant academic hub. Exploring your options in Cambridge can open doors to a future full of possibilities.

Ready to take the next step? Book your consultation call today with Yocket's experts for personalized advice on your journey to studying in Cambridge. From choosing the right program to navigating admissions, our team is here to guide you every step of the way. Join Yocket today and turn your academic aspirations into reality!

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