Cambridge Admission Stats: Data Insights

The University of Cambridge is one of the most prestigious institutions in the world, with a long history of academic excellence. Each year, thousands of students from around the globe apply to study at Cambridge, but only a small percentage are accepted. In this article, we will delve into the Cambridge admission stats, providing insights into the data and trends that shape the university's admissions process.

Overview of Cambridge Admission Stats

The University of Cambridge receives a large number of applications each year, with over 18,000 students applying for undergraduate courses in 2020. The overall acceptance rate for Cambridge is around 21%, with some colleges having acceptance rates as low as 12%. The competition for places is fierce, with many applicants having excellent academic records and a range of extracurricular activities.

The admission process at Cambridge is highly selective, with applicants required to meet specific academic requirements, such as A-level grades or International Baccalaureate (IB) scores. Applicants must also submit a personal statement, reference letters, and sometimes take additional tests, such as the Biomedical Admissions Test (BMAT) or the Mathematics Admissions Test (MAT). The university uses a holistic approach to evaluate applications, considering not only academic achievement but also an applicant’s potential, motivation, and fit with the university’s academic community.

Breakdown of Cambridge Admission Stats by College

The University of Cambridge is composed of 31 colleges and 150 departments, each with its own unique character and admission requirements. Some colleges, such as King’s College and Trinity College, are more competitive than others, with lower acceptance rates. The following table provides a breakdown of the admission stats for some of the colleges at Cambridge:

As can be seen from the table, the acceptance rates and average A-level grades vary significantly between colleges. King's College and Trinity College are the most competitive, with average A-level grades of A*A*A, while Emmanuel College and Jesus College have slightly lower requirements.

Cambridge Admission Stats by Subject

The University of Cambridge offers a wide range of undergraduate courses, from Anglo-Saxon, Norse, and Celtic to Computer Science. The admission stats for each subject vary, with some subjects being more competitive than others. The following table provides a breakdown of the admission stats for some of the most popular subjects at Cambridge:

As can be seen from the table, the acceptance rates and average A-level grades vary significantly between subjects. Computer Science and Engineering are the most competitive subjects, with average A-level grades of A*A*A, while Natural Sciences and Law have slightly lower requirements.

Future Implications of Cambridge Admission Stats

The Cambridge admission stats have significant implications for students, teachers, and policymakers. The data suggests that the university is becoming increasingly competitive, with more applicants competing for a limited number of places. This trend is likely to continue, with the university receiving more applications from international students and an increasing number of students taking AP courses or IB diplomas.

The admission stats also highlight the importance of academic preparation and subject choice. Students who wish to study at Cambridge must be prepared to work hard and achieve excellent grades, particularly in subjects such as Mathematics and Science. The university’s emphasis on academic excellence and subject-specific knowledge means that students must be well-prepared and motivated to succeed.

Comparison with Other Universities

The University of Cambridge is not alone in its selectivity, with other top universities around the world also having low acceptance rates. The following table provides a comparison of the acceptance rates for some of the world’s top universities:

As can be seen from the table, the University of Cambridge has a relatively high acceptance rate compared to other top universities. However, the admission process is still highly competitive, and students must be well-prepared and motivated to succeed.

In conclusion, the Cambridge admission stats provide valuable insights into the university’s admissions process. The data highlights the importance of academic preparation, subject choice, and motivation, and demonstrates the highly competitive nature of the admission process. By understanding the admission stats and trends, students and educators can better prepare for the challenges of applying to the University of Cambridge.