The Colleges
For an introduction to the College system, please see the section within 'Benefits of studying at Cambridge'.
There are 31 Colleges affilitated with the University, each with its own unique character. Colleges are independent of the University but have a complex relationship with it. It is necessary to have membership of a college to be registered as a graduate student, whether full or part-time. The University provides teaching and research supervision for graduate students, and the colleges provide pastoral support within a stimulating academic community. Colleges also collect fees on behalf of the University. All the colleges within the University of Cambridge accept graduate students, although numbers vary between colleges. All colleges welcome applicants from any country, and of any race, religion or background.
Details about the services and facilities offered by the colleges can be found in the following guide:
- In this section
- On this page
Admittance Restrictions
Some colleges have restrictions on admittance.
Other than the women-only colleges: Lucy Cavendish, Murray Edwards and Newnham, all colleges are open equally to men and women, and accept graduates intending to study any University-approved subject.
Graduate Colleges: Clare Hall, Darwin, Hughes Hall, St Edmund's and Wolfson, only accept graduates or mature undergraduates.
Part-Time Students
All part-time research students must be members of a college. All colleges except for Pembroke, Queens', Robinson and St Edmund's accept part-time students.
MSt students must also be members of a college. For further information please see the Institute of Continuing Education website.
- Further information
College Membership
If you are made a conditional offer of admission by the University, you will automatically be considered for membership of one of the Colleges and are guaranteed a College place. You can indicate preferences on your application form, or you may leave your application open (see Application Guide: College Choice).
Please note, however, that if you turn down a college offer you are not guaranteed an alternative.
College List
The colleges are listed below, and link to each college's website.
Further information on the colleges, including the answers to questions such as:
- How likely is it that I will get accommodation in college?
- Is there a travel fund or any other grants?
- Which colleges have accommodation for families?
- Where is the college?
can be found under the 'Key facts and figures' page.