The process at a glance
- 01CAS Application
Receive your CAS from the university
After meeting offer conditions (academic results, English language requirements), pay your tuition deposit to receive the CAS. The CAS number is unique and valid for 3 months for visa applications. Verify all CAS details — course title, start date, tuition fees — before submitting your visa application.
- 02Visa Application
Apply for your Student visa
Complete the online visa application, pay the visa fee (£490+), pay the Immigration Health Surcharge (£776/year), and book a biometrics appointment at a UK visa application centre. Submit supporting documents: CAS, passport, financial evidence (tuition + living costs for up to 9 months), and tuberculosis test results if required for your country.
- 03Arrive & Register
Arrive in the UK and collect your BRP
You can arrive up to 1 month before your course starts (for courses longer than 6 months). Collect your Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) from the specified Post Office location within 10 days of arrival. Register with the university and attend the international student orientation.
- 04Settle In
Open a bank account, register with NHS, and set up accommodation
Open a UK bank account with your passport, BRP, and university enrolment letter. Register with a local GP surgery for NHS healthcare. If living in university halls, confirm your accommodation. If renting privately, ensure your tenancy agreement is signed and protect your deposit in a government-backed scheme.
About University of Cambridge
University of Cambridge is located in Cambridge, and hosts a large international student population. The university offers undergraduate and graduate programs across multiple disciplines. International students at {name} benefit from dedicated international student services, including visa support, orientation programs, and cultural adjustment resources.
F-1 Visa Requirements for University of Cambridge
International students admitted to University of Cambridge must obtain an F-1 student visa before arriving in the United States. The process begins when the university issues a Form I-20 after the student demonstrates sufficient financial resources. Students must then complete the DS-160 online application, pay the SEVIS I-901 fee, and schedule a visa interview at the nearest US embassy or consulate. {name}'s International Student Office provides guidance throughout this process and can assist with document preparation.
Housing Options for International Students at University of Cambridge
University of Cambridge offers several housing options for international students. On-campus residence halls provide furnished rooms with meal plans and easy access to classes. Many international students choose to live in off-campus apartments in Cambridge, which offer more independence and often lower costs. Popular neighborhoods near {name} include areas within walking distance of campus and those along public transit routes. The university's housing office can help connect students with roommates and rental listings.
Working While Studying at University of Cambridge
F-1 students at University of Cambridge may work on campus up to 20 hours per week during the academic year and full-time during breaks. On-campus positions include library assistants, research aides, dining hall staff, and administrative roles. After completing one academic year, students may be eligible for Curricular Practical Training (CPT) or Optional Practical Training (OPT), which allow off-campus employment related to their field of study. {name}'s career center offers workshops on resume writing, interview skills, and work authorization for international students.
International Student Life in Cambridge
Cambridge offers a diverse and welcoming environment for international students at University of Cambridge. The city features cultural attractions, restaurants serving cuisines from around the world, and communities representing many nationalities. {name} has over 400 student organizations, including many cultural and international clubs. The International Student Association hosts events throughout the year, including cultural festivals, holiday celebrations, and networking opportunities. Local public transportation makes it easy to explore {city} and surrounding areas.
UK universities combine world-class education with a shorter degree duration — saving you time and money while providing the Graduate Route visa for post-study work.
Student visa application and CAS process at University of Cambridge
After accepting an offer from University of Cambridge, the university issues a Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) number, which is required for the Student visa application. The CAS contains a unique reference number and details about your course and tuition fees. You must apply for the visa within 3 months of the CAS issuance date. University of Cambridge's international student office provides detailed guidance on the financial evidence requirements — generally, you must show funds covering tuition for the first year plus £1,334 per month for living costs in London (or £1,023 per month outside London) for up to 9 months. The Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) of £776 per year must be paid as part of the application. University of Cambridge typically offers pre-arrival guidance including airport pickup services, temporary accommodation, and orientation week activities specifically for international students.
Working while studying at University of Cambridge and using the Graduate Route
As a Student visa holder at University of Cambridge, you may work up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during official holidays. University of Cambridge's career service helps students find part-time roles suitable for their visa conditions. Typical on-campus positions include student ambassador, library assistant, research participant recruiter, and administrative roles in various departments. University of Cambridge also offers a campus job platform where international students can find approved part-time vacancies. After graduation, the Graduate Route visa allows 2 years of unrestricted work in the UK. University of Cambridge's careers and employability service provides dedicated support for international students transitioning to the Graduate Route, including CV workshops tailored to the UK job market, networking events with UK employers, and one-on-one career coaching sessions for international job seekers.
Student life, accommodation, and support services at University of Cambridge
University of Cambridge provides dedicated support for international students through its international student office, offering guidance on visa compliance, cultural adjustment, and academic transition. Accommodation options include university-managed halls of residence (popular for first-year students) and private rentals in the surrounding city. University of Cambridge's accommodation office can assist with applying for halls and understanding tenancy agreements. The students' union at University of Cambridge operates over 200 societies and clubs, including nationality-specific societies for Indian, Chinese, Nigerian, and other international student communities. University of Cambridge also offers English language support through academic skills centres, free counselling services, and NHS registration assistance. Opening a UK bank account, obtaining a National Insurance number for work, and registering with a local GP are important initial steps that University of Cambridge's international orientation programmes typically cover during Welcome Week.
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What you learned
End-of-guide quiz
1 question
- 01
A UK international student graduates and wants to use the Graduate Route to work in London. When should they apply?
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Frequently asked questions
What is the minimum TOEFL or IELTS score required for University of Cambridge?+
University of Cambridge typically requires a minimum TOEFL score of 80-100 (iBT) or IELTS score of 6.5-7.0, depending on the program. Check the university's admissions website for program-specific requirements.
Does University of Cambridge offer scholarships for international students?+
University of Cambridge offers limited merit-based scholarships for international students. These are highly competitive and based on academic achievement, test scores, and extracurricular involvement.
What is the cost of attendance at University of Cambridge for international students?+
The estimated annual cost of attendance at University of Cambridge for international students ranges from approximately $45,000 to $75,000, including tuition, fees, housing, meals, and health insurance.
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