International Undergraduates

We attract outstanding students from around the world, with around 25% of our undergraduates and an even higher percentage of our postgraduates coming from outside the UK. As a relatively small College, we foster a warm and friendly atmosphere where everyone feels at home. If you have any questions or need assistance, please contact the Academic Office.

Arriving at Magdalene

New international students are invited to arrive a few days before the main freshers' events. This early arrival allows you to settle in, meet fellow international students, and sort out practical matters before the term begins.

Dedicated Support for International Students

We understand that moving to a new country can be challenging. Tailored support for international students is available through the Cambridge International Student Office.

• Visa Advice: Guidance on visa applications and requirements.
• Practical Support: Information on living and studying in Cambridge, including induction sessions at the start of each term.

Explore the Cambridge International Student website for more insights into life at Cambridge.

International students FAQ

Making an Application

What is a high school transcript? Do I need to send one?
A transcript is a record of your performance in high school assessments. Your school can provide an official transcript upon request. For more information see the Providing a transcript page.

Will you accept my qualifications?
We accept a broad range of international qualifications. However, some school-leaving certificates do not provide sufficient preparation for the academic demands of Cambridge or for certain subjects. Applicants with these qualifications may need to supplement them with others, such as A Levels, the International Baccalaureate, APs, or an appropriate combination.

For details on the usual Cambridge entrance requirements for different international examination systems, visit the International Entry Requirements page.

Can I apply to Cambridge if I am already at another university?
Yes, you can apply if you are currently studying at a university outside the UK. However, credits cannot be transferred, and you must complete the full course at Cambridge. If you are studying at a UK university, we typically do not accept applications unless you are completing your degree this year. If you have already completed an undergraduate degree, or expect to have completed one by the end of the current academic year, then you may be eligible to apply to Magdalene as an affiliated student.

Do I need to take an English language qualification before I apply?
You don't need an English language qualification to apply. However, a good standard in spoken and written English is expected at the time of the interview.

Most overseas students whose first language is not English may be required to achieve a specific grade in an approved English language assessment as part of their offer conditions. This is usually IELTS or TOEFL. The standard IELTS requirement is an overall score of 7.5, with at least 7.0 in each section. For the TOEFL Internet-Based Test (IBT), the typical condition is a minimum overall score of 110, with at least 25 in each component. In some cases, a higher score may be required. The University’s minimum English language requirements are detailed on the Entry requirements page.

How do I register for an admissions assessment?
If your subject requires a Pre-registration Required Assessment, please ensure you register with an authorised test centre by the deadline. see the Admission tests and assessments page for more information.

If you are applying for a subject with a Cambridge College registered assessment, then there is no need to register. Arrangements will be made by the College for you to sit the assessment.

Do I need to send written work with my application?
Requirements vary by subject, check our Submitting Written Work page to see if your subject requires you to submit additional written work as part of your application.

Can I study at Magdalene as a visiting student?
We accept 2-3 incoming exchange students from partner institutions through successor schemes to the Erasmus+ programme. We usually have two students studying Modern and Medieval Languages, and sometimes one studying History and Modern Languages or Law. For more information, contact the Faculty of Modern and Medieval Languages and Linguistics.

Financial Matters

How much will it cost to study at Magdalene?
Tuition fees for international students vary by course. For more details, please see the International fees and costs page. The College fee for 2025-2026 is £12,450.

What are the living costs?
Living expenses may be higher for international students. In 2025-26, the estimated minimum resources needed each year (excluding tuition and College fees) are approximately £11,160 for 9 months and £14,880 for 12 months, depending on your lifestyle.

What financial support is available?
Please see the Sources of Funding page.

Interviews and Admissions Assessments

Can I have an interview in my own country?
Currently, admissions interviews are conducted virtually. For more information, visit the What to expect at your Cambridge interview page.

Receiving an Offer

Why does my offer include an IELTS/TOEFL condition?
We may include an IELTS or TOEFL requirement for applicants needing a student visa, as we must confirm English proficiency for the visa process.

This condition may also apply to students whose first language is not English. Cambridge requires a high level of fluency, and ensuring this in advance helps students succeed academically and enjoy their studies.

Will you accept an alternative to IELTS or TOEFL?

IELTS Academic and TOEFL IBT are our preferred English language qualifications, though we may accept other qualifications listed on the Entry Requirements page. These tests ensure all applicants are assessed to the same standard.

How do I apply for a Student Visa?
Information on applying for a student visa can be found on the International Students Student visa page.

Ready to Apply?

Take the next step in your academic journey. Start your application today or contact the Academic Office for further information. We look forward to welcoming you to Magdalene College!