Myths and Misconceptions

It’s easy to get the wrong impression about life at Cambridge. From listening to other people's views, searching the web, or reading particular newspaper articles — there are many outdated ideas which can dissuade prospective students from submitting an application or accepting their offer.

Here, we have tried to address some of these myths and misconceptions below in order to show you that Cambridge is in no sense an "exclusive club". If you have any doubts or worries which aren't addressed here, please don't hesitate to contact our JCR Academic and Access Officer here.

Myth No. 1: “Cambridge is only for upper-class, public/private school pupils.”

Absolutely not. For example, in 2019 according to statistics released by the university, the proportion of state-school students studying at Cambridge was 68%. It is a misconception that a higher household income, or being educated at an independent school, will increase your chances of getting an offer from Cambridge. The admissions process is focused on academic excellence in the individual.

Myth No. 2: “It is less likely I will get an offer if I'm from a poor area, an ethic minority or if I identify as a girl or non-binary.”

The University prides itself on choosing candidates based on suitability for the course as seen from the many stages of the admissions process (i.e. grades, personal statement, admissions tests, submitted written work and interviews). Cambridge looks for academic excellence - not background, race or gender, and so this conception is false.

Myth No. 3: “Cambridge students are either boring and geeky, or loud-mouthed members of laddish drinking societies.”

As with all universities, Cambridge is home to a diverse range of students, so there is a tiny minority of people at the far ends of the spectrum. The massive majority, however, are surprisingly 'normal' (if there is such a thing…) interesting, friendly people. If you're not convinced read some of our student profiles!

Myth No. 4: “It's more expensive to study at Oxbridge.”

Fees to study at Oxbridge are exactly the same as the current standard - £9,250 per year.

In fact, Cambridge has many advantages with regards to finances. For example, due to the short terms at Cambridge of eight to ten weeks, you only have to pay accommodation for 30 weeks per year, whereas at other universities you may have to pay a whole year’s rent. There is also the fact that students have barely any transport costs as almost everywhere can be easily reached on foot or by bike.

In addition, Cambridge has well established bursary schemes, hardship funds, book grant funds and travel grant funds; the idea being that no student should be hindered by finances. More information can be found on the official college fees and costs page.

Myth No. 5: “Everyone else is doing five or six A-levels.”

Most people do three or four A-levels, some do five. Very few do more than that.

If you only do the minimum number of A levels, this doesn't matter as you would still be able to meet the offer which is typically A*A*A for science subjects (Maths, Natural Sciences, Medicine, Engineering etc.) and A*AA for arts subjects (English, History, Law, HSPS etc.).

Sometimes more focus and in depth knowledge on fewer subjects is best.

Myth No. 6: “You always have to wear 'posh' clothes.”

Not at all.

Day-to-day you will see students wearing jeans and a hoodie to lectures and supervisions — and sometimes, for earlier starts, even pyjamas! There is never any need to dress up other than for special occasions… unless, of course, you want to. Students often enjoy the opportunities to dress up - it may be more frequent than most universities, but "posh clothes" appear in every university at some point!

The only time when students are required to wear their gowns at Cambridge are for Matriculation/graduation, formal dinners, and in some chapel services.

Last edited: October 2024