If you are planning to study as an undergraduate at the University of Cambridge, it’s important to understand the full cost of your education. This includes tuition fees, accommodation, daily living expenses, and available financial support. Below is a clear breakdown to help you plan your finances before applying.

Tuition Fees

For students with Home fee status (UK students eligible for regulated fees), the tuition fee for the 2025-26 academic year is £9,535 per year for a first undergraduate degree.

Students who take a year abroad as part of their course pay 15% of the full tuition fee for that year.

For International (Overseas fee status) students, tuition fees vary depending on the course of study. Arts and humanities courses generally cost less than laboratory-based or medical courses, with some starting around £29,000 per year.

The University may adjust tuition fees annually to reflect inflation or policy changes, so students should always check the most recent figures before applying.

Living Costs

In addition to tuition fees, all students must plan for their living expenses. These include accommodation, food, study materials, and personal costs.

Typical monthly living costs for undergraduate students are estimated as follows:

1. Food: about £195
2. Accommodation: about £865
3. Personal items: around £80
4. Social activities: about £95
5. Study costs: around £20
6. Miscellaneous expenses: about £50

This adds up to roughly £1,300 per month, or around £11,700 for a 9-month academic year, and about £15,600 for a full 12-month year.

These figures will vary depending on your lifestyle, accommodation choice, and whether you stay in Cambridge during vacation periods.

Financial Support and Bursaries

Cambridge offers several financial support options to help students manage their costs.

All UK Home students can apply for government tuition fee loans and maintenance loans to help cover study and living costs.

The Cambridge Bursary Scheme provides non-repayable support for Home students from lower-income households, with awards of up to £3,500 per year depending on financial circumstances.

Additionally, individual Colleges and the University offer extra financial aid such as hardship funds, grants, and awards for specific purposes like research, travel, or unexpected financial difficulties. Some funds may award up to £3,000 per year for eligible students facing financial challenges.

Music Awards

Students who demonstrate strong musical ability can apply for Choral Awards or Organ Scholarships. These awards are available across the Colleges and offer financial benefits along with opportunities to perform regularly.

Successful applicants typically receive free vocal or instrumental lessons, an annual award payment, and valuable performance experience within Cambridge’s rich musical community.

Key Points to Remember

1. Your fee status (Home or International) determines your tuition fee.
2. Check for course-specific costs such as fieldwork, equipment, or studio materials.
3. Use the university’s living cost estimates to build your budget and include a buffer for unexpected expenses.
4. Take advantage of bursaries, loans, and college-specific awards if you qualify.
5. Start financial planning early—Cambridge offers guidance and resources to help you prepare well before you arrive.

Summary

Studying at the University of Cambridge involves two main expenses: tuition fees and living costs. Home students currently pay £9,535 per year, while international students pay higher amounts based on their chosen subject. Living expenses average around £11,000–£15,000 per year. With a range of financial support schemes, bursaries, and scholarships available, Cambridge ensures that no student with the talent and potential to succeed is deterred by financial concerns.

References

1. University of Cambridge – Fees and Finance
2. University of Cambridge – Tuition Fees
3. University of Cambridge – Living Costs
4. University of Cambridge – Financial Support
5. University of Cambridge – Music Awards