Cambridge Colleges: Hard to Get In or Not?

Hi folks! I've been looking at applying to Cambridge for college, but I've been hearing varying things about how hard it is to get into the different colleges. Any insights?

The University of Cambridge is certainly one of the most prestigious universities in the world, well-respected across multiple disciplines. Admissions to Cambridge can indeed be highly competitive due to the high caliber of students who apply each year.

One unique aspect of Cambridge is the "collegiate system." The university is divided into 31 autonomous colleges, each with its own personality and specialties. With this in mind, it's not a one-size-fits-all situation - some colleges might be more competitive depending on the course you're applying for and the number of seats they have available for that course.

However, the admission process fundamentally remains the same across all colleges. Every applicant has to go through the same rigorous application process which typically includes an interview and possibly an entrance exam or submitted written work, depending on the course you're applying for.

Remember, it's not just about picking the college with the easiest admission process. You should choose your college based on what you value most in your learning environment. Some colleges might be larger with more students, while others might be smaller for a more intimate learning experience. Some are located in the city center, others on the outskirts for a quieter environment. The facilities, atmosphere, and social scene can also vary significantly from college to college.

Lastly, if you can't decide which college to apply to, you can make an "open application" where the Cambridge Admissions Office decides on the college for you. Good luck with your application!