The University of Cambridge has officially expanded its undergraduate entry routes for Indian students by accepting the CBSE Class XII qualification for some courses starting in 2026. This update, announced on January 27, 2026, marks a significant shift in the admissions process and could provide a more straightforward path for high-achieving students from India to secure direct entry into Cambridge’s prestigious undergraduate programs. In this article, we will provide an in-depth overview of this change, eligibility requirements, the application process, and essential information for Indian students interested in applying to s Indian applicants should be aware of before applying:

What Has Cambridge Announced for Indian Students?

On January 27, 2026, the University of Cambridge released an official statement outlining its new initiative aimed at broadening undergraduate entry pathways for high-performing Indian students. The key announcement was that the Indian CBSE Class XII qualification would now be accepted for some undergraduate courses at Cambridge University. This move is part of a broader strategy that includes philanthropic initiatives, the creation of a Cambridge India Research Foundation, ands Indian applicants should be aware of before applying:

Historically, Cambridge has set a higher bar for students coming from India’s CBSE system, often requiring additional qualifications such as A Levels, International Baccalaureate (IB), or Advanced Placement (AP) exams to be considered for entry into competitive undergraduate programs. However, with this new initiative, Cambridge has signaled that students with excellent CBSE Class XII results may now be eligible for direct entry into certain programs, depending on course-specific requirements.

What Does This Change Mean for CBSE Students?

For the first time, CBSE Class XII students will have a more direct pathway to some undergraduate programs at Cambridge, as long as they meet the necessary conditions. In the past, students from the CBSE system were often advised to pursue additional study options, such as completing A Levels, taking multiple AP exams, or spending a year studying at a university outside the UK to enhance their competitiveness for s Indian applicants should be aware of before applying:

With the new policy, Cambridge has acknowledged that top-performing CBSE students can now directly apply to select undergraduate courses, provided they meet additional course-specific requirements. This change is expected to open up more opportunities for talented students in India who may not have pursued alternative qualifications due to various constraints, such as financial costs, limited availability of programs, or logistical challenges.

Key Points Indian Applicants Should Note

While this new policy is certainly a positive development for CBSE students, there are several critical points Indian applicants should be aware of before applying:

1. CBSE Class XII is Accepted for Some Courses
   Cambridge University will now accept the CBSE Class XII qualification for some undergraduate programs. This means that CBSE students no longer need to pursue other qualifications like A Levels or IB to meet Cambridge’s entry requirements. However, students should note that this acceptance does not apply to all courses.

2. Additional Requirements May Apply
   Even though CBSE Class XII is accepted for eligibility in some programs, Cambridge has clarified that additional requirements may still be necessary for specific courses. These requirements could include subject-specific assessments, additional academic qualifications, or other criteria that are important for that particular course.

3. CBSE Class XII Alone May Not Be Competitive for All Courses
   Cambridge’s official guidance still maintains that Class XII alone may not be competitive for some courses. Students applying for programs in highly competitive fields like Medicine, Law, or Engineering may still need to provide additional qualifications or assessments. Cambridge’s advice to applicants is to carefully review the course-specific requirements and ensure they meet all the necessary criteria for their chosen program.

4. Admissions Assessments and Tests
   For many undergraduate courses, Cambridge requires applicants to take additional assessments. For example, the Engineering and Science programs may require applicants to take the ESAT (Engineering and Science Admissions Test) as part of the application process. These assessments are crucial in determining whether a student is a suitable candidate for a particular program.

5. Early Application Deadlines
   Cambridge has strict deadlines for undergraduate applications. For the 2026 entry cycle, the UCAS deadline for most applicants is 15 October 2025, and the My Cambridge Application deadline is 22 October 2025. Applicants should be aware of these deadlines and ensure they submit all required documents and tests on time to avoid missing out on the opportunity to apply.

6. Subject-Specific Requirements
   Cambridge’s undergraduate courses have specific entry requirements related to the subjects studied in Class XII. While some courses may require students to have studied particular subjects in high school, others may be more flexible. It is essential for applicants to thoroughly review the eligibility criteria for their desired course on Cambridge’s official website.

How Should Indian Students Apply for Cambridge?

Given the changes to the admissions process, Indian students wishing to apply for Cambridge University in 2026 should follow these key steps:

1. Shortlist Your Course
   The first step in applying to Cambridge is choosing the undergraduate course that best suits your academic interests and career goals. Cambridge offers a wide range of programs across disciplines, including Arts, Humanities, Sciences, Engineering, and Social Sciences. Take the time to explore all the available options and select the course that aligns with your aspirations.

2. Review Entry Requirements
   Once you have shortlisted your preferred course, carefully review the entry requirements for that program. Pay close attention to the qualifications required, including the CBSE Class XII scores, specific subjects, and any additional requirements such as assessments or interviews. If you are applying with a CBSE Class XII qualification, ensure that you meet the minimum grade requirements for that course.

3. Check for Additional Requirements
   As noted earlier, Cambridge may ask for additional requirements for certain courses. Be prepared for the possibility that you may need to take additional assessments, such as the ESAT or STEP (Sixth Term Examination Paper) depending on the program. Some courses may also require subject-specific prerequisites, so it is important to review these requirements in detail.

4. Prepare Your Application Documents
   Ensure that you have all the necessary documents ready for submission. This typically includes your CBSE Class XII mark sheet, a personal statement or essay, letters of recommendation, and any other documents that may be required for your chosen program. Be sure to upload all required documents through the official application portal.

5. Submit Your Application
   For most applicants, Cambridge University uses the UCAS (Universities and Colleges Admissions Service) platform for undergraduate admissions. The UCAS deadline for 2026 entry is 15 October 2025. Make sure to submit your application before the deadline and pay the application fee if required.

6. Prepare for Additional Assessments or Interviews
   Some courses at Cambridge require applicants to take additional assessments or attend interviews. If you are asked to attend an interview, be sure to prepare thoroughly by reviewing the course material, practicing common interview questions, and familiarizing yourself with Cambridge’s interview format.

7. Monitor Your Application Status
   After submitting your application, regularly check the UCAS website and your email for updates on your application status. If you are shortlisted, you may be asked to take part in further assessments, attend an interview, or provide additional documents. Be proactive in responding to any requests from Cambridge to ensure that your application progresses smoothly.

Additional Steps and Resources

• Cambridge India Research Foundation
  In addition to accepting CBSE Class XII qualifications, Cambridge University has also launched the Cambridge India Research Foundation. This initiative aims to provide financial assistance, scholarships, and bursaries to Indian students pursuing their studies at Cambridge. The foundation will help alleviate some of the financial challenges associated with studying at a world-class institution.

• Check for Updates
  As Cambridge continues to refine its admissions policies, it is essential to regularly check for updates on the official Cambridge Admissions website. The university may provide additional information regarding the acceptance of CBSE qualifications or any changes to the application process.

Conclusion

The University of Cambridge’s announcement to accept CBSE Class XII qualifications for some undergraduate courses is a significant step forward in expanding access to world-class education for Indian students. However, applicants should be mindful of the specific requirements for their chosen course and ensure they meet all necessary conditions. With early deadlines, additional assessments, and subject-specific criteria, the admissions process remains highly competitive. Indian students interested in applying should follow the outlined steps, stay updated on the latest requirements, and prepare diligently for the application process. The opportunity to study at Cambridge University is a remarkable one, and this change makes it more accessible for the brightest students in India.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I apply to Cambridge with only my CBSE Class XII results?
   Yes, Cambridge now accepts CBSE Class XII qualifications for certain undergraduate courses. However, additional requirements may still apply depending on the course.

2. Are there any additional assessments for Cambridge applicants?
   Yes, certain courses require additional assessments such as the ESAT for engineering and science programs or the STEP exam for mathematics. Be sure to check the specific course requirements.

3. What is the application deadline for Cambridge 2026 entry?
   The UCAS deadline for Cambridge applicants is 15 October 2025. Ensure you submit your application before this date.

4. Are scholarships available for Indian students at Cambridge?
   Yes, the Cambridge India Research Foundation offers scholarships, bursaries, and financial aid to talented Indian students.

5. Where can I find more information about course requirements?
   Visit the official Cambridge University website to find detailed information about course-specific requirements and the admissions process.