All students require support from time to time, but some care leavers may have specific concerns when starting university.

The far-reaching welfare system in place at the University of Cambridge means we consistently have one of the lowest drop-out rates in the UK. As well as the support you receive through your College, there are a number of University services that provide specialist assistance should you need or want it.

In order to ensure you get the support available to you as a care leaver, you should indicate in your UCAS application that you’ve spent time in care.

If you are or have been in care, or are supporting a young person currently or previously in care and would like more information about visiting or studying at the University and the support available, please contact the Realise Team at the Cambridge Admissions Office (CAO). The Realise Team specialise in supporting individuals with care experience and are always happy to offer advice and answer questions that you might have.

In addition, prospective applicants who have spent time in care should note the following:

  • the Cambridge Admissions Office provide a bursary to help Care Leavers travel to Open Days and other similar events
  • care leavers will be eligible for the Interviewee Travel Fund if they were to be invited to interview

Discover more information about care leavers support on the University website.