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City guidesVerified June 2026

Study in Cambridge — universities, cost of living and student life

By Study UK Now Editorial

Cambridge is a historic university city and global science-and-tech hub, with higher-than-average living costs.

Universities
University of Cambridge, Anglia Ruskin University
Cost level
Above average (below central London)
London by train
≈ 1 hour

Key takeaways

  • Home to the University of Cambridge and Anglia Ruskin University (a distinct modern university).
  • One of the world's most famous university cities and a global science-and-tech hub.
  • Living costs are above the UK average, though generally below central London.
  • Close to London — around an hour by train — and very international.

Why study in Cambridge

Cambridge is one of the world's great university cities and a global centre for science, technology and research. The University of Cambridge — collegiate, ancient and consistently ranked among the very best globally — anchors a city famous for its colleges, the River Cam and a thriving technology cluster ("Silicon Fen"). Anglia Ruskin University, a large modern institution, adds professional and applied courses. The compact, historic city is highly international and within an hour of London.

What it costs

Cambridge's living costs are above the UK average, with accommodation in high demand, though generally below central London. The academic and research environment is world-class, so careful budgeting is worthwhile. Study UK Now builds a realistic Cambridge budget with you so there are no surprises on arrival.

How Study UK Now helps with this

Get expert, end-to-end help — from university matching to your visa.

Frequently asked questions

Is Cambridge a good city for international students?

Yes — Cambridge is a beautiful, historic university city and a global science-and-technology hub, with a highly international student body and fast links to London. Living costs are above the UK average, but the environment is world-class. Study UK Now helps you plan both the application and a realistic budget.

Which universities are in Cambridge?

Cambridge is home to the University of Cambridge (one of the world's leading universities, collegiate and ancient) and Anglia Ruskin University (a large modern university). Each has very different entry requirements — Study UK Now helps you choose and apply to the right one for your subject and goals.

Sources — verified June 2026

Visa, fee and policy details change. Always confirm the latest on the official source before you rely on it.

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