Universities in Cambridge, The United Kingdom

Cambridge, in the east of England, has been a centre of learning since the 13th century, as ARU puts it. The city is home to Anglia Ruskin University (ARU), whose main Cambridge campus is on East Road, a short walk from the historic centre. This page covers the practical side of studying at a university in Cambridge as an international student.

Anglia Ruskin University

ARU is the university in Cambridge listed in our directory. Its history starts in 1858, when John Ruskin opened the Cambridge School of Art. Several colleges later combined to form Anglia Polytechnic University in 1992, and Writtle University College merged with ARU on 29 February 2024. Today it has campuses in Cambridge, Chelmsford, Peterborough and Writtle, and says that it has students from more than 185 countries.

Teaching is organised in four faculties: Arts, Humanities, Education and Social Sciences; Business and Law; Health, Medicine and Social Care; and Science and Engineering. Its Language Centre has taught academic English for over 35 years.

Fees and entry requirements

For the 2026-27 academic year, ARU charges international students from £17,500 a year for a bachelor's degree and from £17,500 to £21,200 a year for a full-time taught master's. UK students (including Irish students and EU, EEA and Swiss students with citizens' rights after Brexit) pay £9,790 a year for a bachelor's degree.

The standard English requirement for bachelor's degrees is IELTS Academic 6.0 overall with 5.5 in each skill; 5.5 overall is accepted for degrees with a foundation year. Students who need a Student visa must reach at least CEFR level B2 in each of the four skills.

Visa and living costs

International students usually need a Student visa for a degree, which requires an offer from a licensed student sponsor. According to GOV.UK, you can apply up to 6 months before your course starts and the application from outside the UK costs £558, plus the healthcare surcharge. Unless you have been in the UK for at least 12 months, you must show that you have £1,171 a month (for up to 9 months) for living costs for a course outside London. After graduating, the Graduate visa allows you to stay for 2 years if you apply on or before 31 December 2026, and 18 months if you apply from 1 January 2027.

ARU states that students on a Student visa can work up to 20 hours a week during term time and full time outside term. The university offers accommodation in Cambridge and help with renting privately.

Frequently asked questions

How much does a degree at Anglia Ruskin University cost for international students?

For 2026-27, fees for international students start at £17,500 a year for a bachelor's degree; taught master's degrees cost from £17,500 to £21,200 a year full time.

What level of English do I need?

ARU asks for IELTS Academic 6.0 overall, with 5.5 in each skill, for most bachelor's degrees. Student visa holders need at least CEFR level B2 in each skill.

How much money do I need for a UK Student visa?

Besides the £558 visa fee and the healthcare surcharge, you must show £1,171 a month for up to 9 months for a course outside London, according to GOV.UK.

Can I work while studying in Cambridge?

According to ARU, students on a Student visa can work up to 20 hours a week during term time and full time during the holidays.