Before you apply

Open book in library © Getty Images

We’re excited you’re thinking of studying HSPS at Cambridge.  

Entry requirements  

  • The minimum offer level for HSPS is A*AA (A Level) or 41-42 points, with 776 at Higher Level (IB). Check which other qualifications we accept, including for international students. 
     
  • There are no GCSE (or equivalent) requirements. 
     
  • Most HSPS students (who had studied A levels and started at Cambridge in 2018, 2019 and 2023) achieved at least A*A*A (69% of entrants). The majority of students who studied IB achieved at least 43 points overall.

 

Subject requirements  

  • There are no required subjects for entry to HSPS. 
     
  • Colleges do normally require A*/7 in an essay-based subject. Some Colleges may give preference to certain subject combinations, so always check College websites. 
     
  • Most HSPS students (who had studied A levels and started at Cambridge in 2018, 2019 and 2023) had studied: 
    English (language or literature) 
    History  
    Languages (ancient or modern)   
  • The rest had usually taken at least one of: 
    Classical Civilisation, Further Mathematics, Geography, Politics, Law, Music, Philosophy, Psychology, Religious Studies, sciences (Biology, Chemistry or Physics) or Sociology. 
    Economics 
    Government & Politics 
    Mathematics 

  • Although these are common subject combinations, this doesn't mean they're favoured.  

 

Choosing a College  

  • All applications are assessed by the Cambridge Colleges. A College is where you’ll live, eat and socialise. It’s also where you’ll have teaching in small groups, known as supervisions.  

  • In your UCAS application, as well as listing Cambridge (institution code CAM C05) as one of your options in the 'Choices' section, you'll need to enter the appropriate College (campus) code.  

  • All 29 Colleges open to undergraduates accept HSPS students. Each has their own accommodation, social spaces, clubs and societies. 

  • You can either choose a particular College or, if you don’t have a preference, you can make an ‘open’ application and have a College allocated for you.  

  • The Cambridge University Student's Union (CUSU) has compiled a guide to help you find the College that’s right for you. You can also visit College websites for more information. 

  • Further advice on choosing a College 

 

What are we looking for?  

College Admissions Tutors are looking for students with exceptional academic ability and potential.  
 
Strong candidates will demonstrate enthusiasm and suitability for the HSPS course, and a commitment to academic study more widely. Colleges look for students who will benefit from and flourish in the HSPS and wider Cambridge learning environment.