Question 1

Are there any entrance requirements for studying with Cambridge International Academy?

Accepted Answer

Yes, all courses have entrance requirements.  Normally at least three subjects achieving at least A grades are required.  If English is not your first language, you will also need to satisfy our English language requirements.  You may also be asked to submit a recommendation letter from your teacher or a counsellor from your school. You can find out the requirements for each by visiting the specific course page on the website.

Question 2

When is the deadline for application?

Accepted Answer

Cambridge International Academy accepts students on a rolling basis. Applications are open until places are filled.  The deadline for fee payment for online courses is 1 week prior to the start of the course. The deadline for fee payment for the residential course is 2 weeks prior to the start of the course.  If you need a visa to enter or study in the UK, the deadline is at least 60 days prior to the start of the course.

Question 3

Will I receive a certificate for my course?

Accepted Answer

Upon successful completion of a course, a student receives a certificate issued by Cambridge International Academy.

Question 4

What type of certificate will I get?

Accepted Answer

All certificates have at least three categories: distinction, merit and pass. The category of your certificate is determined by your performance, contribution and the objectively assessed standard of your work.

Question 5

What is a ‘viva’ and how does this part of the evaluation for the research project work?

Accepted Answer

For the viva you will put together a short presentation explaining the problem, issue etc you have been seeking to find answers to, and what you have discovered.  Your student peers and teachers / supervisors / invited guest(s) will have the opportunity to ask questions about your findings. Presentations are scheduled for the end of the course.   The viva makes up 10% of the overall mark for your course. You will be given guidance to prepare for this during the course.

Question 6

What is the difference between the Online Research Essay Projects winter and summer terms?

Accepted Answer

Both the winter and summer terms have the exact same contents and numbers of seminars and supervisions.  The only difference is how long it takes to complete the project. The winter term is conducted over 12 weeks whilst the summer term is held over 8 weeks.

Question 7

What are the technical specifications and online platforms I will need for the online research project?

Accepted Answer

Current requirements are that you will need access to a device capable of joining zoom meetings for your seminars (group sessions) and supervisions (one-to-one sessions with your supervisor). We recommend using a ‘wired’ connection (ethernet cable) rather than wifi if possible, to ensure the most stable connection possible. You may find it useful to have a headset with a microphone too.

Question 8

I live in a non-anglophone country, how will I access books and articles in English for the online research project?

Accepted Answer

Your seminar teacher and supervisor will be able to help you access the materials you will need to conduct your research / literature review.

Question 9

What should I include in my personal statement for the scholarship?

Accepted Answer

Your personal statement should help the scholarship committee know who you are and what your real academic passion is. It should focus on telling them about your academic strengths, but also about what skills and abilities you think you need to improve and  why you believe you deserve a scholarship.

Question 10

Is Cambridge International Academy linked to the University of Cambridge?

Accepted Answer

Cambridge International Academy is a private, independent academy.   Cambridge International Academy contracts Clare College (and other venues) for the use of facilities for teaching and accommodation and hires a number of academics and PhD researchers employed by several of the UK’s leading universities, including the University of Cambridge. However Cambridge International Academy has no connection or other institutional or organisational association with the University of Cambridge or its associated colleges.

Question 11

Are there any free seminars I can attend?

Accepted Answer

Cambridge International Academy holds a number of free online seminars throughout the year. Topics include: study skills, cultural understanding, university admissions,  and many others.  You can sign up for our newsletter or follow us on social media to receive updates on these.