King's College
A Brief History of King's College
King’s College, founded in 1441 by King Henry VI, is one of the most prestigious colleges at the University of Cambridge. It’s renowned for its stunning architecture, including the famous King’s College Chapel, and has a rich history of academic excellence. Over the centuries, the college has been home to many distinguished scholars, poets, and even scientists. The college’s historic charm and academic rigor make it a sought-after destination for students from all over the world.
Location of Kings College
King’s College is located right in the heart of Cambridge, England. It sits beside the River Cam, providing a scenic environment for students. The college’s central location makes it easy to explore the beautiful city of Cambridge, with its lovely parks, museums, and shopping areas just a short walk away.
Courses and Requirements
King’s College offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate courses, primarily in the fields of arts, humanities, sciences, and social sciences. Some of the popular courses include English, History, Law, Mathematics, and Biological Sciences.
To be accepted to King’s College, students must meet the entry requirements, which typically include:
- A strong academic record (A-levels or equivalent for undergraduate entry).
- Excellent results in subject-specific exams (such as GCSEs).
- An interview (in most cases) to assess suitability for the course.
For graduate courses, students must have a relevant degree and may need to submit research proposals or take specific exams, depending on the course.
Download A Guide to Using the Postgraduate Applicant Self-Service -University of Cambridge
Tuition Fees and Accommodation Costs
Tuition fees at King’s College can vary depending on the course and the student’s residency status. Generally, fees for undergraduate students range from £20,000 to £30,000 per year for international students, while UK students may pay lower fees, typically around £9,000 per year. Accommodation costs range from £5,000 to £10,000 per year, depending on the type of room and facilities.
Undergraduate Student from the UK
“UK students are entitled to a governmental loan to cover the cost of tuition fees. This is not means-tested. You can take out a government loan and defer payment until after you’ve left university and are earning a specified minimum salary.
UK students are also entitled to a governmental loan to cover living costs whilst at University. Again, you can take out a government loan and defer payment until after you’ve left university and are earning a specified minimum salary.
You may also be entitled to the means-tested Cambridge Bursary. The Cambridge Bursary is designed to ensure that home students studying for a first degree can meet the cost of their Cambridge education, regardless of background. You do not have to repay a Cambridge Bursary.” -King’s College Cambridge
University of Cambridge Bursary
“Cambridge offers one of the most generous bursary support packages in the UK. Over £10 million a year is awarded to undergraduate students from low and middle-income families through the Cambridge Bursary Scheme. We grant over 3,300 Cambridge Bursaries annually, which equates to one in three of our UK undergraduates, and over half of those receive the maximum award.” -University of Cambridge
International Students
“Whilst students from outside of the UK are not eligible for loans from the UK government, there are a small number of scholarships/studentships that they can apply for if they meet the eligibility criteria.
The Cambridge Trust offers up to 40 part-cost awards of £10,000-15,000 per year and up to 5 means-tested full-fees awards. At King’s we also offer a small number of studentships to help support fees and maintenance costs for the duration of a student’s course. The scale of these awards is variable but, as with the Cambridge Trust studentships, the criteria for eligibility is based on both academic excellence as well as on financial need.” -King’s College Cambridge
Prince Philip Scholarship for applicants from Hong Kong
“If you’re a permanent resident of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region applying for a first degree at Cambridge, you’re eligible to apply. The Scholarship offers cash awards and means-tested support for tuition fees and maintenance (living costs).
To apply for the Prince Philip Scholarship, you need to send your application at the same time as you submit your application to Cambridge. For further information about the Scholarships and how to apply, see the Prince Philip Scholarship website.” -University of Cambridge
Disability Accessibility
King’s College strives to be inclusive and accessible to all students, including those with disabilities. The college has adapted many of its buildings and facilities to ensure that students with mobility needs can move around campus comfortably. It’s a good idea to contact the college’s admissions office in advance to discuss any specific needs you may have.
“UK students with a disability may be eligible for a Disabled Students’ Allowance (DSA), and are encouraged to contact the Accessibility and Disability Resource Centre (ADRC).” – King’s College Cambridge
Student Accommodation and Amenities
King’s College offers on-site accommodation for both undergraduate and graduate students. The accommodation includes single rooms with shared facilities or en-suite options. The college also provides access to modern amenities like study areas, a gym, a library, and common rooms. Additionally, the college’s beautiful gardens and the nearby River Cam provide a peaceful place to relax after a day of studying.
King’s College Chapel
King’s College Chapel is one of the most iconic parts of the college. It is famous for its magnificent fan-vaulted ceiling, stained glass windows, and world-renowned choir. The Chapel hosts regular services and concerts, including the famous Christmas Eve carol service that is broadcast worldwide.
Famous People Who Graduated from King's College
King’s College has produced many well-known and influential individuals throughout its history. Some of its most famous alumni include:
- Sir Isaac Newton – The famous physicist and mathematician who formulated the laws of motion and universal gravitation. Newton is often considered one of the most important scientists in history.
- John Maynard Keynes – A renowned economist whose ideas helped shape modern economic theory and policies, especially during the Great Depression.
- Lord Byron – One of the most famous English poets of the Romantic era, known for his works like Don Juan and Childe Harold’s Pilgrimage.
- Clara Schumann – A world-famous German pianist and composer, widely regarded as one of the most talented musicians of her time.
- Stephen Hawking – The theoretical physicist who developed groundbreaking work in cosmology, known for his research on black holes and his best-selling book A Brief History of Time.
- David Attenborough – The legendary broadcaster and natural historian, best known for his documentaries on the natural world, such as The Blue Planet and Planet Earth.
- Zadie Smith – An acclaimed contemporary author known for her novels like White Teeth and On Beauty.
These alumni, among many others, have left a significant mark on various fields including science, literature, music, economics, and broadcasting. Their achievements highlight the academic excellence that King’s College is known for.
Nearby Attractions
There’s plenty to see and do near King’s College. Some must-visit attractions include:
- King’s College Chapel: Known for its stunning Gothic architecture, it’s one of the most famous landmarks in Cambridge.
- The Fitzwilliam Museum: A world-class museum with art, artifacts, and exhibits.
- The River Cam: Students can enjoy punting on the river, a fun and relaxing activity.
- Shops and Cafes: The heart of Cambridge is full of charming shops, cafes, and bookstores, perfect for a leisurely afternoon.
Short Stays at King's College
King’s College offers short stays for alumni/visitors when student accommodation is available during the summer months. This is a great opportunity for tourists, groups, or those attending academic conferences. To book a short stay, you can contact the college’s accommodation office or visit their website for details on availability and booking procedures.
Cambridge University Open Days 2025
“These events are designed for prospective applicants from Year 12 (or equivalent) and mature applicants (aged 21 or over), along with their parents and supporters to help them learn more about the University.” -Cambridge Univerity
"Other ways to discover Cambridge
- Applicant webinar series: Find out more about applying to Cambridge.
- Virtual Tour: Get a feel for Cambridge from the comfort of your home.
- Events listing: Discover other events run by the Colleges and departments.
- Colleges are open to visitors throughout the year. Check opening times and contact the College in advance if you’d like to meet with a member of staff.” -Cambridge University
***Please visit King’s College Cambridge website & Cambridge University website for more detailed info.***