University of Cambridge STEM SMART programme
University of Cambridge
Create a free account to applyWant to boost your STEM uni chances? Join a free University of Cambridge programme offering weekly online assignments, tutorials and mentoring to strengthen maths and science A‑level knowledge, connect with experts, and build a competitive application—designed for state-school students who've faced educational disadvantage.
STEM SMART is a free widening participation programme from the University of Cambridge, delivered in association with Ada Computer Science and Isaac Science. It is designed to support UK students at state schools who are studying maths and science A levels, have experienced educational disadvantage, and are thinking about applying to competitive university courses in STEM-related subjects.
Participants receive weekly online assignments, tutorials, and mentoring designed to strengthen subject knowledge and problem-solving skills while complementing what they study at school. The programme also includes a live online launch, regular contact with a Cambridge student mentor, and smaller group tutorials for some students as the programme progresses.
Students who show the strongest engagement may be invited to a free 4-day residential in Cambridge. Later in the programme, students receive a certificate recognising their commitment and extra work, along with support for describing their involvement in a UCAS personal statement.
Certificate of commitment to STEM SMART
01 Sept 2026
31 Oct 2026
09 Jan 2027 – 06 May 2028
2027 cohort
Location
- Studying A Levels (or equivalent) in maths and science subjects, including computer science.
- Attending a non-fee paying school (state school) from the age of 14 and currently attending a non-fee paying school in the UK or Northern Ireland, or be a self-studying student who will be 21 or over when starting university.
- Considering applying to university courses in engineering, computer science, mathematics, physical sciences, or biological or behavioural sciences.
- Must meet at least one of the non-academic criteria, such as living in an area with lower socio-economic advantage, having been eligible for free school meals in the last 6 years, receiving the 16-19 bursary, being a pupil premium student, or having been in local authority care for more than 3 months.
- May also qualify if they attend a school or college in the lowest two quintiles for average QCA points per A level student (or equivalent), or if their school/college has received a poor inspection outcome.
- May also qualify if they are an asylum seeker, have refugee status, have significant caring responsibilities, are estranged from close family members, or have experienced significant disruption to their education.
- Students who are first-generation university applicants in their immediate family may also be considered, subject to availability.
Free programme. The residential element is also free to take part in, and travel costs are reimbursed.
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