Academic support

Studying at Cambridge can be very challenging, but there is lots of support available. It can take time to adapt to new ways of working and to develop the skills your course requires.

Who to talk to

Undergraduate students

For undergraduate students, Colleges usually assign a Director of Studies (often referred to as a DoS).

Your DoS is responsible for your academic welfare and is a key contact if you’re having difficulties with your course.

Your DoS can provide academic support such as:

• regular oversight and review of your progress

• advice on study methods and support if you’re experiencing difficulties with your course or supervisors

• initial careers advice and provision of references

• acting as a liaison between you and your supervisor or Department

Sometimes it can be hard to tell the difference between pastoral and academic issues.

If circumstances are affecting your attendance or performance on your course, your Director of Studies, supervisor, or Course Director can offer support. If a pastoral matter is impacting your studies, they may work with your College Tutor or a member of the College welfare team — and will normally do so with your consent.

Postgraduate students

For postgraduate students, your Faculty or Department is usually your main source of academic support.

If you’re on a taught master’s course, your Course Director or Course Administrator can help with any academic issues.

If you’re a research student, maintaining an open and constructive relationship with your supervisor will help you navigate challenges positively. It can take time and effort to build a good professional relationship, so don’t be discouraged if it doesn’t happen right away.

You can also approach your College Tutor for support.

They can provide a listening ear and confidential support, and signpost you to relevant services in your College, the University, or beyond. You might talk to your College Tutor about:

• mental health or wellbeing concerns

• financial worries

• difficulties with your academic work

• applications for help from the University, including financial assistance or deadline extensions

• anything else that’s making life challenging

Resources

Developing your academic skills

• Learn more about ways to develop your academic skills while you’re at Cambridge.

• CamGuides is a set of resources for both Undergraduate and Postgraduate students. It covers academic and information skills you’ll use and develop during your degree.

• The Wellbeing Thesis is an online resource for postgraduate research students covering wellbeing, learning and research.

Exam information

• The University provides exam information on a range of topics including:

  • enrolling for your papers / registration

  • accessing key policies and guidance

  • viewing exam timetables

  • ensuring academic integrity / research integrity

  • applying for reasonable adjustments

  • thesis submission and examination (for PGR students)

  • Find exam information for Undergraduate and Postgraduate Taught students. 

  • Find exam information for Postgraduate Research students.

Wellbeing resources

Remember to take care of both your body and your mind while preparing for and taking exams.

Mental health researcher Dr Olivia Remes shares her best tips, including one she uses herself in the video below.

• Student Minds offers tips and tools that can help while you're at university, including steps to lower your stress levels in the lead up to an exam.