Cambridge Arts and Sciences (CATS and CSVPA)

Cambridge Arts and Sciences brings two distinct academic communities under one registered institution. CATS Cambridge is centred on GCSE, A level and university foundation study, while the Cambridge School of Visual and Performing Arts takes a different route through foundation and further-education courses in the arts. Both parts are co-educational and international, but they serve different stages and ambitions.

For CATS students, the course is the organising feature of college life. GCSE, A level and foundation routes lead towards different next steps, with teaching, pastoral support and university preparation closely linked. CSVPA adds a specialist arts direction, with programme, age and intended destination shaping the particular Cambridge setting a student joins.

The campus experience combines study and residence. More than 30 activities include coding, STEM, robotics, sport and astronomy, while boarding provides supervised accommodation, catering and shared spaces. Younger boarders use Elizabeth House and older students live in other residences, giving the different age groups an appropriate residential base within the wider community.

Admission begins with a visit, either in person or online, followed by an application and recent school information. Requirements vary by programme and may include grades, English-language evidence or enrolment documents before a place becomes firm. Course choice, fees and boarding arrangements are built into the admissions route, reflecting the different CATS and CSVPA programmes.