This page aims to answer some of the more common general questions that are asked
by potential applicants. If you would like further information not explained in these pages, please contact the Tutorial Office (tutorial@wolfson.cam.ac.uk), where the staff will be happy to help you, or forward your enquiry as appropriate.
How do I apply?
You must apply first through the University's Graduate Admissions Office. See also the
section on Graduate Admissions.
Will I be offered accommodation?
In the vast majority of cases, yes. We accommodate graduate students for any three of the four years of their course. (Please note that graduates who start in the Lent and Easter terms will have a reduced choice of rooms.)
The only circumstances in which accommodation cannot be guaranteed are:
- If your admission is confirmed very late in the admissions round. We can normally guarantee accommodation if your place is confirmed by 31 July for Michaelmas entry, and are often able to provide a room for those whose places are confirmed later than this date, but we cannot guarantee immediate availability.
- If you wish to live in College with young children. The College has five dedicated family units on site, but demand for these usually exceeds supply. If you are applying with a family, you are advised to contact the Tutorial Office for advice about available accommodation.
Applicants are reminded that, as explained in the Graduate Prospectus, if they decline the offer of a College place there is no certainty that they will receive an alternative offer.
What is the accommodation like? Do rooms have internet access?
See the website sections on accommodation, and computing facilities.
Does Wolfson have open days?
We welcome visits from potential applicants for College tours at any time – please contact the Tutorial Office if interested (tutorial@wolfson.cam.ac.uk).
Why do I need to become a member of a College?
All students of Cambridge University are required to become a member of a College. It is our responsibility to enable you to matriculate at the beginning of your course and graduate at its completion. On matriculation all the facilities and resources of the College are at your disposal throughout your course. Once admitted, you are a member of Wolfson College for life.
If I live locally and have other arrangements for accommodation during the residential periods, do I still need to pay a College Fee?
Yes. Your College Fee is a membership fee enabling you to make use of all the facilities and resources of the college throughout your course.
What is the role of my College Tutor?
The main responsibility of the College Tutor is to provide pastoral support. They will be a constant contact that you will maintain throughout your studies.
As a part-time student can I book College accommodation outside my residential periods?
Yes. College accommodation outside your residential periods can be booked via the Accommodation Office, subject to availability. This can be particularly useful for part-time students if you wish to take advantage of the extended opening hours of the Lee Library facilities for quiet study.
What are the dining arrangements in College?
Students make their own arrangements for catering. Each College room has access to shared catering facilities and students may also take meals in the College Dining Hall.
Can my spouse/partner/family participate in College life?
Yes. We make a point of welcoming the spouses/partners of our members and they are encouraged to participate fully in College life.
What are the opening hours of the Library?
Access to the library is by Smart card, which all College members have, and is available 24 hours a day. All College members have borrowing rights, and there are the usual computer terminals giving information on what is available at the University Library.
Will I have internet access in my room?
Yes. Student rooms have internet access and for those who wish to connect their personal computers to the College network there is a small fee. Students may also use the College Library’s computer laboratory, which is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week.