CAMP
Discover the project guiding African applicants to Cambridge.
Overview
The Cambridge Africa Mentorship Programme (CAMP) is a pioneering initiative designed to increase the application and success rate of African postgraduate applicants to the University of Cambridge. African students currently represent only about 2% of the international student population at Cambridge—a statistic CAMP aims to change by addressing the key barriers faced by applicants. These include a lack of knowledge about the application process, difficulties in obtaining strong references, and the financial burden of application and English proficiency test fees. CAMP provides a structured support system to guide applicants, ensuring they have the tools and resources needed to navigate the process confidently and successfully.
Running annually from September to December, CAMP operates through a combination of general webinars and one-to-one mentorship sessions. The webinars cover key topics such as writing personal statements and research proposals, contacting supervisors, securing funding, and preparing strong applications. In parallel, each applicant is paired with a Cambridge student, alum, or staff member for tailored mentorship sessions designed to address their specific needs. All sessions are held online to ensure accessibility across the continent. For applicants facing financial hardship, CAMP also offers application fee support, making the process more equitable and inclusive.
For any questions about the programme, please contact the CAMP team at ascumentorship@gmail.com.
For Mentors
Benefits. Becoming a CAMP mentor is a rewarding opportunity to drive meaningful change by supporting talented African applicants aspiring to join the University of Cambridge. By mentoring, you contribute to promoting diversity and inclusion, empowering underrepresented groups, and helping bridge the gap for African postgraduate applicants. This role allows you to make a tangible impact while enhancing your own leadership and mentorship skills.
Responsibilities. As a mentor, you will dedicate at least one hour per week to provide one-to-one support to your mentee(s). Responsibilities include offering guidance on the Cambridge application process, reviewing CVs, personal statements, and project proposals, and providing feedback on scholarship and funding applications. You may also assist mentees in contacting referees and supervisors, conduct mock interviews, and help track their progress throughout the programme. Additionally, you are required to attend a short introductory training session at the start of the programme.
Requirements. Mentors must be postgraduate students (master’s or doctoral level), postdoctoral researchers, postgraduate alumni, or academic staff affiliated with the University of Cambridge. A strong commitment to fostering diversity, inclusivity, and academic excellence is essential to support mentees effectively and ensure their success.
Deadlines. Applications for CAMP mentors typically open in May and close in August. Mentors are then paired with mentees in preparation for admission applications opening in September. If you are interested in applying, please submit the CAMP Mentor Application (2024–25).
For Mentees
Benefits. Becoming a CAMP mentee offers invaluable support for African applicants navigating the postgraduate application process at the University of Cambridge. As a mentee, you will receive free, tailored guidance from a current or former member of the university in your field of interest. The programme provides comprehensive resources and one-to-one mentoring to help with every step of the application process, including contacting supervisors, securing references, writing CVs and personal statements, and applying for funding. Additional benefits include mock interviews, progress tracking, limited need-based financial support for application fees, and insights into life at Cambridge. CAMP also connects you with a network of inspiring African scholars, creating a supportive community of individuals pursuing academic excellence. By joining CAMP, you not only gain practical support but also a lasting experience that empowers you to thrive in your academic journey.
Requirements. To qualify as a mentee, you must be from the African continent or the African diaspora and demonstrate academic excellence. CAMP particularly encourages applications from women, individuals living in conflict zones in Africa, and persons with disabilities. The application process involves providing personal details, academic background, research experience, financial information, and a copy of your CV. Successful applicants join a supportive community designed to empower and guide them through their Cambridge application journey.
Deadlines. Applications for CAMP mentees typically open in July and close in August. Mentees are then paired with mentors in preparation for admission applications opening in September. If you are interested in applying, please submit the CAMP Mentee Application (2024–25).
Testimonials
MAAME OFORI
PhD Candidate in Pharmacology
CAMP was a crucial factor in my successful admission to Cambridge…The constant availability of my mentor, who was always there to answer any questions, was incredibly comforting. This support made the entire process feel less overwhelming.
ENOCH ALEX
PhD Candidate in Physiology
This initiative didn’t just guide me; it transformed my journey…They offered tailored advice on every facet of my application: refining my research proposal, polishing my personal statement, and even conducting mock interviews that sharpened my confidence.
MAUREEN ABEL
MPhil Candidate in African Studies
CAMP played a pivotal role in my journey by providing the guidance I needed to navigate the application process successfully…If you are a student from Africa looking for guidance while applying to competitive graduate programs, CAMP is the perfect place to start.