Cambridge vs NTU: Complete Comparison 2026
Side-by-side look at University of Cambridge and Nanyang Technological University: QS 2026 ranks 5 vs 12. Acceptance, tuition, language tests, and typical IB/A…
→ University of Cambridge profile → Nanyang Technological University profile
Summary comparison
Figures come from the GlobalAdmit dataset — always confirm on each university’s official admissions site.
| Metric | University of Cambridge | Nanyang Technological University |
|---|---|---|
| QS rank 2026 | 5 | 12 |
| Country | GB 🇬🇧 | SG 🇸🇬 |
| Acceptance rate | 21% | 7% |
| Tuition (intl / yr) | $44,000 | $21,000 |
| Language (summary) | IELTS 7.5+ · TOEFL 110+ · Duolingo 135+ | IELTS 6+ · TOEFL 90+ · Duolingo 105+ |
| IB typical | 40–42/45 | 36/45 |
| A-Level typical | A*A*A | AAA |
Strengths
University of Cambridge
- Globally elite QS band (top 10 in 2026).
- Large, diverse international student body.
- UK-style undergraduate depth with strong research postgraduate pathways.
Nanyang Technological University
- Top 30 global recognition in QS World University Rankings 2026.
- Highly selective admissions profile.
- Distinct academic brand and a global alumni footprint.
Popular majors (overlap)
Where both profiles list the same popular major label (case-insensitive).
No overlapping popular-major labels in our dataset yet — open each profile for subject-level detail.
Which is right for you?
If rankings are your north star
Cambridge sits higher in QS 2026 (5 vs 12). That often correlates with research intensity and global name recognition — but NTU can still win on programme fit, city, or cost.
If budget is the deciding factor
All-in signals favour NTU on tuition plus living costs in our dataset — re-check official fee schedules because currency, programme, and visa rules move yearly.
If you are coming from IB / A-Levels / US high school
Compare the admission tabs on each profile: Cambridge vs NTU can invert depending on whether you are optimising for IB typical offers, A-level expectations, or US-style testing. Use the evaluator after you narrow your list.
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