Collegiate Cambridge alumni are a distinguished group: engaged and passionate, with a keen sense of purpose and an even keener enjoyment of their Cambridge connections. Our multifaceted community benefits immensely from all its members, strengthening with every addition. 

Now, starting with the 2024-25 academic year, the definition of who can use the title of University of Cambridge alumnus/a is expanding to include everyone who has received a qualification of the University.  This means either a degree, certificate or diploma at undergraduate or postgraduate level. 

And the fantastic range of alumni benefits that you’ve been enjoying – from exclusive events and networking opportunities to local discounts and journal access, to name just a few of the perks – can now be offered to a broader Cambridge community. 

As our valued existing alumni, there’s plenty in it for you: a fresh influx of fascinating new Cambridge peers is yours to access across events, networking, career connections, and more. Accomplished and ambitious, with new stories to tell and so much to offer—who knows who you might meet?    

Why the change? 

The University of Cambridge prides itself on creating an inclusive culture. As other universities globally are ‘early adopters’ in re-framing the definition of alumni amongst their institutions, we too feel that broadening our alumni network strengthens Cambridge in so many important ways. 

That’s why, last year, the University reviewed its provision for part-time students to ensure equal access to support and benefits, including after completing their course.  As part of this review, it was agreed that students who completed an approved course would have alumni status and be entitled to receive alumni benefits. 

According to Clare Monaghan, Director of Alumni Engagement: ‘I am delighted to see our community growing! This step brings more remarkable Cambridge people into the alumni family, expanding our strong and committed network. In this world of connections, we want to make the most of ours.’ 

The Institute of Continuing Education (ICE) is a great example of the merits of this approach. ICE alumna Sara completed her Master of Studies in Creative Writing in 2016, graduating with distinction. Within three years, her debut novel had won the 2019 Costa First Novel Award. “The MSt in Creative Writing at ICE was the first door I opened towards becoming a novelist,” she said. “Without the course, I wouldn’t have had the courage to submit my then-unfinished novel to the Lucy Cavendish Fiction Prize, which led to an offer of representation from my agent.” 

Margaret is currently in her seventh year of study at ICE, where she has steadily progressed through a three-year Diploma, a two-year Advanced Diploma, and is now in her second year of the MSt programme in History of Art and Visual Culture: “When I stepped away from full-time work, I was eager to deepen my understanding of art history in a way that was accessible and flexible, yet academically rigorous. The teaching at ICE has been exceptional and truly enriched my life. What has kept me engaged is not only the subject matter but also the inspiration I’ve found in the courses, teachers, and tutors.” 

Skilled and brilliant, newly-recognised alumni like these are set to add greater depth and richness to our community and bring their own regional, national and global platforms for promoting Cambridge. 

Unquestionably, University of Cambridge alumni are a rare and valuable resource – to the University, each other and the world. You’re our best ambassadors, our most passionate advocates and our greatest achievement. Expanding and strengthening our alumni networks is a step towards meeting our commitment to building an inclusive culture and community, and we appreciate your continued support.