[banek]

Hi! So after a long thinking and considering pros and cons, I decided to reapply to Cambridge this year, as last time it was REALLY close and I wouldn't forgive myself not trying just one more time. I am from Poland and my plan is to come to Cambridge in August, find some job and a room to live in. I want to work all the year to earn my own money and apply once again. But I am a little bit affraid of not finding anything after my arrival. Is it hard (as a foreigner) to find some job and a small place to live and get by? How much is life in Cambridge while you are NOT studying? Is it wise to get there without finding anything before my come? I mean, where should I start searching for a job, a 'flat' and other things? In a few words - how to start? And do you think my plan is at least a little worth trying? Thanks in advance for your help!

[Octohedral]

It's daring, and unless you have some savings or someone to live with if things get tough, I'd think very carefully about it.

Some things to consider;
1. Small-time jobs are hard to come by for anyone, foreigner or not, at the moment, but being foreign in itself shouldn't be a disadvantage, so long as your English is good (sounds like it is ).
2. Cambridge is very expensive, due to its fame and popularity. However, lots of students like house shares, so you could find a group of people to live with and share the cost. Prime house choosing time is Autumn, for the following academic year, so not convenient for you, but if you advertise early there are often groups still looking for a housemate. They may not be students.
3. As I'm sure you know, it's very competitive, so don't put all your hopes into Cambridge.
4. Do you have any particular skills? This may help you find a job.
5. Think very seriously about why you want to come. What would there be for you in England if you don't get in (it's fine if you are happy with this, just so long as you know you aren't doing it for the wrong reasons).

I'm not trying to put you down at all - I admire your bravery a lot! I'm just trying to make sure you think it through properly. I certainly wouldn't come without finding a place to live first. £400 a month is good for a house share with 2-4 other young people, to give you an estimate, but it can go a lot higher. I would also find a job before coming unless you have significant savings, but that could be harder. You can always look for a better job when here, but you want an income. Good luck

Source: I don't live in Cambridge, but I live in Oxford and they are very similar.

[banek]

Thanks a lot for your answer! I know that both Cambridge and Oxford are very hard to get and I also know that there is no quarantee of being accepted this year but I just want to try. I already have 3 offers from other unis but I still want to try again with Cam. I thought about it carefully and I am decided to try. I will be starting with about 1000 pounds of savings - is that enough? I have worked in museums, a few bars and spent a lot of time teaching children and teenagers - would it be helpful? Could you give me some web sites to look for this house share accomodation and maybe some job? I googled some, but I prefer using a checked source Thanks again!

[Freiheit]

I PM'ed you. I wouldn't do it if I were you but you can ask me questions.

[Cinnamon_Twist]

(Original post by banek)
Thanks a lot for your answer! I know that both Cambridge and Oxford are very hard to get and I also know that there is no quarantee of being accepted this year but I just want to try. I already have 3 offers from other unis but I still want to try again with Cam. I thought about it carefully and I am decided to try. I will be starting with about 1000 pounds of savings - is that enough? I have worked in museums, a few bars and spent a lot of time teaching children and teenagers - would it be helpful? Could you give me some web sites to look for this house share accomodation and maybe some job? I googled some, but I prefer using a checked source Thanks again!

I don't think you're actually allowed to have a job during term time when you are studying- AFAIK it's not allowed by the university so you should also think about whether one years' wages after all expenses are taken out will be enough to get you going. What subject are you looking to apply for?