New Delhi: The University of Cambridge has announced that it will now accept Indian CBSE Class 12 scores for admission to select undergraduate courses, marking a significant step to widen access for Indian students.

The decision was announced by a senior Cambridge delegation during its recent visit to India, aimed at encouraging talented students to apply to the university. The move forms part of Cambridge's plan to broaden undergraduate entry pathways for students educated in India.

In an official statement, the university said the CBSE Class XII qualification will be considered alongside additional requirements where necessary. It also said it is exploring new philanthropic avenues to fund scholarships for meritorious Indian students.

The announcement coincided with the launch of the Cambridge-India Centre for Advanced Studies (CAS), which will focus on innovation, research and learning. The centre will serve as a hub for the university's presence in India and promote academic collaboration, policy engagement and societal impact.

The CAS will include a Centre for Advanced Research and Synthesis, a Knowledge-Policy-Innovation Hub, and a Learning Hub offering scholarships and mobility programmes.

Cambridge has also set up the Cambridge India Research Foundation, a Section 8 company, to support Indian students and research partnerships.

Founded in 1209, Cambridge has a long association with India and has produced several prominent Indian scholars and leaders.