Workshops, Prizes and Scholarships

Thanks to the generosity of our alumni, there are several Mathematics events, prizes and awards. The Quantum Programme funds:

1. Annual one-day STEP Preparation workshop for students in Year 12 who are interested in studying Mathematics at university
2. Annual Residential STEP Preparation workshop for offer holders
3. Quantum Prizes for excellence in the Sixth Term Examination Paper (STEP)
4. Quantum MASt Scholarship for a student who would otherwise be unable to study the Master of Advanced Study (MASt) in Applied Mathematics (Part III Maths).

Teaching and Learning

Robinson is well located for doing Mathematics in Cambridge. The Centre for Mathematical Sciences, where many of the third and fourth year lecture courses take place, is a pleasant five minute walk away from Robinson. First and second year lecture courses take place in the city centre, which is a ten minute walk away. Robinson admits approximately six Mathematics undergraduates per year. The lecture courses are supported by College-based supervisions (in pairs mainly) by College Fellows and Senior Members, and by supervisions given by other members of the Mathematics Faculty. In Robinson there are several Mathematics Fellow, including two Emeritus Professors. 

Social Activities

Robinson Mathematicians are a lively group of individuals. There is a student run session to welcome first year Mathematicians on arrival and we meet as a group a couple of weeks later for a formal dinner in the College Hall. At the end of the Easter term we meet again for our traditional annual barbeque. Mathematicians at Robinson also often meet informally together to solve mathematical problems, to study mathematics together, and to socialise. 

What makes a viable application?

Applicants need to expect, or have achieved, high grades in Mathematics at GCE A level (or equivalent) and in STEP papers, which test the more challenging material in the A level Mathematics and Further Mathematics syllabuses. A high grade in Further Mathematics at A level is required. Given the nature of Mathematics as it is taught at Cambridge it is also desirable to have A level Physics, although applicants without Physics will be seriously considered. 

In line with overall College policy, we try to interview all applicants who we think have a realistic chance of being offered a place - a large fraction of those who apply. In deciding whether you have a realistic chance of an offer we look at your GCSE performance, your predicted grades at A level or the equivalent, your UCAS application and your My Cambridge Application. 

Admissions process at Robinson College

Mathematics applicants are asked to attend two subject interviews, each of approximately 30 minutes. The interviews are based around discussion of mathematical problems to assess your approach, rather than a test of prior knowledge. 

Updated July 2023