Gates Cambridge Scholarship 2026 – UK (Fully Funded)
About the University of Cambridge and Gates Cambridge Scholarship
The University of Cambridge is a world-leading institution renowned for academic excellence and research innovation. The Gates Cambridge Scholarship program, established in 2000 through a $210 million donation from the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, aims to nurture the next generation of global leaders. Each year, approximately 80 full-cost scholarships are awarded to outstanding international applicants seeking postgraduate degrees at Cambridge.
The scholarship prioritizes four key criteria: intellectual ability, leadership potential, commitment to improving the lives of others, and justification for the chosen course. Gates Cambridge Scholars also join a vibrant global network of over 1,700 alumni, fostering long-term academic and professional collaboration.
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Degree Level
Master’s
PhD
Available Subjects
All academic disciplines offered at the University of Cambridge
Two-thirds of scholarships are for PhD students
Open to fields across Cambridge’s departments and colleges
Scholarship Benefits
Core Financial Support:
University Composition Fee: Covers full tuition fees
Maintenance Allowance:
PhD Students: Up to £21,000 per year for up to 4 years
Other Students: Pro-rated based on course duration
Travel Costs: Economy airfare to/from Cambridge
Visa Costs: Includes inbound visa fees and Immigration Health Surcharge
Discretionary Support:
Academic Development Funding: Up to £2,000 for conferences and courses
Dependent Children Allowance: Up to £16,548 for two or more children
Fieldwork Funding: Maintains allowance during fieldwork for PhD students
Maternity/Paternity Funding: Maintains allowance during up to six months of study leave
Hardship Funding: Assistance for unforeseen financial difficulties
Important Notes:
Maintenance allowance may be reduced if you receive a salary or other substantial scholarship
Bench fees and equipment costs are expected to be covered by the academic department
Eligibility Criteria
Must be a citizen of a country outside the UK
Must be applying for a postgraduate degree at Cambridge: PhD, MLitt, or one-year postgraduate courses
Current Cambridge students may apply for a new degree, but not to fund ongoing courses
Must demonstrate strong academic excellence, leadership, and commitment to societal impact
Non-eligible courses include most undergraduate degrees, some Master’s (MASt, business-related), part-time degrees (except pilot PhD program), and non-degree courses
Application Procedure
Use the University of Cambridge Graduate Application Portal
Sections:
Admission Section: Select course and College, provide academic background and personal details
Funding Section: Apply for Gates Cambridge Scholarship via sub-section
Required Documents:
Gates Cambridge Statement (500 words) explaining intellectual ability, leadership, commitment to improving lives, and justification for course
Research Proposal (PhD applicants only)
Gates Cambridge Reference from a qualified referee
Ensure references submit before deadlines
Key Highlights
Full-cost scholarships for international postgraduate students
Approximately 80 awards each year (25 for US applicants, 55 for International applicants)
Supports a global network of scholars and alumni
Encourages leadership, academic excellence, and societal impact
Eligible Nationalities
Open to all international students outside the UK
Learn More & Apply: Gates Cambridge Scholarship 2026