Ready to study at one of the world’s top universities? The Gates Cambridge Scholarship is now open to international students. This fully funded scholarship supports outstanding candidates pursuing a postgraduate degree at the University of Cambridge. This article explains the key benefits, eligibility, selection process, and how to apply for the Gates Cambridge Scholarship.
The Gates Cambridge Scholarship provides full financial support for international students pursuing postgraduate study at the University of Cambridge. It covers the full cost of tuition, maintenance allowance ranging from £35,000 to £50,000 per year, round-trip economy airfare, visa fees, and the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS). In addition, scholars may receive discretionary funding to support academic conferences, fieldwork, and family-related expenses, making it one of the most comprehensive fully funded scholarships in the UK.
Who Can Apply for Gates Cambridge Scholarship 2025-2026
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for the Gates Cambridge Scholarship, applicants must:
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Be a citizen of a country outside the United Kingdom
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Apply for a full-time postgraduate course at the University of Cambridge
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Demonstrate a high academic record and intellectual ability
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Show leadership potential and a commitment to improving the lives of others
Eligible Degree Programs
Gates Cambridge Scholarships are available for a wide range of postgraduate courses in the UK, including:
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Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)
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Master of Philosophy (MPhil)
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Master of Letters (MLitt)
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One-year full-time master’s programs (e.g., LLM, MASt)
Selection Criteria for the Gates Cambridge Scholarship
Candidates are evaluated using four core criteria:
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Academic Excellence: Strong academic background and qualifications
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Course Fit: A clear explanation of why the chosen program is suitable
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Leadership Skills: Experience or potential to influence and guide others
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Commitment to Service: A dedication to making a positive impact globally
These criteria help the Gates Cambridge Trust identify scholars with both talent and purpose.
How to Apply for Gates Cambridge Scholarship 2025-2026
Step-by-Step Application Process
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Choose Your Course
Explore eligible programs on the University of Cambridge Course Directory and select your desired full-time postgraduate course. -
Apply via the Graduate Application Portal
Submit your course and scholarship application through the Cambridge Graduate Admissions Portal. -
Complete the Gates Cambridge Section
Answer scholarship-specific questions within the main application form. -
Submit a Reference for the Scholarship
Include a reference that specifically addresses your fit for the Gates Cambridge Scholarship. -
Upload Required Documents
Provide your academic transcripts, personal statement, CV, and proof of citizenship.
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Gates Cambridge 2025-2026 Application Timeline
For US Citizens (US Round)
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Applications Open: Wednesday, 4 September 2024
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Application Deadline: Wednesday, 16 October 2024 (by 23:59 GMT)
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Results Announced: By Wednesday, 11 December 2024
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Interviews: 24–25 January 2025
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Final Offers Made: By Monday, 3 February 2025
For All Other Applicants (International Round)
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Applications Open: Wednesday, 4 September 2024
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Application Deadline: Varies by course — either 3 December 2024 or 7 January 2025 (by 23:59 GMT)
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Results Announced: By Wednesday, 5 March 2025
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Interviews: 24–25 March 2025 (to be confirmed)
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Final Offers Made: By Monday, 7 April 2025
Check for up-to-date deadline on the Gates Cambridge timeline page.
Number of Awards and Global Reach
Each year, around 80 fully funded Gates Cambridge Scholarships are awarded to top applicants from across the world. Since its launch, the program has supported over 2,000 international scholars from 112+ countries.
Ineligible Courses for the Gates Cambridge Scholarship
The Gates Cambridge Scholarship does not fund the following programs:
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Undergraduate degrees (e.g., BA or affiliated BA)
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MASt (Master of Advanced Study)
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MBA (Master of Business Administration)
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Executive MBA and Global Executive MBA
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MFin (Master of Finance)
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Executive Master of Accounting
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Business Doctorate (BusD)
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PGCE (Postgraduate Certificate in Education)
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MBBChir Clinical Studies
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MD (Doctor of Medicine, 6-year part-time, UK students only)
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Graduate Course in Medicine (A101)
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Part-time degrees (except PhD)
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Non-degree courses
Why Apply for the Gates Cambridge Scholarship?
The scholarship doesn’t just fund your studies. It gives you access to:
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A global network of changemakers and thought leaders
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Opportunities for interdisciplinary collaboration
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Professional and academic development support
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Lifelong connections with Cambridge scholars and alumni
How to Get Started
To apply for the Gates Cambridge Scholarship 2026:
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Choose an eligible course
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Prepare your application materials early
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Visit the official University of Cambridge portal
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Carefully review scholarship requirements and deadlines
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Reach out to your referees well in advance
Scholars must follow the Gates Cambridge application process and submit all documents on time.
Website
For full details and application instructions, visit the Gates Cambridge Scholarship official website.
You may also explore other UK funding options:
