The Gates Cambridge Scholarship 2026/2027 offers one of the most generous and prestigious funding packages for postgraduate study at the University of Cambridge. Established through a donation from the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, this scholarship supports exceptional students from around the world who are committed to making a difference through leadership, research, and service.
Each year, about 75 scholarships are awarded to outstanding applicants outside the UK to pursue a full-time or part-time master’s or PhD program at Cambridge. Roughly two-thirds of these awards go to PhD candidates, and the rest to master’s students.
Scholarship Summary
- Host Country: UK
- Host University: University of Cambridge
- Scholarship Type: MSC Scholarships/PhD Scholarship
- Eligible Countries: All Countries
- Scholarship Benefits: Full tuition fee, Monthly stipend, etc.
Scholarship Benefits of Gates Cambridge Scholarship 2026/2027
The Gates Cambridge Scholarship covers nearly every cost of studying and living in the UK, with an annual value ranging from £35,000 to £66,000. Scholars receive:
- Full payment of University Composition Fees
- A generous maintenance allowance for living expenses
- Coverage of visa fees and the Immigration Health Surcharge
- One return airfare to and from the UK
- Additional discretionary funds for academic development, attending conferences, and support for dependents
See Also:
- Gates Cambridge Scholarship 2026/2027: Fully Funded Study Opportunity in UK
- City University of Hong Kong–Cambridge Master of Finance Scholarship 2026/27: A Fully Funded Opportunity Worth £79,076
- Asian Development Bank Scholarship 2026 | Fully Funded Scholarship in Asia
Eligibility Requirements for Gates Cambridge Scholarship 2026/2027
The Gates Cambridge Scholarship is open to applicants from all countries outside the UK. Candidates must apply to pursue one of the full-time or part-time postgraduate degrees offered at the University of Cambridge.
Applicants are selected based on four main criteria:
- Academic excellence
- Reasons for choosing their course
- Commitment to improving the lives of others
- Leadership potential
Both master’s and PhD applicants are welcome, and there are no restrictions on subject areas.
Documents Required for Gates Cambridge Scholarship 2026/2027
Applicants should prepare the following documents before applying:
- Completed University of Cambridge application form
- Academic transcripts and certificates
- A research proposal (if applicable to the course)
- Personal statement outlining motivation and goals
- Two academic references
- Passport or proof of nationality
If your course application does not include a research proposal question, an additional form must be completed after submission. You’ll find your application number in the Cambridge applicant portal 24 hours after submitting your form.
Scholarship Deadline
The application deadline aligns with the funding deadline for your chosen course at Cambridge. Results for successful international applicants will be announced by 6 April 2026.
Steps on How to Apply
- Apply for admission to the University of Cambridge through their Graduate Admissions Portal.
- Select “Gates Cambridge Scholarship” as your funding option when filling out the application form.
- Complete all required sections, including your personal statement and references.
- Submit your research proposal, if required, or complete the separate form afterward.
- Submit your application before your course funding deadline.
All applications are reviewed jointly by academic experts and the Gates Cambridge Trust based on merit, leadership, and impact potential.
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