Gates Scholarship at the University of Cambridge (Fully Funded)

Applications are now open for the Gates Cambridge Scholarship, one of the world’s most prestigious postgraduate funding programs. This scholarship funds outstanding students from all countries outside the United Kingdom who wish to pursue postgraduate degrees at the University of Cambridge. Gates Cambridge offers approximately 70 full-cost scholarships each year to exceptional candidates demonstrating academic excellence, leadership potential, and a commitment to improving the lives of others.

The Gates Cambridge Scholarship is completely fully funded, covering all tuition fees, maintenance costs, airfare, visa fees, and additional living expenses. There is no application fee required to apply. Applications are accepted from citizens of any country outside the UK, with two separate application deadlines depending on your residency status. You can check out BS, MS, PhD and postdoc positions here

Key Details:

• Degree Level: Post Graduate
• Host Country: United Kingdom (University of Cambridge)
• Funding Type: Fully Funded
• Application Deadlines
  • Round 1 (US Residents): Wednesday 14th October 2026 (11:59pm UK time)
  • Round 2 (International): Either Tuesday 8th December 2026 OR Wednesday 6th January 2027 (11:59pm UK time) deadline depends on your course

• Open for All Nationalities: Yes
• Application Fee: None

What This Scholarship Offers:

Financial Support

• Complete coverage of University Composition Fees at the appropriate rate for your program
• Annual maintenance allowance of £23,152 for single students (pro rata for shorter courses)
• Extended funding up to 4 years for PhD scholars
• Fully covered return economy airfare (one at the beginning and one at the end of your course)
• Complete coverage of inbound visa costs and Immigration Health Surcharge

Academic Development

• Academic development funding of £750 to £4,000 for attending conferences, seminars, and professional development courses
• Access to Cambridge’s world-class academic facilities and resources
• Mentorship from leading scholars in your field
• Opportunity to conduct research at one of the world’s top universities

Family and Personal Support

• Dependent Children Allowance of up to £12,793 per child per annum (one child) or £18,244 (two or more children)
• Maternity/paternity funding allowing you to intermit studies for up to 6 months while maintaining your maintenance allowance
• Hardship funding available for unforeseen difficulties
• Fieldwork funding option to maintain your maintenance allowance while conducting PhD fieldwork

Eligibility Criteria:

• Be a citizen of any country OUTSIDE the United Kingdom
• Be applying to pursue an eligible postgraduate course at Cambridge (PhD, MLitt, or one-year taught programs)
• Demonstrate outstanding academic excellence with consistent high achievement
• Be nominated by your academic department as an exceptionally strong applicant
• Provide strong justification for choosing your specific Cambridge course
• For PhD programs: contact a potential supervisor and develop a research project outline
• Show commitment to community service and improving the lives of others
• Demonstrate past and future leadership experience and potential impact
• If currently at Cambridge, apply only for a new postgraduate course
• Current Cambridge students apply in Round 2 (International round) only

Application Timeline

Round 1: US Citizens Resident in the USA

• Applications Open: 11th September 2026
• Application Deadline: Wednesday 14th October 2026 (Full application must be submitted by 11:59pm UK time on the date given)
• Departmental Ranking: Late October to November 2026
• All Applicants Notified of Application Outcome: By 11:59pm UK time on Monday 14th December 2026
• Review and Selection by Panels: Friday 22nd and Saturday 23rd January 2027
• Scholarships Offered: By early February 2027
• Scholarships Accepted: 72 hours after offer

Round 2: All Other Eligible Applicants

• Applications Open: 11th September 2026
• Application Deadline: Dependent on your course – either Tuesday 8th December 2026 or Wednesday 6th January 2027 (Full application must be submitted by 11:59pm UK time on the date given). Check the Course Directory for your specific course deadline.
• Departmental Ranking: December to February 2027
• All Applicants Notified of Application Outcome: By 11:59pm UK time on Monday 8th March 2027
• Review and Selection by Panels: Monday 22nd March and Tuesday 23rd March 2027
• Scholarships Offered: By early April 2027
• Scholarships Accepted: 72 hours after offer

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I apply for the Gates Cambridge Scholarship if I am a dual citizen of the UK and another country?

Yes, dual citizens of the UK and another country are eligible for the Gates Cambridge Scholarship.

Can I apply for a part-time course?

Gates Cambridge is accepting both full-time and part-time PhD applications, but only full-time master’s applications are eligible.

Does the Gates Cambridge Scholarship have a minimum GPA requirement?

There is no minimum GPA requirement. Academic excellence is evaluated holistically throughout your entire application and reference process.

Can I apply for a master’s level program if I already have a master’s degree?

Yes, applying for a second master’s degree does not make you ineligible. You should provide strong justification for pursuing a second master’s course and confirm with your prospective department that this is suitable for you.

Which courses are eligible for the Gates Cambridge Scholarship?

Eligible courses include MPhil, MLitt, MRes, LLM, and PhD programs. Master’s level degrees must be full-time; PhD courses can be full-time or part-time. NOT eligible: PGCert, PGDip, MSt, MASt, MBA, EMBA, MFin, BusD, Doctor of Education, PGCE, MD Doctor of Medicine, Graduate Course in Medicine, or Master of Conservation of Easel Painting.

Can I apply for shared funding between Gates Cambridge and another scholarship?

Yes, you can hold both a Gates Cambridge Scholarship and another award. However, the Gates Cambridge team will contact you to discuss shared funding arrangements to ensure you do not receive duplicate funds (e.g., two maintenance payments).

Does the Gates Cambridge Scholarship require an English language test score?

Gates Cambridge does not require an English language test score, but the University of Cambridge does. Please check the University’s Postgraduate Admissions requirements for more information.

Do I have to provide a research proposal as part of my Gates Cambridge application?

A research proposal is only required for PhD applications where your course application does not already require one.

Do I have to select a supervisor prior to submitting my application?

No, Gates Cambridge does not require you to confirm a supervisor before submission. However, it is advisable to research your prospective department to ensure they can support your research interests.

How many applications can I submit for the Gates Cambridge Scholarship in a given cycle?

You can submit as many applications as you can make to eligible postgraduate courses at Cambridge. For the 2025/6 cycle, the maximum is 7 applications. Each application requires a separate Gates Cambridge funding section.

Can I edit my application once it is submitted?

No, applications cannot be edited after submission. Please review your application carefully before submitting.

How to Apply:

• Step 1: Register and Prepare Your Application
• Step 2: Develop Your Research Project (PhD Applicants)
• Step 3: Prepare Your Supporting Documents
  • Academic transcripts from all universities attended
  • 2-3 academic or professional references
  • CV/Resume highlighting relevant experience
  • Personal statement (typically 500-750 words)
  • Research project outline (for PhD applicants)
  • Evidence of commitment to social impact
  • Examples of leadership experience
  • Proof of English language proficiency (if applicable)
• Step 4: Determine Your Application Round
• Step 5: Complete Your Application