Apply now for the Fully Funded Gates Cambridge Scholarship 2025-26 in the UK at the University of Cambridge. Covers tuition fees, living costs, travel, visa, and more. Open to international students for Master’s and PhD programs.
About Gates Cambridge Scholarship 2025-26
The Gates Cambridge Scholarship is one of the most prestigious international scholarships in the UK for postgraduate students at the University of Cambridge. Established in 2000 with a historic $210 million donation from the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, it aims to support talented students from all over the world.
Since its launch, more than 2,000 Gates Cambridge Scholars from 110+ countries have benefited, with over 200 currently enrolled in Cambridge academic programs.
This fully funded scholarship provides complete financial support for international students who want to pursue a full-time Master’s or PhD degree at Cambridge University.
Gates Cambridge Scholarship Coverage
The Gates Cambridge Scholarship 2025 provides full financial support along with additional allowances for personal and professional development.
Benefits include:
- Full tuition fees (University Composition Fee)
- Annual maintenance allowance: £20,000/year
- Economy class airfare at the beginning and end of the course
- Visa fees and Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS)
- Additional funds for fieldwork, academic conferences, or professional development
This makes it one of the most generous scholarships in the UK for international students.
Eligibility Criteria for Gates Cambridge Scholarship
International students can apply if they meet the following requirements:
- Citizenship: Applicants must be from any country outside the UK.
- Eligible Degrees:
- PhD (Doctor of Philosophy)
- MPhil, MLitt, MSc
- One-year postgraduate courses (LLM, MRes, MASt)
- Subject Areas: Open to all academic disciplines offered at the University of Cambridge.
- Application Requirement: Candidates must apply separately to the University of Cambridge and for the Gates Cambridge Scholarship.
Gates Cambridge Selection Criteria
The selection process is highly competitive. Scholars are chosen based on:
- Academic Excellence – Strong academic record, references, and departmental nomination.
- Commitment to Improving Lives – A history of making a positive social impact.
- Leadership Potential – Ability to influence and lead others in future roles.
- Choice of Course – Applicants should choose a course that aligns with the mission of the program.
Duration of Gates Cambridge Scholarship
- Duration: Covers the entire length of the program (1 to 3 years depending on degree).
- Extension: Possible for longer PhD programs with approval.
Gates Cambridge Scholarship 2025 Timeline
- Applications Open: September 2024
- Start of Academic Year: October 2025
- Deadline: Varies by course (generally between December 2024 – January 2025)
How to Apply for Gates Cambridge Scholarship 2025
Applications are submitted via the University of Cambridge Graduate Application Portal.
Application Steps:
- Apply for admission to Cambridge University (choose your course, college, and department).
- Complete the Gates Cambridge section in the application form.
- Submit the following documents:
- Gates Cambridge Statement (max 500 words)
- Research proposal (for PhD applicants)
- Two academic references + One Gates Cambridge reference
Tip: The Gates Cambridge Statement should highlight your leadership skills, commitment to improving lives, and how you fit the program’s mission.
Required Documents
- Academic transcripts and degree certificates
- Gates Cambridge Statement
- Research proposal (PhD only)
- Two academic references
- One Gates Cambridge reference
- Valid passport and English language proficiency proof (IELTS/TOEFL if required)
Gates Cambridge Reference Requirement
Applicants must arrange a separate reference specifically for the scholarship.
The referee should assess:
- Intellectual ability
- Course suitability
- Leadership potential
- Commitment to improving lives
Quick Overview – Gates Cambridge Scholarship 2025
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Scholarship Name | Gates Cambridge Scholarship |
| Host Country | United Kingdom (UK) |
| Host University | University of Cambridge |
| Funded By | Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation |
| Degree Levels | Master’s, PhD, One-Year Programs |
| Financial Coverage | Fully Funded |
| Stipend | £20,000/year |
| Eligibility | International students (Non-UK) |
| Application Deadline | Dec 2024 – Jan 2025 |
FAQs – Gates Cambridge Scholarship 2025
1. What is the Gates Cambridge Scholarship?
It is a fully funded international postgraduate scholarship at the University of Cambridge funded by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation.
2. Who can apply for Gates Cambridge Scholarship?
Students from any country outside the UK who want to study a Master’s or PhD degree at Cambridge.
3. Is the Gates Cambridge Scholarship fully funded?
Yes, it covers tuition fees, living expenses, visa costs, health surcharge, and travel.
4. How much is the Gates Cambridge stipend?
The scholarship provides £20,000 per year for living expenses.
5. Can I apply for undergraduate studies?
No, the scholarship is only for postgraduate (Master’s and PhD) programs.
6. Do I need IELTS/TOEFL for Gates Cambridge Scholarship?
Yes, if English is not your first language, you must submit a valid English test score.
7. How many scholarships are awarded each year?
Around 80 new Gates Cambridge Scholarships are awarded annually.
8. What is the deadline for Gates Cambridge Scholarship 2025?
Deadlines are between December 2024 – January 2025, depending on the course.
9. Can current Cambridge students apply?
Yes, but only if they are applying for a new postgraduate degree.
10. Where can I apply for Gates Cambridge Scholarship?
Applications are submitted via the official University of Cambridge Graduate Application Portal.
Final Words
The Gates Cambridge Scholarship 2025-26 is a life-changing opportunity for bright and passionate students from around the world. By covering all academic and living expenses, this fully funded scholarship in the UK allows international students to focus on their studies, research, and leadership development without financial stress.
If you are committed to academic excellence, improving the lives of others, and building leadership potential, then the University of Cambridge is the perfect place to shape your future. Don’t miss the chance to become part of a powerful global network of Gates Cambridge Scholars and contribute towards making a positive impact worldwide.
Start preparing your application early, gather strong references, and craft a compelling Gates Cambridge statement to maximize your chances of success.
For more opportunities, check out other fully funded scholarships :
- Chevening Scholarship in the UK
- Commonwealth Scholarship 2026
- Open Doors Russian Government Scholarship
- University of Twente Scholarship in Netherlands
- AU Emerging Global Leader Scholarship in USA
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