Gates Cambridge Scholarship
The Gates Cambridge Scholarship is a prestigious postgraduate award offered by the Gates Cambridge Trust to outstanding international students (excluding UK citizens) pursuing full-time PhD, MLitt, or one-year postgraduate courses at the University of Cambridge. Established with a significant donation from the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, the programme aims to build a global network of future leaders committed to improving the lives of others through academic excellence, leadership, and social impact. Approximately 80 scholarships are awarded annually, with two-thirds going to PhD students.
The scholarship fully funds the cost of study, covering the University Composition Fee (tuition), a maintenance allowance (£21,000 for 12 months at 2024-25 rates, pro-rated for shorter courses, up to 4 years for PhDs), economy airfare to and from the UK, inbound visa costs, and the Immigration Health Surcharge. Additional discretionary funding may be available for academic development (£500-£2,000), family allowances (up to £16,548 for children), fieldwork, maternity/paternity leave, and hardship. It does not cover bench fees or equipment.
Selection emphasizes academic excellence, justification for the Cambridge course, commitment to improving lives, and leadership potential. Scholars join a vibrant community at Cambridge, benefiting from non-financial support and lifelong networking.
Eligibility Requirements
- Citizen of any country outside the United Kingdom
- Applying to pursue one of: PhD (full- or part-time), MLitt (full-time), or one-year full-time postgraduate course at University of Cambridge (some exceptions)
- Current Cambridge students eligible for a new postgraduate course (e.g., MPhil to PhD); considered in international round
- Ineligible: UK undergraduate degrees, MASt, most part-time except PhD, professional degrees like MBA, PGCE, MD (part-time Home), etc.
For thorough eligibility and selection information, visit the official website or contact the organizers directly.