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About the Gates Cambridge Scholarship
The Gates Cambridge Scholarship is a fully funded scholarship offered by Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation (University of Cambridge) for study in United Kingdom (Cambridge). The scholarship supports students pursuing Masters and PhD studies in Any subject available at the University of Cambridge. Recipients receive £22,050/year maintenance allowance (12 months) + full University Composition Fee (tuition) + academic development funding up to £2,000 + family allowance up to £17,375 + inbound visa costs + Immigration Health Surcharge for a duration of 1 year (one-year postgraduate courses), up to 2 years (MSc/MLitt), up to 4 years (PhD).
Eligible applicants: Citizens of any country outside the United Kingdom. Academic standing: Outstanding academic record, minimum GPA 3.5+ (US), first-class or strong upper-second-class honours equivalent for other countries, highly competitive (1.4% acceptance rate).
If you meet the eligibility requirements and align with the Gates Cambridge Scholarship selection criteria, this represents a life-changing opportunity to study with full financial support. Read the sections below carefully to understand the benefits, eligibility, application process, and deadline before applying.
Scholarship Benefits & What's Covered
Selected recipients of the Gates Cambridge Scholarship receive a comprehensive funding package. Here's what the scholarship covers:
- Stipend and allowances: £22,050/year maintenance allowance (12 months) + full University Composition Fee (tuition) + academic development funding up to £2,000 + family allowance up to £17,375 + inbound visa costs + Immigration Health Surcharge
- Tuition fees: Yes
- Accommodation: Maintenance allowance covers accommodation
- Airfare / travel: Yes (one economy return airfare at start and end of course)
- Health insurance: Yes (Immigration Health Surcharge covered)
- Family / dependants: Yes (family allowance up to £17,375)
- Program duration: 1 year (one-year postgraduate courses), up to 2 years (MSc/MLitt), up to 4 years (PhD)
- Number of awards per year: 80 scholarships per year (approx. 25 US round + 55 international round)
The scholarship is classified as Fully Funded. This means recipients receive complete financial coverage throughout their study period, allowing them to focus entirely on their academic and research goals without financial burden.
Eligibility Requirements
To be considered for the Gates Cambridge Scholarship, applicants must meet the following requirements. Applications from ineligible candidates are automatically rejected, so review these carefully before applying.
Academic requirements
- Minimum degree level: Master's, MPhil, MLitt, and PhD (Postgraduate only)
- Academic standing: Outstanding academic record, minimum GPA 3.5+ (US), first-class or strong upper-second-class honours equivalent for other countries, highly competitive (1.4% acceptance rate)
- Academic background: Bachelor's degree completed or in final year (for Master's applicants), Master's or Bachelor's with strong record (for PhD applicants), demonstrated academic excellence, leadership potential, commitment to improving others' lives
- Fields of study: Any subject available at the University of Cambridge
Nationality & residency
- Eligible countries: Citizens of any country outside the United Kingdom
- Residency: Must be a citizen of any country outside the UK, US round for US citizens resident in USA, international round for all others
Language requirements
- Language of instruction: English
- Language test: Yes (for non-native English speakers, per Cambridge's standard requirements)
- Minimum score: IELTS 7.5 overall
Other requirements
- Age: No fixed age limit
- Gender: Open to all genders
How to Apply for the Gates Cambridge Scholarship
Applications for the Gates Cambridge Scholarship are submitted through the official channels of Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation (University of Cambridge). Follow these steps to submit a strong application:
Step 1: Verify eligibility. Confirm you meet every requirement listed above, particularly nationality, academic level, and language proficiency. Applications from ineligible candidates are automatically rejected without review.
Step 2: Prepare required documents. You will need to submit: Cambridge graduate application, academic transcripts, statement of purpose, Gates Cambridge statement, CV, two academic references (plus one Gates-specific personal reference), research proposal (for PhD applicants). Prepare each document carefully, reviewers typically shortlist based on document quality and completeness.
Step 3: Secure reference letters. Yes (2 academic references + 1 Gates Cambridge personal reference). Contact your referees early. References take time to prepare.
Step 4: Submit the application. Complete the application on the official portal before the deadline. The application deadline for this scholarship is 6 Jan 2027. Late or incomplete applications are not considered.
Step 5: Await response. Shortlisting typically takes 4–8 weeks after the deadline. Successful candidates are invited to interview or additional assessment. Final decisions are announced 3–6 months after the application deadline.
Application Deadline
The application deadline for the Gates Cambridge Scholarship is 6 Jan 2027. Application window: 2026-09-11.
We strongly recommend starting your application at least 6–8 weeks before the deadline to allow sufficient time for document preparation, reference letter requests, and revisions to your personal statement. Rushed applications are visibly weaker and reduce your chance of shortlisting.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Gates Cambridge Scholarship fully funded?
The scholarship is classified as Fully Funded. This means it covers all or most major costs — see the Benefits section above for a full breakdown.
Who can apply for the Gates Cambridge Scholarship?
Applicants must be from Citizens of any country outside the United Kingdom. Additionally, applicants must hold Master's, MPhil, MLitt, and PhD (Postgraduate only). Full eligibility criteria including language, age, and academic requirements are detailed in the Eligibility section above.
What is the application deadline?
The application deadline for the Gates Cambridge Scholarship is 6 Jan 2027. Late applications are not accepted, so aim to submit at least 2 weeks in advance.
Is there a bond or return obligation?
No formal bond.
Where do I apply?
Apply directly on the official portal: Application Link. ScholarshipSpace does not process applications on their behalf.