Gates Cambridge Scholarship 2026

The Gates Cambridge Scholarship 2026-27 is a great chance for students with strong academic abilities and a passion for helping others. It is one of the most prestigious international scholarships in the world, aiming to build a community of future leaders who can bring positive change globally. At Cambridge University, Gates Scholars take part in discussions and research on different topics, including new innovations, global challenges, and possible solutions. In this way, the scholarship also supports the university’s mission of contributing to the betterment of society.

This international scholarship was launched in 2000 by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation. Since then, it has supported outstanding individuals who have made significant contributions in areas like science, technology, arts, human rights, and more. The program provides postgraduate students with top academic resources and opportunities to grow as leaders in their fields.

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Each year, the University of Cambridge awards 80 fully funded scholarships to international students for Master’s and PhD programs in the UK. About one-third of these awards go to PhD candidates. The scholarship not only covers academic expenses but also creates a strong global network of Gates Scholars. This community often builds lifelong personal and professional connections that continue well beyond the students’ time at Cambridge.

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Host Country: UK

Host University: Cambridge University

Financial Assistance: Fully Funded

Degree:

Ph.D.
MSc/MLitt
One year postgraduate course

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Scholarship Value/ Inclusions for Gates Cambridge Scholarship 2026

The Gates Cambridge Scholarship is fully funded and covers all major study and living expenses for international students at the University of Cambridge. The award includes:

Core Funding:

Full tuition fees at Cambridge
Annual living allowance of £21,000 (for 12 months)
One return airfare (to and from the UK)
Visa costs and Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS)

Additional Support (on request):

Conference and academic course funding (£500 – £2,000)
Financial allowance for dependent children
Support for PhD fieldwork expenses
Maternity or paternity leave funding
Hardship funds for unexpected financial challenges

Eligibility Criteria

To apply for the Gates Cambridge Scholarship, you must:

Be a citizen of any country outside the United Kingdom.
Apply for a full-time residential program at the University of Cambridge in one of the following:
- PhD
- MSc/MLitt
- One-year postgraduate course (with some exceptions)
Already hold admission or apply for admission to a Cambridge college.
Show:
- Strong academic ability
- Leadership qualities
- Commitment to improving the lives of others
- A clear match with the mission and values of the Gates Cambridge program

How to Apply?

Applications must be submitted online through the University of Cambridge Graduate Application Portal.
First, select your desired course and college place.
Fill in all required details, including personal information, academic background, and study plan.
Apply for funding in the funding section of the portal. You can apply for several funding opportunities, including the Gates Cambridge Scholarship.
You may apply for more than one course, but each course requires a separate application.
Apply early, as some courses may close before the official deadline if all seats are filled.

Required Documents for Gates Cambridge Scholarship 2026

Personal statement (maximum 3,000 characters)
Research proposal (mandatory for PhD applicants, even if the course itself does not require it)
Three recommendation letters (one can be from a current employer, if applicable)

Deadline

For US citizens: 15 October 2025
For all other international applicants:
- Either 2 December 2025 or 7 January 2026, depending on the chosen course

Official Site