The Gates Cambridge Scholarship is a prestigious international postgraduate scholarship program established in 2000 through a $210 million donation from the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation. It supports outstanding students from outside the UK to pursue full-time postgraduate degrees at the University of Cambridge. The scholarship emphasizes leadership, academic excellence, and a commitment to improving the lives of others globally.
The Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation launched the Gates Cambridge scholarship for students from abroad. Since the inception of this fellowship program in 2000, it has generated several individuals with significant global influence. The postgraduates from Gates have left their marks in nearly every aspect of life. In the fields of science, technology, music, art, human rights, etc., they have excelled. This is because the Cambridge University Bill and Melinda Gates Scholarship offers postgraduate scholars outstanding academic resources and opportunities.
Eighty scholarships are available for overseas postgraduate students to study a master’s or doctorate in the UK through Cambridge University’s best scholarship program. Nearly one-third of these Gates scholars are pursuing a PhD. Furthermore, this fully-funded prize at the top institute in the UK brings together a group of skilled and resourceful students who together form the Gates scholar community. In terms of interpersonal and professional ties, this community network endures throughout time.
The highest grant made to a single UK university is the Gates Scholarship. The Gates Foundation has contributed US $120 million for this full-cost scholarship because it is steadfast in its efforts to combat poverty, illness, and inequality worldwide. This demonstrates how committed the group is to advancing equality. The fully-funded international scholarship program in the UK provides exceptional and talented individuals with a means of entering the most prominent universities in the world without having to worry about their financial situation.
Application Guidelines of Gates Cambridge Scholarship
- Applicants must apply for admission to a postgraduate degree (Master’s or PhD) at the University of Cambridge first.
- The scholarship application is submitted simultaneously through the University’s admission portal.
- Two application rounds:
- Round 1 (US Citizens): October (annual).
- Round 2 (International): December/January (varies by course).
Gates Cambridge Scholarship University
University of Cambridge – A world-renowned institution ranked among the top universities globally for research, innovation, and academic excellence.
Location of the Gates Cambridge Scholarship
Cambridge, England, United Kingdom.
Degree Level
- Master’s (e.g., MPhil, MASt, MLitt)
- PhD (full-time research programs)
Gates Cambridge Scholarship Coverage
- Full tuition fees.
- Monthly stipend (£18,384–£23,298 annually, depending on program).
- Airfare tickets (one economy round-trip).
- Visa and immigration health surcharge costs.
- Discretionary funding for academic development, family allowances, and fieldwork.
Eligible Nationality
Open to all nationalities except UK citizens (separate funding streams for UK residents).
Award Country
United Kingdom.
Duration
- Master’s: 1 year.
- PhD: Up to 4 years.
Last Date
- US Applicants: Early October.
- International Applicants: Early December or January (varies by course).
Purpose of Gates Cambridge Scholarship
To build a global network of future leaders committed to improving the lives of others by addressing global challenges in health, social equity, technology, and sustainability.
Eligibility Criteria for Gates Cambridge Scholarship
- Outstanding academic achievement (typically top 10% of peers).
- Leadership potential and a dedication to societal impact.
- Admission to a postgraduate program at Cambridge.
- No age restrictions.
Benefits of Gates Cambridge Scholarship
- Full financial support.
- Access to exclusive leadership programs and networking events.
- Membership in the Gates Cambridge Scholar community.
Application Process
- Apply to your chosen postgraduate course at Cambridge.
- Complete the Gates Cambridge section in the admission portal.
- Submit:
- Research proposal (PhD applicants).
- Academic references.
- Personal statement highlighting leadership and societal impact.
Documents Required for Gates Cambridge Scholarship
- University admission documents (transcripts, CV, research proposal).
- Scholarship-specific essays (500-word statement on fit with Gates mission).
- Two academic references.
- Proof of English proficiency (e.g., IELTS/TOEFL).
Application Deadline
Varies by applicant category (October or December/January). Check the official website for exact dates.
Application Tips
- Align your essays with the Gates mission of global leadership and societal change.
- Secure strong references that highlight your leadership and academic rigor.
- Proofread meticulously and submit early.
How to Apply
- Visit the University of Cambridge Graduate Admission Portal.
- Select your course and complete the application.
- Tick the “Gates Cambridge Scholarship” option and upload required materials.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I apply for multiple courses?
A: No, you may apply for only one course per year.
Q: Is the scholarship open to part-time students?
A: No, it’s only for full-time postgraduate programs.
Q: Can I defer the scholarship?
A: Deferrals are rarely permitted; contact the Trust directly.
