2026 Gates Cambridge Scholarship, UK | Fully Funded

2026 Gates Cambridge Scholarship in UK | Fully Funded

The Gates Cambridge Scholarship 2026 is one of the most prestigious fully funded opportunities for international students who wish to study at the University of Cambridge.

This scholarship covers full tuition fees, an annual allowance of £21,000, travel costs, visa fees, health insurance, and additional support for dependents.

Established in 2000 through a historic donation from the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, the program has supported over 2,000 scholars from more than 100 countries.

Its mission is to build a global community of future leaders dedicated to improving lives worldwide.

Scholarship Summary

• Host Country: United Kingdom (UK)
• Study Location: University of Cambridge
• Category: Postgraduate | Master’s | PhD
• Eligible Countries: All countries outside the UK
• Rewards: Full Tuition, £21,000 stipend, Travel Costs, Child Allowance, Visa Fees, Health Insurance
• IELTS Required? No
• Deadline: October 15, 2025

About the Gates Cambridge Scholarship

Each year, around 80 full-cost scholarships are awarded to outstanding candidates from outside the UK. The scholarship is open to all fields of study available at Cambridge.

The program provides both financial and non-financial support to scholars, including community-building opportunities, mentorship, and academic development funding. Its aim is to nurture individuals who combine academic excellence with leadership skills and a strong commitment to making a positive impact on society.

Eligibility Criteria

You can apply for the Gates Cambridge Scholarship if you are:

• A citizen of a country outside the UK.
• Applying to pursue one of the following courses at Cambridge:
  • PhD (full-time or part-time)
  • MLitt (full-time)
  • One-year postgraduate course (full-time, with limited exceptions)
• Already a student at Cambridge but seeking admission to a new postgraduate program.

Duration and Rewards

The Gates Cambridge Scholarship covers the full cost of study at Cambridge and offers additional funding where necessary.

Core Benefits:

• Full University Composition Fee.
• Maintenance allowance (£21,000 per year at 2024–25 rate, up to 4 years for PhD).
• One round-trip economy airfare.
• Visa and health surcharge costs.

Additional Discretionary Funding:

• Academic development grants (£500–£2,000).
• Dependent Children Allowance (up to £16,548).
• Fieldwork support for PhD scholars.
• Maternity/paternity leave (up to 6 months).
• Hardship funding for unforeseen challenges.

Selection Criteria

Applicants are selected based on:

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1. Academic excellence (strong transcripts, references, and potential to succeed).
2. Choice of course and its alignment with career goals.
3. Commitment to improving lives through research and leadership.
4. Proven leadership potential.

How to Apply (Step by Step)

1. Submit your application through the University of Cambridge Graduate Application Portal.
2. Complete both the admission section (graduate course + College place) and the funding section (selecting Gates Cambridge and other options).
3. Provide full details about your academic background, achievements, research plans, and suitability for the course.
4. Ensure you complete the dedicated Gates Cambridge funding subsection.
5. Applications will be reviewed by panels, and shortlisted candidates will be invited for an interview.

It is important toPrepare strong references and a compelling personal statement that highlights your academic achievements, leadership qualities, and how your work will contribute to solving global challenges.

Click Here to Apply 

Happy Applying and congratulations in advance!