Gates Cambridge Scholarship 2027-28 in UK | Fully Funded
Accepting applications Fully Funded

Gates Cambridge Scholarship 2027-28 in UK | Fully Funded

Last updated Sep 13, 2026

Country
United Kingdom
Level
masters, phd
Organization
Gates Cambridge Trust at the University of Cambridge
Field
All Fields
Funding
fully funded

Overview

The Gates Cambridge Scholarship is a prestigious fully-funded opportunity for outstanding international students to pursue postgraduate degrees at the University of Cambridge in the United Kingdom. Established by a historic donation from the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, the scholarship aims to build a global network of future leaders committed to improving the lives of others. Approximately 80 full-cost scholarships are awarded each year, with about two-thirds going to PhD students.

Coverage

The scholarship is fully funded and covers the full cost of studying at Cambridge. This includes: the University Composition Fee (tuition fees) at the appropriate rate; a maintenance allowance for a single student (£22,050 for 12 months at the 2025-26 rate, pro rata for shorter courses, and up to 4 years for PhD scholars); one economy single airfare at both the beginning and end of the course; inbound visa costs; and the cost of the Immigration Health Surcharge. Additionally, discretionary funding is available on request for: conference and course funding (£750–£4,000), dependent children allowance, maintenance support during PhD fieldwork, maternity/paternity leave funding, and hardship support for unforeseen situations.

Eligibility

Applicants must be citizens of any country outside the United Kingdom. They must be applying to pursue one of the following full-time residential postgraduate courses at the University of Cambridge: PhD, MSc/MLitt, or a one-year postgraduate course (excluding certain specific courses). Successful candidates will demonstrate outstanding intellectual ability, leadership potential, a strong commitment to improving the lives of others, and a good fit with the Gates Cambridge program.

Requirements

To apply, candidates must submit an online application via the University’s Graduate Application Portal. Required documents include: a personal statement (no more than 3000 characters); a research proposal (mandatory for PhD applicants, even if not required by their chosen course or college); and three reference letters (one of which can be from a current employer if applicable).

How to apply

Applicants must apply online through the University of Cambridge's Graduate Application Portal. The process involves first choosing a specific course and college place. You will need to provide all relevant personal data, academic background, and your plan for the chosen course. In the funding section of the application, you must apply for funding, specifically selecting the Gates Cambridge Scholarship alongside any other funding options. You may apply for multiple courses, but each requires a separate application. It is strongly advised to apply as early as possible, as applications for a course may close before the stated deadline if the course becomes full.

Notes

The Gates Cambridge Scholarship program was established in October 2000 with a US$210 million donation from the Gates Foundation. There are approximately 250 Gates Scholars studying at Cambridge at any given time, forming a diverse and supportive community across various departments and colleges. The scholarship is highly competitive and seeks to identify future leaders who will make a positive impact globally.

Source & Verification

Host organization: Gates Cambridge Trust at the University of Cambridge

Original source: ScholarshipsCorner

Official application page: https://www.gatescambridge.org/apply/how-to-apply/

Verify the deadline, eligibility, and document list on the official website before applying.

How to Apply

  1. 1

    Read the full requirements

    Visit the official application page and read all eligibility criteria carefully before investing time in the application.

  2. 2

    Gather your documents

    Collect transcripts, certificates, and references. Official copies may require apostille — start this process early.

  3. 3

    Request recommendation letters

    Contact your referees at least 4–6 weeks before the deadline. Brief them on the scholarship and your goals.

  4. 4

    Write your motivation letter

    Be specific about your goals, why you chose this program, and your plan to contribute to Ethiopia after completing your studies.

  5. 5

    Proofread and submit early

    Submit at least 3–5 days before the deadline. Technical issues are common — never submit on the last day.

Go to Official Application

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