The Gates Cambridge Scholarship is a prestigious, fully funded scholarship program designed to support outstanding students from around the world to pursue postgraduate studies at the University of Cambridge. Established in 2000 through a generous donation from the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, this scholarship aims to build a global network of future leaders committed to improving the lives of others.
Applicants from any country outside the UK can apply for various postgraduate courses, including PhDs, MLitt, and one-year postgraduate courses. The Gates Cambridge Scholarship is awarded to students who demonstrate academic excellence, leadership potential, and a commitment to improving the lives of others. The scholarship covers all costs associated with studying at Cambridge, making it one of the most comprehensive scholarship programs available.
In addition to financial support, Gates Cambridge Scholars join a vibrant, inclusive community of fellow scholars who share a passion for leadership and social change. Scholars benefit from numerous opportunities to engage in professional development, leadership activities, and research endeavors during their time at Cambridge.
This fully funded scholarship program is a life-changing opportunity that enables scholars to immerse themselves in the world-class academic environment of Cambridge while contributing to the global community through their research and leadership initiatives.
Quick Overview of Gates Cambridge Scholarship 2025
- Host Country: United Kingdom
- Host University: University of Cambridge
- Application Deadlines:
- US citizens: 16 October 2024
- Other applicants: 3 December 2024 or 7 January 2025 (based on course deadlines)
- Programs: PhD, MLitt, and one-year postgraduate programs
- Value: Fully funded (tuition, travel, living stipend, and more)
- Age Limit: No specific age limit
- Eligibility: Citizens of any country outside the UK
Perks of Scholarship for International Students
- Complete tuition fees for the selected postgraduate course.
- A generous stipend covering living costs, including housing.
- One round-trip flight from the scholar’s home country to the UK.
- Additional Allowances
- Costs for visa and health insurance.
- Family allowance for scholars with children.
- Academic development funding to attend conferences or courses.
- Engage with a diverse, global community of Gates Cambridge Scholars and alumni.
Benefits of Scholarships for PhD and Masters’ Students
- Join an international community of scholars who are committed to leadership and social change.
- Access to numerous workshops, seminars, and mentorship opportunities for career growth.
- Study at one of the world’s top universities with world-class faculty and resources.
- Develop critical leadership skills to create meaningful impact in communities around the world.
Exclusions of University of Cambridge Scholarships
- Ineligible Courses
- Undergraduate programs (BA and affiliated BA)
- MASt courses
- MBA, EMBA, and other executive programs
- Certain medical degrees (e.g., MBBChir)
- Part-time courses, except for PhDs
- Non-degree courses
- Students currently enrolled in a degree at Cambridge cannot use this scholarship to complete their studies.
Eligibility Criteria of Gates Scholarships at the University of Cambridge
- Must be a citizen of any country outside the UK.
- Apply to one of the following at Cambridge:
- PhD (full-time or part-time)
- MLitt (full-time)
- One-year postgraduate course (specific exceptions apply)
- Demonstrate academic excellence, a commitment to improving the lives of others, and leadership potential.
Important Dates of the Fully Funded Scholarship in the UK
- US Citizens:
- Applications open: 4 September 2024
- Application deadline: 16 October 2024
- Notifications: 11 December 2024
- All Other Applicants:
- Applications open: 4 September 2024
- Application deadlines: 3 December 2024 or 7 January 2025
- Notifications: 5 March 2025
- Interviews: 24–25 March 2025
- Scholarships offered: 7 April 2025
How to Apply to Scholarships in the UK 2025
- Apply through the University of Cambridge’s Postgraduate Application Portal.
- Provide your academic background, course details, and personal information.
- In this section, apply for the Gates Cambridge Scholarship and other funding opportunities.
- A 500-word statement explaining why you are applying and how you meet the four main criteria.
- PhD applicants must submit a research proposal.
- Arrange for an additional reference to assess your fit for the scholarship.
Required Documents for Gates Cambridge Scholarship 2025
- Application Form: Submitted through the Postgraduate Application Portal.
- Gates Cambridge Statement: A 500-word personal statement.
- Research Proposal (for PhD applicants): Submit a detailed proposal for your research project.
- References: Two academic references and one additional Gates Cambridge reference assessing your leadership and commitment to improving lives.
For more details and to apply, visit the official Gates Cambridge website.
