The Gates Cambridge Scholarship 2026 presents a prestigious, fully funded opportunity for outstanding international students to pursue postgraduate study at the University of Cambridge in the UK. Backed by a historic donation from the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, this scholarship is one of the most competitive and rewarding awards globally for graduate students. This blog covers all key details, from eligibility and benefits to application tips and living expenses, to equip prospective applicants with everything needed for success.
Basic Information about the Gates Cambridge Scholarship 2026
The Gates Cambridge Scholarship provides full funding for exceptional students from countries outside the UK to pursue a full-time postgraduate degree at the University of Cambridge. Each year, about 80 full-cost scholarships are awarded across all available subjects.
- ~80 full-cost scholarships each year for non-UK students at University of Cambridge.
- ~2/3 for PhD students.
- ~25 awards (US round), ~55 awards (International round).
- Scholars come from ~50 countries; alumni network 1,700+ across 100+ countries.
- Established in 2000 with US$210m donation from Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation.
- Application Period for 2026 Entry: Opens early September 2025
- Application Deadline:
- For US citizens residing in the US — October 16, 2024 (for the 2025-26 cycle; 2026 dates expected similar)
- For other international students — varies by course, generally early December 2024 or January 2025
- Scholarship Duration:
- Up to 1 year for some Master’s courses
- 2 years for most Master’s courses
- Up to 4 years for PhD candidates
University/Institution Details
The scholarship is offered by the Gates Cambridge Trust, associated with the University of Cambridge, one of the world’s leading universities renowned for academic excellence, research, and global impact. The University is located in Cambridge, England, and offers a vibrant academic community with access to world-class resources.
Study Areas (Available Programs)
The Gates Cambridge Scholarship supports postgraduate research and taught degrees across nearly all subjects and disciplines available at Cambridge, including but not limited to:
- School of Arts and HumanitiesOnline art courses
- School of Humanities and Social Sciences
- School of Biological Sciences
- School of Physical Sciences
- School of Clinical Medicine
- School of Technology
- Institutions independent of any School
- BioMedical
- Bio logical
- Engineering (All Fields)
- Science
- IT
- Humanities
- Arts
- Social Science
- Archaeology
- Architecture
- Islamic Studies
- Astronomy
- For more information about the courses visit the University of Cambridge Departments and Colleges.
Note: Courses not eligible include undergraduate degrees, part-time programs, and certain professional degrees like the MBA, Master of Finance, and Clinical Medicine degrees.
Gates Cambridge Scholarship Benefits
The Gates Cambridge Scholarship offers a comprehensive fully funded package including:
- University Composition Fee.
- Maintenance allowance (£21,000/year for 2024–25, up to 4 years for PhD).
- One economy airfare (start and end of course).
- Inbound visa & Immigration Health Surcharge.
- Additional discretionary funding:
- Academic development (up to £2,000).
- Dependent Children Allowance (up to £11,604 for 1 child; £16,548 for 2+).
- Fieldwork maintenance allowance (for PhD).
- Maternity/paternity leave (up to 6 months with allowance).
- Hardship funding (case-by-case).
Benefits Not Included
The scholarship does not cover:
- Bench fees
- Scientific equipment or academic resource costs (expected to be supported by the academic department)
- Expenses related to partners or spouses
Eligibility Criteria for the Gates Cambridge Scholarship
Applicants must meet the following core criteria:
- Citizenship: Must be a citizen of a country outside the UK.
- Admission: Accepted or applying to a full-time postgraduate course at Cambridge (Master’s, MSc, MLitt, MPhil, or PhD).
- Academic Excellence: Demonstrated through transcripts, references, and achievements (typically equivalent to a 3.8+ GPA or top-tier performance).
- Strong fit with Cambridge: Applicants must justify why their chosen course at Cambridge aligns with their academic and career goals.
- Leadership Potential: Evidence of capacity for leadership and impactful future contributions.
- Commitment to Improving Lives: A genuine desire and record of working to improve the lives of others globally or in communities.
- English Proficiency: Required for non-native speakers.
- Selection criteria
- Outstanding intellectual ability.
- Strong reasons for course choice.
- Commitment to improving lives of others.
- Leadership potential.
Required Documents for the Application
Applicants must submit:
- Completed Graduate Application Form including the Gates Cambridge funding section
- Academic transcripts and certificates
- Two academic references
- One personal reference (specific to Gates Cambridge)
- Research proposal or statement of purpose explaining course choice and career plans
- Proof of English proficiency (if applicable)
- Additional documents may be required by the department or program
Gates Cambridge Scholarship Application Process: Step-by-Step Guide
- Research Programs: Choose a Cambridge postgraduate course that matches your academic and professional goals.
- Prepare Research Proposal/Personal Statement: Articulate clearly why Cambridge and your chosen course suit your aspirations and how you will contribute to society.
- Apply Online: Submit the combined University of Cambridge graduate application and Gates Cambridge Scholarship application via the Graduate Application Portal starting from early September 2025.
- Departmental Nomination: Departments review applications and nominate outstanding candidates for the scholarship.
- Interviews: Some shortlisted candidates will be invited to interview.
- Notification: Successful scholars will be notified by early February 2026.
- Accept Offer: Scholars must accept their award promptly (usually within 72 hours).
Tips for a Successful Application
- Start early: Begin your application and document preparation well in advance to meet deadlines.
- Demonstrate academic excellence: Highlight top achievements, research potential, and academic awards.
- Show leadership and impact: Provide concrete examples of leadership and contributions to communities or causes.
- Match your goals with Cambridge: Clearly explain why Cambridge is the best place for your studies and how this fits your career plans.
- Secure strong references: Choose referees who know your academic and leadership qualities well.
- Prepare thoroughly for interviews: If invited, practice articulating your motivations and plans confidently.
Monthly Living Expenses for International Students in the UK (Converted to USD)
Living expenses can vary by lifestyle and location but here are approximate monthly costs for Cambridge:
| Expense Category | Estimated Monthly Cost (USD) |
| Accommodation | $800 – $1,200 |
| Food and Groceries | $300 – $400 |
| Transportation | $70 – $100 |
| Utilities and Internet | $100 – $150 |
| Personal Expenses | $200 – $300 |
| Books/Supplies | $50 – $100 |
Total Estimate: $1,520 – $2,250 per month on average [converted from GBP rates].
The Gates Cambridge stipend of around £21,000 annually (~$25,000) should sufficiently cover these expenses.
Why Choose the Gates Cambridge Scholarship?
- Fully Funded: Comprehensive coverage of tuition, living costs, travel, and visa fees eliminates financial barriers.
- Prestigious Global Network: Join a diverse community of future leaders from over 100 countries.
- Access to World-Class Education: Study at Cambridge University, a world-renowned institution with exceptional faculty and research facilities.
- Additional Support: Beyond financial aid, discretionary funds support academic development, family needs, and unforeseen hardships.
- Career and Leadership Development: The scholarship targets individuals committed to making a positive global impact, offering opportunities to grow as leaders.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can UK citizens apply?
A: No, the scholarship is only for students from outside the UK.
Q: Can I apply for the scholarship without applying to Cambridge?
A: No, you must apply for admission to a Cambridge postgraduate course to be considered.
Q: Are part-time or distance learning courses eligible?
A: No, only full-time residential postgraduate courses are eligible.
Q: What if I have another scholarship or salary?
A: Gates Cambridge funding may be reduced if you receive a substantial salary or another scholarship.
Q: Is funding available for dependents?
A: Yes, childcare allowances are available, but no funding is provided for partners.
Official Link:
How to apply
This detailed guide aims to empower prospective applicants with all essential information about the Gates Cambridge Scholarship 2026 in the UK to maximize their chances of success. This scholarship not only opens doors to Cambridge’s world-class graduate education but also supports scholars in becoming changemakers worldwide.