Are you an ambitious student dreaming of studying at one of the world’s top universities without the financial burden? The Gates Cambridge Scholarship 2026-27 in the UK offers that golden opportunity.
This prestigious award allows talented individuals from around the globe to pursue a Master’s or PhD program at the University of Cambridge, with full financial coverage.
Gates Cambridge Scholarship 2026-27
The Gates Cambridge Scholarship 2026-27 is one of the most competitive and highly regarded international scholarships in the world. Funded by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, the program supports exceptional students who display academic excellence, leadership potential, and a commitment to making a positive difference in society.
This scholarship covers all major expenses, including tuition fees, living allowance, airfare, visa costs, and even additional funding for families and research-related work. Beyond financial support, recipients also join a vibrant global network of scholars dedicated to tackling some of the most pressing challenges facing humanity.
Gates Cambridge Scholarship 2026-27 Summary
| Category | Details |
| Host Country | United Kingdom (UK) |
| Study Destination | University of Cambridge |
| Scholarship Type | Master’s and PhD Degrees |
| Funded By | Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation |
| Eligible Applicants | International Students (outside the UK) |
| Scholarship Value | Fully Funded (Tuition, Stipend, Travel, Visa, Research, Family Support) |
| IELTS/TOEFL | Required |
| Application Deadline | October 15, 2025 |
| Number of Awards | Limited |
| Study Mode | Full-Time, On-Campus |
| Academic Session | 2026–2027 |
What Is the Gates Cambridge Scholarship All About?
The Gates Cambridge Scholarship was established in 2000 through a generous donation from the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation. Since then, it has become one of the most sought-after opportunities for postgraduate education.
The program goes beyond academic funding; it focuses on developing leaders who are not only outstanding in their fields but also committed to improving the lives of others. Scholars benefit from access to world-class faculty, modern research facilities, and a supportive environment that nurtures innovation and collaboration.
The scholarship is not limited to one area of study. Students from diverse disciplines, ranging from arts and humanities to engineering, technology, medicine, and social sciences, can apply. This inclusiveness ensures that the program nurtures future leaders across various fields.
Who Can Apply? (Eligibility Criteria)
To qualify for the Gates Cambridge Scholarship 2026-27, applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Be a citizen of any country outside the United Kingdom.
- Apply for a full-time postgraduate course at the University of Cambridge (PhD, MSc, MLitt, or one-year postgraduate program such as MPhil, LLM, MASt, MBA, etc.).
- Possess an excellent academic track record.
- Demonstrate leadership qualities and the ability to contribute to the welfare of others.
- Show how their chosen course will help them achieve future goals and make a positive global impact.
Scholarship Benefits
Winners of the Gates Cambridge Scholarship 2026-27 will receive:
- Full university composition fee at the appropriate rate.
- Maintenance Allowance of approximately £20,000 per year for a single student.
- One round-trip economy airfare from the home country to the UK.
- Visa costs and the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) are fully covered.
- Academic development funding between £500 and £2,000 for attending conferences or courses.
- Family allowance: up to £11,604 for one child and £16,548 for two or more children.
- Fieldwork funding, if required as part of the PhD program.
- Maternity/paternity funding during the study period.
- Hardship funding for unforeseen difficulties.
This comprehensive support package allows scholars to focus fully on their studies and research without financial pressure.
Available Fields of Study
Applicants may choose from a wide range of programs at Cambridge, including but not limited to:
- Arts and Humanities
- Biological Sciences
- Clinical Medicine
- Engineering and Technology
- Humanities and Social Sciences
- Physical Sciences
- Architecture and Archaeology
- Islamic Studies
- Astronomy
- Computer Science and IT
- Biomedical Sciences
- Law and Public Policy
With such diversity, the scholarship welcomes candidates from different academic backgrounds.
Required Documents
Applicants must prepare and submit the following documents:
- Completed Online Application Form
- Personal Statement (explaining academic goals and leadership potential)
- Research Proposal (mandatory for PhD applicants)
- Gates Cambridge Reference (in addition to regular academic references)
- Official Academic Transcripts and Degree Certificates
- Updated Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Proof of English Language Proficiency (IELTS/TOEFL, if required)
Step-by-Step Procedure to Apply
If you are planning to apply for the Gates Cambridge Scholarship 2026-27, here are the steps to follow:
- Check Eligibility: Review the scholarship requirements to ensure you qualify.
- Choose a Course: Explore the University of Cambridge’s postgraduate courses and select your program.
- Prepare Documents: Gather transcripts, references, a personal statement, and other required materials.
- Complete the Online Application:Create an account on the University of Cambridge application portal and fill out the Gates Cambridge section.
- Submit a Strong Personal Statement:Clearly explain your academic aspirations, leadership qualities, and how your studies will contribute to society.
- Secure Recommendations: Request references from academic and professional contacts.
- Submit Before Deadline: Applications must be completed and submitted by 15 October 2025.
- Await Results: Successful candidates will be notified after the review process.
Why Study at the University of Cambridge?
- Global Reputation: Ranked among the top universities in the world.
- World-Class Faculty: Learn from leading professors and researchers.
- Research Excellence: Opportunities to engage in groundbreaking research across disciplines.
- Cultural Diversity: A truly international student community.
- Lifelong Network: Join a global community of Gates Cambridge alumni committed to creating positive change.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the Gates Cambridge Scholarship 2026-27 cover?
It covers tuition fees, a living allowance, airfare, visa costs, research funding, and family support.
Who is eligible for this scholarship?
International students from any country outside the UK who are applying for a full-time postgraduate degree at the University of Cambridge.
Is an English language test required?
Yes, applicants must meet the University of Cambridge’s English language requirements (IELTS, TOEFL, or equivalent).
Can I apply for a part-time program with this scholarship?
No, the scholarship is only available for full-time on-campus programs.
When is the deadline to apply?
The application deadline for the Gates Cambridge Scholarship 2026-27 is 15 October 2025.
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