Country Focussed
United Kingdom
Scholarship Type
Merit Based
Organising Entity
Gates Cambridge Trust
Scholarship Coverage
Fully Funded
Gates Cambridge Scholarship
The Gates Cambridge Scholarship is one of the world’s most sought-after and fully funded scholarships, enabling outstanding students from outside the UK to pursue postgraduate studies at the University of Cambridge. Established in 2000 through a historic donation from the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, this program is designed to build a global network of future leaders who are committed to improving the lives of others. Every year, a select group of international scholars are chosen based on their exceptional academic achievements, leadership potential, and commitment to social impact.
Link – Official Scholarship Website
Why Study in the UK?
Studying in the UK offers a world-class education, globally recognized degrees, and access to some of the oldest and most prestigious universities. With a strong emphasis on research and innovation, UK institutions foster critical thinking and academic excellence. The multicultural environment, wide range of courses, and post-study work opportunities like the Graduate Route – make the UK an attractive destination for Indian students seeking quality education and career growth on a global scale.
Everything You need to Know about the Gates Cambridge Scholarship
Eligibility Criteria
To apply for the Gates Cambridge Scholarship, applicants must fulfill specific requirements. The program is designed to support international students who demonstrate outstanding academic excellence and leadership qualities.
1. Citizenship Requirement
Applicants must be citizens of any country outside the United Kingdom.
2. Academic Program
Candidates must apply to pursue any of the full-time residential courses at the University of Cambridge.
3. Eligible Degrees
The scholarship is available for the following study levels:
- Ph.D. (full-time, residential)
- M.Sc. or M.Litt.
- Postgraduate course of 1 year duration (full-time)
- Ph.D. (full-time, residential)
4. Current Students
Students already studying at the University of Cambridge may also apply if they plan to begin a new eligible course the following year. However, they must not undertake any other course in between.
Organising Entity
The scholarship is administered by the Gates Cambridge Trust, established at the University of Cambridge through the endowment of the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation.
Is it Country Focused?
Yes – this scholarship is open to citizens of all countries except the United Kingdom.
Is it University Focused?
Yes – it is exclusively available for the University of Cambridge, United Kingdom
Type of Scholarship
Merit-Based
Merit-based – awarded on the basis of academic excellence, leadership, and commitment to positive change.
Number of Students Selected
Every year, around 80 exceptional international students are awarded the Gates Cambridge Scholarship. The selection process is highly competitive, with thousands of applicants from across the globe.
What are the Benefits Available
The Gates Cambridge Scholarship is fully funded and covers a wide range of financial support to ensure scholars can focus entirely on their studies and personal development.
Full University Composition Fees: Covers tuition and other mandatory academic costs.
Airfare: Economy-class airfare to and from the UK at the beginning and end of the course.
Academic Development Funding: Between GBP 500 – 2,000 (approx. INR 50,000 – 2,00,000) to attend conferences, seminars, and courses that contribute to academic growth.
Fieldwork Allowance: Available for Ph.D. students undertaking research-related fieldwork.
Hardship Funding: Available in cases of unforeseen difficulties or emergencies.
Maintenance Allowance: A living allowance to support everyday expenses. The amount varies depending on academic year and personal circumstances.
Visa & Health Costs: Costs of the Inbound Visa and the Immigration Health Surcharge are fully covered.
Family Allowance: Financial support for scholars with families.
- Up to GBP 10,120 (INR 10.12 lakh) for one child.
- Up to GBP 14,440 (INR 14.45 lakh) for two or more children.
Maternity/Paternity Allowance: Scholars may apply for parental leave along with a suspension of studies for up to 6 months.
Why Apply for the Gates Cambridge Scholarship?
Global Networking:
Becoming part of a diverse community of intellectuals, innovators, and change-makers from around the world.
Academic Prestige:
Studying at the University of Cambridge, which is consistently ranked among the top universities worldwide.
Personal Development:
Access to workshops, mentoring, leadership training, and professional opportunities beyond academics.
Holistic Support:
Comprehensive funding ensures scholars can focus entirely on their studies and research.
Application Insights
The application process is highly competitive, requiring a strong academic record, research potential, and a clear vision of how the chosen course will contribute to solving global challenges. Applicants are assessed based on:
- Academic excellence
- Reasons for the choice of course
- Leadership qualities and potential
- Commitment to improving the lives of others
Strong recommendation letters, a compelling personal statement, and well-defined research proposals (for Ph.D. applicants) are critical for success.
Planning to Study in the UK?
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Final Thoughts
The Gates Cambridge Scholarship is not only one of the most prestigious postgraduate awards in the world but also one of the most generous. Covering tuition, living expenses, airfare, and family support, it empowers talented individuals from across the globe to pursue advanced study at the University of Cambridge. With only 80 scholars selected annually, this opportunity is reserved for those who combine academic brilliance with a genuine passion for making a difference in society.
