Gates Cambridge University Scholarships 2026–27 in the UK (Fully Funded) Apply for fully funded scholarships from here. Are you dreaming of studying at one of the world’s most prestigious universities? The Gates Cambridge University Scholarships 2026–27 in the UK offer a fully funded opportunity for outstanding international students to study at the University of Cambridge. Established by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, this scholarship aims to build a global network of future leaders committed to improving the lives of others.
This is your chance to pursue a Master’s or PhD degree in the United Kingdom with all academic expenses covered. The Gates Cambridge Scholarship is one of the most competitive international scholarships in the world, offering a life-changing experience and access to world-class education.
Gates Cambridge University Scholarships 2026 Overview
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Host Country: United Kingdom (UK)
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Host Institution: University of Cambridge
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Degree Levels: Master’s (MSc/MLitt), PhD, Diploma
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Scholarship Coverage: Fully Funded
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Eligible Nationality: All international students
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Award Country: United Kingdom
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Application Deadline:
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For U.S. citizens: 9 October 2025
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For all other applicants: 2 December 2025 or 7 January 2026 (depending on the course)
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This is one of the top fully funded scholarships in the UK for international students, offering complete academic and living support for postgraduate study at Cambridge University.
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About the Gates Cambridge University Scholarships
The Gates Cambridge Scholarship was established in 2000 with a donation from the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation to the University of Cambridge. The program’s mission is to create a global network of future leaders committed to improving the lives of others through education, research, and innovation.
Each year, the scholarship supports 80 full-cost scholarships for outstanding students from countries outside the UK to pursue postgraduate degrees at Cambridge. Around two-thirds of these awards are given to PhD students, making it an excellent choice for those pursuing research-based study in the United Kingdom.
Gates Cambridge University Scholarships Coverage and Financial Benefits
The Gates Cambridge University Scholarship 2026–27 is a fully funded international scholarship that covers all expenses related to studying and living in the UK. It provides:
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Full tuition fees at the University of Cambridge
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Maintenance allowance of around £20,000 per year for living expenses
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Airfare tickets for travel to and from the UK at the beginning and end of the course
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Visa costs and health surcharge fees
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Academic development funding ranging from £500 to £2,000
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Family allowance of up to £15,600 (if applicable)
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Fieldwork and research grants for PhD students
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Hardship funding in case of unforeseen circumstances
This makes it one of the best fully funded scholarships in the UK for international students who want to study abroad without financial burden.
Available Programs at the University of Cambridge
The Gates Cambridge Scholarship covers almost all academic disciplines offered by the University of Cambridge, except certain courses like MBA, MFin, and some short postgraduate certificates.
Fields of Study Include:
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Engineering and Technology
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Biological Sciences
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Computer Science
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Social Sciences
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Humanities and Arts
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Education
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Law and Politics
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Environmental Studies
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Health and Medicine
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Public Policy and Development
Whether you’re interested in pursuing a master’s degree in the UK or completing your PhD at Cambridge University, this scholarship allows you to focus entirely on your academic and research goals.
Eligibility Criteria for Gates Cambridge University Scholarships (Explained Simply)
Before applying, make sure you meet all the Gates Cambridge Scholarship eligibility requirements. Here’s what you need to qualify:
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You must be a citizen of any country outside the United Kingdom.
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You must be applying for a full-time postgraduate degree at the University of Cambridge (Master’s or PhD).
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You must demonstrate academic excellence, leadership potential, and a strong commitment to improving the lives of others.
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You should have an excellent academic record and research experience (for PhD applicants).
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You must meet the University of Cambridge admission requirements for your selected program.
In simple words, the scholarship is for talented, passionate, and globally minded students who want to make a difference in their communities and the world.
Types of Gates Cambridge University Scholarships
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Master’s Scholarship – Covers full costs for one-year postgraduate programs (MPhil, MSc, MLitt, Diploma).
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PhD Scholarship – Covers full costs for up to four years of doctoral research.
Both types include the same financial and academic benefits, making this a top-tier graduate scholarship in the UK for international students.
Application Process for Gates Cambridge University Scholarships 2026–27
Follow these steps to apply successfully for the Gates Cambridge Scholarship 2026–27:
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Choose your course – Visit the University of Cambridge course directory and select your desired postgraduate program.
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Apply through the University’s application portal – You will automatically be considered for the Gates Cambridge Scholarship by selecting it on the funding section.
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Prepare your documents – You must submit a strong personal statement explaining your academic goals and leadership experience.
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Submit before the deadline – Applications close either on 2 December 2025 or 7 January 2026, depending on your course.
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Attend the interview – Shortlisted candidates are invited to a virtual or in-person interview in February 2026.
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Wait for the final decision – Successful applicants are notified by March 2026.
Applicants should apply early and ensure their documents are complete and well-prepared, as this scholarship is extremely competitive and prestigious.
Required Documents for Gates Cambridge University Scholarships
To complete your application, prepare the following documents carefully:
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Valid passport or national ID
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Academic transcripts from all previous institutions
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Degree certificates (Bachelor’s or equivalent)
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Curriculum Vitae (CV)
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Research proposal or study plan (for PhD applicants)
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Personal statement (Gates statement) about your commitment to leadership and community impact
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Two academic references
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English language proficiency certificate (IELTS/TOEFL if applicable)
Submitting well-structured and error-free documents greatly increases your chances of winning this fully funded scholarship in the UK.
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Important Dates to Remember
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Application Opens: September 2025
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Deadline for U.S. citizens: 9 October 2025
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Deadline for other applicants: 2 December 2025 or 7 January 2026 (depending on your course)
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Shortlisting: February 2026
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Interviews: February–March 2026
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Final Results: March 2026
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Classes Begin: October 2026
Make sure to apply before your specific deadline as late or incomplete applications are not accepted.
FAQs – Gates Cambridge University Scholarships 2026–27
1. Is the Gates Cambridge Scholarship fully funded?
Yes. It covers all expenses including tuition, accommodation, living allowance, travel, and visa fees.
2. Can I apply for an undergraduate degree?
No. The scholarship is only available for postgraduate (Master’s and PhD) studies.
3. Do I need to apply separately for admission and the scholarship?
No. The Gates Cambridge Scholarship is integrated into the Cambridge University postgraduate application.
4. What makes this scholarship different from others?
It not only covers all costs but also focuses on leadership, global impact, and building a network of changemakers.
5. Can students from any country apply?
Yes, students from any nationality outside the UK can apply.
Helpful Tips for Applicants
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Start your application early and thoroughly research your course.
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Write a powerful personal statement highlighting your achievements and leadership experiences.
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Ask for recommendation letters well in advance.
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Proofread your documents and avoid grammatical errors.
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Prepare for your interview confidently — focus on your goals, community service, and future plans.
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Be authentic and clear about your motivation to study at Cambridge.
Applying strategically and early gives you an advantage in this highly competitive process.
Why Study at the University of Cambridge?
Studying at the University of Cambridge is a dream for students worldwide. Ranked among the top universities globally, Cambridge offers unparalleled research facilities, mentorship from leading professors, and access to an international academic community.
Receiving the Gates Cambridge Scholarship means becoming part of a global network of scholars, leaders, and innovators. It’s not just a scholarship; it’s a platform to create change and contribute meaningfully to society while pursuing a fully funded degree in the UK.
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Conclusion
The Gates Cambridge University Scholarship 2026–27 is one of the most prestigious and fully funded scholarships in the United Kingdom. It provides full financial coverage for international students to pursue their Master’s or PhD studies at Cambridge University.
If you are passionate about research, leadership, and making a global impact, this is your opportunity to transform your academic dreams into reality. Apply before the deadline, prepare an excellent application, and take the first step toward an exceptional academic journey in the UK.
