The 2026 Gates Cambridge Scholarship is now accepting applications from outstanding students outside the United Kingdom who wish to pursue postgraduate studies at the University of Cambridge.
The fully funded award covers tuition fees, an annual stipend of £21,000, travel costs, visa expenses, and health insurance.
Since its launch, more than 2,000 scholars from over 100 countries have studied at Cambridge under this program. The initiative aims to support future leaders who are committed to improving lives worldwide.
Who Can Apply?
Applicants must be citizens of countries outside the UK and seek admission to one of the following programs:
- PhD (full-time or part-time)
- MLitt (full-time)
- One-year postgraduate course (full-time, with some exceptions)
Those already studying at Cambridge can also apply if they are beginning a new postgraduate course.
Scholarship Benefits
The award covers:
- Full University Composition Fee
- Maintenance allowance of £21,000 per year (up to four years for PhD)
- One return economy airfare
- Visa and Immigration Health Surcharge
Additional support may include funding for academic development, childcare allowance, fieldwork support, and hardship grants.
Selection Criteria
Candidates will be assessed on:
- Academic excellence
- Reasons for course choice
- Commitment to improving lives
- Leadership potential
READ MORE: Dreaming of Oxford? Fully Funded Scholarship Awaits Pakistanis
Application Process
Applications are submitted through the University of Cambridge Graduate Application Portal. Candidates must complete both the admission section and the funding section, including the Gates Cambridge Scholarship form. Shortlisted applicants will be invited to an interview.
The deadline for applications is October 15, 2025.
