Gates Cambridge Scholarships 2026 for International Students | Fully Funded Masters and PhD Study in the UK

🎓 Study at the University of Cambridge on a Fully Funded Scholarship

The Gates Cambridge Scholarship 2026 offers one of the most prestigious and generous international scholarships in the world. Funded by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, this program enables outstanding students from countries outside the United Kingdom to pursue a full-time postgraduate degree at the University of Cambridge— completely fully funded.

This is an incredible opportunity for talented, motivated, and globally minded individuals who aspire to make a lasting impact in their communities and around the world.

🏛️ Host Institution

University of Cambridge, United Kingdom

📚 Level and Fields of Study

The Gates Cambridge Scholarship covers the following postgraduate programs:

• PhD (full-time or part-time)

• MLitt (full-time)

• One-year postgraduate courses (full-time)

However, certain courses are not eligible for this scholarship, including:

• Undergraduate degrees (BA or second BA)

• MASt courses

• Master of Business (MBA)

• Executive MBA or Global EMBA

• Master of Finance (MFin)

• Executive Master of Accounting

• Business Doctorate (BusD)

• PGCE

• MBBChir Clinical Studies

• MD Doctor of Medicine (A101)

• Part-time degrees (except PhD)

• Non-degree courses

🎯 Number of Awards

Approximately 80 scholarships are awarded each year to top-tier international students.

🌍 Target Group

Citizens of any country outside the United Kingdom are eligible to apply.

💰 Scholarship Value and Inclusions

The Gates Cambridge Scholarship is a fully funded award that covers all study-related expenses at Cambridge, including:

• Full University Composition Fee

• Maintenance allowance for living costs

• Airfare to and from the UK

• Visa fees and associated costs

• Academic development funding (for conferences and courses)

• Family allowance (for scholars with dependents)

• Fieldwork support for PhD students

• Hardship funding if needed

This comprehensive coverage ensures scholars can focus fully on their research and studies while living comfortably in Cambridge.

🧠 Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must:
✅ Be a citizen of a country outside the UK
✅ Apply for a full-time postgraduate degree (PhD, MLitt, or eligible Master’s) at the University of Cambridge
✅ Demonstrate outstanding intellectual ability
✅ Show leadership potential and a commitment to improving the lives of others
✅ Possess a strong academic background and the motivation to make a positive global impact

🗓️ Application Deadlines (2026 Entry)

The deadlines vary depending on the applicant’s country of residence:

Courses begin in October 2026.

📝 Application Process

1. Apply for admission to the University of Cambridge and for the Gates Cambridge Scholarship through the same online portal: www.gatescambridge.org.

2. Complete the University application form, including:

   • Academic transcripts

   • CV/resume

   • Research proposal (for PhD applicants)

   • Two academic references

   • Gates Cambridge statement (explaining your motivation and leadership vision)

3. Shortlisted candidates will be invited for an interview in early 2026.

🌟 Selection Criteria

The Gates Cambridge selection committee looks for candidates who demonstrate:

• Academic excellence

• Leadership potential

• Commitment to improving lives

• A good fit with the University of Cambridge’s vision and values

Only the most exceptional candidates are chosen each year, making this scholarship one of the most competitive awards globally.

💬 Why You Should Apply

• Join a global network of scholars driving innovation and social change

• Study at one of the world’s top universities with full financial support

• Access world-class research facilities and mentorship

• Build leadership skills and collaborate with diverse global peers

• Become part of a legacy of scholars impacting real-world challenges

🔗 Official Website

For complete application instructions and eligibility details, visit:
👉 https://www.gatescambridge.org

🧭 Final Thoughts

The Gates Cambridge Scholarship 2026 isn’t just about academic excellence — it’s about nurturing leaders who will change the world.

If you have a strong academic record, visionary goals, and a desire to make a difference, this is your moment to study at Cambridge University fully funded.