Gates Cambridge Scholarship 2027: Fully Funded Postgraduate Study at the University of Cambridge
Overview
The Gates Cambridge Scholarship provides financial support for international students pursuing postgraduate studies at the University of Cambridge in the United Kingdom. Established in October 2000 through a donation from the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, the programme aims to build a global network of future leaders dedicated to addressing significant global challenges and improving the lives of others. The trust awards approximately 70 full-cost scholarships annually. Approximately two-thirds of these awards go to PhD candidates, while the remainder are distributed across United States and international application rounds.
Who can apply
Applicants must be nationals of countries outside the United Kingdom and must apply for eligible postgraduate degrees across a wide range of academic disciplines offered by the University of Cambridge. Candidates should consult the official eligibility guidelines and postgraduate prospectus to verify admission requirements and round specifics.
What you get
The scholarship provides comprehensive financial coverage for major educational expenses. The core funding package includes full university tuition fees at the applicable rate, a maintenance allowance of £23,152 for 12 months at the 2026-2027 rate adjusted for shorter courses, and PhD funding for up to four years. Additional provisions cover one economy-class single airfare at the start and end of the course, eligible inbound visa costs, and the Immigration Health Surcharge.
Recipients may also apply for discretionary support. Academic development funding provides between £750 and £4,000 for conferences and training. Dependent children allowances offer up to £12,793 annually for one child and up to £18,244 for two or more children, though funding is not provided for partners. Doctoral scholars can apply to retain maintenance allowances during approved fieldwork, and scholars can request up to six months of continued maintenance during approved parental interruptions. Hardship funding is also available for unforeseen financial difficulties.
Requirements
Selection relies on four principal criteria. Candidates must demonstrate outstanding intellectual ability through academic achievement and capacity for demanding study, and must provide clear reasons for choosing their specific course in relation to their goals. Applicants need to show a genuine commitment to improving the lives of others and exhibit leadership potential to influence others and address important challenges.