With a stunning campus in England’s prime location, top-class faculty, world-leading research opportunities, and a powerful alumni network, the University of Cambridge might just be your dream university for graduate studies. But let’s face it, that dream can come with a big price tag. Funding your postgraduate studies at Cambridge might seem impossible, especially as an international student. However, the Gates Cambridge Scholarship can turn this dream into reality. Established in 2000 with a $210 million donation from the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, this scholarship offers full funding for exceptional postgraduate students worldwide.
To apply without any challenges and increase your chances of getting it, read on to learn more about this incredible opportunity!
Gates Cambridge Scholarship
| GATES CAMBRIDGE SCHOLARSHIP |
| Host Institution |
University of Cambridge |
| Level of Study |
Postgraduate (Master’s & Ph.D.) |
| Eligible Programs |
Most postgraduate programs are offered by the University of Cambridge, with some exceptions. Refer to their application requirements website to learn more about them. |
| Eligible Nationalities |
255 nationalities (All countries except the United Kingdom) |
| Number of Recipients |
Approximately 80 per year |
Scholarship Coverage / Benefits
The Gates Cambridge Scholarship goes beyond just covering your tuition at Cambridge. It provides a comprehensive package to support your entire postgraduate experience. Here’s a breakdown of the benefits:
| SCHOLARSHIP COVERAGE / BENEFITS |
- The scholarship covers all your university fees.
- Students receive £20,000 allowance annually (prorated for short courses), up to 4 years for PhDs.
- One economy class airfare to and from Cambridge.
- The scholarship pays for your UK student visa and health surcharge.
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The Gates Cambridge Scholarship Trust also offers additional funding on a case-by-case basis. This may include:
- Up to £500-£2,000 to support academic development, such as attending conferences or research activities.
- Family allowance up to £16,548 for accompanying dependents.
- Hardship funding to support unforeseen difficulties encountered during your studies.
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Eligibility Criteria
The eligibility requirements for the Gates Cambridge Scholarship may vary depending on the specific program and the applicant’s citizenship. However, there is a general criteria that all applicants must meet:
| ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA |
- Be a citizen of any country outside the United Kingdom
- Pursuing a full-time or part-time Ph.D., MLitt, or a one-year postgraduate program (with some exceptions)
- Show exceptional intellectual ability and academic achievement
- Demonstrate strong leadership potential.
- Have a commitment to making a positive impact on others.
- Provide a convincing explanation of why this Cambridge program aligns with your academic goals/future career plans
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There’s a special case for current Cambridge students. If you’re already enrolled at Cambridge, you can still apply for the Gates Cambridge Scholarship if you’re transitioning to a new postgraduate program, such as moving from an MPhil to a Ph.D. However, you cannot use the scholarship to fund the remainder of your existing program. In this case, your application will be considered in the second, international application round.
Application Process
With these incredible benefits, you may be eager to apply. Here’s how you can apply for the Gates Cambridge Scholarship in four simple and easy steps.
Step 1. Check Eligibility and Research
The Gates Cambridge Scholarship application process begins with ensuring you’re a good fit. Verify that your citizenship and chosen program meet the scholarship criteria, as described above. Additionally, familiarize yourself with the University’s mission and values, and research the University of Cambridge course directory to learn more about your ideal postgraduate program. Specifically, look out for how your chosen program aligns with your academic goals and research interests, and why Cambridge is the ideal place for you to pursue them.
Step 2. Apply for Admission and Gates Funding
To apply for the Gates Cambridge Scholarship, first, complete the application for admission to your chosen postgraduate program (master’s or doctorate) at the University of Cambridge through their online portal. During this application process, be sure to indicate your interest in the Gates Cambridge Scholarship in the funding section of the form. This cleverly combines the application steps into one, saving you valuable time and effort.
While the standard application form will request information about your background, education, and experiences, the University of Cambridge may also include additional sections or questions specifically designed to assess your leadership skills and suitability for the proposed course. However, as per the timeline, don’t forget that these applications open in early September each year, with the deadline typically around a month later.
Step 3. Gather and Submit Required Documents
After submitting your application, carefully compile the necessary documents to strengthen your candidacy. These typically include academic transcripts showcasing your academic achievements, two compelling letters of recommendation highlighting your intellectual capabilities, and a detailed CV outlining your experiences. Additionally, a well-crafted Gates Cambridge statement articulating your purpose and goals is essential. Ph.D. candidates must submit a research proposal.
To provide a comprehensive overview of your potential, ask someone who knows you well to submit a Gates Cambridge reference focusing on your leadership and commitment to social impact.
Step 4. Prepare for the Interview (If Invited)
If your application is successful, you’ll be invited to an interview. This stage is crucial in demonstrating your suitability for the Gates Cambridge Scholarship. Be prepared to discuss your academic background, career aspirations, and the reasons behind pursuing a postgraduate degree at Cambridge. Additionally, articulate your understanding of the Gates Cambridge Scholarship’s mission and how your goals align with it. Interviews typically take place in December or January of the following year.
FAQs: Gates Cambridge Scholarship
Is it Difficult to Secure a Gates Cambridge Scholarship?
Honestly telling, securing a Gates Cambridge Scholarship is incredibly challenging. The scholarship is highly competitive, with an acceptance rate falling below 1%. This means only a fraction of applicants are awarded this prestigious honor. Exceptional academic achievements, strong leadership qualities, and a demonstrated commitment to social impact are essential for standing out among the pool of talented applicants.
Can Scholars Stay in the U.K. After They Completed Their Program?
Yes, Gates Cambridge Scholars have the opportunity to extend their stay in the UK after completing their studies. The UK government offers a Graduate Route visa, allowing international students to work and reside in the UK for up to two or three years post-graduation (depending on the degree level). This pathway provides scholars with valuable time to gain work experience and explore career opportunities within the country.
With multiple scholarship benefits and this article to guide you through the application process, studying at the University of Cambridge has never been more accessible. Although the low acceptance rate and stringent requirements might be discouraging, thorough preparation and practice can help you stand out and become a prestigious Gates Cambridge Scholar!
We hope this article has provided an insight into this prestigious scholarship program. Read more articles and tips on our UK Study Guide Page! You can also browse Available Programs in the UK for more study options!
