Gates Cambridge Scholar, Arnab Sarkar, Shares the Story of How He Applied for the Fully Funded Award to Pursue His PhD in Astrophysics at the University of Cambridge

My name is Arnab Sarkar. I am from India and recently completed my PhD in Astrophysics at the University of Cambridge as a Gates Cambridge Scholar. I decided to pursue astrophysics because I have always been fascinated by the fundamental processes that shape our universe. My work focuses on stellar evolution and computational modeling, areas where I can combine rigorous quantitative methods with curiosity-driven science.

Gates Cambridge Scholarship Details

I received the Gates Cambridge Scholarship, one of the most prestigious international awards at the University of Cambridge. It covered full tuition, a generous living stipend, and additional allowances that supported both academic and personal development.

Were You Offered Any Other Scholarships?

Yes. I received an offer to pursue a PhD at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign (UIUC) in the USA, but I ultimately chose Cambridge because of the research environment and the opportunity to be part of the Gates Cambridge community.

Educational Background

I studied physics at the Indian Institute of Science Education and Research (IISER) Kolkata, where I graduated with a GPA of 9.4/10, one of the highest in my cohort. This academic foundation gave me strong preparation in both theory and computation. Beyond coursework, I engaged in multiple research projects that exposed me early to the kind of independent, high-level work required at the PhD level.

How Did You Prepare to Apply to the University of Cambridge?

I spent significant time researching potential supervisors and programs, ensuring that my application highlighted strong overlaps with faculty interests. While preparing my applications, I was also working on a project with the supervisor who later became my PhD advisor at Cambridge. That project not only gave me hands-on research experience but also helped me stand out in the application process, as it demonstrated both my initiative and my potential to contribute to the department’s work.

How Did You Find Information About Gates Cambridge Scholarships and the University of Cambridge?

I first learned about Gates Cambridge through the University of Cambridge’s website, and then explored it further by reading the experiences of past scholars. Faculty mentors and peers also pointed me toward opportunities, and I made sure to keep track of deadlines well in advance.

Did You Take Any Standardized Tests? If So, How Did You Prepare for Them?

Yes, I took the TOEFL. I mainly prepared by practicing past exams and focusing on improving my speaking skills. The test felt manageable once I had built up confidence through repeated practice.

How Did You Prepare to Apply to the Gates Cambridge Scholarship?

I treated the scholarship application as seriously as the PhD application itself. I worked hard to tell a clear and authentic story about why my research mattered and how I hoped to use it to make a broader impact. I refined my personal statement through multiple drafts and asked mentors for feedback until it felt strong, focused, and genuine.

How is (was) Your Experience at the University of Cambridge?

Cambridge was intellectually demanding but immensely rewarding. I had the opportunity to work with brilliant colleagues, publish research, and grow as both a scientist and a thinker. The Gates Cambridge community added a unique dimension. Beyond the funding, it provided a network of peers who were equally driven to make a difference.

How Do You Rate the University of Cambridge Academically and Why?

Cambridge is world-class in every respect. The supervision is exceptional, resources are abundant, and the cross-disciplinary exposure is unmatched. The academic environment continuously pushed me to raise my own standards.

How Does the University of Cambridge Support International Students?

The support system is strong. Gates Cambridge itself creates a close-knit community of international scholars, while the university provides resources for housing, visas, and academic integration. I never felt like I lacked support.

What Do You Think Made Your Application Stand Out?

A combination of academic excellence and relevant research experience. My GPA and track record showed consistency, while the project I was working on with my eventual PhD supervisor gave my application a unique edge. On top of that, I think my personal statement conveyed both my passion for astrophysics and my alignment with the Gates Cambridge mission of leadership and impact.

What Would You Have Done Differently if You Were Going Through the Process Again?

I would have started working on my personal statement and scholarship essays earlier, giving myself more time to refine them. I also would have reached out to more alumni for insights before applying.

What Advice Would You Give Those Looking to Apply for a Similar Scholarship?

Start early and don’t treat the application as a checklist. It’s an opportunity to reflect on who you are, what drives you, and what impact you want to have. Be authentic, because scholarship committees can tell the difference. Make your academic record shine, but also show your personal journey and leadership potential. Get as much feedback as you can, and remember that resilience and clarity of purpose matter just as much as grades.