🇬🇧 Fully Funded: Gates Cambridge Scholarship 2026–2027 in the UK
Dreaming of studying at one of the world’s top universities without worrying about tuition or living costs? The Gates Cambridge Scholarship 2026–2027 is now open—and it’s one of the most generous and prestigious postgraduate awards available to international students.
This isn’t just a scholarship. It’s a launchpad for future global leaders.
What Is the Gates Cambridge Scholarship?
Funded by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, the Gates Cambridge Scholarship offers full financial support to outstanding students from outside the UK who want to pursue a full-time postgraduate degree at the University of Cambridge.
It’s not just about academic excellence. The program looks for individuals committed to improving the lives of others and making a lasting impact in their fields.
What’s Covered?
Every Gates Cambridge Scholar receives a comprehensive financial package that includes:
- Full coverage of University composition fees
- An annual stipend for living expenses in Cambridge (currently over £20,000)
- Round-trip airfare to and from the UK
- Visa and Immigration Health Surcharge fees
- Additional discretionary funding for academic development, fieldwork, conferences, and family support
This means you can focus entirely on your studies and leadership goals—without financial stress.
Learn more about the benefits here: https://www.gatescambridge.org/programme/the-scholarship/
How to Apply: One Form, Two Sections
The application process is streamlined through the University of Cambridge’s Graduate Application Portal. You’ll complete:
- Admission Section – Apply for your chosen graduate course and college placement.
- Funding Section – Apply for the Gates Cambridge Scholarship and other funding options. This includes answering four key selection questions.
What’s New for 2026?
The traditional personal statement has been replaced with four structured questions designed to align with the scholarship’s core criteria:
- Academic Excellence – Describe your academic achievements (200 words)
- Fit with Cambridge – Explain why Cambridge and how your course supports your goals (200 words)
- Commitment to Improving Lives – Share examples of your impact (300 words)
- Leadership Capacity – Highlight leadership actions and outcomes (300 words)
PhD applicants must also submit a research proposal. All applicants need a Gates Cambridge-specific reference, in addition to academic references. Referees are expected to assess your intellectual ability, leadership potential, and commitment to others.
Full application guidance is available here: https://www.gatescambridge.org/apply/how-to-apply/
Who Should Apply?
This scholarship is for students who are:
- Academically outstanding
- Passionate about solving global challenges
- Committed to improving lives
- Demonstrating strong leadership potential
Whether you’re pursuing a Master’s or PhD, this opportunity could transform your future.
Key Dates for 2026–2027
For U.S. citizens residing in the USA:
- Applications open: 10 September 2025
- Deadline: 15 October 2025 (23:59 GMT)
- Outcome notification: 10 December 2025
- Selection interviews: 23–24 January 2026
- Final offers: 2 February 2026 (72-hour acceptance window)
For all other international applicants:
- Applications open: 10 September 2025
- Deadlines vary by course: either 2 December 2025 or 7 January 2026
- Outcome notification: 4 March 2026
- Selection interviews: 23–24 March 2026
- Final offers: 6 April 2026 (72-hour acceptance window)
Check the full timeline here: https://www.gatescambridge.org/apply/timeline/
Final Thoughts
The Gates Cambridge Scholarship isn’t just about funding—it’s about joining a global network of scholars who are driving change in science, policy, education, and beyond. If you’re ready to take your academic journey to the next level and make a meaningful impact, this is your chance.
Start your application today: https://www.gatescambridge.org/apply/how-to-apply/
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