Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation / University of Cambridge • United Kingdom
About This Scholarship
The Gates Cambridge Scholarship is one of the most prestigious international postgraduate awards in the world, enabling outstanding applicants from outside the UK to study at the University of Cambridge. The program was established in 2000 with a $210 million donation from the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation.
Gates Cambridge Scholars are selected for their outstanding intellectual ability, leadership potential, commitment to improving the lives of others, and a good fit with Cambridge.
The scholarship covers:
- Full cost of studying at Cambridge (University Composition Fee at the home or overseas rate)
- Maintenance allowance (£18,744 for 2025–26)
- One economy return airfare
- Inbound visa costs and the NHS surcharge
- Family allowance (if applicable)
- Fieldwork allowance (if applicable)
Eligibility Requirements
- Citizen of any country outside the United Kingdom
- Applying to pursue one of the following at Cambridge: PhD, MSc/MLitt, or a one-year postgraduate course
- Must apply for admission to the University of Cambridge at the same time
- Outstanding academic achievement — typically in the top 1–2% of their cohort
- Strong leadership potential
- Commitment to improving the lives of others
- PhD applicants: must have at least a first-class honors degree equivalent
Ready to Apply?
Visit the official scholarship page for detailed application instructions.