The Gates Cambridge Scholarship is one of the most generous awards in the world. It pays for a full postgraduate degree at the University of Cambridge, and it’s open to applicants from every country outside the UK, including Nigeria, Kenya, Ghana, South Africa, Zimbabwe and Zambia.
Applications for courses starting in 2027 opened on 11 September 2026.
What the scholarship pays
- The full cost of your Cambridge course fees.
- A living allowance of £23,152 a year (the 2026-27 rate).
- One economy return flight at the start and end of your course.
- The cost of your student visa and the UK immigration health surcharge.
- Extra money for children may be available, at the Trust’s discretion.
Who can apply
You can apply if you’re a citizen of any country except the UK and you’re applying for a full-time PhD, MLitt or most one-year postgraduate courses at Cambridge. Some courses aren’t covered, including the MBA, the MASt and undergraduate degrees. Check eligibility.
The Trust looks for four things: outstanding intellectual ability, leadership potential, a commitment to improving the lives of others, and a good fit between you and your chosen course.
How to apply
There’s no separate scholarship form. You apply for your Cambridge course through the university’s graduate application portal and tick the box to be considered for Gates Cambridge funding. Your application, references and a short Gates statement are reviewed together.
Deadlines for 2027
| Deadline | Who it’s for |
|---|---|
| 8 December 2026 | Applicants whose course has the December funding deadline |
| 6 January 2027 | Applicants whose course has the January funding deadline |
The deadline that applies to you depends on your course, and it’s shown on the course page on the Cambridge website. Results are due by 8 March 2027.
Tips
- Start with the course, not the scholarship. Your department’s view of you matters a lot.
- Ask your referees early, because both references must arrive before your course’s deadline.
- Use the Gates statement to show what you have already done for others, not just what you plan to do.
See the full scholarship calendar for more awards open now.