Gates Cambridge Scholarship 2027-28

The Gates Cambridge Scholarship programme was established in October 2000 by the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation with a donation of US$210 million. It is one of the most prestigious international scholarships in the world, enabling outstanding applicants from outside the UK to pursue a full-time postgraduate degree at the University of Cambridge. Approximately 80 scholars are selected each year from a pool of over 6,000 applicants. The programme prioritises candidates who demonstrate outstanding academic achievement, leadership, and a commitment to improving the lives of others.

• Full university tuition fees and college fees, maintenance allowance (approximately £19,100 for 12 months in 2026-27), one return economy airfare per year, inbound visa costs and Immigration Health Surcharge, discretionary funding for academic development (conferences, research trips, courses), access to Gates Cambridge community and scholars network, family allowance for dependants where applicable

• Outstanding intellectual ability and academic achievement
• Reasons for choosing the specific course at Cambridge
• Commitment to improving the lives of others
• Leadership potential demonstrated through concrete examples
• Fit between the applicant's aspirations and the Gates Cambridge mission