The Gates Cambridge Scholarship Programme was established in October 2000 through a landmark donation of USD 210 million from the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation to the University of Cambridge. This generous contribution remains the largest single donation ever made to a UK university. The aim of the scholarship is to enable exceptional postgraduate students from around the world to pursue their studies at the University of Cambridge. Since the scholarship’s inception, over 2,000 awards have been given to scholars from more than 100 countries, making it one of the most prestigious international scholarship programs globally.
Each year, the Gates Cambridge Scholarship offers approximately 80 fully-funded scholarships to outstanding candidates from countries outside the UK who wish to pursue a full-time postgraduate degree in any subject available at the University of Cambridge. The scholarships are primarily awarded to PhD candidates, with about 25 awards offered during the U.S. round of applications and 55 awards given in the international round.
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The program aims to build a network of global leaders dedicated to improving the lives of others. Scholars are selected not only for their academic brilliance but also for their leadership potential and commitment to creating a positive impact in society.
Benefits of the Gates Cambridge Scholarship
The Gates Cambridge Scholarship is a comprehensive award that covers the full cost of studying at Cambridge, which includes:
University Composition Fee: The scholarship covers the tuition fees for the selected course of study.
Living Expenses: A maintenance allowance is provided, amounting to £21,000 for 12 months (2024-25 rate). PhD scholars are funded for up to 4 years.
Travel Costs: The scholarship provides one economy-class airfare for travel to and from Cambridge at the beginning and end of the course.
Visa and Health Insurance: The scholarship covers the inbound visa costs and the UK Immigration Health Surcharge.
Additional Funding for Academic Activities: Support for attending conferences, workshops, and other academic-related events.
In addition to these core benefits, the Gates Cambridge Trust also offers discretionary funding for:
Academic Development Funding: Ranges from £500 to £2,000, depending on the course length, to cover expenses for academic activities.
Family Allowance: Up to £11,604 is provided for one child and up to £16,548 for two or more children (2023-24 rate).
Fieldwork Allowance: PhD students may receive their standard maintenance allowance while conducting research work outside of Cambridge.
Maternity/Paternity Leave: Scholars can apply to take a break from their studies for up to 6 months while still receiving their maintenance allowance.
Hardship Funding: For unexpected difficulties, the Trust provides financial support on a case-by-case basis.
Selection Criteria
To be considered for a Gates Cambridge Scholarship, applicants must meet the following selection criteria:
Outstanding Academic Ability: Candidates must demonstrate exceptional intellectual ability, typically through academic achievements, research potential, and recommendations.
Strong Justification for Course Choice: Applicants must explain why their chosen course of study at Cambridge is the best fit for their academic and career aspirations.
Commitment to Improving the Lives of Others: Successful candidates are expected to show a commitment to using their knowledge and skills to contribute to society in a meaningful way.
Leadership Potential: Evidence of leadership potential, either through previous initiatives, leadership roles, or a vision for making a positive social impact.
Eligible Courses
Candidates can apply for a Gates Cambridge Scholarship if they meet the following criteria:
They are a citizen of any country outside the United Kingdom.
They are applying to pursue one of the following courses at the University of Cambridge:
A full-time or part-time PhD program.
A full-time Master of Letters (MLitt).
A full-time one-year postgraduate course (with certain exceptions).
For the October 2024 intake, the Gates Cambridge Trust is continuing its pilot scheme to allow funding for part-time doctoral degrees (PhD).
Application Timeline and Deadlines
The Gates Cambridge Scholarship has a structured application and selection process, which adheres to the following timeline:
Applications Open: 4th September 2024.
Application Deadlines: Dependent on the applicant’s chosen course—either 3rd December 2024 or 7th January 2025.
Departmental Ranking Period: December 2024 – February 2025.
Notification of Application Outcome: By 5th March 2025.
Review and Selection by Panels: 24th and 25th March 2025 (tentative).
Scholarship Offers: By 7th April 2025.
Acceptance of Scholarship: Successful candidates must accept the offer within 72 hours of receiving it.
Application Process
The application process for the Gates Cambridge Scholarship is integrated with the University of Cambridge’s standard postgraduate admission process. Applicants must:
Apply for a course and a College place at the University of Cambridge through the University’s Graduate Application Portal.
Fill out the Gates Cambridge section in the funding application form.
Submit supporting documents, including academic transcripts, a research proposal (for PhD applicants), and a personal statement.
Obtain strong references from academic or professional referees.
Why Choose the Gates Cambridge Scholarship?
The Gates Cambridge Scholarship is not just a financial award; it is an opportunity to join a dynamic community of scholars dedicated to using their talents for social good. Scholars are equipped with world-class education, networking opportunities, and resources that enable them to take on leadership roles in various fields such as science, engineering, social sciences, the arts, and public policy. This scholarship provides a platform for the next generation of change-makers to gain the skills and knowledge needed to tackle complex global challenges.
Important Links and Additional Information
For detailed information about the Gates Cambridge Scholarship, including how to apply, eligibility requirements, and tips on submitting a successful application, visit the Official Gates Cambridge Scholarship Website.
Final Thoughts
The Gates Cambridge Scholarship Programme is a transformative opportunity for high-achieving individuals from around the world to gain a top-tier education while becoming part of a supportive and diverse community. By nurturing future leaders, the program plays a significant role in shaping the global landscape and addressing the world’s most pressing challenges. If you are an outstanding student with a passion for social impact and a desire to study at one of the world’s leading universities, the Gates Cambridge Scholarship is an ideal platform to further your academic and professional journey.
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