Gates Cambridge has opened applications for its 2027–28 scholarship program at the University of Cambridge in the UK.
The Cambridge Scholarship is available to citizens of countries outside the United Kingdom. It supports eligible postgraduate students pursuing master’s and PhD degrees.
The scholarship provides funding for tuition fees and living expenses. It can also cover travel and certain visa-related costs.
Around 70 scholarships are awarded each year. Nearly two-thirds of these awards are given to PhD students.
About one-third of the scholarships are offered through the US selection round. The remaining awards are available through the international selection round.
Gates Cambridge Scholarship 2027 Application Deadlines
The program has two main application rounds. US citizens normally living in the United States apply through the US round.
Other eligible applicants use the international round. This includes US citizens who normally live outside the United States.
| Application Round | Main Deadline |
|---|---|
| US citizens normally living in the United States | October 14, 2026 |
| Other eligible applicants | December 8, 2026, or January 6, 2027 |
The final international deadline depends on the selected course. Applicants should check the specific course deadline before applying.
What Does the Scholarship Cover?
Gates Cambridge covers the full University Composition Fee. This means successful scholars receive funding for their Cambridge tuition.
The scholarship also covers inbound visa costs. It includes the Immigration Health Surcharge where applicable.
Scholars receive economy-class airfare at the beginning and end of their course.
The standard living allowance is £23,152 for 12 months. This amount is based on the published 2026–27 rate.
The allowance may be adjusted for shorter courses. PhD scholars can receive funding for up to four years.
Students starting their studies in 2027 should confirm the applicable allowance.
Additional Financial Support
Scholars may receive additional funding in certain circumstances. The Gates Cambridge Trust considers these requests individually.
Conference and course funding can range from £750 to £4,000. The amount depends on the length of the scholar’s degree.
Family support is also available in specific cases. Scholars may receive up to £12,793 annually for one child.
The amount can rise to £18,244 for two or more children.
PhD scholars can also request continued support during approved fieldwork. The normal living allowance may continue during this period.
Approved maternity or paternity study breaks can also receive support. This allowance can continue for up to six months.
Students facing unexpected financial problems may request hardship funding.
However, the scholarship does not provide an allowance for a partner. It also excludes several academic costs, including scientific equipment.
Who Can Apply?
Applicants must be citizens of a country outside the UK. They must also apply for an eligible postgraduate course at Cambridge.
Eligible programs include full-time PhD degrees and full-time MLitt degrees. Certain one-year postgraduate courses are also covered.
Part-time PhD study is supported through a continuing pilot scheme.
Applicants must meet the admission requirements for their chosen course. Academic qualifications and English-language requirements vary by program.
Current Cambridge students may also apply for a new postgraduate degree. For example, an MPhil student can apply for PhD funding.
Current Gates Cambridge Scholars can also seek another scholarship for a new degree.
Courses Not Covered
The Cambridge Scholarship does not cover undergraduate degrees. It also excludes several postgraduate and professional programs.
These include MBA, EMBA, Global EMBA and Master of Finance programs. MASt courses and most part-time degrees are also excluded.
Other excluded programs include PGCE and certain medical degrees. Professional development courses and other non-standard degrees are also not eligible.
How to Apply
Applicants must first choose an eligible course through the Cambridge Course Directory.
They should review the course requirements and funding deadline. Applicants must also prepare all required documents.
PhD applicants usually need to contact a potential supervisor. Most research MPhil applicants may also need to do this.
Applications are submitted through the Cambridge Applicant Portal.
Applicants should request Gates Cambridge funding in the funding section. They must also complete the required scholarship questions.
Required documents may include academic transcripts and degree certificates. Applicants may also need a CV, references and a research proposal.
PhD candidates must provide a research proposal. English-language evidence may also be required.
Applicants must provide an additional Gates Cambridge reference. They can also select two preferred Cambridge colleges.
How Scholars Are Selected
Gates Cambridge evaluates candidates on several key factors. These include academic ability and the suitability of their chosen course.
The selection process also considers leadership potential and commitment to helping others.
Applicants’ financial circumstances are not considered during selection.
Cambridge departments first nominate a limited number of candidates. Shortlisted applicants are then invited for interviews.
Interviews usually last around 25 to 30 minutes. They may take place online or in person.
Interview panels cover different academic fields. Candidates discuss their studies, research plans and future career goals.
They may also face intellectual or ethical questions during the interview.
The Gates Cambridge Trust makes the final selection after interviews.
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The Cambridge Scholarship offers international students a major opportunity to study at one of the world’s leading universities. Eligible applicants should carefully review their course requirements and deadlines before submitting an application.
