The Gates Cambridge Scholarships stand as a pinnacle of academic achievement, offering unmatched opportunities to exceptional individuals from across the globe. This prestigious scholarship program aims to support outstanding applicants from countries outside the United Kingdom in their pursuit of full-time postgraduate degrees at the esteemed University of Cambridge. In this article, we delve into the intricacies of this scholarship, from its eligibility criteria to the application process.
Host Institution: The University of Cambridge
The University of Cambridge, located in the United Kingdom, serves as the nurturing ground for Gates Cambridge Scholars. As one of the world’s oldest and most renowned universities, Cambridge provides an unparalleled academic environment for scholars to excel.
Level and Fields of Study in University of Cambridge
Gates Cambridge Scholarships are available for a range of postgraduate programs:
1. PhD (full-time or part-time*)
2. MLitt (full-time)
3. One-year postgraduate course (full-time), with some exceptions – see below
However, it’s important to note that certain courses are not eligible for this scholarship:
- Any undergraduate degree, including BA (undergraduate) or BA affiliated (a second BA).
- Business Doctorate (BusD).
- Master of Business (MBA).
- Master of Finance (MFin).
- MASt courses.
- PGCE.
- MBBChir Clinical Studies.
- MD Doctor of Medicine degree (6 years, part-time).
- Graduate Course in Medicine (A101).
- Part-time degrees.
- Non-degree courses.
Number of Awards
Each year, approximately 80 exceptional individuals are selected as Gates Cambridge Scholars, securing their place among the world’s most promising academics.
Also Visit: University of the West of England Bristol Chancellor’s Scholarships for International Students
Target Group
The Gates Cambridge Scholarships are open to citizens of any country outside the United Kingdom, making them a truly international endeavor.
Scholarship Value and Inclusions
The Gates Cambridge Scholarship is a comprehensive package that covers various aspects of a scholar’s academic journey:
- Tuition fees at the University of Cambridge.
- Maintenance allowance (£20,000 for 12 months at the 2023-24 rate; pro rata for courses shorter than 12 months). For Ph.D. scholars, the award is for up to 4 years.
- One economy single airfare at both the beginning and end of the course.
- Inbound visa costs.
- The cost of the Immigration Health Surcharge.
Additionally, scholars may receive additional discretionary funding for academic development, family allowance, fieldwork, and more. The full scholarship value can be explored here
Eligibility
To be eligible for a Gates Cambridge Scholarship, you must meet the following criteria:
- Be a citizen of any country outside the United Kingdom.
- Be applying for one of the following full-time residential courses of study: Ph.D. (full-time or part-time*), MSc, MLitt (full-time), or a one-year postgraduate course (full-time), with some exceptions (see the list above).
For those aiming to begin their studies in October 2024, Gates Cambridge is testing a pilot scheme that allows applicants to seek funding for a part-time doctoral degree.
University of Cambridge Application Instructions
If you aspire to become a Gates Cambridge Scholar, the application process is a vital step in your journey. Here are the key details:
- Applications open on 4 September 2023.
- Applicants must submit their application for admission and funding (Gates Cambridge and other funding) through the University’s Graduate Application Portal. This includes applying for admission to a course and a College place, as well as the Gates Cambridge part of the funding section.
- Two application deadlines are in place:
- 11 October 2023 (for US citizens resident in the USA)
- Either 5 December 2023 or 4 January 2024, depending on the course, for all other eligible applicants.
