Gates Cambridge Scholarship: The Gates Cambridge Scholarship program, established in 2000 with a historic donation of US$210 million from the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation to the University of Cambridge, is one of the most prestigious international scholarships. It offers exceptional individuals from countries outside the UK the opportunity to pursue postgraduate degrees at the University of Cambridge. The program aims to identify scholars with outstanding intellectual ability, a commitment to improving lives, and leadership potential, fostering a global network of future leaders dedicated to positive change.
Designation: Gates Cambridge Scholar
Research Area: All subjects available at the University of Cambridge
Location: University of Cambridge, United Kingdom
Eligibility/Qualification:
- Citizen of any country outside the United Kingdom
- Applying for specific courses at the University of Cambridge, including PhD (full-time or part-time), MLitt (full-time), and some one-year postgraduate courses (full-time).
- Current Cambridge students may also apply for a new postgraduate course or a second scholarship.
Job Description: The Gates Cambridge Scholarship program offers a range of benefits to support scholars during their studies at the University of Cambridge. The scholarship includes core components and discretionary components:
Core components:
- University Composition Fee (at the appropriate rate)
- Maintenance allowance for a single student (£20,000 for 12 months at the 2023-24 rate; pro rata for shorter courses) – up to 4 years for PhD scholars.
- One economy single airfare at the beginning and end of the course.
- Inbound visa costs and the Immigration Health Surcharge.
Discretionary components:
- Academic development funding (up to £2,000) for attending conferences and courses.
- Dependent Children Allowance (up to £16,548 for two or more children).
- Fieldwork funding to keep up to the normal maintenance allowance during PhD fieldwork.
- Maternity/Paternity funding for up to 6 months.
- Hardship funding for unforeseen difficulties.
It’s important to note that bench fees, scientific equipment costs, and similar academic resources are not covered by the scholarship.
How to Apply: Interested candidates should submit their application online through the official Gates Cambridge Scholarship website. The application package includes:
- A completed online application form.
- Academic transcripts.
- Two academic references.
- A statement of purpose (500 words maximum).
- A research proposal (PhD applicants only).
- A resume or CV (curriculum vitae).
- A valid and complete application for admission to the University of Cambridge.
The application deadline for the Gates Cambridge Scholarship program is usually in early December. Candidates are encouraged to visit the official website for the most up-to-date information on application deadlines.
Last Date for Apply: Application deadlines vary each year but are typically in early December. Please check the official Gates Cambridge Scholarship website for the current year’s application deadline.
Note: The Gates Cambridge Scholarship is a highly competitive award, and applicants are advised to thoroughly review the eligibility criteria and application requirements on the official website before applying.