The Gates Cambridge Scholarship 2026 is now open for application, offering Pakistani students and other international applicants the opportunity to study at the University of Cambridge in a postgraduate program. It is a fully financed award with one of the most comprehensive packages of financing in the world, designed to help develop future leaders who have signed the Global Impact Pledge.
Who Can Apply?
The applicants need to be non-United Kingdom citizens and submit an application to one of the following programs:
– PhD (full-time or part-time)
– MLitt (full-time)
– Full-time, one-year postgraduate course (with some exceptions)
Existing students in Cambridge are also eligible to apply, provided they are commencing a new postgraduate degree. The scholarship seeks to reach applicants with outstanding academic records, leadership skills, and a desire to positively impact the lives of others.
Scholarship Coverage
The Gates Cambridge Scholarship offers complete financial assistance, such as:
– University Composition Full Fee
– Maintenance allowance of 21,000 yearly (four years maximum on PhD students)
– One one-way economy ticket.
– Visa fee and Immigration Health Surcharge.
Other benefits may also be available, including academic development grants, childcare grants, fieldwork grants, and hardship grants for unforeseen circumstances.
Selection Criteria
The following criteria will be evaluated in the applicants:
– Proven academic excellence
– Good reason behind the course of study selected.
– Commitment to making the lives of other people better.
– Evidenced leadership abilities.
It is only on the basis of these high standards of achievement and impact that the shortlisting will be conducted.
How to Apply
Visa applications should be made online using the University of Cambridge Graduate Application Portal. To apply, applicants should complete the admission and funding section, which includes the Gates Cambridge application form. The final selection will be made through interviews with the shortlisted candidates.
Deadline
The application due date is October 15, 2025. Pakistani students are highly advised to apply at the earliest opportunity so that they can submit all the necessary documents on time.
