Applications are now open for the Gates Cambridge Scholarship 2026, offering fully funded postgraduate opportunities at the University of Cambridge for outstanding students outside the UK, including Pakistan. The program provides full tuition, a stipend of £21,000, airfare, visa costs, and health insurance, making it one of the most prestigious awards for future global leaders.
The Gates Scholarship, funded by Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, started in 2017 for outstanding low-income U.S. students.
Earlier, the Gates Millennium Scholars Program ran from 1999 to 2016.
Since its launch, the scholarship has supported over 2,000 scholars from more than 100 countries, with the mission of nurturing academic excellence and leadership that creates a worldwide impact.
The award covers the University Composition Fee, living allowance, airfare, visa costs, and health surcharge. PhD students may receive up to four years of funding. Additional support, such as academic development funds, childcare assistance, and hardship grants, is also available.
Eligibility
Applicants must:
- Hold non-UK citizenship.
- Apply for a PhD, MLitt, or a one-year postgraduate course.
- Current Cambridge students may apply if starting a new program.
Selection Criteria
Candidates will be judged on academic excellence, leadership potential, the quality of their chosen course, and their commitment to improving lives.
Application Process & Deadline
Applications must be submitted online through the Cambridge Graduate Application Portal by October 15, 2025. Shortlisted candidates will later be invited for interviews.
Scholarship at a Glance
| Coverage | Details |
| Tuition | Full University Composition Fee |
| Stipend | £21,000 per year |
| Travel | Return airfare |
| Other | Visa, health surcharge, childcare & fieldwork support |
The Gates Cambridge Scholarship offers a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for Pakistani students to pursue advanced studies at one of the world’s leading universities. As applications open, the question arises: Will Pakistan’s young scholars step forward to seize this chance and contribute as global changemakers?