How to Study at the University of Cambridge with a Fully Funded Scholarship (Complete Guide)
The University of Cambridge (UK) is one of the world’s top universities. International students can study there with full financial support through prestigious scholarships such as the Gates Cambridge Scholarship and Cambridge Trust Scholarships.
This guide explains everything you need to know:
Procedures.
Certificates required
Age limit
Eligible countries
Credentials
DeadlinesStep-by-step application process
1. Fully Funded Scholarships at the University of Cambridge
1. Gates Cambridge Scholarship (MOST IMPORTANT)
This is the top fully funded scholarship at Cambridge.
What it covers:
- 100% tuition fees
- Full living allowance (maintenance)
- One return flight
- Visa and health surcharge
- Academic development funding
Level:
- Master’s (MSc, MPhil, MASt)
- PhD (Doctoral)
Funding type: Fully funded
2. Cambridge Trust Scholarships
Funded by the Cambridge Commonwealth, European & International Trust.
What it covers (varies):
- Full or partial tuition
- Living costs (some awards)
- College fees
Level: Undergraduate & Postgraduate
2. Age Requirement
No age limit
Cambridge and Gates Cambridge do NOT set an age restriction. Selection is based on:
- Academic excellence
- Leadership potential
- Commitment to improving lives
3. Eligible Countries
Gates Cambridge Scholarship
Open to ALL countries outside the UK
Includes Nigeria, Ghana, Kenya, India, Pakistan, USA, Canada, and more
Cambridge Trust
Open to most countries worldwide
Some scholarships are country-specific
4. Academic Requirements (Credentials Needed)
For Master’s Degree
You must have:
- A Bachelor’s degree
- Strong academic grades (usually First Class / Upper Second Class or equivalent)
- Relevant academic background
For PhD (Doctoral)
You must have:
- Bachelor’s degree
- Often a Master’s degree
- Research experience
- Strong academic references
5. Certificates & Documents Required
You will need the following official documents:
Academic Documents
- Degree certificate(s)
- Academic transcripts
- CV / Resume
Written Documents
- Personal statement
- Gates Cambridge statement (leadership + impact)
- Research proposal (for PhD)
References
- 2–3 academic referees
- Submitted directly by your referees
English Language Test (if required)
One of the following:
- IELTS
- TOEFL
- Cambridge English
(Minimum scores depend on your course)
Identification
- Valid international passport
6. Step-by-Step Application Procedure (VERY IMPORTANT)
STEP 1: Choose a Course at Cambridge
- Visit Cambridge course listings
- Select a Master’s or PhD programme
- Confirm academic & English requirements
STEP 2: Apply for Admission (MANDATORY)
You must apply for:
✔ A course
✔ A college
✔ Funding (Gates Cambridge / Cambridge Trust)
All in ONE online application
STEP 3: Select Funding Options
Inside the application:
- Tick “Gates Cambridge Scholarship”
- Tick “Cambridge Trust Scholarships”
There is NO separate application for Cambridge Trust
Gates Cambridge requires additional essays
STEP 4: Submit Before the Deadline
Your scholarship eligibility depends on early submission.
STEP 5: Interviews & Selection
- Shortlisted candidates are invited for interviews
- Academic merit + leadership assessed
STEP 6: Final Offer
Successful candidates receive:
- Admission offer
- Full scholarship confirmation
- Visa documents
7. Important Deadlines (Typical)
Gates Cambridge Deadlines
- October–December (for US applicants)
- December–January (for international applicants)
Deadlines vary by course earlier deadlines give better chances
Cambridge Trust
- Same deadline as your course application
8. Selection Criteria (What They Look For)
Gates Cambridge selects candidates based on:
- Outstanding academic excellence
- Leadership potential
- Commitment to improving lives
- Good fit with Cambridge
9. Tips to Increase Your Chances
Apply early
Choose a course aligned with your background
Write a strong leadership essay
Get referees who know you academically
Demonstrate real impact, not just ambition
10. Summary Checklist
Choose Cambridge course
Prepare transcripts & certificates
Write personal & Gates statements
Secure strong references
Apply before deadline
Attend interview
Receive full funding
Final Note
Studying at the University of Cambridge with a fully funded scholarship is possible, even if you are from a developing country. The key is academic excellence, leadership, and early preparation.