Gates Cambridge Scholarship

Gates Cambridge Scholarship: Study at the University of Cambridge on a Fully Funded Award

The Gates Cambridge Scholarship is one of the world’s most prestigious international scholarships, offering full funding for exceptional students from outside the UK to pursue graduate study at the University of Cambridge. Funded by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, this highly competitive program supports future leaders who are committed to improving the lives of others through research, innovation, and public service.

The Gates Cambridge mission is to build a global network of changemakers, selecting individuals with outstanding intellectual ability, leadership potential, and a passion for making a positive impact. Scholars receive both financial support and access to a vibrant, lifelong community of peers and mentors at one of the top universities in the world.

Established in October 2000 through a historic $210 million donation—the largest ever made to a UK university—the Gates Cambridge Trust has awarded over 2,000 scholarships to students from more than 100 countries. The first class of Gates Scholars entered Cambridge in 2001, and the program has grown into a dynamic and influential global community.

Year	Name	Major
2024	Johnson, Brittney	Global Studies and Human Geography, and Foreign Language

Why Apply for the Gates Cambridge Scholarship?

• Full funding for tuition, fees, airfare, and living expenses
• Study at the world-renowned University of Cambridge in England
• Join a prestigious global network of leaders, researchers, and advocates
• Access professional development, mentorship, and community-building opportunities
• Pursue degrees in a wide range of fields, including the sciences, humanities, engineering, health, and public policy

Eligibility Requirements

• Must be a citizen of a country outside the UK
• Must be applying to pursue one of the following at the University of Cambridge:
  • PhD (three-year research degree)
  • Master’s (such as MPhil, MLitt, or one-year postgraduate course)
• Demonstrated academic excellence, leadership potential, and a commitment to improving the lives of others

View full eligibility criteria.

Support at MTSU

Interested in applying? Our Honors College advisors are here to help you navigate the application process, including:

• Identifying a strong research program at Cambridge
• Drafting and revising your personal statement and research proposal
• Preparing for the interview process
• Connecting you with past Gates applicants or awardees for insight

Contact Laura Clippard, National Scholarships Coordinator, at laura.clippard@mtsu.edu to schedule a one-on-one advising session.