Gates Cambridge Scholarship 2024-25
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Gates Cambridge Scholarship for Postgraduate Courses: 80 full-cost Gates Cambridge Scholarships are provided to highly meritorious students every year. Students from outside of the UK, willing to pursue their postgraduate course at the University of Cambridge can apply to avail of this scholarship. This highly-coveted scholarship can be sought for any subject with 25 of these to be awarded to candidates in the USA and 55 in the remaining international round.
Established in 2000, the Gates Cambridge Scholarship program is one of the most prestigious scholarships programs awarded to international students. Started with the largest-ever donation by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, this scholarship program is specifically awarded to international applicants who are applying for full-time residential post-graduate degrees, mainly PhD or one or two-year master's in any subject at the University of Cambridge. Considered one of the most generous scholarships, this scholarship is awarded to outstanding candidates who have not only shown excellence in academic and leadership endeavours but also displayed zeal in working for the greater good and bringing change in the lives of others.
The mission of the Gates Cambridge Scholarship program is to develop a community of future leaders committed to improving others' lives. As a result, at any given time, there are at least 250 Gates Cambridge scholars from over 50 countries studying at the University of Cambridge. The Gates Cambridge Scholarship awardees enjoy being part of its exclusive community of 1700 scholars spread around the world and over the years, over 2000 Gates Cambridge scholarships have been awarded to recipients from over 100 countries.
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Applicants must note that whether or not they get awarded the Gates Cambridge Scholarship, they may still be eligible for the funding provided by the University of Cambridge. For more details, check the official website.
What is Covered in the Gates Cambridge Scholarship?
Not just the idea of being selected among the outstanding 55 international students, but also the highly generous cost coverage (funding) provided by the scholarship makes it one of the most valuable scholarships. A comprehensive list of all the core benefits provided by the Gates Cambridge Scholarship is given below.
| Core Benefits of the Gates Cambridge Scholarship | ||
|---|---|---|
| Components | Description | Amount (where specified) |
| University Composition Fee | Varies by student type | See Graduate Studies prospectus for details |
| Maintenance Fee | For a single student | £20,000 for 12 months (2023-24 rate) |
| PhD Scholar Allowance | Extended Maintenance | Up to 4 Years |
| Travel | Economy Airfare | One at the beginning and one at the end of the course |
| Visa Costs | Inbound Visa | Full cost |
| Healthcare | Immigration Health Surcharge | Full cost |
Below are some points related to the core benefits of this scholarship:
- The maintenance allowance is pro-rated for courses shorter than 12 months.
- If a student receives a fee award from public authorities (e.g., UKRI), they should accept it. In such cases:
- The Trust will not pay their fee, or
- The Trust may share their fee and maintenance costs.
- Applicants should consult the Graduate Studies prospectus for precise amounts of the University Composition Fee, as it varies for different types of students.
Apart from its above-mentioned core benefits, the Gates Cambridge Scholarship also provides the following discretionary benefits:
| Additional Discretionary Benefits of the Gates Cambridge Scholarship | ||
|---|---|---|
| Type of Additional Funding | Description | Amount (where specified) |
| Academic Development Funding | For attending conferences and courses | £500 to £2,000 (depending on course length) |
| Dependent Children Allowance | Support for scholars with children | Up to £11,604 for one child; up to £16,548 for two or more children (2023-24 rate) |
| Fieldwork | Maintenance allowance during PhD fieldwork | Up to normal maintenance allowance |
| Maternity/Paternity Funding | Continued maintenance during study break | Up to 6 months of maintenance allowance |
| Hardship Funding | For unforeseen difficulties | Not Specified |
What is Not Covered in the Gates Cambridge Scholarship?
The Gates Cambridge Scholarship covers tuition, living expenses, and a stipend for eligible students pursuing graduate studies at the University of Cambridge. However, additional costs like bench fees and scientific equipment are not covered. These expenses are typically expected to be covered by the student's academic department or research group. The Trust works with the university to ensure students have access to the necessary resources. It is important for students to be aware of these costs and plan accordingly to maximise their educational experience and achieve their academic goals.
Know everything about the Gates Cambridge Scholarship for MBA and MPhil:
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What Makes You a Deserving Candidate for the Gates Cambridge Scholarship?
The eligibility criteria of the Gates Cambridge Scholarship determines which all students are eligible to apply. Check the main points of eligibility below.
- Nationality: Any student from outside the UK and Ireland is eligible to apply.
- Courses: Students applying for the following courses at the University of Cambridge are eligible.
- A full-time or part-time PhD*
- A full-time MLitt
- A one-year full-time postgraduate course (with some exceptions)**
*For the October 2024 cycle, the Gates Cambridge Scholarship will continue a pilot scheme that allows candidates to request funding for a part-time PhD program.
**The postgraduate courses which are not considered by the Gates Cambridge selection committee are:
| Any undergraduate degree, such as a BA or a second BA |
MBA | Executive/Global MBA (EMBA) |
| Master of Finance (MFin) | MASt Courses | Executive Master of Accounting |
| MD Doctor of Medicine (part-time, 6 years, for home students only) | PGCE | Graduate Course in Medicine |
| Any Part-time degree other than a PhD | MBBChir Clinical Studies |
Non-degree courses |
Gates Cambridge Scholarship Selection Criteria
Below are the selection criteria for the Gates Cambridge Scholarship:
- Exceptional academic performance and intellectual ability
- Reason for choosing the course
- Commitment to improving society and the lives of others
- Outstanding leadership abilities
- Alignment of aspirations with Cambridge's programs
- The scholarship aims to create a network of future leaders.
- Candidates must have exceptional credentials to progress to the next round.
- Evidence of societal contributions and being a good fit for the university improve chances of selection.
Apart from this, international students applying for PhD, MSc, MLitt, or one-year postgraduate courses at the University of Cambridge are automatically eligible.
What Do You Need to Do to Receive the Gates Cambridge Scholarship?
Apart from submitting a timely application, you need to make sure that your application draws the attention of the selection committee to get an edge over the other candidates. Below are a few points on what you can do to improve your chances of winning a Gates Cambridge Scholarship.
- Application Form: Create a standout application that draws attention.
- Personal Statement: Draft your personal statement carefully (in not more than 500 words), it must clearly indicate your reason for applying for the scholarship and why you deserve this scholarship.
- CV/Resume: Your application must be attached with a crisp, updated and nicely formatted CV/resume. Mention all the relevant details about your qualifications and try not to exceed your content beyond 1 page.
- PhD Research Proposal: Two-thirds of the total Gates Cambridge Scholarships are awarded to PhD students. So, you are required to write a strong research proposal that clearly demonstrates your enthusiasm for the program and that you are a good fit for Cambridge University.
- Gates Cambridge Reference: A well-written recommendation can significantly impact your application, hence, the choice of referee is critical. Your chosen referee should be able to testify to your personal traits, credibility, and experiences
Below are the points on how the above-mentioned points to strengthen your application can influence the selection committee.
- An impressive statement can win over the selection committee.
- A good CV/Resume can earn "brownie points".
- A strong research proposal showcases your zeal and fit for the program.
- A well-chosen referee and recommendation can greatly enhance your chances.
Gates Cambridge Scholarship Application Timeline
There are two rounds of selection (and application) for this scholarship, round the year. Both these deadlines depend on the course to which you are applying. However, the majority of applicants apply in this (September) round for it aligns with the university's postgraduate funding competition. Refer to the University Course Directory to ensure that you apply by your chosen course's funding deadline.
The Gates Cambridge application window for the current year is closed. Applications for the 2025 entry will open in September 2024. Applicants must submit the duly filled (with all required documents attached) application latest by 23:59 pm UK time on the mentioned date.
As you are now aware there is a lot at stake when it comes to earning the Gates Cambridge Scholarship, you can enhance your chances by taking the help of industry experts. The experienced team at Shiksha can help you in preparing a stellar application with well-executed statements and references. What could be better than having the expert guidance of the Shiksha Counselling Team and getting your application to make its way to the top of the reams of application forms? So, take your chances and prove that you have everything that it takes to earn this illustrious Gates Cambridge Scholarship.
Gates Cambridge Scholarship FAQs
Q. How to get a full scholarship to study at the Cambridge University?
A. The financial situation of any candidate does not affect the selection for a full scholarship at the University of Cambridge. These highly coveted full scholarships at Cambridge University are aimed to be awarded to students from outside the UK or Ireland. Students who are highly ranked (in any subject) by the prospective departments within their universities and awarded based on their academic abilities, research potential, exam results and references.
Q. What happens if the student is receiving a salary or substantial other scholarship than the Gates Cambridge Scholarship?
A. If you receive compensation from an employer or a substantial scholarship, the Gates Cambridge Scholarship Trust has the right to reduce or withhold the standard maintenance allowance. It is important that you notify the Trust immediately if you receive any financial assistance for your studies at Cambridge.
Q. Can the current Cambridge University students apply for Gates Cambridge Scholarship?
A. Yes, current Cambridge students are eligible to apply based on the below-given conditions:
- If you are currently pursuing a course at the University of Cambridge, you can apply for the Gates Cambridge Scholarship for a new, eligible course. For example, if you are currently pursuing a master's degree already at Cambridge University, you can apply for a scholarship for a PhD or in fact, another master's degree.
- Current Gates Cambridge scholars are eligible to apply if they are applying for a new course.
However, current Cambridge students must note that they will be considered for this scholarship the second and first, students from the international round will be considered. Additionally, if you have already started a course before applying for the scholarship (say a PhD) then, you won't be eligible to apply for the scholarship for the remaining duration.
Q: Â How can I get admission in the University of Manchester?
The application process at the University of Manchester may vary depending on the course and level of study. However, here is the application process for UG and PG courses:
The Undergraduate Application Process:
Step 1: You can apply through the UCAS common application portal.
Step 2: Go to the website and select the course you are interested in.
Step 3: Ensure you meet the Entry requirements (Academic qualifications, English proficiency, etc.
Step 4: Once you decide on the course, submit documents such as SOP, Transcripts and personal statements.
Check out: tips to improve your SOP.
Step 5: You can track the application's progress through your given credentials by UCAS.
Step 6: Once the applicant submits the application to UCAS, it forwards to the University, and the admission teams carefully analyse the application document.
Step 7: The university will send you an offer letter once selected. Hence keep checking your UCAS portal for your application status.
The Postgraduate application process:
Step 1: Select the postgraduate course you are interested in from the University of Manchester.\
Step 2: Ensure you meet the entry requirements for the chosen program, as they vary depending on the course.
Step 3: Complete the online application by providing your personal information.
Step 4: Upload the required documents, such as Academic transcripts and proof of English language proficiency ( TOEFL/ IELTS). experience in your fields and references (depending on the course). You also may require Two LORs depending on the course.
To make your admission better, check out the following: How Admission Officers Evaluate your application.
Step 5: If your application is successful, you will receive an offer from the University of Manchester.
Q: Â Does the University of Essex require IELTS?
International students whose native language is not English must meet the University of Essex English language requirements to get admission. The university accepts IELTS scores as proof of English language proficiency. Mentioned below are the IELTS scores required for UG and PG admission at the university:
English Language Test | Score |
|---|---|
IELTS | Overall score of 5.5 to 8.0 with minimum of 5.5 to 7.5 in each section |
The university also accepts the score of other English language tests such as TOEFL and PTE for admission to undergraduate and graduate programs:
English Language Test | Score |
TOEFL iBT | Overall score of 72 to 114 |
PTE | Overall score of 59 to 84 with minimum of 59 to 80 in each section |
Also read: Required IELTS Score for UK Universities
Q: Â Is university of West of Scotland good for international students?
The University of the West of Scotland has five modern and diverse campuses in United Kingdom. The University has welcomed more than 3,000 international students which are representing 1/3 of the globe. They also have 130 European partners who are actively in global study and exchange options through the Commonwealth universities programmes. The University also offers study abroad opportunities for UWS who are eligible for the same and also have more than 20 transnational education partners worldwide which helps them deliver UWS Bachelors and Masters Degrees around the world.
Q: Â What rank is Wolverhampton University in UK?
The University of Wolverhampton is one of the best universities in the United Kingdom. The university is consistently ranked among the best universities nationally and globally. For nearly 200 years, the University of Wolverhampton has been consistently providing a quality of education to students and producing highly skilled graduates. The national rankings of the University of Wolverhampton are given below:
| Ranking Body | Ranking |
|---|---|
| The Guardian University Guide 2024 | #101 |
| The Complete University Guide 2024 | #117 |
Q: Â How to prepare for UK 10th board exam 2025?
Those who are preparing for the UK Class 10 exam 2025 are recommended to follow the tips below.
- Know the exam pattern
- Make a proper time table as per the syllabus
- Solve previous year question papers
- Make short notes of important formulas and theorems
- Revise regularly
- Figure out weaker areas and learn them well
With proper planning and hard work, students can easily clear the UK 10th board exam.
Q: Â What is University of Wales, Trinity Saint famous for?
University of Wales, Trinity Saint (UWTSD) was founded in 2010, is a public institution for higher education and research at multiple locations. It was set up under the 1828 royal charter of Lampeter, the institution was the result of the merger between Trinity University College and the University of Wales. The institution merged with the Swansea Metropolitan University in 2013.
- Top Ranked University: The UWTSD is not ranked by any major ranking body, however as per the university ranking given on the official website of the university, it is ranked among:
- #1st in Wales and UK Top 5 Film Production and Photography
- #1st in Wales and UK Top 5 Fashion and Textiles
- #1st in Wales and UK Top 20 Graphic Design
- #1st in Wales and UK Top 5 Education
- #1st in Wales and UK Top 20 Sports Science
- #1st in Wales and UK Top 20 Mechanical Engineering
- #1st in Wales for Fine Arts
- Variety of Courses: UWTSD offers more than 300 programs at various levels including undergraduate, postgraduate degrees as well as multiple online courses.
- Highly distinguished and learned faculties: the faculty at UWTSD is highly learned and distinguished which enables students to be the best in their field of study.
- High Placements: According to Graduate Outcome data 2019-2020 quoted by the UWTSD, more than 95% of its graduates were found to be employed within 15 Months of graduation. The average salary of a graduate is not explicitly released by UWTSD, however, as per some unofficial sources the average salary of the graduates of UWTSD is approximately INR 30-35L. with the highest salary being reported as high as INR 66.5L for jobs in Financial Services.
Q: Â Why indian students choose to study at Hult International Business School - UK?
Indian students choose to study at Hult International Business School in the UK for several reasons, including its highly ranked programs, global outlook, and career support. Hult offers a range of full-time master’s degrees, immersive bachelor's programs, and MBA options that prepare students to excel in the global job market. The school is the largest and top-ranked global business school, providing students with an incomparable universal outlook. Additionally, Hult's focus on experiential learning, extensive career support, and the opportunity to study at multiple campuses around the world are attractive to Indian students seeking a global business education. Furthermore, the school's emphasis on innovation and meeting the needs of students and employers may also contribute to its appeal to Indian students
Q: Â How to download UK Board 12th date sheet 2024?
Following are the steps to download the UK 12th date sheet 2024.
- Open the Uttarakhand Board's official website at ubse.uk.gov.in
- Click on 'Examination Scheme' available on the homepage
- A new window will appear on the screen containing a link of the UK Board 12th date sheet 2024
- Click the link and download the Uttarakhand 12th date sheet 2024
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