Gates Scholarship

The Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation established a major scholarship program in 2000 to bring outstanding students from countries around the world to Cambridge University. The program provides for a maximum of 230 Gates Cambridge Scholars in residence at any one time, 100 of them from the U.S. Through this initiative, the Foundation hopes to create a network of future leaders who will bring new vision and commitment to improving the life circumstances of citizens in their respective countries. Over time, it is intended that Gates Cambridge Scholars will take a lead in addressing global problems related to health, equity, technology and learning, areas in which the Foundation is deeply engaged.

Scholarships are for tenure of one to three years, with a possible extension to a fourth year. In some cases, it is possible to pursue a second undergraduate degree at Cambridge under the scheme. If pursuing a PhD, candidates may hold a Master’s degree. Scholarships are awarded only to students who have been admitted to the University of Cambridge through the University’s regular procedures.