University of Cambridge Scholarships & Funding
How to Apply in 2025

A step-by-step guide to finding scholarships, understanding eligibility, and applying for funding at Cambridge in 2025.

🎓 Overview

The University of Cambridge provides a range of funding options for undergraduate, graduate and international students — from college bursaries and university scholarships to prestigious external awards like Gates Cambridge and Commonwealth Scholarships.

This guide explains major funding routes, estimated values, eligibility, and a simple timeline to help you apply in 2025.

💸 Main Funding Types

🎯 Who Can Apply?

Eligibility varies by award. Typical categories include:

📅 2025 Application Timeline (Typical)

WhenWhat to do
Sept–Nov 2024Research funding options and check college pages (for Oct–Dec internal deadlines).
Dec–JanPrepare documents: references, transcripts, personal statement, research proposal (if applicable).
Jan–Mar 2025Apply for major scholarships (Gates Cambridge, Commonwealth) and departmental studentships.
Mar–Jun 2025College bursary applications often considered after offer; submit evidence of household income.
June–Aug 2025Offer letters and funding decisions; accept offers and arrange visa/loans.

📝 How to Apply — Step by Step

  1. Find awards that match you: Check the University funding database, college pages and department websites.
  2. Check eligibility: Note restrictions (nationality, degree level, residency, academic requirements).
  3. Prepare documents: Transcripts, references, CV, personal statement, research proposal, and financial evidence for means-tested awards.
  4. Apply by the deadline: For many prestigious scholarships (e.g., Gates Cambridge) submit applications in January–February.
  5. Follow up: Some awards require interviews or additional forms; respond promptly.

💷 Estimated Scholarship Values

Values vary widely — examples:

📚 Special Schemes to Watch

📎 Tips for a Strong Application

  1. Start early: Funding applications require time for references and proofs.
  2. Tailor your statement: Show how the award will enable your study and future impact.
  3. Secure excellent references: Ask supervisors early and provide a summary of achievements.
  4. Provide accurate financial evidence: For means-tested bursaries, submit clear household income documents.
  5. Consider multiple routes: Combine smaller college awards with larger external scholarships.

📊 Funding Snapshot (Examples)

Funding TypeWho it's forTypical value
Gates CambridgeInternational postgraduateFull tuition + maintenance
Cambridge TrustInternational & UKPartial to full tuition awards
College BursaryUndergrad (means-tested)£200–£6,000 pa
Departmental StudentshipResearch PhDTuition + stipend (£15k–£25k pa)

❓ FAQs — Scholarships & Funding

Can I apply for Gates Cambridge and other Cambridge awards simultaneously?
Yes — you can apply for multiple scholarships; check each scheme's rules for any restrictions.
What documents are needed for college bursaries?
Typically: evidence of household income, bank statements, tax returns, and a short explanation of circumstances.
When will I know if I’ve been awarded funding?
Timelines vary — major scholarship decisions often arrive between March and July; college bursaries may be confirmed with or after your offer.

✅ Final Checklist

  1. List relevant scholarships and note deadlines.
  2. Request references well before deadlines.
  3. Prepare and double-check financial documents.
  4. Tailor personal statements to the award's priorities.
  5. Submit early when possible and keep copies of all submissions.
Scholarship applications take effort — but the payoff can be transformational. Apply early, be thorough, and use Cambridge’s careers and funding teams for support.
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