The Cambridge Trust Scholarships are competitive and fully or partially funded awards for international undergraduate and postgraduate students who wish to study at the University of Cambridge. These scholarships support global talent and promote educational equity.
If you’re searching for prestigious UK scholarships, this programme is one of the most established and generous options.
Why the Cambridge Trust Matters
- Supports international academic mobility
- Encourages research and global exchange
- Builds leadership and knowledge across borders
Over 500 students from more than 85 countries receive Cambridge Trust funding every year.
Cambridge Trust Scholarships for African Students
The University of Cambridge values diversity and inclusion. The Trust provides targeted UK scholarships to African students through specific programmes such as:
- The Mandela Magdalene Scholarship (for South Africans)
- Cambridge Africa Scholarships
- Commonwealth Scholarships
African scholars are well represented in STEM fields, law, economics, public health, and development studies.
What the Cambridge Trust Scholarships Cover
The coverage varies based on the award. Some are full awards, while others are partial. Here is what many of the scholarships offer:
- Full or partial tuition fees
- Maintenance allowance (living expenses)
- Visa costs and travel support (for some awards)
- Research-related expenses (for postgraduate students)
You will not need to repay the funding. This makes the Trust one of the best UK scholarships for international students.
Who Can Apply?
To qualify, applicants must:
- Be from outside the UK (international status)
- Apply to an undergraduate or postgraduate course at Cambridge
- Show academic excellence
- Demonstrate financial need (for many awards)
- Meet the university’s language and admission requirements
Eligible Levels and Fields of Study
The Cambridge Trust supports:
- Undergraduate (BA/BA Affiliated)
- Master’s (MPhil, LLM, MBA, etc.)
- Doctoral (PhD, EdD, etc.)
Fields include:
- Engineering, Sciences, and Technology
- Law and Social Sciences
- Business and Management
- Medicine and Public Health
- Humanities and Education
Every academic discipline at Cambridge is eligible under some form of funding.
UK Scholarships Available Under the Cambridge Trust
The Trust manages over 100 individual scholarship schemes. Here are some notable examples:
1. Cambridge International Scholarships (CIS)
For PhD students with excellent academic records. Covers full tuition and maintenance.
2. Vice-Chancellor’s Awards
For PhD students with Home or EU status but managed under the Trust umbrella.
3. Cambridge Commonwealth, European & International Trust Scholarships
Open to students from outside the UK across all levels.
4. Gates Cambridge Scholarships
Although run separately, Gates Cambridge applicants are automatically considered for other Cambridge Trust funding if not selected.
More info:Â Cambridge Trust Scholarships
Application Timeline and Key Deadlines
Scholarship consideration is automatic when you apply to the University of Cambridge by the funding deadlines.
- Undergraduate courses: Apply by mid-October via UCAS
- Postgraduate courses: Apply by early December or January (depends on the course)
Deadlines vary slightly by course and college. Check your department’s deadline to qualify for Cambridge Trust funding.
Official source:Â Postgraduate Application Deadlines
How to Apply for Cambridge Trust Scholarships for International Undergrad & Postgrads
Step-by-step:
- Choose your course on the University of Cambridge website
- Check the course-specific deadlines
- Apply for admission through UCAS (undergraduate) or the Cambridge Graduate Application Portal (postgraduate)
- Indicate that you wish to be considered for funding
- Submit required documents (transcripts, references, language test scores, etc.)
There is no separate application for most Cambridge Trust UK scholarships.
Documents Required
- Academic transcripts
- English language proficiency test (IELTS/TOEFL)
- Statement of purpose or research proposal (postgraduate)
- References (at least two)
- CV or academic résumé
Selection Criteria
Cambridge Trust scholarship decisions are based on:
- Academic excellence
- Alignment with the university’s research priorities
- Financial need
- Leadership or impact potential
- Quality of references
Undergraduate applicants are assessed based on school grades, admissions test performance, and interview.
Tips for a Strong Application
- Apply early to maximise chances
- Tailor your personal statement to Cambridge’s strengths
- Secure strong academic references
- Highlight awards, achievements, and leadership
- Choose a course that fits your goals and has strong supervisors
Example: African Student Success Story
A Kenyan student received a Cambridge Africa PhD Scholarship in molecular biology. After completing her degree, she returned to Nairobi and helped establish a genetics research lab in partnership with local universities.
Another Nigerian student received a Commonwealth Cambridge Scholarship to study public policy. He now works in regional governance across West Africa.
These examples show how UK scholarships like the Cambridge Trust can spark long-term change.
Key Advantages of Cambridge Trust Scholarships
- Global prestige of a Cambridge degree
- Full or partial financial support
- Access to top-tier faculty and research labs
- Diverse community of international scholars
- Alumni network that spans every continent
After Graduation: What Next?
Many scholars return to their home countries to work in:
- Academia and research
- Government and civil service
- International NGOs and development agencies
- Law firms and courts
- Business and innovation hubs
Others pursue fellowships, doctoral research, or employment in the UK under post-study work visas.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I apply if I already have funding from another source?
Yes, but the Trust will assess whether top-up funding is needed or allowed under the other award.
Can I apply to more than one scholarship?
Yes. You will be automatically considered for all Cambridge Trust UK scholarships for which you are eligible.
Is the scholarship renewable?
Undergraduate awards usually cover the full duration. Postgraduate awards are renewed annually based on academic performance.
What if I’m not selected?
You might still receive partial funding or college-specific scholarships. Explore additional options via your department or country.
Other UK Scholarships to Consider
| Scholarship | University | Degree Levels | Coverage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chevening | Various (incl. Cambridge) | Master’s only | Full funding |
| Rhodes | University of Oxford | Postgraduate | Full funding |
| Commonwealth | Various | Master’s and PhD | Full funding |
| Gates Cambridge | Cambridge | Postgraduate | Full funding |
Cambridge Trust is more inclusive across disciplines and degree levels than most.
Where to Get More Help
- Cambridge Trust Official Site
- University of Cambridge International Applications
- UCAS Undergraduate Portal
- Cambridge Graduate Application Portal
Final Word
The Cambridge Trust Scholarships for International Undergrad & Postgrads are among the most respected UK scholarships.
They support academic excellence and global leadership.
If you are driven, academically strong, and eager to create change, this opportunity is for you.
Start early. Prepare thoroughly. Stay informed.
Cambridge welcomes the world. And that includes you.