Cambridge University Scholarships for Indian Students 2026-27: Complete Guide

Earning a Cambridge Scholarship not only opens the doors to one of the world’s top universities but also positions you among the brightest global minds, providing unmatched opportunities for academic growth, leadership, and global impact. Ranked 6th globally in the QS World University Rankings 2026 (topuniversities.com), Cambridge attracts over 25,000 students from 140+ countries every year. Despite its academic excellence, tuition fees for international students range between £25,000–£35,000 per year (₹29.5–₹41.3 lakh), making financial support crucial.

The challenge is clear: many talented students may be unable to afford this world-class education. However, Cambridge offers multiple scholarships, including fully funded options through Cambridge Trust and Gates Cambridge, to help students overcome these financial barriers. This guide provides an in-depth overview of available scholarships, eligibility criteria, application processes, and strategies to increase your chances of success for the 2026–27 academic year.

The University of Cambridge scholarship for international students has been supported for decades, ensuring financial constraints do not block access to world-class education. The Cambridge Commonwealth, European & International Trust was established in 1995. Scholarships are available at undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral levels, offered by:

• Cambridge Trust Scholarships
• Gates Cambridge Scholarships
• Individual colleges and departments
• External and government-funded organisations

The Cambridge Trust is the primary funding body supporting international students. In 2026–27, it continues to award scholarships at both undergraduate and postgraduate levels. These scholarships aim to attract academically exceptional students and encourage global diversity at the university.

This Cambridge Trust Scholarship (undergraduate) targets students applying for full-time undergraduate degrees. They are awarded based on academic excellence and sometimes include a financial need component. Selected students may receive partial or full coverage of tuition fees along with a living allowance.

• Eligibility: Open to international students applying for a full-time undergraduate degree at the University of Cambridge. Applicants must demonstrate outstanding academic records and, in some cases, financial need.
• Coverage: Provides partial or full tuition fee coverage and may include a living allowance for select candidates.
• Selection: Candidates are chosen based on academic excellence, references, and potential to contribute meaningfully to their chosen field of study.

This award is available to students from any country outside the UK and is open to both undergraduate and postgraduate applicants. It emphasises students who demonstrate leadership potential, academic brilliance, and a commitment to contributing positively to their communities.

• Eligibility: Available to students from any country outside the UK, including both undergraduate and postgraduate applicants. Applicants must show strong academic performance and leadership qualities.
• Coverage: Offers full or partial funding, including tuition fees and maintenance allowance, depending on the level of study and financial need.
• Selection: Scholars are selected for their academic achievements, leadership potential, and commitment to creating a positive impact in their community.

A newer initiative for 2026–27, this scholarship focuses on students whose academic work or research has the potential to create significant social or environmental impact globally. Applicants are assessed not only on academic merit but also on the measurable effect their proposed work could have in their home country or internationally.

• Eligibility: Introduced for the 2026–27 academic year, this scholarship is open to students whose work or research demonstrates a clear potential to drive social or environmental change globally.
• Coverage: Provides substantial funding covering tuition and living costs for selected candidates with impactful research proposals.
• Selection: Applicants are evaluated on academic merit, leadership, and the potential measurable impact of their proposed work at both national and global levels.

Coverage Example: Tuition fees: £25,000–£35,000/year (₹29.5–₹41.3 lakh); maintenance allowance: up to £18,000/year (₹21.2 lakh). However, the exact amount varies depending on the type of Cambridge Trust Scholarship and the level of study (undergraduate or postgraduate).

The Gates Cambridge Scholarship is one of the most prestigious scholarships for postgraduate international students. Funded by the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, it aims to build global leaders committed to improving lives.

• Eligibility: Open to applicants from countries outside the UK applying for a full-time postgraduate degree (Masters or PhD) at Cambridge. Applicants are assessed on academic excellence, leadership potential, and commitment to social change.
• Coverage: Fully funded, including tuition, college fees, maintenance allowance  (£18,000/year = ₹21.2 lakh), travel costs, visa, and settling-in allowance.
• Selection: Candidates submit a separate scholarship application along with their university application. Shortlisted applicants may be invited for interviews. Approximately 80 scholars are selected worldwide annually.

In addition to centralised scholarships, individual Cambridge colleges and departments offer their own awards, often tailored to specific subjects, nationalities, or academic levels. Examples include:

• King’s College Undergraduate Award – Partial/full support for academically exceptional international undergraduates.
• Trinity College International Bursary – Financial assistance for non-UK students demonstrating merit and need.
• Pembroke College Graduate Studentship – Awarded to top postgraduate students in selected fields.

These awards may be smaller than Cambridge Trust or Gates Cambridge scholarships, but they can still significantly reduce costs, particularly when combined with other funding.

External awards further support international students, particularly Indian applicants:

• Chevening Scholarships – Funded by the UK government, Chevening Scholarships cover full tuition fees and living expenses for outstanding students pursuing postgraduate studies in the UK. Many Cambridge University students receive Chevening awards each year, especially those enrolled in fields like public policy, development studies, and engineering.
• Commonwealth Scholarships – Offered to students from Commonwealth nations, these scholarships support postgraduate study in the UK, including at the University of Cambridge. They aim to foster global collaboration and development, helping talented scholars from developing countries access Cambridge’s advanced research facilities.
• Inlaks Shivdasani Foundation Scholarship (India) – This scholarship provides full or partial funding for exceptional Indian students pursuing master’s or doctoral degrees abroad. It supports those admitted to top institutions like Cambridge University, helping cover tuition fees, living costs, and other academic expenses.

External awards can be used in combination with Cambridge-specific scholarships in certain cases, providing an additional layer of financial support for deserving students.

To secure a Cambridge Scholarship, international students, including Indian applicants, must meet specific academic, personal, and course-related criteria. While eligibility varies depending on the scholarship, the main requirements for the 2026–27 academic year are outlined below.

• Undergraduate: Top high school grades (e.g., CBSE/ISC 95%+, A-levels, or IB Diploma).
• Postgraduate: First-class bachelor’s degree or equivalent; research experience for PhD applicants.

• IELTS: Minimum 7.0 overall, no band below 6.5.
• TOEFL iBT: Minimum 100, with at least 22 in each component.

• An offer of admission is mandatory for most scholarships.
• Apply via UCAS (undergraduate) or the Cambridge portal (postgraduate).

• Most scholarships are open to all international students.
• Indian students are eligible for multiple awards, including Cambridge University Scholarships for Indian Students, Gates Cambridge, and Inlaks.

• Competitive scholarships assess leadership, community impact, and research contributions.
• Strong extracurricular achievements enhance eligibility.

• Some Cambridge Trust Scholarships include need-based consideration, requiring proof of financial circumstances.

Applying for Cambridge Scholarships (2026–27) can help Indian students pursue a world-class education at one of the UK’s most prestigious universities. This guide explains the eligibility, application process, and key deadlines for securing these scholarships.

• Undergraduate: via UCAS, selecting course and college preferences.
• Postgraduate: directly through the Cambridge portal.

• Cambridge Trust Undergraduate Scholarships International Students
• Cambridge Trust Global Impact Scholarship
• Gates Cambridge Scholarship
• College-specific awards

• Some scholarships automatically consider admitted students.
• Others (e.g., Gates Cambridge) require a separate application including: transcripts, references, statement of purpose, and research proposal (for postgraduate research).

• Most scholarships close between October–December 2025 for the 2026–27 entry.
• Country-specific deadlines may apply for Gates Cambridge.

• Required for some scholarships like Gates Cambridge.
• Focus on academic goals, leadership experiences, and societal impact.

• Scholarship awards are typically announced after course admission decisions.

Winning a Cambridge Scholarship is highly competitive due to the global applicant pool and limited awards. Beyond academics, Cambridge seeks students who show leadership, impact, and the potential to contribute to their field and community. Here’s a detailed guide to improve your chances:

• Apply Early

Start your application well before the deadlines, which for 2026–27 are mostly between October and December 2025. Early applications give you time to gather required documents, perfect your personal statement, and meet scholarship-specific requirements. It also ensures you won’t miss interview opportunities or country-specific deadlines for awards like Gates Cambridge.

• Maintain Academic Excellence

Strong academic performance is essential. For undergraduates, aim for top grades in your board exams (e.g., CBSE/ISC 95%+), A-levels, or IB Diploma. Postgraduates should have a first-class degree or equivalent. Scholarships like the Cambridge Trust Undergraduate Scholarships evaluate merit first, so high grades are a basic requirement.

• Secure Strong Recommendation Letter

LOR’s can make or break your application. Choose teachers or mentors who know you well and can highlight your intellectual abilities, work ethic, leadership, and character. Detailed, personalised letters carry more weight than generic endorsements and show that credible authorities support your candidacy.

• Craft a Compelling Personal Statement

Your statement of purpose should clearly explain your academic goals, leadership experience, research, and societal impact. Use concrete examples rather than generic statements. Explain how your work aligns with the scholarship’s purpose and how a Cambridge education will help you achieve your goals.

• Showcase Extracurricular and Community Achievements

Scholarships like the Gates Cambridge or Cambridge Trust Global Impact Scholarship look for well-rounded students. Highlight leadership roles, volunteer work, social initiatives, competitions, publications, or projects that demonstrate initiative, innovation, and impact.

• Prepare for Interviews

Some scholarships, especially Gates Cambridge, require interviews for shortlisted candidates. Be ready to discuss your academic interests, leadership experiences, and plans for social or global impact. Practice answering questions clearly, confidently, and authentically to make a strong impression.

• Tailor Your Application to the Scholarship

Research each scholarship carefully and align your application with its goals. Highlight achievements and experiences that resonate with the specific award, whether it’s academic excellence, leadership, or global impact. A well-tailored application increases your chances significantly.

Receiving a Cambridge Scholarship can transform your academic and professional future. With options ranging from Cambridge Trust Undergraduate Scholarships for International Students to fully funded Gates Cambridge awards, talented students from India and across the globe have multiple opportunities to pursue world-class education.

LeapScholar’s expert counsellors can guide you through the application process, help you select the right scholarships, and prepare a winning application.

Book a free counselling session with LeapScholar today and take the first step towards your Cambridge journey.