Cambridge Trust Scholarships for International Undergrad & Postgrads
The Cambridge Trust Scholarships are highly competitive, fully or partially funded UK scholarships for international undergraduate and postgraduate students who wish to study at the University of Cambridge.
These scholarships are designed to support global talent and promote educational equity.
If you are searching for prestigious UK scholarships, this programme is among the most established and generous options available.
Why the Cambridge Trust Matters
The Cambridge Trust plays a key role in global education by:
- Supporting international academic mobility
- Encouraging research collaboration and global exchange
- Building leadership and knowledge across borders
Each year, over 500 students from more than 85 countries receive funding through the Cambridge Trust.
Cambridge Trust Scholarships for African Students
The University of Cambridge strongly values diversity and inclusion. Through the Trust, several targeted UK scholarships for African students are available, including:
- Mandela Magdalene Scholarship (for South African students)
- Cambridge Africa Scholarships
- Commonwealth Scholarships
African scholars are well represented in fields such as STEM, law, economics, public health, and development studies.
What the Cambridge Trust Scholarships Cover
Scholarship coverage varies depending on the award. Some are fully funded, while others are partial. Many Cambridge Trust scholarships provide:
- Full or partial tuition fees
- Maintenance allowance for living expenses
- Visa and travel support for some awards
- Research-related expenses for postgraduate students
Funding provided by the Trust does not require repayment, making it one of the most attractive UK scholarships for international students.
Who Can Apply?
To be eligible, applicants must:
- Be classified as an international student (outside the UK)
- Apply to an undergraduate or postgraduate course at Cambridge
- Demonstrate strong academic performance
- Show financial need for many awards
- Meet the University of Cambridge’s admission and language requirements
Eligible Levels and Fields of Study
The Cambridge Trust supports students at the following levels:
- Undergraduate (BA and BA Affiliated)
- Master’s (MPhil, LLM, MBA, and related programmes)
- Doctoral (PhD, EdD, and related programmes)
Eligible fields include:
- Engineering, science, and technology
- Law and social sciences
- Business and management
- Medicine and public health
- Humanities and education
Every academic discipline at Cambridge is supported under at least one Trust-funded award.
UK Scholarships Available Under the Cambridge Trust
The Trust manages over 100 individual scholarship schemes. Notable examples include:
1. Cambridge International Scholarships (CIS)
Designed for PhD students with outstanding academic records, covering full tuition and maintenance.
2. Vice-Chancellor’s Awards
Available for selected PhD candidates and administered under the Trust framework.
3. Cambridge Commonwealth, European & International Trust Scholarships
Open to international students across multiple degree levels.
4. Gates Cambridge Scholarships
Although administered separately, applicants not selected may still be considered for other Cambridge Trust funding.
More information is available via Cambridge Trust Scholarships.
Application Timeline and Key Deadlines
Scholarship consideration is automatic when applicants submit their admission application by the funding deadlines.
- Undergraduate courses: Apply by mid-October through UCAS
- Postgraduate courses: Apply by early December or January, depending on the programme
Deadlines may vary by department and college. Applicants should confirm specific deadlines to qualify for Cambridge Trust funding.
How to Apply for Cambridge Trust Scholarships for International Undergraduates and Postgraduates
Step-by-step process:
- Select your course on the University of Cambridge website
- Review course-specific deadlines
- Apply through UCAS (undergraduate) or the Cambridge Graduate Application Portal (postgraduate)
- Indicate interest in funding during the application
- Submit required documents, including transcripts, references, and language test results
Most Cambridge Trust UK scholarships do not require a separate application.
Documents Required
- Academic transcripts
- English language test results (IELTS or TOEFL)
- Statement of purpose or research proposal for postgraduate study
- At least two academic references
- CV or academic résumé
Selection Criteria
Cambridge Trust scholarship decisions are based on:
- Academic excellence
- Relevance to Cambridge’s research priorities
- Financial need
- Leadership potential and future impact
- Strength of references
Undergraduate applicants are assessed using school grades, admissions tests, and interviews.
Tips for a Strong Application
- Apply as early as possible
- Align your personal statement with Cambridge’s academic strengths
- Secure strong academic references
- Highlight leadership, awards, and achievements
- Choose a course that matches your goals and research interests
Example: African Student Success Stories
A Kenyan student received a Cambridge Africa PhD Scholarship in molecular biology and later returned to Nairobi to help establish a genetics research lab in partnership with local universities.
A Nigerian student awarded a Commonwealth Cambridge Scholarship studied public policy and now works in regional governance across West Africa.
These examples show how UK scholarships like the Cambridge Trust can create lasting impact.
Key Advantages of Cambridge Trust Scholarships
- Global prestige of a Cambridge degree
- Full or partial financial support
- Access to world-class faculty and research facilities
- Diverse international scholar community
- Global alumni network across every continent
After Graduation: What Next?
Many scholars return to their home countries to work in:
- Academia and research
- Government and public service
- International NGOs and development agencies
- Law and judicial institutions
- Business and innovation sectors
Others continue with doctoral research, fellowships, or employment in the UK under post-study work routes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I apply if I already have another scholarship?
Yes. The Trust assesses whether additional funding is permitted or required.
Can I apply for multiple scholarships?
Yes. Applicants are automatically considered for all eligible Cambridge Trust UK scholarships.
Is the scholarship renewable?
Undergraduate awards usually cover the full programme. Postgraduate funding is reviewed annually based on performance.
What if I am not selected?
You may still receive partial or college-specific funding. Additional options may be available through your department.
Other UK Scholarships to Consider
| Scholarship | University | Degree Level | Coverage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chevening | Multiple UK universities | Master’s | Fully funded |
| Rhodes | University of Oxford | Postgraduate | Fully funded |
| Commonwealth | Various universities | Master’s and PhD | Fully funded |
| Gates Cambridge | University of Cambridge | Postgraduate | Fully funded |
The Cambridge Trust remains one of the most inclusive options across degree levels and disciplines.
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 Undergraduates and Postgraduates rank among the most respected UK scholarships worldwide.
They reward academic excellence, leadership potential, and global impact.
If you are motivated, academically strong, and committed to making a difference, this opportunity is for you.