For ambitious Nigerian students who want to study at one of the world’s top universities, the Gates Cambridge Scholarship is a life-changing opportunity. This fully funded scholarship allows outstanding students from outside the UK — including Nigeria — to pursue postgraduate study at the prestigious University of Cambridge.
In this article, we’ll break down what the Gates Cambridge Scholarship offers, who is eligible, how Nigerian students can apply, and tips to strengthen your application.
What is the Gates Cambridge Scholarship?
The Gates Cambridge Scholarship was established in 2000 through a donation from the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation. Each year, around 80 full-cost scholarships are awarded to exceptional students from all over the world.
The scholarship covers:
- Full University of Cambridge tuition fees
- A maintenance allowance for living expenses (~£20,000 per year)
- One economy-class airfare at the beginning and end of the course
- Inbound visa costs and health surcharge
- Additional discretionary funding (e.g., for fieldwork, academic development, or family allowance if applicable)
Why Nigerian Students Should Apply
There are several reasons why Nigerian students should aim for this prestigious award:
- Access to one of the world’s top universities with a strong global reputation
- Fully funded support, removing financial barriers
- Join a global network of Gates Scholars — future leaders, innovators, and changemakers
- Opportunity to study in a wide range of fields: engineering, sciences, medicine, social sciences, humanities, and more
- Chance to develop leadership skills and contribute to Nigeria’s development after graduation
Who is Eligible?
The Gates Cambridge Scholarship is open to:
- Citizens of any country outside the UK, including Nigeria
- Students applying to pursue a full-time postgraduate degree at Cambridge:
- PhD
- MLitt
- One-year postgraduate course (e.g., MPhil, MASt, LLM, MSc)
Key criteria include:
- Outstanding intellectual ability
- Leadership potential
- A commitment to improving the lives of others
- A good academic fit with the chosen Cambridge course
Note: Some courses like undergraduate degrees or certain professional degrees (e.g., MBA, MFin, PGCE) are not eligible.
How Nigerian Students Can Apply (Step by Step)
- Choose a course at Cambridge
Visit the Cambridge University course directory and identify a postgraduate program that fits your goals. - Apply for admission and the scholarship
- Submit your application for admission to Cambridge and indicate your interest in the Gates Cambridge Scholarship in the funding section.
- Provide a personal statement (500 words) explaining why you are applying for the scholarship.
- Get a research proposal ready (for PhD applicants).
- Arrange for references, including one specifically for the scholarship.
- Prepare your supporting documents
- Academic transcripts and certificates
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- English language proficiency test scores (if required)
- References (one academic, one for the scholarship, and others as needed)
- Submit your application online
Applications typically open in September and close in October or early December, depending on the course. Always check deadlines carefully.
Tips for a Strong Gates Cambridge Application
- Start early — prepare your statement, references, and documents well ahead of time.
- Show clear evidence of leadership — campus roles, community work, innovative projects.
- Explain how your work will benefit Nigeria or the wider world after graduation.
- Contact potential supervisors early (especially for research-based courses).
- Make sure your academic record is competitive — most successful applicants have excellent grades.
Conclusion
The Gates Cambridge Scholarship is one of the most prestigious international scholarships, offering brilliant Nigerian students the chance to study at Cambridge without financial burden. With determination, careful preparation, and a clear vision, Nigerian students can compete and join this global network of future leaders.
If you need help preparing your personal statement, research proposal, or application strategy, feel free to reach out — we’re here to help you maximize your chances!
