Cambridge Trust International Scholarship (PhD)

Cambridge Trust, University of Cambridge

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Details checked on 30 October 2026. Dates and amounts change every year. Always confirm on the official page.

Who can apply

Applicants from all countries except the UK and Ireland, with overseas fee status, applying for a full-time or part-time PhD in any subject (excluding premium-rate courses) and highly ranked by their prospective department. Selection is based on academic ability, research potential, exam results and references.

Watch: how to apply

About this opportunity

The Cambridge Trust International Scholarship funds PhD students from abroad at the University of Cambridge. Applicants are automatically considered through the course application; awards are announced from mid-February to the end of July.

How to apply, step by step

1. Check that you are eligible. Applicants from all countries except the UK and Ireland, with overseas fee status, applying for a full-time or part-time PhD in any subject (excluding premium-rate courses) and highly ranked by their prospective department. Selection is based on academic ability, research potential, exam results and references.
2. Note the deadline. Course funding deadline (annual; the scholarship deadline is the same as the funding deadline of your chosen PhD course - check the Cambridge course page, usually in the winter before entry) Confirm the exact date on the official page.
3. Prepare your documents. Passport or national ID; Academic transcripts and degree certificates; CV; Statement of purpose or motivation letter (if requested); Reference or recommendation letters (if requested); Research proposal (for research degrees, if requested); English-language test result or other language proof (if required); Anything else listed on the official page (this list is a typical checklist - always confirm there).
4. Apply on the official page. Open the official application page and submit your application before the deadline.

Free materials

Templates, checklists and guides to help you apply.

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Tips from our advisors

1. Read the eligibility line by line before you write anything. Most rejections are eligibility mismatches, not weak essays.
2. Contact potential supervisors before you apply. Send a one-page research summary and a short, specific email.
3. Ask your referees at least 4 weeks ahead and give them your CV, your draft SOP and the deadline.
4. "Rolling" or "varies" does not mean unlimited time. Funds are awarded as applications are reviewed, so apply early.
5. Submit at least 48 hours before the deadline. Portals slow down on the last day.
6. Have your SOP and CV reviewed by someone who has seen successful applications before you submit.

Quick answers

Who can apply for Cambridge Trust International Scholarship (PhD)?

Applicants from all countries except the UK and Ireland, with overseas fee status, applying for a full-time or part-time PhD in any subject (excluding premium-rate courses) and highly ranked by their prospective department. Selection is based on academic ability, research potential, exam results and references.

What does Cambridge Trust International Scholarship (PhD) cover?

About 60 awards covering international fees, maintenance, the student visa cost and the immigration health surcharge for a Cambridge PhD, with up to six extra months of maintenance to write up

When is the deadline for Cambridge Trust International Scholarship (PhD)?

Course funding deadline (annual; the scholarship deadline is the same as the funding deadline of your chosen PhD course - check the Cambridge course page, usually in the winter before entry) Dates change every year, so confirm on the official page.

Where can I study or work with Cambridge Trust International Scholarship (PhD)?

Host countries: United Kingdom.

What documents do I need for Cambridge Trust International Scholarship (PhD)?

Passport or national ID; Academic transcripts and degree certificates; CV; Statement of purpose or motivation letter (if requested); Reference or recommendation letters (if requested); Research proposal (for research degrees, if requested); English-language test result or other language proof (if required); Anything else listed on the official page (this list is a typical checklist - always confirm there).

How much work is the Cambridge Trust International Scholarship (PhD) application?

Medium: Cambridge Applicant Portal application only (no separate scholarship form)