Cambridge Trust Scholarship: How to Apply, Eligibility & Tips 2026
Partial
Award
36 months
Duration
January
Deadline
Very
Competition
The Cambridge Trust Scholarship is a partially funded Masters/PhD scholarship for international students. Cambridge Trust scholarships are part-funding awards that support outstanding international students at the University of Cambridge for both Masters and PhD programs. Deadline is typically January each year, with very competitive competition. This complete guide covers eligibility, application steps, benefits, and expert tips to maximize your chances.
Before investing time in your application, confirm you meet all requirements:
| Criteria | Requirement |
|---------|-------------|
| Study level | Masters, PhD |
| Nationality | Open to all nationalities |
| Language | English (IELTS 7.5+ minimum) |
| Academic record | Minimum First Class or equivalent |
| Work experience | Not required |
| Deadline month | January each year |
Application Steps
Apply for Cambridge admissions
Cambridge Trust considers all eligible applicants automatically
Some awards require specific funding partner nominations
Competition Level
This scholarship is Very Competitive. Typical acceptance rates vary from 1-15%. A strong application requires:
The Cambridge Trust Scholarship is a partial scholarship covering: GBP 10,000-19,800 per year partial funding, Combined with other awards (like Gates Cambridge) can become full funding, Access to Cambridge Trust events and community.
Who is eligible for the Cambridge Trust Scholarship?
The Cambridge Trust Scholarship is open to students of all nationalities. Study level: Masters, PhD.
What is the deadline for the Cambridge Trust Scholarship?
The Cambridge Trust Scholarship application deadline is typically in January each year. Check the official website at https://www.cambridgetrust.org for exact dates as deadlines can shift year to year.
Is work experience required for the Cambridge Trust Scholarship?
No, the Cambridge Trust Scholarship does not require work experience. It is open to recent graduates and students without professional experience.
What GPA is needed for the Cambridge Trust Scholarship?
The minimum academic requirement for the Cambridge Trust Scholarship is: First Class or equivalent. Given the very competitive nature of this scholarship, successful applicants typically have significantly higher academic records than the minimum.
What language score is required for the Cambridge Trust Scholarship?
The Cambridge Trust Scholarship requires an IELTS score of 7.5 or equivalent. TOEFL may also be accepted. Check specific language requirements on the official website.
How competitive is the Cambridge Trust Scholarship?
The Cambridge Trust Scholarship is very competitive. Acceptance rates can be as low as 1-5%. A strong application requires excellent academics, compelling personal statements, strong references, and clear career goals aligned with the scholarship's values.
How do I apply for the Cambridge Trust Scholarship?
Application steps: 1. Apply for Cambridge admissions. 2. Cambridge Trust considers all eligible applicants automatically. 3. Some awards require specific funding partner nominations. Visit https://www.cambridgetrust.org for the official application portal.
Which countries can I study in with the Cambridge Trust Scholarship?
The Cambridge Trust Scholarship supports study in: uk. Some scholarships are tied to specific universities within these countries.
Is the Cambridge Trust Scholarship renewable?
Scholarship renewability depends on the specific award. Most scholarship programs require recipients to maintain minimum academic performance to continue receiving funding. Some scholarships are awarded once; others are renewed annually for the full duration of study.
Can I apply for the Cambridge Trust Scholarship if I already started my program?
Most competitive scholarships require you to apply before starting your program. A few allow applications within the first year. Check the specific eligibility conditions for the Cambridge Trust Scholarship on the official website.
Is the Cambridge Trust Scholarship available for all study levels?
The Cambridge Trust Scholarship is available for: Masters, PhD. Applications at other levels are not eligible.
What type of scholarship is the Cambridge Trust Scholarship?
The Cambridge Trust Scholarship is a university scholarship awarded by the institution itself, often based on academic merit and program-specific criteria.
Do I need a letter of acceptance before applying for the Cambridge Trust Scholarship?
Requirements vary. Some scholarships (like Chevening) require you to apply simultaneously with university applications. Others require a confirmed offer before applying. Some (like DAAD) may offer placement at a university as part of the scholarship process.
How do I write a scholarship essay for the Cambridge Trust Scholarship?
An effective scholarship essay for the Cambridge Trust Scholarship should: 1. Align with the scholarship's specific values and mission, 2. Use specific examples from your experience, 3. Clearly articulate your career goals and how this scholarship helps achieve them, 4. Show leadership and community contribution, 5. Explain your research or study plan with specificity.
What reference letters are needed for the Cambridge Trust Scholarship?
Most competitive scholarships like the Cambridge Trust Scholarship require 2-3 strong reference letters from people who know your academic work and professional capabilities well. Academic referees (professors who supervised your work) and professional supervisors are most appropriate.
Does the Cambridge Trust Scholarship include airfare and travel expenses?
The Cambridge Trust Scholarship benefits include: GBP 10,000-19,800 per year partial funding, Combined with other awards (like Gates Cambridge) can become full funding, Access to Cambridge Trust events and community. Travel expenses may not be fully covered - check the official scholarship details for current benefits.
Can I defer the Cambridge Trust Scholarship if I need more time?
Most scholarship programs do not allow deferrals. If you receive the Cambridge Trust Scholarship and cannot take it up in the year offered, you will typically need to reapply in a future year. Always verify the current deferral policy directly with the scholarship body.
Is the Cambridge Trust Scholarship open to mature/older students?
Most government and international scholarships have no upper age limit for Masters/PhD applicants. Some have age restrictions (e.g., Rhodes Scholarship: 18-24). Check the specific eligibility on the Cambridge Trust Scholarship official page.
Are family members covered under the Cambridge Trust Scholarship?
Some larger scholarships include a family allowance for married scholars with dependents. Standard scholarships typically cover only the scholarship recipient. Check the Cambridge Trust Scholarship benefits list and official terms.
What happens if I fail to maintain grades during the Cambridge Trust Scholarship?
Most scholarships require minimum academic performance (e.g., passing all courses, maintaining certain GPA). Failing to meet this standard can result in scholarship suspension or cancellation. Contact your scholarship manager immediately if you face academic difficulties.
Is there a bond or return obligation with the Cambridge Trust Scholarship?
The Cambridge Trust Scholarship may not have a formal return obligation but may expect scholars to contribute to their communities. Check the official terms.
What is the Cambridge Trust Scholarship interview process like?
Shortlisted candidates for the Cambridge Trust Scholarship are typically interviewed by a selection committee. The interview assesses your academic goals, leadership experience, communication skills, and fit with the scholarship's values. Prepare by reviewing your application and practicing articulate, specific answers.
Can I apply for the Cambridge Trust Scholarship multiple times if rejected?
Yes, you can usually reapply for the Cambridge Trust Scholarship in subsequent years after rejection. Use the waiting period to strengthen your application - gain more experience, improve your academic record, and refine your application materials.
Does the Cambridge Trust Scholarship cover fieldwork or research travel?
Some scholarships include research or study travel grants. Check the specific Cambridge Trust Scholarship benefit details on the official website at https://www.cambridgetrust.org.
What subjects are eligible for the Cambridge Trust Scholarship?
Eligible subjects for the Cambridge Trust Scholarship include: All subjects at Cambridge. Some scholarships have priority subject areas - check if your field is a stated priority.
How long does the Cambridge Trust Scholarship selection process take?
Selection timelines vary. Typically after the deadline, applications are reviewed for 2-4 months, shortlisted candidates are invited for interviews, and final decisions are communicated 4-6 months after the deadline. Some scholarships have faster or slower timelines.
Can I combine the Cambridge Trust Scholarship with other scholarships?
Most scholarship programs prohibit or restrict combining with other scholarship funding to prevent double-dipping. The Cambridge Trust Scholarship may have specific rules about this. Some partial scholarships can be combined. Always disclose any other scholarship funding in your application.
Are there any restrictions on changing programs during the Cambridge Trust Scholarship?
Scholarship holders typically need approval from the scholarship body before changing their study program or university. Changing to a different field or level of study may not be permitted and could result in scholarship withdrawal.
Where can I find official application information for the Cambridge Trust Scholarship?
All official and current information about the Cambridge Trust Scholarship application, eligibility, and benefits is at: https://www.cambridgetrust.org. Always use the official source for application information to avoid scholarship scams.