Skip to content

PhD Scholarships at University of Cambridge

The University of Cambridge offers a wide range of PhD scholarships designed to attract top international talent, providing opportunities for foreign students to pursue advanced research in a globally renowned institution. With a strong emphasis on interdisciplinary studies, Cambridge’s PhD programs encourage applications from non-UK residents, offering funding through various schemes that cover tuition, living expenses, and research costs. International students benefit from dedicated support services, including visa assistance and orientation programs, ensuring seamless integration into the academic community. Scholarships such as Gates Cambridge and Cambridge Trust awards prioritize global accessibility, enabling students from all countries to engage in cutting-edge research. The university’s commitment to diversity fosters an inclusive environment where foreign scholars can collaborate with world-leading experts. Application processes are streamlined for international applicants, with clear guidelines on required documentation and deadlines. Cambridge’s PhD programs span multiple disciplines, but those in agriculture-related fields focus on sustainable practices, plant sciences, and environmental challenges, aligning with global priorities. This makes it an ideal destination for international students seeking impactful research opportunities in a historic yet innovative setting.

Introduction to PhD Scholarships at University of Cambridge

University of Cambridge provides exceptional PhD scholarships for international students, emphasizing global participation in research. These opportunities are open to applicants worldwide, with tailored support for non-UK residents including funding packages that address visa and relocation needs. Programs highlight interdisciplinary approaches, making them accessible and appealing to foreign scholars pursuing advanced degrees.

Fields of Study

University of Cambridge offers PhD programs in various agriculture-related fields, with a focus on international collaboration and research innovation. These fields are designed to address global challenges, welcoming foreign students to contribute diverse perspectives.
These fields reflect Cambridge's strengths in agriculture-related research, providing international students with comprehensive training and funding to pursue PhD studies effectively.

Detailed Eligibility Criteria

Eligibility for PhD scholarships at University of Cambridge requires meeting specific academic and qualification standards, with a focus on attracting international talent. Criteria are designed to ensure candidates are prepared for rigorous research, emphasizing global accessibility without unnecessary barriers.
Academic Qualifications
Applicants must hold a UK 2:1 Honours degree or international equivalent in a relevant subject. For international students, this includes recognized qualifications from their home countries, verified through official transcripts. Cambridge assesses equivalency to ensure fairness for global applicants.
Relevant Experience
Prior research experience or a Master's degree is highly recommended, though not always mandatory. International candidates should demonstrate relevant academic or professional background in their field, supported by references that highlight their potential for PhD-level work.
Supervisor Agreement
Prospective students must identify and contact a potential supervisor before applying. This involves discussing research interests to secure informal agreement, crucial for international applicants to align their proposals with Cambridge's expertise.
Funding Requirements
Applicants must demonstrate access to sufficient funding or apply for scholarships. International students are eligible for various funding schemes, with specific requirements for proving financial capability during the visa process.

Monthly Stipend for PhD Students

Cambridge provides stipends through scholarships like UKRI funding, typically around £1,652 per month (approximately $2,000 USD) for living expenses. This supports international PhD students, covering basic needs while focusing on research, with adjustments for cost of living.

Annual Research Funding

Additional annual funding up to £10,000 (about $12,500 USD) is available for research expenses such as equipment, travel to conferences, and materials. This is separate from stipends and supports international students in conducting fieldwork and collaborations.

Application Process for PhD Scholarships

The application process for PhD scholarships is streamlined for international applicants, involving online submission and document verification to facilitate global access.
  1. Choose a Course and Supervisor: Select a PhD program and identify a potential supervisor by reviewing departmental pages. Contact them to discuss your interests and obtain agreement before proceeding.
  2. Prepare Required Documents: Gather academic transcripts, CV, references, and a personal statement. International applicants should ensure documents are in English or translated officially.
  3. Submit Online Application: Use the Applicant Portal to submit your application, including all documents and paying the fee. Access the portal at Applicant Portal.
  4. Apply for Funding: Indicate interest in scholarships during the application. Separate applications may be needed for specific funds like Gates Cambridge.
  5. Attend Interview if Selected: Shortlisted candidates participate in interviews, often virtual for international applicants, to discuss their suitability.
For assistance, contact postgraduate admissions at [email protected]. Deadlines vary by department, typically December or January for October start.

Application Deadlines

For entry in October 2025, most PhD applications close on December 3, 2024, for US applicants via Gates Cambridge, and January 7, 2025, for others. Some departments have earlier deadlines; check the official course directory for specifics.

Official Website

For more information, please visit the official website:

Contact Information for PhD Admissions and Inquiries

For inquiries about PhD scholarships, reach out via email at [email protected] or call Contact for details.
  • Physical Address:
  • The Old Schools
  • Trinity Lane
  • Cambridge, CB2 1TN
  • United Kingdom

Additional Information

International Student Services

Cambridge offers extensive support for international PhD students, including visa guidance, English language workshops, and cultural integration programs. The International Student Office provides personalized advice on accommodation and healthcare. Visit International Students page for details.

Career Prospects

PhD graduates from Cambridge in agriculture fields often secure roles in research institutions, agribusiness, and policy-making globally. International alumni benefit from a strong network, with opportunities in organizations like FAO or biotech firms. Career services include CV workshops and job fairs tailored for foreign students.

Resource Links

Explore funding options at Funding Search. For program details, see Department of Plant Sciences. Additional resources include the Research page for international collaboration opportunities. These supports ensure foreign students thrive in their PhD journey, with access to world-class facilities and global partnerships spanning Europe, Asia, and beyond. Cambridge's emphasis on interdisciplinary research allows international scholars to tackle pressing issues like climate-resilient agriculture, fostering careers that impact worldwide sustainability efforts.

PhD scholarship programs and External Funding Opportunities for PhD Scholarships in Agriculture University of Cambridge

Gates Cambridge Scholarship

This fully-funded scholarship supports outstanding international students in any subject, including agriculture. Eligibility: Non-UK citizens with excellent academic records. Funding: Covers tuition, stipend (£18,744/year), and travel. Deadline: December 2024 for 2025 entry. Apply via Gates Cambridge.

Cambridge Trust Scholarships

Offers awards for international PhD students in fields like plant sciences. Eligibility: Open to all nationalities, prioritizing academic merit. Funding: Varies, up to full tuition and stipend. Deadline: December/January annually. Details at Cambridge Trust.

UKRI Doctoral Training Partnerships

Funds agriculture-related PhDs through partnerships. Eligibility: International students eligible for some schemes. Funding: Stipend and fees. Apply through departments; deadlines vary. See UKRI.

University Location

Tags