UCA Cambridge Trust Scholarship 2026–2027 Fully Funded Study at the University of Cambridge

Overview

The UCA Cambridge Trust Scholarship 2026–2027 is an exceptional fully funded opportunity offered by the University of Central Asia (UCA) in partnership with the Cambridge Trust. This prestigious program enables talented young scholars from Central and South Asia to pursue Master’s or Doctoral degrees at the University of Cambridge (UK) — one of the world’s top academic institutions.

This initiative is part of UCA’s vision to build a new generation of academic leaders and researchers who can contribute to the educational and socio-economic development of the Central Asian region.

Eligibility Criteria

The scholarship is open to citizens of Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, and Tajikistan, the founding states of UCA. Applicants from Afghanistan, Pakistan, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan are also eligible, although preference is given to the founding countries.

Applicants must:

• Hold an excellent academic record (preferably with distinction or first-class honors).
• Demonstrate strong English proficiency:
  • IELTS: 7.5 overall, minimum 7.0 in each section
  • TOEFL iBT: 110 overall, minimum 25 in each component
• Show commitment to research and teaching in Central Asia, preferably with an intention to work with UCA after graduation.

Applicants should also have clear academic goals aligned with UCA’s regional development priorities.

Available Fields of Study

The UCA Cambridge Trust Scholarship focuses on academic fields that address key regional and global challenges. Eligible disciplines include:

• Environmental, Earth & Climate Sciences
• Computer Science, Data Science & Artificial Intelligence
• Development Economics & Public Policy
• Media, Communications & Cultural Studies
• Public Health & Health Economics
• Cultural Heritage, Anthropology & Society

Note: Business-related programs such as MBA, EMBA, MFin, and BusD are not eligible under this scholarship.

Scholarship Coverage

This is a fully funded scholarship that covers all major academic and living costs for successful applicants. Benefits include:

• Full University of Cambridge tuition fees (paid directly)
• Annual living stipend for accommodation and personal expenses
• Visa and Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS)
• Research allowance for PhD students
• Round-trip travel expenses for doctoral scholars

Please note that family or dependent support is not included.

Application Process

The application process for the UCA Cambridge Trust Scholarship 2026–2027 is completed in two stages:

1. Submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) to cafdp@ucentralasia.org by 16 November 2025 (midnight GMT+6).
   Required documents include:
   • Completed application form
   • CV or academic résumé
   • Personal statement (max 2 pages)
   • Academic transcripts and degree certificates
   • Research proposal (for PhD applicants)
   • Copy of valid passport
2. Apply to the University of Cambridge once shortlisted by UCA.
   • Application deadlines: 2 December 2025 or 7 January 2026, depending on your chosen program.
   • Only shortlisted candidates will be invited to apply formally through the Cambridge application portal.

Why You Should Apply

The UCA Cambridge Trust Scholarship is more than a financial award — it’s a life-changing academic partnership. Scholars gain access to Cambridge’s world-class research environment and mentorship while staying connected to UCA’s mission of academic excellence in Central Asia.

Upon completion, scholars are encouraged to return to the region and engage in teaching, research, or policy development, ensuring their knowledge directly benefits their home communities.

This program empowers scholars to bridge global research excellence with local impact — a perfect blend for aspiring academics, researchers, and change-makers.

Conclusion

The UCA Cambridge Trust Scholarship 2026–2027 opens doors to one of the world’s most prestigious universities while supporting regional development through education. If you are a passionate young scholar from Central or South Asia with a drive to make a difference, this fully funded opportunity is your pathway to academic excellence and leadership.
Apply now