Panel Discussion and Q&A for Prospective Applicants

Current Gates Cambridge scholars and recent alumni discuss the scholarship application process and share advice and tips for prospective applicants. They also answer some questions sent in by prospective applicants on Instagram (gatescambridge.scholars). For further information about applying, please visit www.gatescambridge.org.

Access information: captions provided. To access captions, click on the CC button at the bottom of the video, and choose 'English'.

To access individual sections:
0:00 Introduction to the scholarship and discussion
0:58 Panelists' introductions
1:56 Overview of the application process
2:29 Timing - What to consider in terms of preparing and applying?
4:42 Timing - When should you begin preparing in relation to the deadline?
6:56 Department & supervisor - How to determine if a department is right for you?
11:29 Department & supervisor - How to choose a potential supervisor?
13:18 Gates Cambridge criteria 1 - How to display academic excellence in your application?
15:01 Gates Cambridge criteria 2 - Reasons for choice of course?
16:24 Gates Cambridge criteria 3 - What does a commitment to improving the lives of others mean?
20:02 Gates Cambridge criteria 4 - How to show a capacity for leadership?
22:50 Gates Cambridge statement - What to highlight in your statement?
26:17 Gates Cambridge reference - Who to ask and how to brief them?
30:19 Interview - How to prepare for the interview?
35:15 Interview - What kinds of questions are asked?
38:20 Q&A - What is the most important thing to get this scholarship?
43:01 Q&A - What was the most difficult part of the process?
45:24 Q&A - What role do colleges play and how to choose one?
49:41 Q&A - What documents are required to apply for the scholarship?
50:40 Q&A - Are scholars offered any any training or professional development?
52:15 Q&A - What is the social life like within the scholarship?
54:59 Q&A - Is there any prioritised course every year?
55:38 Q&A - Is there any age limit to apply for the scholarship?
55:54 Q&A - Established vs. junior supervisor, and does that affect chances of getting the scholarship?
56:45 Q&A - Should applicants get a letter of acceptance from the University before applying for the scholarship?
57:31 Q&A - Do I have to apply for a master's right after my bachelor's, or can I work for a few years before that?
58:28 Q&A - What is the best thing about studying at Cambridge?
1:01:16 Conclusion

This video is a scholar-led initiative by the Gates Cambridge Scholars' Council.

Thumbnail photo credits: Cajeo Zhang / Unsplash.