The University of Central Asia (UCA) and the Cambridge Trust at the University of Cambridge jointly offer the prestigious UCA–Cambridge Trust Scholarship, a fully funded opportunity for outstanding scholars from Central and South Asia. This initiative forms part of UCA’s Central Asian Faculty Development Programme (CAFDP), designed to nurture the next generation of academics and researchers who will contribute to the region’s intellectual and social advancement.
This highly competitive scholarship provides exceptional candidates with the opportunity to pursue Master’s or Doctoral studies at the University of Cambridge one of the world’s most renowned institutions for research and higher education. Upon completion, scholars are expected to return to UCA to assume teaching or research positions, further strengthening the university’s faculty base and research capacity.
Key Details
- Host Country: United Kingdom
- Institution: University of Cambridge
- Degree Levels: Master’s and PhD
- Funding Type: Fully funded (tuition, living allowance, visa fees, and health surcharge included)
- Duration: One to four years, depending on the chosen program
- Application Deadline: November 16, 2025 (UCA internal deadline)
Eligible Fields of Study
The scholarship supports academic disciplines that align with UCA’s long-term strategic goals and the region’s development priorities. Eligible fields include:
- Earth, Climate, and Environmental Sciences
- Computer and Data Sciences
- Media and Communications
- Development Economics, Climate Economics, and Public Policy
- Public Health and Health Economics
- Cultural Heritage and Society
Applicants are advised to ensure that their proposed field of study closely matches UCA’s academic and research focus areas. Please note that degrees such as MBA, EMBA, MFin, or BusD are not covered under this scholarship.
Scholarship Benefits
Recipients of the UCA–Cambridge Trust Scholarship receive comprehensive financial support covering:
- Full payment of Cambridge University tuition fees
- A generous living stipend to cover daily expenses
- Visa and UK Immigration Health Surcharge fees
- Research and travel allowance for PhD scholars, including return travel at the start and end of the program
This award is designed to ensure that scholars can dedicate themselves entirely to their studies and research without financial barriers. However, the scholarship does not extend financial support to dependents or family members.
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must meet the following eligibility requirements:
- Hold citizenship from Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, or Tajikistan (priority candidates), or be nationals of Afghanistan, Pakistan, Turkmenistan, or Uzbekistan.
- Possess an excellent academic record from a recognized university.
- Demonstrate strong motivation for academic research or a teaching career.
- Commit to joining UCA as a faculty or research member upon completing their studies at Cambridge.
Required Application Documents
Applicants must submit:
- Completed CAFDP Application Form
- Curriculum Vitae (maximum of three pages)
- Personal Statement (up to three pages) outlining:
- Career goals and research interests
- Motivation for applying
- How the scholarship aligns with their professional aspirations
- Research Proposal (maximum three pages) for research-based or combined programs
- Copy of passport
- Academic transcripts and degree certificates from all previous institutions
English Language Requirements
Applicants must demonstrate strong English proficiency through one of the following tests:
- IELTS: Overall score of 7.5, with no band below 7.0
- TOEFL iBT: Overall score of 110, with a minimum of 25 in each component
- GRE (General Test): Required only for Economics-related fields (GMAT not accepted)
Application Process
- Confirm eligibility and prepare all required documents in English.
- Submit the complete application by email to cafdp@ucentralasia.org no later than November 16, 2025 (midnight, GMT+6).
- Shortlisted candidates will be invited to submit a formal application to the University of Cambridge through its online portal.
- Final selections will be made jointly by UCA and the Cambridge Trust.
- Successful candidates will sign an agreement to join UCA as faculty or research staff after completing their studies.
Post-Scholarship Commitment
Graduates of the UCA–Cambridge Trust Scholarship are expected to contribute to UCA’s teaching and research mission. Each scholar will work closely with a Cambridge supervisor and a UCA mentor throughout their academic journey, ensuring their research aligns with regional priorities and supports future academic development.
This scholarship offers not only an opportunity to study at one of the world’s most prestigious universities but also a chance to shape the academic future of Central and South Asia through innovation, leadership, and research excellence.
