The University of Central Asia (UCA) and the Cambridge Trust are offering scholarships for master’s and PhD study at the University of Cambridge for 2027-2028. Pakistani applicants will also be considered, but priority goes to candidates from Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan. The UCA application deadline is 12 November 2026.
UCA Cambridge scholarship 2027: key details
| Organisation | University of Central Asia (UCA) with the Cambridge Trust |
|---|---|
| Programme | Master’s and PhD at the University of Cambridge, UK (priority to strong PhD candidates) |
| Academic year | 2027-2028 |
| Pakistan eligible? | Yes, Pakistani applicants will be considered, with priority to the founding states |
| UCA deadline | 12 November 2026, midnight (GMT+6) |
| Cambridge deadline | 3 December 2026 or 5 January 2027, depending on the programme |
| English test | IELTS 7.5 (7.0 in each part) or TOEFL 110 (25 in each part) |
| Apply by email | cafdp@ucentralasia.org |
| Official website | ucentralasia.org |
Who can apply
UCA says it wants outstanding candidates for its Central Asian Faculty Development Programme. You need:
- A higher education degree with an excellent academic record from a recognised university.
- Interest in a master’s or PhD in one of UCA’s fields (listed below).
- Interest in an academic career, including research and teaching.
- Willingness to contribute to UCA after you finish your programme.
- The English score above: IELTS 7.5 with at least 7.0 in each part, or TOEFL 110 with at least 25 in each part.
Pakistan is on the list of countries that will be considered, but UCA gives priority to Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan. Pakistani applicants should keep this in mind before applying.
What the scholarship covers
The scholarship pays the university tuition fee directly to Cambridge. It also covers an annual stipend under the scholarship terms, the Immigration Health Surcharge and visa costs (subject to stated limits). UCA adds an annual research allowance for PhD students and travel to and from the UK at the start and end of the studies. It does not fund dependents or family members. The exact stipend amount is not stated in the notice.
Fields of study
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, and Cultural Heritage and Society. Other fields may be considered. PhD research should be relevant to Central Asia, and fieldwork there is normally expected in the second or third year. MBA, EMBA, MFin and BusD degrees are not covered.
How to apply
- Pick your Cambridge course in the Postgraduate Course Directory.
- Prepare these documents in English: the CAFDP application form, a CV of up to 3 pages, a personal statement of up to 3 pages, and a short research proposal of up to 3 pages if your course is mainly research-based.
- Add a copy of your passport, academic transcripts and diplomas, and the CAFDP applicant privacy notice.
- Combine everything into one PDF named Surname_FirstName_Cambridge_2027.pdf.
- Email the PDF to cafdp@ucentralasia.org before 12 November 2026.
- If UCA shortlists you, submit the full online application to Cambridge by 3 December 2026 or 5 January 2027, depending on your course.
UCA advises candidates to look at the Cambridge online application form while they prepare their UCA application.
Important dates
| Step | Date |
|---|---|
| Online information session | 15 October 2026, 4 pm (GMT+6) |
| UCA application deadline | 12 November 2026, midnight (GMT+6) |
| Cambridge application deadline | 3 December 2026 or 5 January 2027 |
Frequently asked questions
Can Pakistani students apply for the UCA Cambridge scholarship?
Yes. UCA says applicants from Pakistan will be considered, though priority is given to applicants from Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan.
Does being shortlisted by UCA guarantee admission to Cambridge?
No. UCA states that shortlisting or selection does not guarantee admission to Cambridge or any award, which is subject to separate Cambridge and Cambridge Trust requirements.
Is there a job guarantee after the degree?
No. Scholars are expected to stay engaged with UCA and contribute after graduating, but UCA says this is not a guarantee of employment.
Looking for more funded study options? See our Scholarships section, including the HEC US PhD Scholarship 2027.
Note: Always confirm details on the official website before you apply or pay any fee. Great Pak Times is not affiliated with any government body.
Source: University of Central Asia. Checked 16 October 2026.