The Optiver Foundation Scholarship programme will increase the number of women from low- and middle-income countries taking up offers for postgraduate science courses at Oxford. The programme has been made possible by a generous donation from the Optiver Foundation.
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When is the Application Deadline:
Submit your graduate course application by the Oxford deadlines in November 2025, December 2025, or January 2026, depending on your chosen programme.
Get Up to $100,000 Student Loan for Your Master in US or Canada.
Tell Me About The Award:
The Optiver Foundation Scholarships aim to increase the number of women from low and middle-income countries pursuing postgraduate science courses at Oxford. The scholarship covers course fees, living costs, tailored induction activities, mentoring, and academic support.
Which Fields are Eligible?
Eligible master’s programmes in STEM (excluding biomedical and life sciences), including:
- Statistics
- Computer Science
- Physics
- Chemistry
- Engineering Science
- Mathematical Institute
Example programmes: Mathematical & Theoretical Physics, Quantum Technologies, Statistical Science, Advanced Computer Science, and Energy Systems.
Type:
Taught Master’s Degree Scholarship
Who can Apply?
- Female applicants (as listed on official identity documents such as passports or visas)
- Ordinarily resident in eligible low and middle-income countries (see full list, including Nigeria, India, Pakistan, South Africa, Egypt, Brazil, Vietnam, etc.)
- Applying for an eligible STEM master’s course at Oxford for October 2026 entry
- Not currently enrolled at Oxford or holding a deferred offer
How are Applicants Selected?
- Based on academic merit and potential
- Consideration of socio-economic background and under-representation through an additional scholarship form
- Final decisions made by a panel of Oxford academic staff
Which Countries Are Eligible?
Applicants must be female and ordinarily resident in eligible low and middle-income countries (over 100 countries, including across Africa, Asia, Latin America, the Middle East, and Eastern Europe).
Where will the Award be Taken?
At the University of Oxford, United Kingdom
How Many Awards?
Up to six scholarships per year, with 30 scholarships in total over a five-year period.
What is the Benefit of the Award?
- Full course fees
- Living grant to cover accommodation and daily expenses
- Mentoring, tailored induction, and on-course support
- Belonging to a supportive cohort of scholars
How Long Will the Award Last?
For the full duration of the master’s degree programme (usually 1 year full-time).
How to Apply:
- Apply for graduate study at Oxford by the relevant course deadline (November, December, or January).
- Tick the scholarship box on the graduate application form.
- If eligible, complete the additional Optiver Scholarship form (covering socio-economic background and disadvantage).
- Applicants who receive an offer for an eligible course and meet criteria will be considered.
- Successful scholars will be notified by May 2026.
👉 Visit the Award Webpage for Details: Optiver Foundation Scholarships – University of Oxford
