UK Oxford University Optiver Foundation Scholarships 2026 (Fully Funded)
The Optiver Foundation Scholarships 2026 at the University of Oxford provide a remarkable opportunity for talented women from low and middle-income countries to pursue fully funded postgraduate studies in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields. With the aim of increasing diversity and supporting female scholars in STEM, the scholarship is designed for women who aspire to become global leaders in research, academia, and industry.
The University of Oxford is one of the oldest and most prestigious universities in the world, combining a rich tradition of academic excellence with cutting-edge research and global influence. With over 13,000 graduate students, Oxford offers more than 330 graduate courses across a wide range of disciplines. It provides outstanding facilities — from historic libraries like the Bodleian to state-of-the-art science labs — as well as museums, digital resources, and strong support for welfare, careers, and development. Its teaching is rooted in individualized attention through tutorials, and it consistently ranks among the top universities globally, attracting students and faculty from all over the world.
Degree Level
The Optiver Foundation Scholarships are available for taught master’s programmes at the University of Oxford, beginning in October 2026.
Available Subjects
Scholars can study at the following departments:
- Statistics
- Computer Science
- Physics
- Chemistry
- Engineering Science
- Mathematical Institute
Note: Biomedical and life sciences courses are not included in this scheme.
Benefits
Successful candidates will receive:
- Full coverage of Oxford course fees.
- A generous grant for living costs during the programme.
- Mentorship, induction activities, and on-course support to ensure academic and professional success.
- The opportunity to join a network of women in STEM, fostering collaboration and leadership development.
Eligible Nationalities
Applicants must be ordinarily resident in an eligible low or middle-income country. The programme specifically supports female candidates from these regions.
Eligibility Criteria
To be considered, applicants must:
- Identify as female on the Oxford postgraduate application form, consistent with official documents (passport or visa).
- Be ordinarily resident in an eligible low or middle-income country.
- Apply for a taught master’s course in one of the eligible STEM departments at Oxford.
- Submit their application for graduate study by the November, December, or January deadlines (depending on the course).
- Complete an additional scholarship application form outlining their socio-economic background and potential disadvantage.
Note: Current Oxford students and applicants holding deferred offers are not eligible.
Application Procedure
- Apply for Graduate Study at Oxford by the course deadline (November, December, or January 2026).
- Tick the scholarship box on the graduate application form.
- If eligible, you will be invited to complete an additional scholarship application form to provide details about your socio-economic background.
- Applications are assessed by a panel of academic staff based on academic merit, potential, and financial need.
- Successful candidates will be contacted with offers, with most results released in May 2026.
Final Thoughts
The Optiver Foundation Scholarships at Oxford University 2026 are a fully funded opportunity designed to break barriers for women in STEM from low and middle-income countries. By providing financial support, mentorship, and academic guidance, Oxford and the Optiver Foundation aim to build a more diverse global scientific community.
