Oxford Optiver Foundation Scholarship 2026 in UK

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Are you a talented woman from a low- or middle-income country aspiring to pursue a Master’s in STEM at one of the world’s top universities? The Oxford Optiver Foundation Scholarship 2026 is now open for applications! Funded by the Optiver Foundation and hosted by the University of Oxford, this is one of fully funded scholarships by Oxford that supports up to 6 female scholars starting in October 2026. Designed to empower underrepresented women in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM), it covers full tuition fees and provides a living grant, plus tailored mentoring and networking. Don’t miss this life-changing opportunity to study in the UKand apply through your eligible Master’s program by the relevant deadline (November 2025–January 2026)!

Oxford Optiver Foundation Scholarship

Overview of Oxford Optiver Foundation Scholarship 2026

  • Host University: University of Oxford
  • Funded By: Optiver Foundation
  • Country: United Kingdom
  • Financial Coverage: Fully Funded
  • Eligible Nationalities: Women ordinarily resident in eligible low- and middle-income countries (full list on the official website)
  • Study Level: Master’s Degree
  • Number of Awards: Up to 6 scholarships
  • Program Duration: 1 year (full-time Master’s, October 2026 start)
  • Application Deadlines: November 2025, December 2025, or January 2026 (course-specific)

The Oxford Optiver Foundation Scholarship 2026 is a groundbreaking initiative to boost diversity in STEM postgraduate studies at Oxford. Launched to address under-representation, it supports women from low- and middle-income countries by providing financial aid, induction activities, mentoring, and on-course support. Eligible Master’s programs include Computer Science, Engineering Science, Mathematical Sciences, and Materials (excluding biomedical and life sciences). Scholars join a supportive network, gaining exposure to Oxford’s world-class resources and global opportunities.

Eligible Master’s Programs

The Optiver Foundation Scholarship 2026 supports full-time, one-year Master’s in STEM fields at Oxford, including:

  • Computer Science (e.g., MSc in Advanced Computer Science)
  • Engineering Science (e.g., MSc in Engineering Science)
  • Mathematical Sciences (e.g., MSc in Mathematical Sciences)
  • Materials (e.g., MSc in Materials)

Check the Oxford Graduate Course Directory for the full list of eligible programs. Biomedical and life sciences are excluded.

Scholarship Benefits

The Oxford Optiver Foundation Scholarship 2026 offers comprehensive support to remove financial barriers and foster professional growth:

  • Full Tuition Coverage: All course fees waived (up to £30,000–£40,000 depending on the program).
  • Living Expenses Grant: A generous stipend to cover accommodation, food, and daily costs in Oxford.
  • Tailored Induction Activities: Orientation programs to ease transition and build community.
  • Mentoring and On-Course Support: Personalized guidance from Oxford staff and alumni throughout the program.
  • Networking Opportunities: Access to events connecting scholars with like-minded professionals and global networks.
  • Career Development: Exposure to internships, extracurriculars, and professional experiences to shape your future.

These benefits empower scholars to focus on academic excellence and personal growth.

Eligibility Criteria for Oxford Optiver Foundation Scholarship 2026

To qualify for the Oxford Optiver Foundation Scholarship 2026, applicants must meet the following criteria:

  • Gender: Open exclusively to women.
  • Nationality/Residency: Ordinarily resident in an eligible low- or middle-income country (see full list on the official website).
  • Academic Status: Applying for a full-time, eligible one-year Master’s in STEM (excluding biomedical/life sciences) starting October 2026.
  • Current Enrollment: Not currently enrolled at Oxford.
  • Deferred Offers: Not holding a deferred offer to start in 2026-2027.
  • Financial Need: Demonstrated socio-economic disadvantage or under-representation in STEM.
  • Academic Merit: Strong academic record and potential, assessed through your Oxford application.

The program prioritizes candidates who will contribute to diversity and STEM advancement.

Required Documents

To apply for the Oxford Optiver Foundation Scholarship 2026, submit the following as part of your Oxford Master’s application:

  • CV or Resume: Highlighting academic achievements, leadership, and relevant experience.
  • Official Academic Transcripts: From your undergraduate institution.
  • GRE Certificate or Portfolio: If required by your chosen program (check course page).
  • Personal Statement/Statement of Purpose: 1–2 pages outlining your goals, fit for Oxford, and commitment to STEM.
  • Three Reference Letters: From academic or professional referees.

After receiving an offer, eligible candidates complete an additional scholarship form assessing socio-economic background.

Application Timeline for Oxford Optiver Foundation Scholarship 2026

  • Application Opening: September 2025 (aligns with Oxford graduate admissions)
  • Course Application Deadlines:
    • November 2025 (Stage 1)
    • December 2025 (Stage 2)
    • January 2026 (Stage 3)
  • Additional Scholarship Form: Sent to eligible offer-holders (January–March 2026)
  • Selection Process: April–May 2026
  • Notification of Results: May 2026
  • Program Start: October 2026

Apply to your eligible Master’s program early for timely scholarship consideration.

How to Apply for Oxford Optiver Foundation Scholarship 2026

The application for the Oxford Optiver Foundation Scholarship 2026 is integrated with Oxford’s graduate admissions:

  1. Select an Eligible Program: Choose a one-year Master’s in STEM from the approved list.
  2. Apply to Oxford: Submit your full application via the Oxford Graduate Application Portal by the relevant deadline (November 2025–January 2026).
  3. Indicate Scholarship Interest: Tick the box for the Optiver Foundation Scholarship in the funding section.
  4. Complete Additional Form: If you receive an offer and meet eligibility, fill out the socio-economic assessment form.
  5. Submit Documents: Upload transcripts, CV, personal statement, and references.
  6. Await Review: A panel assesses based on merit, potential, and need; successful scholars notified by May 2026.
  7. Accept Offer: If awarded, secure funding by meeting offer conditions.

For details, visit the Oxford Scholarships Search.

Why Choose the Oxford Optiver Foundation Scholarship?

The University of Oxford, a global leader in education, partners with the Optiver Foundation to advance women in STEM. Here’s why this scholarship excels:

  • STEM Empowerment: Addresses under-representation in fields like engineering and computer science.
  • World-Class Resources: Access Oxford’s cutting-edge labs, libraries, and faculty.
  • Global Network: Connect with scholars, mentors, and professionals for lifelong opportunities.
  • Cultural Experience: Immerse in Oxford’s historic, vibrant academic environment.
  • Career Impact: Gain exposure, internships, and skills for leadership roles in STEM.

This scholarship transforms aspirations into reality for underrepresented women.

Additional Opportunities

Explore other international scholarships:

Tips for a Successful Oxford Optiver Foundation Scholarship Application

To increase your chances of securing the Oxford Optiver Foundation Scholarship 2026, follow these tips:

  • Highlight STEM Passion: Emphasize your academic excellence and commitment to STEM in your personal statement.
  • Demonstrate Need: Clearly articulate socio-economic challenges in the additional form.
  • Secure Strong References: Choose referees who can speak to your potential and resilience.
  • Apply Early: Target November 2025 deadlines for faster processing.
  • Tailor Your Application: Align your goals with Oxford’s STEM programs and the scholarship’s diversity mission.

Conclusion

The Oxford Optiver Foundation Scholarship 2026 is a pivotal opportunity for women from low- and middle-income countries to pursue a fully funded Master’s in STEM at Oxford. With full tuition, living grants, mentoring, and networking, this program empowers you to excel and lead in global innovation. Don’t miss your chance to transform your career and apply by your course’s deadline in November 2025–January 2026!

For more information or to apply, visit the Oxford Optiver Foundation Scholarships Page and take the first step toward a brighter future.