The Optiver Foundation Scholarships 2026 at the University of Oxford offer a prestigious, fully funded pathway for talented women from low and middle-income countries to pursue postgraduate studies in STEM disciplines. These scholarships aim to support diversity in science and technology by empowering female scholars to thrive as global leaders in academia, research, and industry.
About the University of Oxford
The University of Oxford, one of the world’s oldest and most prestigious universities, is renowned for its tradition of academic excellence and groundbreaking research. With over 13,000 graduate students and more than 330 postgraduate programmes, Oxford provides unmatched resources, from historic libraries like the Bodleian to advanced scientific laboratories and digital platforms.
The university combines global influence, personalized tutorials, and interdisciplinary collaboration to prepare students for leadership roles across every field.
Degree Level
-
Taught Master’s Programmes (starting October 2026)
Available Subjects
Applicants may pursue a master’s degree in the following STEM departments at Oxford:
- Statistics
- Computer Science
- Physics
- Chemistry
- Engineering Science
- Mathematical Institute
⚠️ Note: Biomedical and life sciences programmes are not included in this scheme.
Scholarship Benefits
Successful Optiver Foundation Scholars will receive:
- Full coverage of Oxford course fees
- Generous living cost grant throughout the programme
- Mentorship, induction activities, and academic support
- Networking opportunities with women leaders in STEM
Eligible Nationalities
- Open exclusively to applicants ordinarily resident in eligible low and middle-income countries
- Scholarships are only available to women
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must:
- Identify as female on their Oxford postgraduate application (consistent with passport/visa documentation)
- Be ordinarily resident in a low or middle-income country
- Apply for a taught master’s course in an eligible STEM department
- Submit applications by the official Oxford course deadlines (November, December, or January, depending on programme)
- Complete an additional scholarship form highlighting socio-economic background and disadvantage
Not eligible: Current Oxford students or applicants holding deferred offers.
Apply Also
- High Point University Scholarships and Grants 2026
- Harvard University Weatherhead Scholars Program 2026–2027 (Fully Funded Fellowship in USA)
Application Procedure
- Apply for Graduate Study at Oxford (by the course-specific deadline: Nov/Dec/Jan 2026).
- Tick the Scholarship Box in the graduate application form.
- Eligible applicants will be invited to submit the Optiver Foundation Scholarship application form.
- Selection is based on academic merit, leadership potential, and financial need.
- Results are released by May 2026.
Apply via the University of Oxford Graduate Admissions Portal
Final Thoughts
The Oxford University Optiver Foundation Scholarships 2026 are a transformative opportunity for women in STEM from low and middle-income countries. By offering full financial support, mentorship, and access to Oxford’s academic excellence, the programme empowers scholars to break barriers, foster innovation, and build a more inclusive global scientific community.
Application Deadlines: November – January (depending on course)
