Reach Oxford Scholarship 2026 in the United Kingdom (Fully Funded)

The Reach Oxford Scholarship 2026 is a prestigious and fully funded undergraduate scholarship offered by the University of Oxford. This scholarship is specifically tailored for exceptionally talented students from low-income or developing countries who are academically outstanding but lack the financial means or institutional support to pursue a degree abroad. 

The primary objective of the Reach Oxford Scholarship is to remove financial and systemic barriers that prevent capable students from realizing their full academic and professional potential. The scholarship covers full tuition fees, living expenses, and one round-trip flight per year between the student’s home country and the UK. Beyond financial assistance, the program provides a comprehensive support system, including academic mentorship, student services, and opportunities for personal growth through participation in college life, leadership activities, and cultural enrichment. Scholars are also encouraged to build lasting relationships with peers and professors that contribute to their long-term success.

Eligibility Criteria

• Be a citizen of a low-income or developing country that lacks the resources to support students studying abroad
• Demonstrate outstanding academic achievement
• Have a genuine financial need and be unable to attend Oxford without full financial support
• Not be currently enrolled in any undergraduate program
• Apply for and gain admission to Oxford through UCAS for the 2026 entry
• Meet all of Oxford's academic admission standards and English language proficiency requirements
• Show leadership qualities and a commitment to using their education to benefit their home community after graduation
• Intend to begin full-time undergraduate study in October 2026

Program Dates

• Oxford Admission Application Deadline (via UCAS): October 15, 2025
• Scholarship Application Opens: January 2026 (after you receive a conditional/unconditional admission offer)
• Scholarship Application Deadline: February 7, 2026 – 12:00 PM (UK time)
• Scholarship Results Announced: April 2026
• Academic Year Start Date: October 2026

Program Benefits

• Full coverage of tuition fees for the entire duration of the undergraduate degree
• A living stipend to cover accommodation, meals, and personal expenses, adjusted annually to reflect changes in UK living costs
• One return airfare ticket per academic year between the student’s home country and the United Kingdom
• Access to comprehensive academic mentorship and personalized support from college tutors and advisors
• Inclusion in Oxford’s extensive student support services, including counseling and welfare programs
• Participation in exclusive leadership development workshops and training sessions designed to build professional and personal skills
• Invitations to cultural, social, and networking events to help scholars integrate into the Oxford community and build global connections
• Opportunities to engage in community service and development projects both during and after the course
• Access to career advice and guidance to support post-graduation plans and impact in home countries

Required Documents

• Completed Reach Oxford Scholarship application form (available January 2026)
• Official academic transcripts or high school certificates
• A personal statement describing academic interests, goals, leadership experience, and financial need
• Two reference letters:
  • One academic reference (teacher/school official)
  • One personal, community, or professional reference
• Proof of nationality and residence in an eligible low-income or developing country
• Proof of English language proficiency (IELTS, TOEFL, or equivalent) if required

Application Process

• To study at Oxford with the Reach Oxford Scholarship, you need to go through two separate applications.

  1. UCAS Application: This is your university admission application. Through UCAS, you apply to Oxford (and up to four other UK universities) by submitting your personal statement, grades, and references before the October 15, 2025 deadline. This step is about getting an offer of a place at Oxford.

  • Link: https://www.ucas.com

  2. Reach Oxford Scholarship Application: After you have received an offer from Oxford, you can apply for the Reach Oxford Scholarship by submitting the scholarship form and financial documents before the February deadline. This step is about getting funding for your studies. 

  • If offered admission, complete the Reach Oxford Scholarship application by February 7, 2026
• Await interview invitations (if applicable) and scholarship results in April 2026

Selection Process

• Initial screening of applications focusing on academic excellence and verified financial need, thorough evaluation of personal statements to assess motivation, goals, and leadership qualities
• Shortlisted candidates may be invited to participate in interviews conducted remotely via phone or video call
• Final scholarship decisions communicated by April 2026
• Preference given to applicants who demonstrate strong leadership potential, community involvement, and a clear commitment to returning to their home country to contribute positively after graduation.

Further Information

• Only applicants from eligible low-income or developing countries may apply
• Candidates can apply to all subjects in the course listing, except medicine
• Scholars must commit to returning to their home country after graduation
• Cannot be combined with other major scholarships
• Students must meet Oxford's standard entry requirements, including subject prerequisites and English proficiency
• The number of scholarships is limited and highly competitive
• The scholarship is renewable each year based on academic performance
• Applicants are encouraged to apply to Oxford colleges that accept Reach Oxford scholars, as not all colleges participate every year