Discover the 2026 Reach Oxford Scholarship for international students! Learn eligibility, benefits, and how to apply for this fully funded UK opportunity.
Imagine studying at one of the world’s most prestigious universities, surrounded by historic architecture and a vibrant academic community, all while having your tuition and living expenses fully covered. The Reach Oxford Scholarship 2026 offers this transformative opportunity to talented students from low-income and developing countries who face barriers to higher education in their home nations.
Provided by the University of Oxford, this fully funded scholarship supports undergraduate studies in nearly all disciplines, empowering scholars to achieve academic excellence and make a global impact. With only 2-3 scholarships awarded annually, this highly competitive program seeks candidates with exceptional academic records and a commitment to their communities.
In this blog post, we’ll guide you through the Reach Oxford Scholarship for 2026, covering eligibility, benefits, application steps, and tips to stand out. Ready to unlock your future at Oxford? Let’s dive in!
Highlights of the Reach Oxford Scholarship
- Fully Funded: Covers full tuition, college fees, a living stipend, and one return airfare per year.
- Prestigious Education: Study at the University of Oxford, ranked among the world’s top universities.
- Diverse Disciplines: Available for all undergraduate courses except medicine.
- Targeted Support: Designed for students from low-income countries facing financial or political barriers.
- Community Engagement: Encourages scholars to contribute to their home countries post-graduation.
- Exclusive Opportunity: Only 2-3 awards granted annually, ensuring a highly selective cohort.
- Comprehensive Support: Includes visa assistance, mentorship, and access to Oxford’s resources.
What is the Reach Oxford Scholarship?
The Reach Oxford Scholarship, formerly known as the Oxford Student Scholarship, is a fully funded program offered by the University of Oxford to support undergraduate students from low-income and developing countries. Established to address educational barriers due to financial constraints, political instability, or lack of adequate facilities, the scholarship enables talented students to pursue a bachelor’s degree at one of the world’s leading universities.
Covering tuition, college fees, a living stipend, and annual return airfare, the scholarship supports 3- or 4-year undergraduate programs (excluding medicine). Administered by Oxford’s Student Fees and Funding team, it prioritizes candidates with outstanding academic records, financial need, and a commitment to returning to their home countries to drive positive change.
For detailed information, visit the official scholarship page at ox.ac.uk.
Why Choose the Reach Oxford Scholarship?
The University of Oxford, consistently ranked among the top 5 universities globally, offers unparalleled academic resources, world-class faculty, and a vibrant international community with students from over 150 countries.
“The Reach Oxford Scholarship gave me the chance to study at a world-renowned institution and connect with brilliant minds from across the globe,” shared a 2024 recipient from Kenya.
Beyond financial support, scholars gain access to mentorship programs, career guidance, and a network of Oxford alumni, fostering personal and professional growth. The scholarship’s focus on community impact ensures graduates are equipped to address challenges in their home countries, making it a life-changing opportunity.
Eligibility Requirements for 2026
To qualify for the Reach Oxford Scholarship 2026, applicants must meet strict criteria:
- Citizenship: Be nationals of countries receiving official development assistance from the Development Assistance Committee (DAC) of the OECD, including Afghanistan, Bangladesh, India, Kenya, Pakistan, and others. See the full list at ox.ac.uk.
- Academic Excellence: Demonstrate outstanding academic performance, typically equivalent to A-levels, IB scores of 38+, or top secondary school results.
- Financial Need: Prove inability to pursue a degree in their home country due to financial, political, or infrastructural barriers.
- Admission to Oxford: Secure an offer for an undergraduate course (except medicine) through UCAS by October 15, 2025.
- Intent to Return: Show commitment to return to their home country after studies to contribute to development.
- First-Time Undergraduates: Priority given to applicants who have not previously studied at the undergraduate level.
- English Proficiency: Meet Oxford’s English language requirements, typically IELTS 7.0 or TOEFL iBT 100.
Applicants must first gain admission to Oxford before applying for the scholarship, as applications from non-admitted students are not considered.
Benefits of the Reach Oxford Scholarship
The Reach Oxford Scholarship provides comprehensive support, enabling scholars to focus on their studies and personal growth:
- Financial Coverage: Full tuition and college fees, a living stipend (approximately £15,000-£17,000 annually), and one return airfare per year.
- Academic Access: Study at Oxford with access to cutting-edge facilities, libraries, and faculty.
- Cultural Immersion: Engage in Oxford’s diverse community, with opportunities for cultural events and networking with students from 150+ countries.
- Career Development: Benefit from career guidance, internships, and Oxford’s global alumni network.
- Personal Growth: Participate in mentorship programs, leadership workshops, and community engagement activities.
- Visa Support: Receive assistance with the UK Tier 4 (General) student visa application process.
A 2023 scholar from Ghana noted, “The scholarship not only covered my costs but also gave me the confidence to pursue my dreams and make a difference back home.” These benefits ensure scholars thrive academically and professionally.
Application Process for 2026
Applying for the Reach Oxford Scholarship involves a two-step process, with strict deadlines for 2026 entry:
- Apply to Oxford: Submit an undergraduate application via UCAS by October 15, 2025, and secure an offer for a course (excluding medicine).
- Scholarship Application: If offered a place, complete the online Reach Oxford Scholarship application form, available from January 15, 2026, to February 7, 2026, at 12 noon UK time.
- Submit Documents: Provide:
- A personal statement (500-750 words) outlining academic goals, financial need, and community impact plans.
- Academic transcripts and proof of secondary school results.
- Two academic references (not from relatives) supporting your application.
- Proof of nationality and financial need (e.g., financial hardship documentation).
- Selection Process: Applications are reviewed in March 2026 based on academic merit, financial need, and social commitment. Successful applicants are notified in April 2026.
- Visa and Enrollment: Accepted scholars receive visa support and enroll at Oxford starting October 2026.
Applications must be submitted online via ox.ac.uk or by post to Undergraduate Scholarships, University of Oxford, 3rd Floor, 4 Worcester Street, Oxford, OX1 2BX, UK.
Tips for a Successful Reach Oxford Application
Crafting a competitive application requires strategic preparation. Here are expert tips to enhance your chances:
- Excel Academically: Achieve top grades in secondary school (e.g., A-levels, IB, or equivalent) to meet Oxford’s rigorous standards.
- Craft a Compelling Personal Statement: Highlight your academic passion, financial challenges, and commitment to impacting your home country.
- Secure Strong References: Choose referees who can attest to your academic excellence and leadership potential.
- Apply Early: Complete your UCAS application well before the October 15, 2025, deadline to avoid delays.
- Demonstrate Impact: Showcase leadership, community involvement, or extracurricular activities that align with Oxford’s values.
- Prepare for Interviews: If shortlisted, practice articulating your goals and reasons for choosing Oxford.
A 2024 recipient from Bangladesh advised, “Be authentic in your application and clearly explain how the scholarship will help you contribute to your community.”
Conclusion
The Reach Oxford Scholarship 2026 is a life-changing opportunity for talented students from low-income countries to study at the University of Oxford, one of the world’s most prestigious institutions. With full funding for tuition, living expenses, and airfare, plus access to Oxford’s academic and professional resources, this scholarship empowers scholars to achieve their dreams and drive positive change in their home countries. By meeting the eligibility criteria, submitting a strong application by February 7, 2026, and showcasing your academic and social commitment, you can seize this rare chance.
Don’t miss out on joining the elite group of Reach Oxford scholars! Visit ox.ac.uk to start your journey today and take the first step toward a world-class education in the UK!
FAQs About the Reach Oxford Scholarship
- Who is eligible for the Reach Oxford Scholarship?
Applicants must be citizens of low-income countries on the OECD DAC list, demonstrate financial need, secure an Oxford offer, and intend to return to their home country post-study. - What expenses does the scholarship cover?
It covers full tuition, college fees, a living stipend (£15,000-£17,000 annually), and one return airfare per year for 3-4 years. - Can I apply for the scholarship without an Oxford offer?
No, you must first receive an offer for an undergraduate course (except medicine) through UCAS by October 15, 2025. - When is the scholarship application deadline for 2026?
The deadline is February 7, 2026, at 12 noon UK time, with applications opening on January 15, 2026. - What documents are required for the scholarship application?
You need a personal statement, academic transcripts, two academic references, proof of nationality, and evidence of financial need. - Which courses are eligible for the scholarship?
All undergraduate courses except medicine are eligible, including humanities, sciences, and social sciences. - When will I know if I’ve been selected?
Applicants are notified of the outcome in April 2026 after the selection process in March 2026.