Country Focussed
United Kingdoms
Scholarship Type
Merit Based
Organising Entity
University of Oxford
Scholarship Coverage
Fully Funded
Reach Oxford Scholarship
The Reach Oxford Scholarship, offered by the prestigious University of Oxford, is a highly competitive undergraduate scholarship designed to support academically outstanding students from low and middle-income countries. It aims to assist students who, for political or financial reasons, or because suitable educational facilities do not exist in their home countries, cannot pursue a degree-level education. The scholarship offers an exceptional opportunity to study at one of the world’s leading institutions, removing financial barriers for deserving candidates.
Why Study in the UK?
Studying in the UK offers a world-class education, globally recognized degrees, and access to some of the oldest and most prestigious universities. With a strong emphasis on research and innovation, UK institutions foster critical thinking and academic excellence. The multicultural environment, wide range of courses, and post-study work opportunities like the Graduate Route – make the UK an attractive destination for Indian students seeking quality education and career growth on a global scale.
Everything You need to Know about the Reach Oxford Scholarship
Eligibility Criteria
To be considered for the Reach Oxford Scholarship, candidates must meet strict academic, residency, and program-related criteria. This ensures the scholarship supports students who truly require international access to quality education and have the capability to benefit from it.
Eligibility Requirements:
- Must be a resident of a country receiving official development assistance from the Development Assistance Committee (DAC) of the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD).
Some eligible countries include:- India
- Egypt
- Cambodia
- Argentina
- Brazil
- China
- Malaysia
- South Africa
- Thailand
- Zimbabwe
(A full list is available on the OECD DAC website.)
- India
- Must be offered admission to an undergraduate program at the University of Oxford through the standard UCAS application process.
- Must be a first-year (freshman) international student at Oxford and not previously enrolled in any higher education course.
- Must be applying to any undergraduate program except Medicine. Medicine courses are not eligible for this scholarship.
- Demonstrate a strong academic record, leadership potential, and commitment to return to their country after graduation to contribute positively to its development.
Organising Entity
University of Oxford
The scholarship is administered directly by the University of Oxford as part of its commitment to making high-quality education accessible to talented individuals from disadvantaged or underrepresented countries.
Is it Country Focused?
This scholarship specifically targets applicants from developing countries listed by the DAC of the OECD as eligible for official development assistance. The goal is to support students from low- and middle-income nations who lack access to high-quality tertiary education due to socio-political or economic challenges.
Is it University Focused?
Yes
The Reach Oxford Scholarship is available exclusively for students applying to undergraduate programs at the University of Oxford. It is not transferable to any other institution or applicable to non-Oxford programs.
Applicants must first secure an offer of admission from the University of Oxford via the UCAS system. Only then can they proceed to apply for the scholarship.
Type of Scholarship
Merit-Based
The scholarship primarily emphasizes academic excellence. However, financial need, lack of educational opportunities in the home country, and the candidate’s intention to return home after studies are also evaluated during the selection process.
While officially categorized as a merit scholarship, it incorporates financial and developmental need to ensure the most deserving candidates are selected.
Number of Students Selected
Each year, 2 to 3 scholarships are awarded to incoming international undergraduate students.
Given the small number of awards, the selection process is highly competitive. Successful applicants not only meet the academic and eligibility criteria but also stand out through their motivation, personal statements, and long-term goals related to their country’s development.
What are the Benefits Available
The Reach Oxford Scholarship is fully funded, covering major expenses associated with studying and living in the United Kingdom. It is designed to eliminate the financial burden for recipients, enabling them to focus entirely on academic growth and community contribution.
Scholarship Benefits Include:
- Full course tuition fee coverage at the University of Oxford for the entire duration of the undergraduate program
- One return airfare per academic year – from the recipient’s home country to the UK and back
- Opportunity to study at one of the world’s most prestigious institutions, gaining international exposure and valuable academic experience
- Annual grant for living expenses – this supports housing, food, study materials, and general personal needs
- Access to mentoring, academic support, and integration opportunities through Oxford’s scholarship community
Why Choose the Reach Oxford Scholarship?
Global recognition: Studying at Oxford provides unparalleled academic and professional prestige
No financial stress: Full coverage of tuition, living expenses, and travel costs
Long-term impact: Encourages recipients to return and contribute to the progress of their home countries
Academic development: Access to elite faculty, research facilities, libraries, and a vibrant student community
Personal growth: Encourages independence, leadership, and global citizenship
How to Apply for the Reach Oxford Scholarship
The application process for the Reach Oxford Scholarship is multi-staged and requires the timely submission of documents and admission confirmation. Below is an outline of how eligible students can apply:
- Apply to the University of Oxford
Submit an undergraduate application through UCAS before the deadline (typically in October of the preceding academic year). Indicate interest in the Reach Oxford Scholarship where applicable. - Receive an Offer of Admission
Only candidates with a confirmed offer to study at Oxford are eligible to apply for the scholarship. - Complete the Separate Scholarship Application
After receiving an offer, eligible candidates must fill out the Reach Oxford Scholarship application form, which is typically made available in January each year. The form requires:- Detailed personal and academic information
- Explanation of financial need
- A personal statement
- Proof of eligibility and development commitment
- Detailed personal and academic information
- Submit by the Deadline
The deadline to apply for the scholarship usually falls in early February. Late or incomplete applications are not considered.
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Final Thoughts
The Reach Oxford Scholarship is a rare and prestigious opportunity for high-achieving students from developing countries to pursue undergraduate education at the University of Oxford without financial burden. It combines academic excellence with global responsibility and empowers young leaders to bring about positive change in their home communities.
If you are a student from a developing country, particularly India, and meet the academic standards for Oxford, this scholarship could transform your future.
