The Optiver Foundation Scholarships are a game-changer for ambitious women from low- and middle-income countries who dream of studying science at one of the world’s best universities. Backed by a generous donation from the Optiver Foundation, this program is now in its fourth cohort, with the next group of scholars starting their taught master’s courses at Oxford in October 2026. It’s all about breaking down financial barriers in STEM fields where women are still under-represented. If you’re a talented female student from an eligible country, this could be the support you need to turn your postgraduate ambitions into reality.
Scholarship Summary
- Host Country: UK
- Host University: University of Oxford
- Scholarship Type: MSC Scholarships
- Eligible Countries: All Countries
- Scholarship Benefits: Full tuition fee, Monthly stipend, etc.
Scholarship Benefits of Optiver Foundation Scholarships 2026
You get full financial support that covers your entire course fees plus a generous grant to help with living costs. On top of that, the program includes tailored induction activities, mentoring, and ongoing support throughout your studies. The goal is to make sure you thrive both academically and personally while at Oxford. Up to six scholarships are awarded each year as part of a larger plan to support 30 students over five years.
See Also:
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Eligibility Requirements for Optiver Foundation Scholarships 2026
- You must be a woman (as indicated on your Oxford application form and matching your identity documents) who is ordinarily resident in one of the eligible low- or middle-income countries listed by Oxford. You also need to be applying for one of the specific eligible master’s courses in the Departments of Statistics, Computer Science, Physics, Chemistry, Engineering Science, or the Mathematical Institute. Current Oxford students and anyone with a deferred offer for 2026-27 are not eligible.
- Eligible courses include: MSc Energy Systems, MSc Advanced Computer Science, MSc Mathematical and Theoretical Physics, MSc Mathematical Modelling and Scientific Computing, MSc Mathematical Sciences, MSc Mathematics and Foundations of Computer Science, MSc in Quantum Technologies, MSc Statistical Science, and MSc Theoretical and Computational Chemistry.
- Nigeria and dozens of other countries across Africa, Asia, Latin America, and beyond are included – so check the full country list on the official Oxford page if you’re not sure.
Documents Required
You will need to submit your complete graduate application for your chosen course. This usually includes academic transcripts, a personal statement, CV, references, and any other documents required by your specific program. In addition, if you meet the basic eligibility, Oxford will invite you to fill out a short extra scholarship form that asks about your socio-economic background to help assess need and under-representation.
Scholarship Deadline
Submit your graduate application by the relevant November, December, or January deadline for your specific course. These are the standard Oxford deadlines for October 2026 entry.
Steps on How to Apply for Optiver Foundation Scholarships 2026
- Choose one of the eligible master’s courses and apply for graduate study at Oxford by the correct deadline. Make sure you tick the box on the application form to be considered for the Optiver Foundation Scholarship.
- If you meet the eligibility criteria, Oxford will send you an additional scholarship application form asking about your socio-economic situation.
- Once you receive an offer for your course and have completed the extra form, a panel of academic staff will review your application based on academic merit and potential.
- Successful applicants are contacted by email with a scholarship offer, usually in May.
- Accept the offer and meet all conditions of your place at Oxford – your funding is then secure.
That’s it – straightforward and designed to support the right candidates. If this sounds like the opportunity you’ve been waiting for, head to the official Oxford admissions page and get your application started. Good luck!
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