Introduction
Have you been dreaming of studying at one of the world’s top universities but feel that financial barriers stand in your way? The Optiver Foundation is breaking down those barriers through its prestigious scholarship programme at the University of Oxford.
This initiative, made possible by the generous donation of the Optiver Foundation, supports outstanding women from low and middle-income countries to pursue fully funded postgraduate degrees in STEM disciplines. The programme is designed to nurture the next generation of female leaders in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics, and to encourage diversity in areas where women remain underrepresented.
The next cohort of Optiver Foundation Scholars will begin their studies at Oxford in October 2026. They will be the fourth group of scholars supported by this scheme, which will eventually fund up to 30 master’s students over five years.
Scholarship Benefits
Successful candidates will receive full financial support to cover:
- The full course fees for their chosen master’s programme
- A grant for living costs throughout the study period
- Access to tailored induction activities, mentoring opportunities, and on-course academic support
This holistic package ensures that scholars not only benefit financially but also have access to personal and professional development support during their time at Oxford.
Why This Scholarship Matters
Oxford University has a strong commitment to building a diverse academic community and supporting future global leaders. Financial barriers often prevent talented students from disadvantaged backgrounds from pursuing higher education at institutions like Oxford.
In STEM fields, women in particular face additional challenges, with lower participation rates in postgraduate courses both globally and within Oxford. The Optiver Foundation Scholarship Programme aims to bridge this gap by providing opportunities specifically for women from underrepresented regions.
Eligibility Criteria
Up to six scholarships will be awarded for entry in October 2026. Applicants must:
- Identify as female on their Oxford postgraduate application form (must match the sex indicated on official documents such as a passport or visa)
- Be ordinarily resident in one of the eligible countries listed below
- Apply to start an eligible master’s programme at Oxford University in the 2026-27 academic year
- Not currently be studying at Oxford, nor hold a deferred offer for 2026-27
Transgender applicants may be considered, provided their documents reflect eligibility requirements.
Eligible Master’s Courses
Applicants must apply to one of the following postgraduate taught programmes:
- MSc Energy Systems (Engineering Science)
- 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 Quantum Technologies
- MSc Statistical Science
- MSc Theoretical and Computational Chemistry
Eligible Countries
Applicants must be ordinarily resident in one of the approved low or middle-income countries. The full list includes nations from Africa, Asia, the Middle East, South America, and other developing regions. Some of the key eligible countries include:
Nigeria, Ghana, Kenya, Ethiopia, Uganda, South Africa, Egypt, India, Bangladesh, Pakistan, Vietnam, Indonesia, Brazil, Argentina, Colombia, Mexico, and many others.
A full alphabetical list of eligible countries is available on the University of Oxford website.
Application Process
- Apply for your chosen graduate course at Oxford University by the relevant November, December, or January deadline.
- Indicate your interest in scholarships by ticking the appropriate box on the application form.
- If eligible, you will be asked to complete a separate Optiver Foundation Scholarship application form, which assesses socio-economic background and potential disadvantage.
- Candidates who meet the criteria and receive an offer for one of the eligible master’s courses will be assessed by an academic panel.
- Selection is based on academic merit, potential for future impact, and commitment to diversity in STEM.
Successful candidates will be notified by email, with most offers released in May 2026.
Why You Should Apply
This scholarship is more than financial assistance. It is a life-changing opportunity to study at one of the world’s leading universities, gain access to cutting-edge research, and build connections with a diverse international academic community.
By targeting support at women from low to middle-income countries, the Optiver Foundation Scholarship Programme is creating pathways for future leaders in science and technology. Scholars will not only transform their own lives but also contribute to building a more inclusive global workforce in STEM.
Key Information at a Glance
- Scholarship Name: Optiver Foundation Scholarships at Oxford University
- Start Date: October 2026
- Number of Awards: Up to 6 scholarships per year
- Eligible Applicants: Women from low and middle-income countries applying for specific STEM master’s degrees
- Benefits: Full course fees, living costs, mentoring, and tailored academic support
- Deadline: Course application deadlines vary (November 2025 – January 2026 depending on programme)
How to Apply
Interested candidates must apply directly to the University of Oxford for their chosen course. Once you complete the application and indicate interest in funding, eligible students will be contacted for the additional scholarship form.
Learn more and start your application here:
Optiver Foundation Scholarships – Oxford University
Final Thoughts
The Optiver Foundation Scholarships at Oxford are a powerful tool for increasing diversity and inclusion in postgraduate STEM education. If you are a woman from a low or middle-income country with strong academic achievements and ambitions to make a difference in science, this is your chance to break barriers and join one of the world’s most prestigious universities.
Take the first step today by preparing your application and submitting it before the course deadline. Opportunities like this are rare, and this programme could be the pathway to your future in global scientific leadership.