If you’ve ever dreamed of studying at one of the most prestigious universities in the world—but felt held back by cost—this opportunity might change everything for you.
The Fully Funded $40,000 Oxford University Graduate Scholarship is designed to support outstanding graduate students who want to pursue a master’s or doctoral degree at University of Oxford without the heavy financial burden that usually comes with elite education.
In this guide, we’ll break everything down in a clear, friendly, and realistic way—what the scholarship covers, who can apply, how the selection process works, and how you can seriously improve your chances of being selected.
Let’s dive in.
Why Study at Oxford University?
Oxford isn’t just another university—it’s a global academic powerhouse with nearly 1,000 years of history. Graduates from Oxford include world leaders, Nobel Prize winners, innovators, and thinkers who have shaped politics, science, literature, and technology.
But beyond the prestige, what truly makes Oxford special is the learning environment:
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Small, discussion-based classes
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Direct access to world-class professors
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Cutting-edge research facilities
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A diverse international student community
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Strong global alumni networks
The only major barrier for most students? Cost. And that’s exactly where this scholarship comes in.
What Is the Fully Funded $40,000 Oxford University Graduate Scholarship?
This scholarship is a financial aid package valued at up to $40,000 per year, aimed at high-achieving graduate students who demonstrate academic excellence, leadership potential, and financial need.
Unlike partial awards, this is considered fully funded, meaning it covers most—if not all—essential study and living expenses during your time at Oxford.
While the exact structure may vary depending on the department or funding body, the overall goal remains the same:
👉 Remove financial barriers so talented students can focus entirely on their studies.
What Does the $40,000 Scholarship Cover?
One of the most common questions students ask is, “What exactly does the funding pay for?” Here’s a realistic breakdown.
1. Tuition Fees
Oxford’s graduate tuition fees can range from £25,000 to £45,000 per year, depending on your course. This scholarship typically covers full or substantial tuition costs, especially for international students.
2. Living Expenses
Oxford is not cheap to live in. The scholarship includes a generous living stipend to help cover:
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Accommodation
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Food
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Transportation
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Utilities
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Study materials
This ensures you’re not constantly stressed about money while studying.
3. Travel & Relocation Support
Many fully funded Oxford scholarships also provide:
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A one-time travel allowance
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Visa-related cost support
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Initial settling-in expenses
4. Academic & Research Costs
Depending on your program, funding may also support:
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Research materials
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Conference attendance
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Fieldwork
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Books and academic resources
In short, this scholarship allows you to live, study, and grow at Oxford without financial anxiety.
Who Can Apply for the Oxford University Graduate Scholarship?
The scholarship is highly competitive, but it’s also more accessible than many students assume.
Eligible Applicants Typically Include:
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International students from any country
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Domestic UK students (in some cases)
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Applicants for Master’s (MSc, MPhil, MBA) programs
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Applicants for Doctoral (DPhil/PhD) programs
Academic Requirements
You’ll generally need:
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A strong undergraduate or master’s degree
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Excellent academic transcripts
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Clear academic goals aligned with your chosen program
Top grades help—but Oxford also values intellectual curiosity, originality, and motivation, not just perfect GPAs.
Fields of Study Covered
The scholarship applies to a wide range of graduate programs, including:
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Engineering and Technology
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Computer Science and AI
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Medicine and Health Sciences
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Law and Public Policy
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Economics and Business
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Environmental and Climate Studies
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Social Sciences
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Humanities and Arts
As long as your program is offered at Oxford and qualifies for graduate funding, you’re likely eligible.
How Competitive Is the Scholarship?
Let’s be honest—it’s competitive. Oxford receives thousands of applications from brilliant students worldwide.
But here’s the good news:
Selection committees are not just looking for “perfect students.” They want real people with:
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Clear goals
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Strong motivation
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A sense of purpose
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Evidence that the scholarship will truly make a difference
Many successful applicants weren’t the top student in their country—but they told a compelling story and showed how Oxford fits into their long-term vision.
How to Apply: Step-by-Step Guide
Here’s where most students get confused—so let’s keep it simple.
Step 1: Choose Your Graduate Program
You must first apply for admission to a graduate program at Oxford. The scholarship is tied to your program application.
Step 2: Submit Your Oxford Application
Your application will usually include:
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Academic transcripts
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Statement of purpose
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Letters of recommendation
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CV or resume
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English language test (if required)
Step 3: Indicate Scholarship Interest
Many Oxford scholarships do not require a separate application. You’ll simply check a box or be automatically considered once admitted.
Some funding schemes may request:
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A short funding statement
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Additional essays
Always read your program’s funding page carefully.
Step 4: Shortlisting & Interviews
If shortlisted, you may be invited for:
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A virtual interview
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Written responses
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Additional documentation
Final decisions are often announced weeks or months after admission offers.
Key Deadlines to Watch
Deadlines vary by program, but most fall between:
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December – January (for competitive programs)
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January – March (for others)
⚠️ Important:
Late applications are rarely considered for full funding. Applying early significantly improves your chances.
How to Strengthen Your Application (Realistic Tips)
Here’s where many applicants fall short—and how you can stand out.
1. Write a Personal, Honest Statement
Avoid generic phrases like “Oxford is world-class.” Everyone says that.
Instead:
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Share what sparked your academic interest
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Explain challenges you’ve overcome
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Show how Oxford fits your future goals
Authenticity matters more than sounding impressive.
2. Choose Recommenders Who Know You Well
A heartfelt recommendation from someone who truly knows your work beats a generic letter from a famous professor.
3. Show Impact, Not Just Achievement
Committees love applicants who want to give back, influence policy, advance research, or help communities.
Make your goals clear and grounded in reality.
Can You Apply If You Have Limited Funds?
Absolutely—and in fact, financial need is often a positive factor.
If this scholarship would genuinely change your life:
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Say so honestly
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Explain your circumstances clearly
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Show how the funding enables your education
Oxford wants to invest in students who wouldn’t otherwise have access to such opportunities.
Final Thoughts: Is This Scholarship Worth Applying For?
100% yes.
Even if you think your chances are slim, you lose nothing by applying—and you could gain a fully funded education worth $40,000 or more at one of the world’s top universities.
Every year, students who once doubted themselves receive this life-changing opportunity.
The only real mistake? Not applying at all.