Clarendon Scholarship 2026 at Oxford University, UK

Applications are now open for the Clarendon Scholarship 2026 at Oxford University, UK, a prestigious, fully-funded opportunity for outstanding graduate students worldwide. This scholarship supports over 200 new scholars annually, covering full-time and part-time Master’s and DPhil (PhD) programs across all academic fields. With no restrictions on nationality or residence, eligible applicants are automatically considered by applying for their chosen course by the December or January deadline, no separate scholarship application or fee is required.

The scholarship fully funds course fees and provides a generous living expenses grant, enabling scholars to focus on their studies while joining a diverse, vibrant academic community at Oxford. You can check out BS, MS, PhD and postdoc positions here. 

Key Details

• Scholarship Type: Fully-funded (covers full course fees and living expenses).
• Eligible Programs: All full-time and part-time Master’s and DPhil courses.
• Number of Scholarships: 200
• Fields of Study: No restrictions, all subject areas at Oxford University (list of courses)
• Eligibility: Open to all nationalities; requires an outstanding academic record (e.g., GPA 3.7/4.0 or higher, or exceptional Master’s degree).
• Application Deadline: December or January (varies by course).
• Application Process: Automatic consideration upon applying for a graduate course; no separate application or fee required.

Why Choose the Clarendon Scholarship?

The Clarendon Scholarship offers more than just funding—it provides a transformative academic and social experience at one of the world’s leading universities. Here’s why it stands out:

1. Comprehensive Financial Support

Clarendon scholarships cover full course fees and provide a generous living expenses grant, allowing you to focus on your studies without financial stress. For full-time students, the grant is at least £18,622 (2023-24 rate), sufficient for a single student’s living costs in Oxford. Part-time students receive a study support grant tailored to their course’s needs.

2. Academic Excellence

Clarendon scholars are among the best in their fields, selected for their outstanding academic records and potential. Most successful candidates hold a first-class honours degree (e.g., a GPA of 3.7 or higher) or an exceptional Master’s degree.

3. Diverse and Inclusive Community

With no restrictions on nationality or discipline, Clarendon scholars come from all over the world—USA, Australia, Nigeria, Vietnam, and beyond. This diversity fosters collaboration and enriches the Oxford experience, whether you’re studying African Studies or Zoology.

Also check: NTU Global Connect Fellowship 2026 (Fully Funded)

4. Vibrant Scholars’ Association

Beyond funding, Clarendon offers membership in the Clarendon Scholars’ Association, a scholar-led community that organizes events, fosters connections, and encourages idea-sharing. It’s a chance to build lifelong academic and professional networks.

5. A Unique Experience

Unlike other funding schemes, Clarendon aims to inspire excellence by creating a dynamic community of the brightest minds. It’s not just about paying your way—it’s about empowering you to thrive at Oxford.

Also check: SIIT University EFS Graduate Scholarship 2026 in Thailand

Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible for the Clarendon Scholarship, you must meet the following requirements:

• Course of Study: Apply for a full-time or part-time Master’s or DPhil course at Oxford by the relevant December or January deadline.
• Academic Excellence: Demonstrate an outstanding academic record, typically a first-class honours degree (e.g., GPA of 3.7/4.0 or higher) or an exceptional Master’s degree. Other evidence, like awards, publications, or cohort ranking, may also be considered.
• Future Potential: Show strong aptitude for your chosen field, supported by references and research proposals (for research degrees).
• Motivation: Provide evidence of commitment to your course through your personal statement and referees’ reports.
• Exclusions: Current Oxford students continuing the same degree or those with deferred offers are not eligible.

Check this: Government of Ireland Postgraduate Scholarship 2026 (All Disciplines)

Scholarship Value and Duration

Full-Time Students

• Course Fees: Fully covered for the duration of fee liability (the period you’re required to pay course fees).
• Living Expenses: A minimum annual grant of £18,622 (2023-24 rate) for living costs, sufficient for a single student in Oxford.
• Duration: Typically covers the period of fee liability. Some scholarships may include an additional period with a living expenses grant (continuation charges not covered).

Part-Time Students

• Course Fees: Fully covered for the period of fee liability.
• Study Support Grant: Varies based on course structure (e.g., a sixth, third, or half of the UKRI minimum doctoral stipend rate). For modular courses, the scholarship covers compulsory fees like Annual Award, Registration, Dissertation, and required Module Fees.
• Duration: Covers the period of fee liability, with specific provisions for modular fee structure courses.

Also check: Pierre Elliott Trudeau Foundation Doctoral Scholarship

Application Process

Applying for the Clarendon Scholarship is straightforward:

1. Submit Your Course Application: Apply for a Master’s or DPhil course by the relevant December or January deadline (check your course page for details). No separate scholarship application is required.
2. Academic Review: Your application is assessed by academics in your field for quality and suitability.
3. Departmental Decision: The department decides on your admission and nominates top candidates for the Clarendon Scholarship.
4. Divisional Selection: Academic divisions review nominations in February or March, shortlisting the highest-ranked candidates based on merit and potential.
5. Scholarship Offer: Successful applicants receive a scholarship offer letter (CB1) from the Clarendon Fund Administrator.
6. Funding and College Confirmation: Between April and June, scholars receive a funding breakdown letter (CB2) detailing their funding package and final college placement.

Also check: Stanford’s Asia-Pacific Research Center Fellowships (2026/27)

Selection Criteria

Applications are evaluated based on:

• Outstanding Academic Record: High grades, awards, publications, or top cohort ranking.
• Future Potential and Aptitude: Evidence of research ability (for DPhil applicants) and likelihood of contributing to your field.
• Motivation: Commitment to your course, shown through your personal statement and references.

Timeline

• Application Deadline: December or January (varies by course).
• Divisional Review: February or March.
• Scholarship Offers: March or April.
• Funding and College Details: April to June.

Check also: Tokyo Metropolitan University Scholarship 2026 (Fully Funded)

How to Apply

1. Visit the Oxford University courses page to find your program and confirm the application deadline.
2. Submit your graduate application by the relevant December or January deadline.
3. Ensure your application includes all required documents (e.g., transcripts, references, personal statement, research proposal if applicable).
4. Wait for notification from your department regarding admission and scholarship outcomes.