The Clarendon Scholarship at the University of Oxford is one of the most prestigious scholarships for international students looking to pursue postgraduate studies in the United Kingdom. Offered by the renowned University of Oxford, this fully funded scholarship supports high-achieving students from around the world, providing the opportunity to pursue either a Master’s or Doctor of Philosophy (DPhil) degree. The Clarendon Fund awards scholarships to the top applicants across various academic disciplines, granting them the chance to join Oxford’s vibrant academic community, engage in cutting-edge research, and benefit from an environment that promotes intellectual growth and cross-cultural exchange.
This scholarship covers tuition, fees, and living expenses, allowing scholars to focus on their studies and make the most of the resources and networks available at Oxford. As one of the oldest universities globally, Oxford offers world-class facilities, access to prominent researchers and educators, and an inclusive community of students from over 150 countries. With the Clarendon Scholarship, students can gain not only academic expertise but also professional connections and an invaluable experience in one of the most historically rich cities in the world.
Scholarship Overview:
- Country: United Kingdom
- Host Institution: University of Oxford
- Degree Levels Supported: Master’s and DPhil (PhD) programs
- Funding Source: Clarendon Fund, established to attract and support academically excellent graduate students.
- Financial Coverage: Fully funded, covering both full tuition fees and a grant for living expenses.
Benefits of the Clarendon Scholarship:
- Full Tuition Coverage: Clarendon Scholars receive full tuition coverage for the entire duration of their degree program, relieving financial burdens and allowing students to focus solely on their studies and research.
- Living Expenses Grant: A generous stipend is provided to cover living costs, enabling students to comfortably live in Oxford and participate in the academic and social life of the university without financial stress.
- No Separate Application Fee: There is no additional cost for scholarship consideration. Students who apply for a graduate program at Oxford by the specific course deadline are automatically considered for the Clarendon Scholarship.
- Clarendon Scholar Network: Scholars become part of the Clarendon Scholar Association, a network of highly motivated individuals from various fields and countries. This association fosters an environment for professional growth and global connections.
- Alumni Network and Opportunities: As a Clarendon Scholar, students have access to Oxford’s extensive alumni network and various networking events and opportunities that contribute to career advancement.
Eligibility Criteria:
To ensure eligibility for the Clarendon Scholarship, applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Acceptance into an Oxford Graduate Program: Applicants must apply to a Master’s or DPhil program at the University of Oxford. Successful scholarship candidates will have demonstrated academic excellence in their chosen field.
- Field of Study: The Clarendon Scholarship is available for most academic programs at Oxford. This includes a broad range of fields, such as humanities, social sciences, engineering, medical sciences, and physical sciences.
- No Restrictions Based on Nationality: The Clarendon Scholarship is open to students from all countries, backgrounds, and regions. It supports diversity and encourages applicants from all parts of the world.
- Academic Excellence: Candidates should have an outstanding academic background, as the selection criteria for the Clarendon Scholarship are highly competitive. The program seeks students who exhibit excellence in their prior studies and demonstrate the potential to contribute to their fields.
- Returning Master’s Students: Students currently pursuing a Master’s degree at Oxford are eligible to apply for another part-time Master’s or DPhil at Oxford under the Clarendon Scholarship.
Eligible Fields of Study:
The Clarendon Scholarship provides funding across a wide range of disciplines, allowing students to pursue their passions in nearly any field. Below is a list of some of the academic areas that applicants can choose from:
- Humanities and Arts: Anthropology, Museum Ethnography, Archaeology, Classics, History, English Language, Literature, History of Art, Philosophy, Theology, and more.
- Sciences: Biochemistry, Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Earth Sciences, Medical Sciences, Mathematics, Computer Science, Experimental Psychology, and more.
- Engineering
- Social Sciences: Sociology, Politics, International Relations, Social Policy, Anthropology, Law, Economics, Education, and more.
- Medical Sciences: Clinical Medicine, Clinical Neuroscience, Primary Care Health Sciences, Population Health, Psychiatry, Pediatrics, Surgical Sciences, and more.
- Specialized Centers: Oxford Internet Institute, Blavatnik School of Government, Continuing Education, and Doctoral Training Centers.
For a comprehensive list, applicants should visit the official Clarendon Scholarship webpage and check the eligibility for their desired field of study.
Financial Coverage and Support:
- Tuition Fees: Full coverage of tuition and college fees.
- Living Stipend: An annual grant is provided to cover basic living expenses, sufficient for a single student to live in Oxford.
- Additional Funding: Scholars have access to professional development opportunities, workshops, and events that contribute to their academic and professional journeys.
Application Process:
- No Separate Application Required: Applicants do not need to submit a separate scholarship application. When students apply to an eligible graduate course at Oxford University by the deadline, they are automatically considered for the Clarendon Scholarship.
- Program-Specific Deadlines: Applications for graduate courses must be submitted by the course’s specific deadline, usually in December or January. This is crucial for scholarship eligibility, as only students who apply before the deadline will be considered.
- Selection Process: The scholarship selection is based on academic excellence, the strength of the application, and the potential impact of the applicant’s research or study program.
Required Documents:
When applying for a graduate course at Oxford, students are encouraged to prepare the following documents:
- Personal Statement: Outlining academic achievements, goals, and the reason for choosing the program.
- Academic Transcripts: Detailed transcripts from previous educational institutions.
- Proof of Awards or Certificates: Highlighting any significant achievements or recognitions.
- Research Proposal (if applicable): For research-based programs, a proposal that aligns with the program’s goals.
- Other Documents: This may include letters of recommendation, English language proficiency test scores (if required), and course-specific requirements.
Key Dates and Deadlines:
- Application Deadline: The deadlines vary depending on the specific course but generally fall between December 2024 and January 2025.
- Notification of Results: Selected candidates will be informed in time for the next academic cycle, allowing ample time to plan for relocation and enrollment.
Additional Information:
The Clarendon Scholarship is highly competitive and aims to support students who have shown significant academic promise and leadership potential. Recipients of the scholarship have an opportunity to be part of an influential academic community that values intellectual exploration and research innovation. By studying at the University of Oxford, scholars not only benefit from a historic and supportive academic environment but also make meaningful contributions to their fields.
For more information on the application process, eligibility requirements, and to explore the academic programs offered, visit the official University of Oxford Clarendon Scholarship page.
This scholarship is a transformative opportunity for students seeking to study at Oxford, offering not just financial support but an enriching academic journey in one of the world’s most prestigious institutions.