The Reach Oxford Scholarship is one of the University of Oxford’s best-known undergraduate funding opportunities for students from low-income countries who would otherwise be unable to study in the United Kingdom. For 2027 entry, Oxford says the scholarship application process will open in January 2027, with a deadline of 12 noon UK time on 26 January 2027.
The award is highly competitive, but it is especially important for applicants who need substantial financial support because it can cover the major costs of studying at Oxford rather than offering only a small tuition discount.
What the Reach Oxford Scholarship covers
According to the University of Oxford, the scholarship provides:
- University course fees
- An annual grant towards living costs
- One return airfare to the student’s home country each year
The scholarship normally lasts for the full duration of an eligible undergraduate programme, subject to satisfactory academic progress.
How many scholarships are available?
Oxford states that approximately two to three awards are normally available each year. This means applicants should treat the scholarship as a highly competitive opportunity and build a strong Oxford admission application as well as a convincing financial-need case.
Who should consider applying?
The scholarship is designed for students from low-income countries who have strong academic potential but face financial barriers to studying at Oxford. Applicants must first apply for an eligible undergraduate course and successfully secure an offer from the University.
Because Oxford undergraduate admission itself is highly competitive, prospective applicants should prepare early. Strong grades are important, but applicants should also pay attention to course-specific admissions tests, written work requirements and interviews where applicable.
Important 2027 dates
- Undergraduate course application: follow Oxford’s standard undergraduate admissions timetable for 2027 entry.
- Scholarship application opens: January 2027.
- Scholarship deadline: 26 January 2027 at 12 noon UK time.
- Selection: expected in April 2027.
- Outcome: applicants are expected to be informed by the end of May 2027.
How to improve your application
A strong Reach Oxford application should do more than repeat academic results. Applicants should clearly explain why their financial circumstances would prevent them from taking up an Oxford offer without substantial funding. It is also useful to show evidence of commitment to education, leadership, service or long-term goals that connect the degree to positive impact.
Before the scholarship form opens, prepare a simple evidence folder containing academic transcripts, household financial information, school references, identification documents and a concise record of leadership, volunteering and extracurricular activities. This reduces last-minute pressure when the scholarship window opens.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Waiting until the scholarship deadline before preparing financial documents.
- Assuming that a scholarship application can replace the Oxford admission application.
- Submitting generic statements that do not explain financial need clearly.
- Ignoring course-specific admissions requirements.
- Using unofficial application links or paying third parties who claim to guarantee selection.
Official application information
Applicants should confirm the final 2027 instructions directly on the University of Oxford Reach Oxford Scholarship page. Oxford says full 2027 application details will be published there in January 2027.
JobScholarship.com tip: If you intend to apply, use the months before January to strengthen the admission side of your application. The scholarship only becomes useful after you have positioned yourself to win an Oxford offer.