The Clarendon Fund is one of the most prestigious scholarship programs at the University of Oxford, offering fully funded postgraduate opportunities to outstanding students from all around the world. Established in 2001, the Clarendon Fund seeks to attract academically excellent students who demonstrate potential to make a significant impact in their field or society at large. Unlike some scholarships, Clarendon is open to students across all graduate courses at Oxford, making it highly competitive and sought-after.
Each year, approximately 140–150 scholarships are awarded to exceptional candidates from diverse academic disciplines. The program is renowned for its generous financial coverage, world-class networking opportunities, and the chance to study at one of the top universities globally.
Scholarship Benefits
The Clarendon Fund is fully funded and provides comprehensive support for postgraduate study at Oxford. Key benefits include:
- Full tuition fees for the chosen postgraduate degree.
- Annual living allowance to cover accommodation, food, and daily expenses.
- Travel grants for one round-trip between home country and the UK.
- Grant for research and academic development, such as conferences, fieldwork, or study trips.
- Integration into the Clarendon Scholars community, offering networking, mentorship, and professional development opportunities.
- No separate application fee for the scholarship—applying for a graduate course automatically considers candidates for Clarendon.
The Clarendon Fund is known for being fully inclusive, meaning selected scholars can focus entirely on their studies without financial concerns.
Eligibility Criteria
To apply for the Clarendon Fund, candidates must meet the following requirements:
- Application to Oxford
- You must have applied for a full-time graduate degree at the University of Oxford. Applications to part-time or short courses are not eligible.
- Academic Excellence
- The scholarship is awarded based purely on academic merit. Applicants are expected to demonstrate outstanding intellectual ability and a track record of achievement in their chosen field.
- Graduate Courses Eligible
- All master’s and doctoral courses at Oxford are eligible. Clarendon is discipline-agnostic, allowing applicants from humanities, sciences, social sciences, and professional degrees to compete.
- International and Domestic Applicants
- Both UK and international students can apply. International applicants must meet the university’s English language requirements.
Unlike other scholarships, Clarendon does not require evidence of financial need, leadership potential, or community service for consideration—though these may enhance your application for specific networking opportunities within the Clarendon community.
Application Process
The Clarendon Fund simplifies the application process by automatically considering candidates who apply for graduate study at Oxford. Here’s how it works:
Step 1: Choose a Graduate Course
- Select your preferred master’s or doctoral program at the University of Oxford. Ensure it aligns with your academic and career goals.
Step 2: Submit Your Graduate Application
- Complete the Oxford graduate application and submit by the relevant course deadline. Include your academic transcripts, personal statement, research proposal (if required), and references.
Step 3: Automatic Consideration
- All full-time graduate applicants are automatically considered for the Clarendon Fund based on their academic merit. No separate scholarship application is needed.
Step 4: Assessment
- Selection is made by departmental committees and the Clarendon Fund Scholarship Committee, evaluating applicants solely on academic excellence and potential contribution to their field.
Step 5: Notification
- Successful candidates receive a conditional scholarship offer alongside an offer of admission to their course. Acceptance is confirmed once all conditions, such as academic results and visa requirements, are met.
Selection Criteria
The Clarendon Fund is unique because its focus is purely academic excellence:
- Track Record of Achievement
- Outstanding grades in previous degrees, published research, awards, or distinctions.
- Academic Potential
- Demonstrated ability to undertake rigorous research or advanced study.
- Fit with Oxford
- Evidence that your course choice aligns with your academic goals and the resources available at Oxford.
Unlike some scholarships, Clarendon does not require essays on leadership or social impact, though these may be valuable in professional networking opportunities once you are a scholar.
Advantages of Being a Clarendon Scholar
- Full Funding: Covers tuition and living expenses for the duration of the course.
- Networking Opportunities: Scholars join a vibrant community, attend social and academic events, and gain lifelong connections with fellow Clarendon alumni.
- Research Development: Access to mentorship, workshops, and research-related grants enhances academic growth.
- Prestige: Being a Clarendon Scholar is a mark of academic distinction recognized globally.
Application Timeline (2025–26 Cycle)
The timeline varies slightly by course, but generally follows this schedule:
- Graduate course applications open: September 2025
- Application deadlines: October–January 2026 (depending on course)
- Departmental shortlisting: January–February 2026
- Scholarship offer notifications: March–April 2026
- Course start at Oxford: September–October 2026
Tips for a Strong Application
- Focus on Academic Excellence: Highlight your grades, research experience, and any publications or awards.
- Research Your Course: Ensure your application shows a clear alignment between your goals and the Oxford program.
- Strong References: Choose academic referees who can attest to your intellectual abilities and potential.
- Be Thorough: Complete your Oxford graduate application carefully, as this automatically determines eligibility for Clarendon.
Conclusion
The Clarendon Fund at the University of Oxford is an unparalleled opportunity for academically outstanding students seeking fully funded postgraduate study. With its focus on excellence, inclusivity, and comprehensive support, the scholarship allows scholars to pursue their academic goals without financial stress.
Whether you aim to conduct groundbreaking research, advance in professional fields, or contribute to knowledge globally, the Clarendon Fund provides the platform, resources, and recognition to help you achieve your aspirations.