Ellison Scholars Undergraduate Programme 2026 at the University of Oxford (Fully Funded)
Application Deadline: 31 July 2025
The Ellison Scholars Undergraduate Programme is now open for applications for the 2026 academic year. This prestigious, fully funded opportunity allows exceptional students from around the world to pursue undergraduate degrees at the University of Oxford, one of the most renowned academic institutions globally.
In addition to their academic studies, Ellison Scholars engage in research and innovation projects through the Ellison Institute of Technology (EIT). These projects are conducted during summer internships and are central to the Scholars’ overall experience. Scholars collaborate with global experts to tackle some of the world’s most pressing challenges using advanced science and technology.
Programme Overview
The Ellison Scholars Undergraduate Programme offers a unique combination of academic excellence and impactful research. Scholars are supported throughout their undergraduate studies at Oxford and gain hands-on experience through participation in EIT-led projects focused on solving real-world problems. The programme seeks students who demonstrate exceptional academic ability, a passion for innovation, and the capacity to work collaboratively on complex challenges.
While the programme supports study in any discipline offered at the University of Oxford, the emphasis is on bringing diverse academic backgrounds together to contribute to technology-driven projects. Only a small number of students will be selected each year, making the application process highly competitive.
Eligibility Criteria
To be considered for the Ellison Scholars Undergraduate Programme, applicants must:
- Meet the University of Oxford’s academic entry requirements for their chosen undergraduate course;
- Possess, or be on track to achieve, a high school leaving qualification, diploma, or certificate that is accepted by the University of Oxford;
- Have achieved, or be on course to achieve, the minimum grade requirements for their selected degree programme;
- Meet, or be on track to meet, the University of Oxford’s English language proficiency requirements.
Only applicants who meet these criteria should apply. Those who do not meet the academic or language standards required by Oxford are strongly advised not to apply for this opportunity.
Research Internships and EIT Projects
A key feature of the Ellison Scholars experience is the opportunity to participate in ten-week summer internships between academic years. During this period, undergraduate Scholars work on ongoing EIT projects focused on addressing major global challenges through science and technology. These projects align with EIT’s four “Humane Endeavours”:
- Health and Medical Science
- Food Security and Sustainable Agriculture
- Clean Energy and Climate Change
- Government Innovation in the Era of AI
Internships are interdisciplinary, and applicants from a broad range of academic fields are encouraged to apply. Areas of interest and expertise may include, but are not limited to, artificial intelligence and data science, economics and policy, robotics, generative biology, engineering, computer science, chemistry, medicine, physics, law, and mathematics.
Through this practical component of the programme, students develop their skills while contributing meaningfully to global initiatives that aim to bring about societal and environmental change.
Application Timeline
May – July 2025:
The application period opens on 1 May and closes on 31 July. During this stage, applicants should review the eligibility criteria and complete their initial application for the Ellison Scholars Programme.
September – October 2025:
Selected semi-finalists will be invited to submit a formal application to the University of Oxford. This application is part of Oxford’s standard admissions process and is managed independently of the Ellison Scholars Programme.
January – February 2026:
Semi-finalists who receive an offer of admission from the University of Oxford automatically progress to the final selection round. Finalist candidates will then be interviewed by the EIT Faculty of Fellows.
March – April 2026:
Final decisions are made, and successful candidates are named as Ellison Scholars. The selected scholars will receive onboarding support from the Ellison Scholars team to prepare them for their transition to Oxford.
October 2026:
The Ellison Scholars begin their undergraduate studies at the University of Oxford and formally commence their engagement with EIT Oxford.
Conclusion
The Ellison Scholars Undergraduate Programme offers an extraordinary opportunity for motivated and high-achieving students to access world-class education and research opportunities. Through the combination of academic study and immersive internship experiences, the programme aims to nurture a new generation of leaders who are equipped to address global challenges with innovative solutions.
Interested candidates are encouraged to apply early and ensure they meet all academic and language requirements for their desired course at Oxford.
For more information and to apply, please visit the official Ellison Scholars Undergraduate Programme webpage.
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Disclaimer: Global South Opportunities (GSO) is not the awarding entity. For any inquiries, please contact the hiring organization directly. Please do not send your applications to GSO, as we are unable to process them. Due to the high volume of emails we receive daily, we may not be able to respond to all inquiries. Thank you for your understanding.
