Summary

The Ellison Scholars Undergraduate Program is a prestigious opportunity offering fully-funded education at the University of Oxford. Tailored for high-achieving individuals, the program empowers participants to address pressing global challenges through academic excellence and leadership development. Scholars gain access to world-class education, mentorship, and resources designed to enhance their problem-solving and critical-thinking skills. This initiative not only fosters personal growth but also cultivates a community of change-makers dedicated to driving positive global impact. If you aspire to learn and lead at a top-tier institution while contributing to a better future, this program provides a pathway to achieve your ambitions.

Unlocking Opportunities with the Ellison Scholars Undergraduate Program

For students worldwide, the dream of studying at the University of Oxford combines unparalleled academic rigor with a launchpad for global career opportunities. While gaining admission to one of the world’s leading universities is formidable, the Ellison Scholars Undergraduate Program offers a life-changing opportunity to not only pursue fully-funded undergraduate study at Oxford but to also contribute to solving some of the world’s greatest challenges through technology and innovation.

This blog will cover what the Ellison Scholars program entails, how to apply, and key tips to enhance your chances of securing this prestigious scholarship.

What Is the Ellison Scholars Undergraduate Program?

The Ellison Scholars Undergraduate Program empowers brilliant minds to drive change. Scholars pursue fully-funded undergraduate degrees at the University of Oxford while working on cutting-edge summer internships within EIT’s innovative research projects. These projects focus on solving global challenges through technology and typically align with one of four key human endeavors:

• Health and Medical Science
• Food Security and Sustainable Agriculture
• Clean Energy and Climate Change
• Government Innovation in the Era of AI

This combination of academia and practical innovation positions Ellison Scholars as future leaders, equipped to make a lasting impact worldwide.

What Makes This Program Unique?

Unlike many scholarships that focus solely on academic achievements, the Ellison Scholars program is designed for forward-thinking, innovative, and collaborative individuals. Beyond the financial benefits, the program emphasizes creativity, problem-solving, and teamwork, ensuring that scholars leave not only with world-class degrees but also with hands-on experience tackling real-world problems.

Why You Should Apply

The number of places in the Ellison Scholars Undergraduate Program is limited, making it a competitive but worthwhile endeavor. Here’s why applying could be a game-changer:

Fully Funded Education at Oxford

Scholars receive full funding for their undergraduate degrees, including tuition fees, accommodation, and a stipend for living expenses, entirely alleviating financial concerns.

Summer Internships with Global Impact

The program includes 10-week internships every summer. This opportunity to work alongside experts on research at the forefront of technology ensures real-world applications of your study.

Cutting-Edge Research Experience

Whether you specialize in AI, robotics, microbiology, or plant sciences, the skills and experience gained here go well beyond academic lectures. You will be contributing to meaningful work addressing global issues.

Collaborative Network

Scholars collaborate with a global cohort of peers and world-leading experts, forming a professional network that extends far beyond university life.

How to Apply for the Program

Applying to the Ellison Scholars Undergraduate Program is a highly structured process. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

Step 1. Meet the Eligibility Criteria

Before applying, ensure you meet the following requirements:

1. You must meet the University of Oxford’s entry requirements for your chosen field of study. This includes:
   • Having or expecting to earn a recognized high school diploma or equivalent qualification.
   • Meeting the minimum grade requirements specific to your course.
   • Proving your English proficiency (if required for your application).

Check the comprehensive guidelines for international applicants on Oxford’s official website.

2. You’ll also need to meet the Ellison Scholars selection criteria, which focus on your alignment with their mission, academic excellence, innovative mindset, collaboration skills, tenacity, and integrity.

Step 2. Craft an Exceptional Application

Your application is your chance to stand out in a competitive pool. The selection committee prioritizes candidates who:

• Demonstrate alignment with the program’s vision. Evidence of prior commitment to projects in one or more of the four Humane Endeavors will strengthen your case.
• Showcase excellence through academic achievements or participation in prestigious competitions like science fairs or Olympiads.
• Highlight innovative thinking through contributions to research papers, patents, or cutting-edge projects.
• Provide examples of collaborative success, such as teamwork on initiatives, mentoring, or leadership.

Prepare to submit a well-crafted personal essay and supporting documents that highlight your achievements, ambitions, and values.

Step 3. Join an Information Session

Enhance your application by attending online webinars hosted by the Ellison Scholars Program. These sessions provide insights into the program, guidelines for the application process, and a chance to connect with past scholars.

Register for an information session

Step 4. Submit Your Application

Applications for the 2026 cohort are open now and close on 31 July 2025. Start early to ensure you have enough time to gather all necessary documents.

Apply now

Preparing for Selection

Selection Criteria Breakdown

The program looks for applicants who excel across six key dimensions:

1. Alignment with EIT’s vision through experience in tackling global challenges.
2. Excellence in academics, evidenced by top grades or awards.
3. Innovation through creative solutions or achievements like completing patents or founding a startup.
4. Collaboration as demonstrated by teamwork and mentoring roles.
5. Tenacity in overcoming setbacks and pursuing long-term goals.
6. Integrity shown by ethical conduct and openness.

Tips to Strengthen Your Application

• Highlight Impactful Achievements: Focus on examples of work that had measurable outcomes or advanced innovative solutions.
• Provide Specifics: Instead of general statements, include data points such as publication citations, competition rankings, or project results.
• Reflect Your Passion: Showcase genuine enthusiasm for tackling one or more of the Humane Endeavors.
• Secure Strong References: Request references from people who can speak to your qualifications and impact.

What to Expect After Acceptance

Ellison Scholars are expected to uphold the same principles of excellence, innovation, and collaboration during their time in the program. While at Oxford, you’ll:

• Enjoy access to cutting-edge facilities.
• Immerse yourself in interdisciplinary collaboration with peers and experts.
• Gain global recognition as part of a prestigious network.

This opportunity is as much a launching pad for innovation as it is an academic venture.

Could This Be the Right Fit for You?

The Ellison Scholars Undergraduate Program is more than a scholarship; it’s an opportunity to create a lasting legacy of innovation and impact. If you’re passionate about using your skills to shape the future while studying at a world-class university, this is your chance to make it happen.

Start your application today and be part of the change you wish to see in the world. Check your eligibility

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