A pioneering opportunity

Ellison Scholars

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Apply for fully-funded undergraduate scholarships for study at the University of Oxford and work towards solving the world's biggest problems.

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our flagship scholarship programme

Translate science into impact as an Ellison Scholar

The Ellison Scholars programme is a unparalleled opportunity for exceptional undergraduate and DPhil candidates, combining fully-funded study at the University of Oxford with the opportunity to contribute to solving humanity’s most challenging problems at EIT.

This is a highly selective scholarship supporting study at the University of Oxford in science and technology-related fields. All undergraduates funded by EIT are Ellison Scholars, while for doctoral candidates, the Ellison Scholars programme is one of several routes to EIT funding and working with EIT's research and innovation programs. 

Benefits of the scholars programme

What makes the Ellison Scholars programme unique?

From their first day, Ellison Scholars join a community of EIT-funded students who share curiosity and commitment to contributing thoughtfully to scientific and technological progress. At both EIT and the University, they learn theory and practice in an environment shaped by access to leaders and scientists, interdisciplinary collaboration, and a belief that innovation thrives when people from diverse backgrounds and disciplines work together.

Financial Support

Ellison Scholars receive an academic scholarship that funds all course fees at the University of Oxford, as well as a generous stipend to cover things such as travel, accommodation and living expenses. 

Internships

The programme guarantees undergraduate Ellison Scholars an internship each year, providing the opportunity to work with leading scientists in their chosen field of interest. 

State-of-the-Art Facilities

Set for completion in 2027, EIT's Oxford campus will include laboratories for robot development, state of the art proteomic analysis and genomic sequencing, laboratories to study and engineer biology, advanced cloud-controlled greenhouses and the world’s largest computer for designing and training artificial neural networks.

Events

Students enjoy year‑round events including leadership and innovation programming, expert talks, networking opportunities and social activities. A unique opportunity for Ellison Scholars are the annual Welcome Retreat and Scholars Convening. They are a highlight of the year, bringing together Ellison Scholar cohorts right at the beginning of Michaelmas term in a relaxed, residential setting.

Student Community

Ellison Scholars come from around the world, with a range of interests and expertise, but they are united by curiosity and ambition. They form a supportive community grounded in collaboration, exploration and a shared purpose from day one in Oxford.

welcome retreat

Exclusively for Ellison Scholars, life in Oxford begins with a dedicated Welcome Retreat - an opportunity for inspiration, connection and celebration of the milestone of becoming an Ellison Scholar. This first gathering brings Scholars together in a setting designed for shared learning and reflection. Here, they get to know their peers, take part in foundational workshops, and begin to explore the values that will shape their journey as Scholars. 


The retreat sets the tone for the year ahead: open, ambitious, and grounded in purpose, with a strong emphasis on collaboration and mutual support as the foundation for meaningful impact. 

The Retreat provides Ellison Scholars with the opportunity to forge connections with each other before the academic year begins
The Welcome Retreat itinerary includes expert talks and Q&As with leaders from EIT and beyond.
Welcome Retreat activities are designed to encourage Ellison Scholars to reflect and set goals for the year ahead.
The Retreat provides Ellison Scholars with the opportunity to forge connections with each other before the academic year begins
The Retreat provides Ellison Scholars with the opportunity to forge connections with each other before the academic year begins
Welcome Retreat activities are designed to encourage Ellison Scholars to reflect and set goals for the year ahead.
Welcome Retreat activities are designed to encourage Ellison Scholars to reflect and set goals for the year ahead.
The Welcome Retreat itinerary includes talks and Q&As with leaders from EIT and beyond.
Ellison scholars selection criteria

What do we look for?

Alignment

Applicants must show alignment and commitment to EIT’s vision by demonstrating a deep understanding of global challenges in at least one of EIT’s four Humane Endeavours, evidenced by experience and achievements relevant to an EIT project.

Tenacity

Applicants must show alignment and commitment to EIT’s vision by demonstrating a deep understanding of global challenges in at least one of EIT’s four Humane Endeavours, evidenced by experience and achievements relevant to an EIT project.

Innovation

They are visionary learners who embrace technological advancements with creativity, challenge the status quo and explore innovative solutions to achieve transformative outcomes.

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— Sanjana Iyer
Predoctoral Researcher in Economics at EIT

Excellence

They are high-performers who demonstrate outstanding academic achievements, intellectual curiosity and the ability to apply knowledge critically and effectively to solve

Collaboration

They are trusted collaborators who build strong relationships, foster teamwork and demonstrate the ability to bring people together to

Integrity

They are trustworthy people who value honesty, foster openness and build trust through commitment to collective success.

"I want to go into the unknown and explore something that’s uncharted."
Anastastia Prokhorov – Undergraduate Ellison Scholar
“Being a graduate Ellison Scholar has allowed me to pursue my research interests with incredible support and freedom.”
Robbie Hammond - Graduate Ellison Scholar
Programme options

Could you be an Ellison Scholar?

Each year we look for promising candidates from around the world who are motivated by real‑world challenges and long‑term impact. Explore your options below to learn more and apply.

Undergraduate

Pursue a fully funded undergraduate degree at the University of Oxford while collaborating on cutting‑edge EIT projects that tackle global challenges

Graduate

Undertake doctoral research at Oxford, working year‑round alongside EIT teams on ambitious projects focused on solving humanity’s most enduring problems.

Register for an information session

Explore the programme further by joining our online webinars, where you can meet the team and learn more about the scholarships.

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