Overview

The Felix Scholarship was established to provide academically talented but underprivileged students from India and other select developing countries the opportunity to pursue postgraduate education at prestigious universities in the UK. Its primary aim is to enhance the educational and cultural exposure of the scholars, empowering them to gain skills, experiences, and perspectives that they can apply to benefit their home communities upon their return.

Felix Scholarships are currently offered at three institutions:

1. University of Oxford
2. University of Reading
3. School of Oriental and African Studies (SOAS), University of London

Since its inception in 1991, the scholarship has grown to offer around 20 awards per academic year, with a total of 428 scholarships granted to date. Though the majority of scholars have been from India, students from 19 other developing countries have also benefited from this opportunity.

Who Can Apply?

To qualify for the Felix Scholarship, applicants must be applying for a full-time postgraduate program (Master's or PhD) at the University of Oxford, University of Reading, or SOAS. The key requirements include:

1. Academic transcripts, references, and potentially a research proposal.
2. Proof of financial need.
3. A commitment to return to your home country after studies.
4. Strong English proficiency (IELTS 7.5 or TOEFL above 100).
5. Leadership potential and community commitment.
6. At least two years of full-time work experience.
7. A recommended GMAT score of 650 or above (not mandatory).

Indian Students

• Must be Indian citizens and not living outside India.
• First-class bachelor’s degree from a recognized Indian university is required.
• Candidates with a second-class bachelor's degree may qualify for a PhD if they hold a first-class master’s.

Non-Indian Students

• Must be from a low-income or least-developed country on the DAC list.
• A first-class undergraduate degree from a recognized university.
• Must not hold a degree from a university in their home country.

Application Procedure

• University of Oxford: No separate application. Tick the scholarship box in the regular postgraduate program application. Ensure you complete the "Nationality and ordinary residence" section.
• University of Reading: Apply for your desired postgraduate program and follow updates from the Reading website regarding deadlines and procedures.
• SOAS: Complete both the program application and the Felix Scholarship application form after submitting your course application.

Whether you're aiming to study at the University of Oxford, one of the UK's oldest institutions, or SOAS, a top law school in Britain, the Felix Scholarship can help you realize your academic goals. You could even become one of the 5,000 international students at the University of Reading with this opportunity. Keep in mind that the Felix Scholarship application process differs depending on whether you're an Indian national or from another developing country. Here’s a general list of the required documents:

1. Completed application form  
2. Academic transcripts  
3. Degree certificates  
4. Statement of purpose  
5. English proficiency test scores  
6. Letters of recommendation  
7. Proof of nationality  
8. Proof of financial need  
9. CV/Resume

What Financial Support is Available?

The Felix Scholarship offers comprehensive financial support, including:

1. Full coverage of tuition fees.
2. Annual stipend for living expenses (~£17,800).
3. Return flight from the student’s home country to the UK.
4. Visa application fees for non-EU students.
5. Research paper allowance and conference participation funds.

Hear from Alumni

Since its inception, the Felix Scholarship has supported over 388 Indian students and around 40 students from other developing countries. Alumni of the program are recognized for their academic contributions and community impact upon returning to their home countries.

Other Details

• Shortlisting based on academic excellence and financial need.
• Interviews for shortlisted candidates occur in April and May 2024.
• No GMAT score required, though a score above 650 is recommended for some programs.
• Candidates must show leadership potential and a commitment to using their knowledge to improve their home communities.