Oxford University Scholarship for Afghan Women 2027: Fully Funded Master’s Degree and Leadership Programme

Overview

The University of Oxford has introduced a postgraduate scholarship initiative established through a US$2.5 million endowment funded by Shabana Basij-Rasikh and supported by the Weidenfeld-Hoffmann Trust. Designed to empower Afghan women facing barriers to higher education due to conflict, displacement, or restrictions, the programme provides permanent funding to enable one Afghan woman each year to pursue a master’s degree at Oxford. The initiative combines financial assistance with a dedicated leadership development programme to prepare scholars for professional and public service roles.

Who can apply

The scholarship is open to women of first- or second-generation Afghan descent who aspire to study at the postgraduate level. Applicants must meet the University of Oxford’s academic admission requirements and receive an offer of admission for an eligible master’s course.

What you get

Selected scholars receive comprehensive financial support consisting of full course fee coverage, a stipend to assist with living costs, and a pre-travel grant for expenses incurred before arriving in Oxford. Additionally, recipients participate in a structured leadership development programme coordinated through the Weidenfeld-Hoffmann Trust to build professional networks, skills, and knowledge.

Requirements

Applicants must satisfy the standard academic admission requirements set by the University of Oxford for their chosen master's programme and successfully secure an offer of admission to the university.