Selection criteria
Selection criteria vary slightly depending on the subject area and whether applicants apply for a taught or research degree.
As a guideline, applications are assessed against the following criteria:
Quick facts about Clarendon
1. You will be automatically considered for Clarendon if you apply by the December or January deadline, whichever is relevant to your course. You do not need to submit a separate application.
2. Clarendon offers fully-funded scholarships covering course fees, as well as a grant for living expenses for the period of fee liability.
3. There are no restrictions on nationality, ordinary residence, or field of study. All full-time and part-time DPhil and Master’s courses are eligible.
4. Clarendon scholars are selected for their outstanding academic merit and potential.
5. Clarendon scholarships are highly competitive.
Outstanding academic record
An excellent academic record is essential. The majority of successful scholars usually have at least a first-class honours degree or its equivalent. For example a GPA score of at least 3.7, if the mark if out of 4, noting that a lot of the Clarendon scholars achieve higher than this score. Or an applicant must have an outstanding academic record at Master’s level, noting that an exceptional Master’s degree can compensate for a moderate first degree performance. Requirements may vary between disciplines and from year to year depending on the strength of the field. Other evidence of high academic achievement may include individual marks on student transcripts; evidence of previous university prizes or awards; information on your overall position within your cohort; and publications (if applicable).
Information for applicants
If you apply for a full-time or part-time Master’s or DPhil at Oxford by the relevant January deadline for your course, you will be automatically considered for a Clarendon scholarship.
For further information on the deadlines for your chosen course, please see the relevant course page.