Felix Scholarship 2025- Eligibility, Application, and Selection

The Felix Scholarships are awarded to deserving students from economically weaker sections of the society to continue their post-graduation at three of the premier educational institutions in the United Kingdom. These include the University of Oxford, SOAS University of London, and the University of Reading. However, it is only applicable to developing countries such as India, although students must first possess a first-class degree to be eligible for it. Aspiring students can turn to this blog to know more about Felix Scholarship, its eligibility criteria and the application process. 

Disciplines Covered under Felix

The Felix Scholarship supports full-time postgraduate (master’s and PhD) programs in most academic disciplines. You can apply for programs in:

• Science & Engineering
• Social Sciences
• Humanities
• Law & International Relations
• Business (at SOAS only, not Oxford)
• Development Studies
• Arts, Culture & Media
• Environmental & Sustainability Studies

However, MBAs and other part-time courses are not eligible.

What is the Eligibility Criteria? 

Under the Felix Scholarships Scheme, 20 scholarships are offered. Candidates must check the eligibility criteria thoroughly before applying. They are briefly described below: 

• Applicants must be Indian residents.
• He/she must have opted for a full-time post-graduation program from any of the universities mentioned above.
• Applicants must not have been residing outside India.
• Candidates must hold a first-class in their under graduation from any esteemed university in India.
• Post completion of their course, applicants are required to return to India.
• However, those candidates who have enrolled in masters will not be considered for the scholarship.
• In addition, candidates must not have studied for a year or more outside India.
• Candidates must demonstrate financial need.
• Moreover, candidates must meet the English proficiency requirements. They must score a 6.5 band overall in IELTS.

Benefits of the Felix Scholarship 

The Felix Scholarship is fully funded and includes:

• 100% of tuition fees
• Living allowance (~£16,000 – £18,000 per year)
• One-time return flight from your home country to the UK
• Support for thesis or research expenses (if applicable)
• Covers duration of the program (typically 1 year for master’s, up to 3 for PhD)

It’s one of the most generous UK scholarships available to international students.

What is the Selection Process? 

All the candidates will be assessed on their academic merit and financial need. Moreover, the shortlisting process will occur during March, whereby those selected must first fill out a questionnaire before appearing for an interview. Furthermore, the questionnaire assesses the candidate’s financial needs, academic excellence, and personality.

What is the Application Process? 

The process depends on the university, but here’s a general overview:

1. Choose and Apply to the University

• Apply for an eligible postgraduate program at Oxford, Reading, or SOAS
• Make sure to apply before the course’s funding deadline (typically December–January)

2. Tick the Funding Option

• Indicate interest in scholarships when applying
• At Oxford, you’re automatically considered for Felix if you meet criteria
• At Reading and SOAS, you’ll need to fill a separate Felix scholarship form after applying

3. Wait for Shortlisting

• Each university shortlists candidates based on academic merit, financial need, and fit

4. Interviews

• Shortlisted candidates are invited to a formal online or in-person interview

5. Receive Offer

• Final decisions are made around April to June

What Are the Necessary Documents? 

Each university application will guide you, but commonly required documents include:

• Academic transcripts and certificates
• Statement of Purpose / Personal Statement
• Proof of English proficiency (IELTS/TOEFL)
• Reference letters (usually two)
• Valid passport
• Proof of financial need (if asked)
• Curriculum Vitae (CV)
• Felix-specific scholarship application form (for Reading and SOAS)

At Oxford, you’re automatically considered for Felix if you meet the criteria

Deadlines of Felix Scholarship 

Candidates must apply before the deadline to be eligible for the scholarship. The dates are as follows: 

The Felix Scholarship Trust has awarded 428 scholarships. Out of these, 40 scholarships have been awarded to students from countries other than India. Knowing about Felix Scholarships, one must start applying before the deadline.