The Wallace Watson Scholarship 2026 at the University of Oxford is a prestigious opportunity designed for students who wish to challenge themselves intellectually, physically, and culturally beyond the classroom. Offered through St Catherine’s College, University of Oxford, this award supports students planning academically demanding research or challenging expeditions to remote or mountainous regions.

Unlike traditional scholarships that focus solely on grades, the Wallace Watson Scholarship recognizes character development, resilience, curiosity, and ambition. It is ideal for Oxford students who want to expand their horizons through field research, dissertations, or demanding travel experiences that foster leadership, confidence, and global awareness.

With funding support of £750 to £3,000 (and potentially more in exceptional cases), the scholarship removes financial barriers for students pursuing meaningful academic or exploratory projects. The award is highly selective and associated with prestige, mentorship, and long-term academic impact, making it one of the most respected college-level awards at Oxford.

Students selected for the Wallace Watson Scholarship also gain the opportunity to present their work through reports and lectures, strengthening their academic profile and professional credibility. For motivated students at St Catherine’s College, this award is not just financial support—it is a transformative academic milestone.

About the University of Oxford and St Catherine’s College

The University of Oxford consistently ranks among the top 3 universities in the world according to QS and Times Higher Education rankings. Known for its centuries-old academic tradition, Oxford is a global leader in research, innovation, and interdisciplinary learning.

St Catherine’s College, one of Oxford’s largest colleges, is recognized for its inclusive academic culture, strong undergraduate and postgraduate community, and commitment to intellectual exploration. The Wallace Watson Scholarship reflects the college’s philosophy of nurturing well-rounded scholars who contribute meaningfully to academia and society.

Wallace Watson Scholarship 2026 – Overview 

Category	Details
Scholarship Name	Wallace Watson Scholarship 2026
Host Institution	University of Oxford
College	St Catherine’s College
Scholarship Type	Research & Expedition Grant
Eligible Levels	Undergraduate & Graduate
Funding Amount	£750–£3,000 (more in exceptional cases)
Eligible Applicants	St Catherine’s College members
Location	Worldwide (for travel/research)
Application Deadline	9am, Monday 9 February 2026
Project Completion	By 31 January 2027

Types of Wallace Watson Awards

Wallace Watson Award (Expedition & Travel)

This award supports challenging expeditions or travel in mountainous or remote regions worldwide. The focus is on physical challenge, cultural exposure, and personal development.

Wallace Watson Research Award

This award supports academically challenging research or dissertations undertaken by undergraduate students, especially projects that open future academic or research opportunities.

Scholarship Benefits

• Financial support for research, travel, or expedition costs
• Funding range typically between £750 and £3,000
• Opportunity for higher funding in exceptional cases
• Recognition through association with a prestigious Oxford award
• Academic exposure through reports and lectures
• Strengthened CV and postgraduate or research prospects
• Mentorship and evaluation by senior Oxford academics

Eligibility Criteria

For Wallace Watson Award (Expedition)

• Undergraduate or graduate member of St Catherine’s College
• Project must involve challenging travel or expedition
• Travel must be to a mountainous or remote region
• Expedition must be completed by 31 January 2027

For Wallace Watson Research Award

• Undergraduate member of St Catherine’s College
• Research or dissertation must be academically challenging
• Project must be completed by the end of the following academic year

Selection Criteria

Applicants are evaluated based on:

• Level of challenge involved in the project
• Applicant’s ability and preparation
• Potential for personal growth and resilience
• Academic or cultural value of the project
• Quality, clarity, and feasibility of the proposal
• Prestige and reputation associated with the activity

Shortlisted candidates are interviewed by a panel consisting of:

• The Master of St Catherine’s College
• A Fellow of the College
• Members of Wallace Watson’s family

Application Process 

• Prepare a concise project synopsis (maximum 50 words)
• Clearly define the objective or purpose (maximum 25 words)
• Specify destination, duration, and timeline
• List all team members with academic details (if applicable)
• Include a risk analysis (for expeditions)
• Provide a detailed cost breakdown
• Submit full project plans as currently developed
• Email the complete application to the Master’s Office
• Attend interview if shortlisted

Submission Email: [email protected]
Deadline: 9am, Monday 9 February 2026

Reporting and Academic Contribution

• Award holders must submit a written report after completion
• Expedition awardees submit within six months of return
• Research awardees submit within one month of completion
• Selected students may present lectures during Hilary Term 2027

This requirement ensures academic reflection and contributes to Oxford’s intellectual community.

Comparison of Wallace Watson vs Similar Oxford Awards

Feature	Wallace Watson Scholarship	Travel Grants	Research Bursaries
Focus	Challenge & growth	Travel only	Research only
Funding Range	£750–£3,000+	Limited	Varies
Prestige	High	Moderate	Moderate
Interview Required	Yes	No	Sometimes
Lecture Requirement	Yes	No	Rare

More Information About Wallace Watson Scholarship 2026 

1. Is the Wallace Watson Scholarship fully funded?
2. It is a partial funding award covering significant project costs, with flexibility based on need and quality.
3. Can graduate students apply?
4. Yes, graduate students can apply for the expedition-based Wallace Watson Award.
5. Can projects be outside the UK? Yes, projects can take place anywhere in the world.
6. Is prior expedition experience required? No, but strong preparation and risk planning are essential.
7. Can groups apply? Yes, both individual and group applications are accepted.
8. Is academic excellence mandatory? Academic strength matters, but character, ambition, and challenge are equally important.
9. Are interviews compulsory? Yes, shortlisted candidates must attend interviews.
10. Can the scholarship fund equipment? Yes, the budget can extend to include the equipment costs.
11. What happens after winning the award? Recipients must submit reports and may deliver lectures.
12. Can this award help future PhD or research applications? Yes, it significantly strengthens academic and research profiles.

If you are a student at St Catherine’s College, University of Oxford, and aspire to challenge yourself beyond conventional academic boundaries, the Wallace Watson Scholarship 2026 is an opportunity you should not miss. Prepare your proposal early and apply with confidence. APPLY NOW.

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