Oxford University Introduces Dr. Gita Piramal Scholarship for Indian Students

Somerville College at the University of Oxford has introduced an exceptional opportunity for Indian students aspiring to pursue higher education abroad with full financial support.

The Dr. Gita Piramal Scholarship, launched in partnership with the Piramal family and the Oxford India Centre for Sustainable Development (OICSD), is designed to fully fund Indian nationals focused on studies that advance sustainable development. Named in honor of Dr. Gita Piramal, a transformative figure in academia and corporate research, this scholarship celebrates her contributions to education and leadership.

Dr. Gita Piramal Scholarship

The scholarship offers extensive financial coverage, including tuition fees, living expenses, and travel costs. By addressing all financial concerns, the scholarship ensures that recipients can focus wholeheartedly on their academic and research pursuits without the stress of managing expenses. For the academic year 2025, the scholarship will support one student fully, covering costs for the entire duration of their program at Oxford.

Course List

• MSc in Biodiversity, Conservation and Nature Recovery
• MSc in Economics for Development
• MSc in Education (Child Development and Education)
• MSc in Education (Comparative and International Education)
• MSc in Education (Digital and Social Change)
• MSc in Energy Systems
• MSc in Environmental Change and Management
• MSc in Global Governance and Diplomacy
• MSc in Global Health Science and Epidemiology
• MSc in Nature, Society and Environmental Governance

Eligibility

Indian students with a strong academic record who apply to eligible programs at Oxford are automatically considered for the Dr. Gita Piramal Scholarship, regardless of which Oxford college they initially select. This inclusivity widens access for Indian students passionate about sustainable development. Candidates must apply by the funding deadline to qualify for automatic consideration, making it essential to stay updated on deadlines for their intended course.

Selection Process

The selection process for the Dr. Gita Piramal Scholarship is highly competitive, prioritizing academic excellence and a commitment to sustainable development goals aligned with the mission of OICSD.

The journey begins in February 2025, when shortlisted candidates receive an invitation to confirm their interest through an online form, accompanied by a detailed submission of their financial information. Following further assessments, final interviews, and evaluations, the scholarship will be awarded to one successful candidate. Should the selected scholar have initially applied to another Oxford college, they will be invited to transfer to Somerville to fully benefit from this prestigious award.

Inaugural Dr. Gita Piramal Scholar: Sanjana Choudhary

Sanjana Choudhary, a distinguished journalist and researcher, is the first recipient of the Dr. Gita Piramal Scholarship. Currently pursuing an MSc in Modern South Asian Studies, Choudhary's work has been featured in prominent publications like The Caravan and Duke University Press. Her research, focusing on global solidarity movements, labor rights, and post-colonial issues, aligns with the scholarship's mission of supporting impactful research in sustainable development. Choudhary's academic pursuits are a fitting testament to the scholarship's emphasis on empowering individuals dedicated to making a difference.