The Global Talent Fund, supported by XTX Markets, is launching the Fully Funded Global Talent Fund BIG Scholarships 2026, offering prestigious scholarships for prodigious young talents to study undergraduate degree programmes at the University of Edinburgh’s School of Mathematics. This fully funded opportunity is open to students worldwide who have earned a gold, silver, or bronze medal in specific major international science Olympiads. The scholarship provides comprehensive financial and developmental support, encompassing full tuition costs, assistance with living costs, a stipend for academic pursuits outside the classroom, internships, and research placements. Deadline of March 31, 2026.
Global Talent Fund BIG Scholarships 2026 Summary Table
| Detail | Value |
|---|---|
| Host Country | United Kingdom (UK) |
| Study Abroad | Study in UK (Edinburgh) |
| Category | Undergraduate Scholarships |
| Eligible Countries | All Countries (Global Eligibility) |
| Reward | Full Tuition | Living Stipend | Internships | Travel Costs |
| Key Criteria | Medal in specific International Olympiads (IMO, IPhO, IOI, etc.) | Full-time admission to an eligible Math program |
| Application Deadline | March 31, 2026 |
2026 University of Edinburgh Global Talent Fund BIG Scholarships Details
The Global Talent Fund BIG Scholarship is a unique, talent-focused initiative designed to foster high-potential individuals who have already demonstrated world-class excellence in international science and mathematics competitions. Hosted by the renowned University of Edinburgh, the program’s core purpose is to remove all financial barriers to allow these “Invisible Geniuses” to pursue rigorous, full-time study in mathematics and related disciplines.
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This comprehensive support goes beyond traditional financial aid. It emphasizes holistic development, ensuring recipients gain practical exposure through internships and research placements, build professional networks, and are supported in attending academic events outside the classroom. This strategic approach ensures that these talents are not only educated but also developed into future leaders in science and technology, aligning with the goals of the UK Department for Science, Innovation and Technology.
Benefits and Specific Scholarship Award Tiers
The BIG Program offers holistic support across three main tiers: academic funding, living support, and professional development.
Tier 1: Full Academic and Living Support (Up to Full Tuition + Living Stipend)
This tier provides the foundational financial security that covers the core costs of studying at a world-class UK institution.
- Value: Full coverage of tuition costs for the duration of the eligible undergraduate programme, alongside substantial assistance with living costs and an annual maintenance stipend.
- Criteria: Awarded to successful applicants who meet all academic and Olympiad medal requirements and are accepted for full-time study in the School of Mathematics.
Tier 2: Professional Development and Experiential Learning
This category focuses on support that enhances the student’s career readiness and academic portfolio beyond the core curriculum.
- Access to structured internship opportunities with leading industry partners (e.g., XTX Markets) to gain practical experience.
- Opportunities for research placements and projects within the University or associated institutions.
- Travel costs covered for academic pursuits outside the classroom, such as conferences or workshops.
Tier 3: Networking and Academic Community Support
These awards ensure the scholars are fully integrated into the academic and professional community, maximizing their personal and professional growth.
- Dedicated stipend specifically for participation in academic pursuits outside the classroom (e.g., specialized training, equipment).
- Exclusive social events and networking opportunities with sponsors, faculty, and industry leaders.
- Continuous mentorship and integration into the academic community of prodigious young talents.
Eligibility Requirements for Global Talent Fund BIG Scholarships 2026
The eligibility criteria are highly specialized, focusing on proven excellence in specific international competitions and subsequent acceptance into an eligible program at Edinburgh.
- Academic/Leadership:
- Must have earned a Gold, Silver, or Bronze medal in one of the following International Science Olympiads:
- International Mathematical Olympiad (IMO)
- International Olympiad in Informatics (IOI)
- International Physics Olympiad (IPhO)
- Romanian Master of Mathematics (RMM)
- For the European Girls’ Mathematical Olympiad (EGMO), only a Gold or Silver medal is accepted.
- Study Status: Must be accepted for full-time admission to one of the following undergraduate degree programmes in the School of Mathematics:
- BSc Applied Mathematics
- BSc Mathematics
- BSc Mathematics and Statistics
- MMath Applied Mathematics (Direct entry to second year only)
- MMath Mathematics (Direct entry to second year only)
- Visa Status: Open to students from Any Country (All Countries).
- Program Admission: Must secure an offer of admission from the University of Edinburgh.
- English Proficiency: While the scholarship states “No IELTS Required,” applicants must meet the University of Edinburgh’s general English language requirements for admission, which may be satisfied by the medium of instruction of their prior education or by an accepted English test.
How to Apply for Global Talent Fund BIG Scholarship 2026 (Step by Step)
The application process requires two separate but linked actions: applying for admission to the University and applying for the scholarship itself.
- Apply for Admission: Apply for full-time admission to one of the eligible undergraduate degree programmes in the School of Mathematics at the University of Edinburgh.
- Access Scholarship Portal: Once admission application is submitted, proceed to apply for the scholarship by accessing the online scholarship application form.
- Complete EUCLID Form: The online scholarship application form is located within the University’s web-based information portal, MyEd, and can be accessed via the EUCLID system.
- Submit by Deadline: Ensure the online scholarship application form is fully completed and submitted before the deadline.
Application Deadline: 23:59 (UK Time) on March 31st, 2026
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What specific achievement is required to be eligible for the BIG Scholarship?
The primary requirement is earning a Gold, Silver, or Bronze medal in one of the listed major international science Olympiads, such as the IMO, IPhO, or IOI.
Is this scholarship open to students applying from all countries?
Yes, the Global Talent Fund BIG Scholarship is open to students from any country globally who meet the specific medal and admission criteria.
Does the scholarship cover both tuition fees and living expenses?
Yes, the scholarship provides full coverage of tuition costs and offers substantial assistance with living costs through a dedicated annual stipend.
Can Master’s or PhD students apply for this scholarship?
No, this scholarship is specifically designed for undergraduate degree programmes (BSc and MMath) within the University of Edinburgh’s School of Mathematics.
What are the degree programs eligible for this funding?
Eligible programs are full-time undergraduate degrees in the School of Mathematics, including BSc Applied Mathematics, BSc Mathematics, BSc Mathematics and Statistics, and specific MMath programs (direct entry to second year only).
Is there a separate application for the scholarship once I apply for my degree?
Yes, there are two steps: you must apply for admission first, and then separately complete the online scholarship application form located within the EUCLID system via the MyEd portal.
What is the specific requirement for the European Girls’ Mathematical Olympiad (EGMO)?
For the EGMO, the requirement is stricter; applicants must have achieved a Gold or Silver medal (Bronze medals from EGMO are not eligible).
What non-financial benefits are included in the BIG Program?
The scholarship provides holistic support, including dedicated stipends for academic pursuits, internships, research placements, networking events, and coverage of travel costs for academic reasons.
What is the final deadline for the scholarship application?
The final deadline for submitting the online scholarship application is 23:59 (UK Time) on March 31, 2026.
Where should I submit the scholarship application form?
The online scholarship application form must be accessed and submitted through the University of Edinburgh’s web-based information portal, MyEd, using the EUCLID system.
