Reach Oxford Scholar, Avanish from Mauritius, Shares His Journey of Studying Engineering Science at the University of Oxford and Transitioning into Data Science

I am Avanish from Mauritius. I have always had a strong interest in science and mathematics, which led me to pursue engineering at an undergraduate level. After performing well at A-levels, I applied for engineering programmes and was offered a place to study Engineering Science at the University of Oxford. After graduating, I worked for several years before deciding to change career paths and move into data science. I am currently working in this field, particularly within the insurance sector, where I apply analytical thinking and data-driven problem-solving in a practical context.

Reach Scholarship Details

I was awarded the Reach Scholarship by the University of Oxford. This scholarship is offered to a small number of students from developing countries and is both merit and need-based. It covered full course and tuition fees, provided approximately £10,000 per year for living expenses, and included one return flight per year. The scholarship requires a separate application after securing an offer from the university and involves submitting references, including one academic referee and one personal referee who can speak to the applicant’s character and values.

Were You Offered any Other Scholarships?

The Reach Scholarship was the only scholarship I ultimately received for this course. However, I did receive other funding offers during my application process. NYU in the United States offered funding covering approximately 40% of total costs (tuition and living expenses), while Washington & Jefferson University offered a full scholarship in an attempt to match my Oxford offer. I was also awarded a full scholarship to study in Turkey through a scheme advertised by Mauritius’ Ministry of Higher Education. In addition, I received partial scholarships from several universities in countries such as Malaysia, Australia, and Canada, which would have required part-time work. Some records were unfortunately lost, as many of these applications were made through local student placement firms.

Educational Background

At A-level, I achieved three A*s, including Mathematics, Physics, and Chemistry, which exceeded the minimum requirements for Oxford’s Engineering Science programme. I believe exceeding minimum entry requirements is important when applying to highly competitive institutions and scholarships. This subject combination provided a strong foundation for engineering and helped me gain clarity on potential specialisations. I completed an MEng in Engineering Science at Oxford, graduating with a 2:2, and later went on to complete an MSc in Data Science Analytics at Cardiff University, where I graduated with a distinction.

Oxford MEng 2:2.

Cardiff MSc Data Science Analytics distinction afterwards

How Did You Prepare to Apply to the University of Oxford?

How Did You Find Information About Scholarships and the University of Oxford?

Did You Take Any Standardized Tests? If So, How Did You Prepare for Them?

I approached applications in a very structured way. I maintained a detailed Excel spreadsheet listing universities and courses, deadlines, required documents, reference requirements, and application status. I also kept a comprehensive Word document containing responses to common application questions, which allowed me to adapt and reuse well-thought-out answers efficiently. Over time, this process helped me develop clarity around my academic profile, strengths, and preferences. Where responses were delayed, I followed up directly with admissions teams. I felt confident with interviews or assessments due to my academic preparation.

I also kept a sheet for standardised tests, and the date ranges within which I needed to get them done, based on the application window for certain universities. For the IELTS, I used some free online resources and was also able to access some more specialised content, thanks to the British Council in my country. It was similar for IELTS, except that I went through the Education Centre of our local US Embassy, which facilitated things a lot.

How Did You Prepare to Apply to the Reach Scholarship?

Preparation for scholarships largely overlapped with my university applications and involved extensive research and forward planning. I ensured that the required documents, personal statements, and references were prepared well in advance. Maintaining strong relationships with teachers and school administrators, including my school rector, was essential, as they were able to support my applications and provide timely, tailored documentation. This preparation also helped with logistical requirements, such as arranging suitable environments for remote academic interviews.

How is (was) Your Experience at the University of Oxford?

My experience at Oxford was demanding but extremely rewarding. I was taught by academics who are leaders in their respective fields, which created a stimulating learning environment. The opportunity to interact with highly capable and motivated peers was also very inspiring. The college system fostered a strong sense of belonging, and the university’s traditions made the experience unique. However, the academic expectations are high, and the intensity can feel daunting at times, making personal support networks and wellbeing especially important.

How Do You Rate the University of Oxford Academically and Why?

I would rate Oxford academically as 9 out of 10. The tutorial system is particularly strong, allowing students to review material in one-to-one or very small group settings, which ensures a deep understanding of core concepts when properly prepared. One potential area for improvement would be more proactive follow-up with students in later years to ensure workloads remain manageable.

How Does the University of Oxford Support International Students?

The university supports international students through a range of avenues, including scholarships, travel grants, student-run societies, and support networks within colleges and departments, e.g., my college had an international rep within the JCR Executive Committee.

What Do You Think Made Your Application Stand Out?

I believe my application stood out due to a combination of curiosity, clarity, and confidence. I communicated my interests clearly, articulated how I hoped to apply my skills after studying at Oxford, and remained open to different future pathways rather than presenting a rigid plan.

What Would You Have Done Differently if You Were Going Through the Process Again?

If I were going through the process again, I would focus more on preparing academically for the course itself rather than just for the application. I would also reach out earlier to current students, particularly international students, to better understand how to navigate both academic and social aspects of the environment.

What Advice Would You Give Those Looking to Apply for a Similar Scholarship?

My main advice is to research opportunities thoroughly and to be realistic about where your efforts are best spent. If the eligibility criteria are clearly unmet, it may be better to move on. However, if you narrowly miss a requirement and feel strongly about a scholarship, it can be worth contacting admissions for clarification, without relying on that outcome. Once you have done your due diligence, submit the application and shift your focus to the next opportunity while waiting for a response.