The Oxford Pershing Square Scholarships are among the most prestigious and competitive fully funded scholarships in the world. Offered by the University of Oxford’s Saïd Business School in partnership with the Pershing Square Foundation, this scholarship supports exceptional graduate students who are committed to tackling the world’s most pressing social and environmental challenges. Each year, a small number of outstanding scholars are selected to join Oxford’s renowned 1+1 MBA programme, which combines a one-year Oxford master’s degree with a one-year MBA at Saïd Business School.
The scholarship is offered by the Saïd Business School at the University of Oxford in partnership with the Pershing Square Foundation. It aims to support students who demonstrate strong leadership potential and a clear commitment to making a positive impact on society. Each year, only a small number of scholars are selected, making it one of the most competitive scholarships in the UK. Along with financial support, recipients gain access to mentorship, networking opportunities, and an inspiring global community of future leaders.
Oxford Pershing Square Scholarship Program Summary
Overview of the Scholarship
The Oxford Pershing Square Scholarship supports both years of study and provides opportunities for leadership development and networking with global change-makers.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Host Country | United Kingdom |
| Funded By | Pershing Square Foundation in partnership with Saïd Business School, University of Oxford |
| Study Levels | Master’s + MBA (Oxford 1+1 MBA program) |
| Scholarship Type | Fully funded scholarship |
| Eligible Students | International and domestic applicants admitted to the Oxford 1+1 MBA |
| Language of Study | English |
| Financial Support | Full course fees for both programs, living cost grant |
Eligibility for the Oxford Pershing Square Scholarship
Before applying, students must carefully review the eligibility criteria.Meeting the eligibility criteria does not guarantee selection, as the scholarship attracts highly qualified applicants from around the world.
General Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must meet the following requirements:
• Be admitted to the Oxford 1+1 MBA program
• Apply to both a partner master’s degree and the Oxford MBA
• Demonstrate strong academic performance
• Show leadership potential through experiences or achievements
• Demonstrate integrity, character, and commitment to social impact
• Show a clear vision of how their career will address global challenges
Age and Academic Requirements
The official website does not specify a strict age limit. However, applicants must meet the academic requirements of both:
- The chosen master’s program
- The Oxford MBA program
Benefits of the Oxford Pershing Square Scholarship
The Oxford Pershing Square Scholarship is widely regarded as a fully funded scholarship. It covers a comprehensive package of financial and academic support designed to allow scholars to focus entirely on their studies and personal development.
Financial Benefits
- Full tuition fees for both the one-year Oxford master’s degree and the one-year MBA at Saïd Business School.
- A generous living allowance to cover day-to-day expenses during the scholarship period.
- Accommodation support to help scholars find and maintain suitable housing in Oxford.
- Travel costs related to the scholarship programme, as confirmed by the official programme.
- Additional funding support may be available, specific financial details should be confirmed on the official Saïd Business School website, as amounts may be updated annually.
Academic and Personal Benefits
- Mentorship from experienced professionals and leaders
- Networking opportunities within the Pershing Square Foundation community
- Participation in conferences and academic events
- Engagement with a community of global scholars
- Professional development workshops and leadership forums
Documents Required for the Oxford Pershing Square Scholarship
Applicants must prepare a complete set of documents before submitting their application.
- Valid passport or national identity document
- Official academic transcripts
- Undergraduate degree certificate
- A strong personal statement or motivation letter
- Two or three letters of recommendation from academic or professional referees
- CV or resume
- Proof of English language proficiency (e.g., IELTS or TOEFL scores)
- A research proposal or statement of purpose may be required depending on the specific master’s programme you apply to.
How to Apply for the Oxford Pershing Square Scholarship
The application process for the Oxford Pershing Square Scholarship is conducted entirely online through the University of Oxford’s official admissions systems. There are two parallel processes you must complete: applying for your chosen one-year master’s programme through Oxford’s graduate admissions portal, and applying for the 1+1 MBA at Saïd Business School. The scholarship itself is considered as part of the 1+1 MBA application process.
Step-by-Step Application Process
- Visit the official Saïd Business School website and read all information about the Oxford 1+1 MBA programme and the Pershing Square Scholarship thoroughly before starting your application.
- Identify and research the one-year Oxford master’s degree you wish to complete as the first year of the 1+1 MBA programme. Make sure you meet the entry requirements for that specific programme.
- Apply for your chosen one-year master’s programme through the University of Oxford’s Graduate Admissions portal . Complete all required fields and upload the necessary documents for that programme.
- Separately, complete the application for the Oxford 1+1 MBA through the Saïd Business School’s admissions process. This includes submitting essays, your CV, references, and other MBA-specific materials.
- During the MBA application, clearly indicate that you wish to be considered for the Oxford Pershing Square Scholarship. Ensure your personal statement and essays reflect your commitment to social impact and global challenges.
- Upload all required supporting documents, including transcripts, degree certificates, reference letters, and English language test results.
- Review your entire application carefully before submission. Ensure there are no errors, missing documents, or incomplete sections.
- Submit your application before the stated deadline. Late applications are generally not accepted.
- If shortlisted, you may be invited to attend an interview as part of the selection process.
Application Tips
- Write a compelling scholarship essay explaining your vision for global impact
- Highlight leadership experiences and achievements
- Choose a master’s program aligned with your career goals
- Request recommendation letters early
- Carefully proofread your application before submission
Deadline for the Oxford Pershing Square Scholarship
Applicants must submit their applications according to the deadlines for both, the chosen master’s program and the Oxford MBA program. Deadlines may change each year, applicants should check the official website regularly for updated deadlines and application timelines.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the Oxford Pershing Square Scholarship?
The Oxford Pershing Square Scholarship is a prestigious, fully funded graduate scholarship offered by the University of Oxford’s Saïd Business School in partnership with the Pershing Square Foundation.
Is the Oxford Pershing Square Scholarship fully funded?
Yes, the Oxford Pershing Square Scholarship is widely described as a fully funded scholarship. It covers full tuition fees for both years of the 1+1 MBA programme, along with a living allowance and additional financial support. Specific financial details and amounts should be confirmed on the official Saïd Business School website, as they may be updated annually.
Is IELTS or TOEFL required for the scholarship?
English language proficiency is required for admission to the University of Oxford. If your undergraduate degree was not taught in English, you will generally need to provide an accepted English language test result, such as IELTS or TOEFL. Minimum score requirements vary by programme, so check the specific requirements for both your chosen master’s degree and the MBA.
Can students apply without work experience?
The Oxford 1+1 MBA programme is designed for students who have not yet gained significant work experience. However, candidates are expected to show strong evidence of leadership, social impact, and ambition.
What fields of study are available for the one-year master’s degree?
The Oxford Pershing Square Scholarship is open to students applying for a wide range of one-year master’s programmes across the University of Oxford from public policy and environmental science to education, economics, law, and beyond. Specific available programmes should be confirmed on the official website, as they may vary each year.
How are candidates selected for the Oxford Pershing Square Scholarship?
Selection is based on a holistic review of each candidate’s application. The committee assesses academic excellence, leadership potential, commitment to addressing global challenges, and the strength of the candidate’s personal statement and references. Shortlisted candidates are typically invited for an interview, which forms a key part of the final selection process.
Can applicants from any country apply?
Yes, the Oxford Pershing Square Scholarship is open to applicants from all nationalities. Both domestic (UK) and international students are eligible to apply, provided they meet the academic and programme requirements.
