Oxford Pershing Square Scholarship
Dreaming of pursuing a world-class Master’s or MBA at a prestigious institution without the burden of tuition fees? Imagine the unparalleled academic environment, groundbreaking research, and a global network that could redefine your future.
For ambitious individuals committed to making a tangible social impact, the University of Oxford’s highly coveted Pershing Square Scholarship offers precisely this extraordinary opportunity.
This fully funded award is designed to empower exceptional leaders who envision and implement scalable, sustainable solutions to critical world challenges.
As we look ahead to the 2026 application cycle, let’s explore the eligibility criteria, application process as well as the benefit of the Oxford Pershing Square Scholarship in UK.
Eligibility Criteria For The Oxford Pershing Square Scholarship
While precise criteria can be detailed on the official Oxford Saïd Business School website, here’s a breakdown of what generally makes a candidate eligible:
- Academic Excellence: A consistently strong academic record is fundamental. This is demonstrated through your degree results, GMAT/GRE scores (if applicable for your chosen program), previous university prizes, and other academic achievements.
- Leadership Potential: The scholarship values proven leadership capabilities. This can be showcased through your experiences, initiatives you’ve led, and your motivation to drive change.
- Strong Personal Character and Integrity: Beyond academic and leadership prowess, candidates are assessed on their personal integrity, commitment to their goals, and ethical approach.
- Commitment to Addressing World-Scale Social Challenges: This is a core focus. Applicants must demonstrate a clear intention to dedicate their careers to finding scalable and sustainable solutions to global issues, whether within an existing organization or through new ventures.
- 1+1 MBA Program Focus: The scholarship primarily supports students undertaking the Oxford 1+1 MBA program. This unique program allows you to combine a one-year Master’s degree from a partnering department with the one-year MBA at Saïd Business School. While priority is given to 1+1 MBA applicants, those admitted to a full-time one-year Master’s course not currently on the official 1+1 list, combined with a separate MBA application, may also be considered. Current Master’s students admitted to the MBA who were not previously considered for the scholarship are also eligible.
- Prior Admission: Crucially, you must gain admission to both your chosen Master’s program and the Oxford MBA before you can be considered for the Pershing Square Scholarship. Being on a waiting list for either program typically means you won’t be considered for the scholarship at that time.
- No Age Limit: While there’s no official age limit, the scholarship targets individuals with the potential to make a significant, long-term impact.
Application Process For The Oxford Pershing Square Scholarship
Here’s what you typically need to do:
- Apply to Both Programs: You must submit a complete application for both your chosen one-year Master’s program and the Oxford MBA (as part of the 1+1 MBA program). Each Master’s program will have its own specific application requirements and deadlines.
- Scholarship Essay: Within the ‘Funding’ section of your 1+1 MBA program application, you will be required to upload a scholarship essay. This essay is vital for demonstrating your alignment with the scholarship’s mission. The prompt usually asks: “How do you intend to change the world and what does this tell us about you as a person?” This essay should be compelling and no more than 500 words.
- Highlight Key Attributes: It’s advisable to strongly emphasize your intention to address world-scale social challenges, your vision for scalable solutions, and how the Oxford 1+1 MBA will specifically help you achieve your objectives throughout your entire application – including your essays, personal statements, and potentially during interviews.
- Selection Process: Shortlisting for interviews typically occurs in early April, with interviews planned for late April or early May. This stage is crucial for demonstrating your passion, vision, and suitability for the scholarship.
Benefits Of The Oxford Pershing Square Scholarship
Receiving the Oxford Pershing Square Scholarship is a life-changing event, offering extensive benefits that go far beyond just financial support:
- Full Funding: The scholarship comprehensively covers the course fees for both your Master’s degree and the MBA program.
- Generous Living Costs Grant: Scholars receive a substantial grant for living costs, typically at least £20,780 per year, for the duration of both years of study. This significantly alleviates financial pressure, allowing you to focus entirely on your academic and extracurricular pursuits.
- Exclusive Networking and Development Opportunities: As a Pershing Square Scholar, you become part of an elite community. You’ll benefit from a range of exclusive on-course opportunities, including:
- Attending prestigious conferences and influential events.
- Participating in termly scholar community activities.
- A spring “trek” to New York, hosted by the Pershing Square Foundation, offering unparalleled exposure and connections.
- Mentorship opportunities with leaders in various fields.
- Global Perspective and Diverse Community: Studying at Oxford within this scholarship program exposes you to a truly international academic environment, fostering a global perspective and enabling you to learn alongside peers from diverse backgrounds who share a common vision for impact.
- Support for Social Impact: The scholarship is designed to nurture leaders dedicated to social change, providing a platform and resources to develop and implement your solutions to global challenges.
Deadline For The Oxford Pershing Square Scholarship
The application deadline for the Oxford Pershing Square Scholarship is January 7 2026.
Conclusion
The journey to Oxford begins with meticulous preparation and a compelling application. By carefully understanding the eligibility criteria, thoroughly navigating the application process, and clearly articulating your unique potential for impact, you significantly enhance your chances. While the competition is undoubtedly keen, the rewards full funding, a vibrant intellectual community, and a powerful platform for social innovation are truly life-altering.