Are you an exceptional student with the potential and drive to create scalable solutions to global challenges?
The prestigious Oxford Pershing Square Graduate Scholarships for 2025 may be the perfect opportunity for you to pursue a world-class education and develop your leadership skills.
This fully funded scholarship program supports outstanding individuals in completing Oxford’s unique 1+1 MBA, combining a specialist Master’s degree with the Oxford MBA.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about the Oxford Pershing Square Graduate Scholarships for 2025, including eligibility requirements, application process, selection criteria, benefits, and tips for crafting a compelling application.
Whether you’re just starting to explore this opportunity or are ready to apply, read on for valuable insights to help you pursue this life-changing scholarship.
Also Read :
- Top UK University Courses for January 2025 Intake – Comprehensive Guide to Programs, Applications and Scholarships
- Oxford University Ellison Scholarship 2025: Fully Funded Undergraduate Program for Global Students. Apply Now!
- 10 Facts You Shouldn’t Ignore Before Seeking Admission to Caribbean Medical Education – All Saints University as a Nigerian
- University of Toronto Faculty of Nursing Scholarships
- University of California, Los Angeles School of Nursing Scholarships
About the Oxford Pershing Square Graduate Scholarships
Transform the World with Oxford’s Pershing Square Scholarships 2025: Full Funding for Master’s + MBA Programs
The Oxford Pershing Square Graduate Scholarships were established in 2014 through a generous £7.8 million endowment from the Pershing Square Foundation, matched by £5.2 million from the University of Oxford.
The program aims to support exceptional individuals who demonstrate the potential to find sustainable, scalable solutions to world-scale social challenges.
Each year, up to five full scholarships are awarded to outstanding students admitted to Oxford’s 1+1 MBA program. This unique two-year program allows scholars to combine a specialist Master’s degree from one of Oxford’s departments with the world-renowned Oxford MBA at Saïd Business School.
Key Details for 2025
- Number of Scholarships: Up to 5 full scholarships available
- Funding: Covers full tuition fees for both the Master’s and MBA programs, plus a living stipend of at least £19,237 per year
- Duration: 2 years (1-year Master’s + 1-year MBA)
- Deadline: January 6, 2025 for the 1+1 MBA application (Master’s program deadlines vary)
- Eligible Programs: Any of the official 1+1 MBA partnering Master’s programs
Eligibility Criteria
To be considered for the Oxford Pershing Square Graduate Scholarship, applicants must meet the following eligibility criteria:
- Apply and be admitted to both a 1+1 MBA partnering Master’s program and the Oxford MBA
- Demonstrate exceptional academic achievement
- Show strong leadership potential
- Possess a commitment to addressing global social challenges
- Articulate a clear vision for leveraging the Oxford 1+1 MBA to achieve your goals
Priority is given to new applicants to the Oxford 1+1 MBA program. However, the following groups may also be considered:
- Applicants admitted to both a full-time one-year Master’s course not currently on the official 1+1 MBA partnering list and the MBA (as separate applications)
- Current Master’s students admitted to the MBA who were not considered for the scholarship in the previous year
Application Process
To apply for the Oxford Pershing Square Graduate Scholarship, follow these steps:
- Research and select your preferred 1+1 MBA partnering Master’s program
- Apply to your chosen Master’s program by its specific deadline (typically in December or January)
- Apply to the Oxford MBA program by January 6, 2025
- Complete the scholarship essay in the “Funding” section of your 1+1 MBA application
- Submit all required application materials by the respective deadlines
It’s crucial to note that you must be admitted to both your chosen Master’s program and the MBA before being considered for the scholarship. Applicants on waiting lists will not be eligible.
Selection Criteria
The selection committee evaluates candidates based on the following criteria:
- Academic achievement (degree results, GMAT/GRE scores, university prizes, other academic accomplishments)
- Leadership potential demonstrated through experience and motivation
- Strong personal character, integrity, and commitment
- Intention to address world-scale social challenges in your career
- Ability to envision scalable and sustainable solutions to global problems
- Clear articulation of how the Oxford 1+1 MBA will help you achieve your objectives
Scholarship Essay
A critical component of your application is the scholarship essay.
You must answer the following question in no more than 500 words:
“How do you intend to change the world and what does this tell us about you as a person?”
This essay is your opportunity to showcase your vision, passion, and potential impact.
Be sure to highlight your unique perspectives, experiences, and plans for creating positive change on a global scale.
Selection Process
The selection process for the Oxford Pershing Square Graduate Scholarships typically follows this timeline:
- Early April: Shortlisting of candidates
- Late April/Early May: Interviews for shortlisted candidates
- May/June: Final selection and notification of scholarship recipients
Benefits of the Scholarship
Recipients of the Oxford Pershing Square Graduate Scholarship enjoy a range of benefits beyond the generous financial support:
- Full Funding: Coverage of tuition fees for both the Master’s and MBA programs, plus a living stipend
- Networking Opportunities: Access to the Pershing Square Foundation’s network of innovators and change-makers
- Mentorship: Potential for mentorship from inspirational individuals in the Pershing Square Foundation community
- New York Trek: Annual trip to New York hosted by the Pershing Square Foundation, featuring meetings with leading innovators
- Events and Conferences: Opportunities to attend and participate in prestigious global forums and conferences
- Scholar Community: Engagement with a diverse and talented cohort of like-minded individuals
1+1 MBA Partnering Programs
The Oxford 1+1 MBA allows you to combine your MBA with a diverse range of specialist Master’s programs. Some of the partnering programs include:
- MSc in African Studies
- MSc in Biodiversity, Conservation and Management
- MSc in Computer Science
- MSc in Contemporary Chinese Studies
- MSc in Economics for Development
- MSc in Education
- MSc in Energy Systems
- MSc in Environmental Change and Management
- MSc in Financial Economics
- MSc in Global Health Science and Epidemiology
- MSc in International Health and Tropical Medicine
- MSc in Mathematical and Computational Finance
- MSc in Nature, Society and Environmental Governance
- MSc in Refugee and Forced Migration Studies
- MSc in Social Science of the Internet
- MSc in Statistical Science
- MSc in Sustainability, Enterprise and the Environment
- MSc in Water Science, Policy and Management
For a complete and up-to-date list of partnering programs, visit the official Oxford 1+1 MBA website.
Tips for a Successful Application
To increase your chances of securing an Oxford Pershing Square Graduate Scholarship, consider the following tips:
- Start Early: Begin researching and preparing your application well in advance of the deadlines.
- Choose the Right Master’s Program: Select a partnering Master’s program that aligns with your interests and career goals.
- Highlight Your Achievements: Showcase your academic excellence, leadership experiences, and relevant accomplishments.
- Demonstrate Your Commitment to Social Impact: Clearly articulate your passion for addressing global challenges and your vision for creating change.
- Craft a Compelling Scholarship Essay: Use your 500 words wisely to convey your unique perspective and potential for impact.
- Seek Feedback: Have mentors, peers, or professionals review your application materials for valuable input.
- Prepare for the Interview: If shortlisted, practice articulating your goals and vision clearly and confidently.
- Show Alignment with Oxford’s Values: Demonstrate how your aspirations align with the university’s mission and the scholarship’s objectives.
Frequently Asked Questions
To help you navigate the application process and understand the scholarship better, here are answers to some frequently asked questions:
Q: Can I apply for the scholarship if I’m already enrolled in a Master’s program at Oxford?
A: Current Master’s students who have been admitted to the MBA and were not considered for the scholarship in the previous year may be eligible. However, priority is given to new applicants to the 1+1 MBA program.
Q: Is there an age limit for applicants?
A: There is no specific age limit for the Oxford Pershing Square Graduate Scholarships. The program values diversity in age and experience among its scholars.
Q: Can I apply if I’m not a UK citizen?
A: Yes, the scholarship is open to candidates of all nationalities. There are no citizenship restrictions.
Q: What if I’m interested in a Master’s program that’s not on the official 1+1 MBA partnering list?
A: While priority is given to applicants to official partnering programs, you may still be considered if admitted to both a non-partnering Master’s program and the MBA.
However, your chances may be lower.
Q: How competitive is the scholarship?
A: The Oxford Pershing Square Graduate Scholarship is highly competitive, with only up to five scholarships awarded each year from a global pool of exceptional candidates.
Q: Can I defer the scholarship if awarded?
A: Typically, the scholarship cannot be deferred. If you’re unable to take up the offer in the year it’s awarded, you would need to reapply in a future application cycle.
Q: Is the GMAT/GRE required for all applicants?
A: GMAT/GRE requirements vary depending on the specific Master’s program and the MBA. Check the individual program requirements for details.
Q: How can I strengthen my leadership experience before applying?
A: Seek out leadership roles in your current work, volunteer for non-profit organizations, start a social impact initiative, or take on leadership positions in student or community organizations.
Conclusion
The Oxford Pershing Square Graduate Scholarships offer an unparalleled opportunity for exceptional individuals to pursue a world-class education and develop the skills needed to address global challenges.
By combining a specialist Master’s degree with the Oxford MBA, scholars gain a unique interdisciplinary perspective and access to a powerful network of change-makers.
If you have the academic excellence, leadership potential, and commitment to creating positive social impact, we encourage you to apply for this transformative scholarship.
Begin your journey by exploring the 1+1 MBA partnering programs, preparing your applications, and crafting a compelling vision for how you intend to change the world.
Remember, the deadline for the 1+1 MBA application is January 6, 2025, with Master’s program deadlines varying.
Start your preparation early to give yourself the best chance of joining the next cohort of Oxford Pershing Square Scholars.
Ready to Apply?
If you’re inspired to pursue this incredible opportunity, take the next step:
For any questions about the scholarship or your eligibility, don’t hesitate to contact the Oxford Pershing Square Graduate Scholarships team at [email protected].Good luck with your application, and may your journey to becoming a global change-maker begin at Oxford!
