Oxford–Pershing Square Graduate Scholarships 2026 , UK (Fully Funded)
The Oxford–Pershing Square Graduate Scholarships are among the most prestigious fully funded opportunities in the world, designed for exceptional individuals who aspire to solve large-scale global challenges. Established in 2014, this scholarship supports outstanding students pursuing the Oxford 1+1 MBA, a unique programme that combines a Master’s degree with the Oxford MBA.
Backed by the Pershing Square Foundation and the University of Oxford, these scholarships empower future leaders with the education, mentorship, and global exposure needed to create scalable and sustainable social impact.
Overview of the Scholarship
The Oxford–Pershing Square Graduate Scholarships offer up to five full awards each year. Scholars study for two years, completing:
One year in a partnering Master’s programme at Oxford, followed by
One year in the Oxford MBA at Saïd Business School
This integrated pathway allows scholars to develop deep subject expertise alongside advanced business and leadership skills.
Degree Level
- Master's
Available Subjects
- All subjects
Benefits
Each scholarship covers:
100% of course fees for both the Master’s degree and the MBA
A minimum living cost grant of £20,780 per year for both years of study
This comprehensive funding ensures scholars can focus fully on academic excellence, leadership development, and impact-driven initiatives.
Number of Awards
Five scholarships are awarded annually
Due to the limited number of awards, the scholarship is extremely competitive and aimed at candidates with outstanding academic records, leadership potential, and a clear commitment to social change.
Scholar Community and Benefits
Oxford–Pershing Square Scholars become part of a highly engaged and influential global community. Beyond financial support, scholars benefit from:
Mentorship
One-on-one mentorship from leaders, academics, alumni, and members of the Pershing Square Foundation network
Access to Forums and Conferences
Opportunities to attend and participate in global forums, conferences, and high-level events
Termly Events
Exclusive gatherings hosted by the MBA Director, including dinners, lunches, and informal discussions
Scholar-Led Initiatives
Support to organise scholar-led events, workshops, and conference participation
New York Trek
Potential invitation to a New York Trek, hosted by the Pershing Square Foundation, featuring meetings with innovators, investors, and change-makers
These experiences are designed to prepare scholars for influential leadership roles and amplify their long-term impact.
About the Pershing Square Foundation
The Pershing Square Foundation supports exceptional leaders and innovative organisations working across key areas such as:
Economic development
Education
Healthcare
Justice
The arts
A combined endowment of £13 million—including £7.8 million from the Pershing Square Foundation and £5.2 million from the University of Oxford—ensures the scholarships are funded in perpetuity.
Eligible Nationalities
Open to applicants of all nationalities.
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants are considered in order of priority if they fall into one of the following categories:
New applicants to the Oxford 1+1 MBA programme
Applicants admitted to both:
A 1+1 MBA partnering Master’s programme, and
The Oxford MBA (waiting-list candidates are not considered)
Applicants admitted to:
A full-time one-year Master’s course not currently on the official 1+1 MBA partner list, and
The MBA (via a separate application)
Current Oxford Master’s students who have been admitted to the MBA and were not considered for the scholarship in the previous year
Selection Criteria
The selection committee looks for candidates who demonstrate excellence across multiple dimensions, including:
Academic Excellence
Strong undergraduate and/or postgraduate results
Competitive GMAT or GRE scores
Academic awards, distinctions, or prizes
Leadership Potential
Evidence of leadership experience and initiative
Clear motivation to influence systems and organisations
Personal Character
Integrity, resilience, and strong ethical values
Commitment to long-term impact
Vision for Global Impact
A clear intention to address world-scale social challenges
Ability to design scalable and sustainable solutions
A compelling explanation of how the Oxford 1+1 MBA supports these goals
Applicants are strongly encouraged to highlight these qualities throughout their MBA application, scholarship essay, and interview responses.
Application Procedure
To be considered for the scholarship, applicants must:
Submit a complete application for:
The Oxford MBA (1+1 MBA route)
Their chosen Master’s programme
Upload the Oxford–Pershing Square Scholarship Essay in the “Funding” section of the 1+1 MBA application
Scholarship Essay Question (Maximum 500 Words)
“How do you intend to change the world and what does this tell us about you as a person?”
This essay is a critical component of the application and should reflect clarity of purpose, authenticity, leadership, and long-term vision.
Application Deadline
7 January – Deadline to apply for the Oxford 1+1 MBA
Master’s programme deadlines vary and typically fall in December or January
Applicants must ensure they meet both deadlines to remain eligible.
Selection Process
Early April: Shortlisting of candidates
Late April – Early May: Interviews for shortlisted applicants
Final decisions are made after interviews, with a strong emphasis on leadership capacity and commitment to social impact.
Final Thoughts
The Oxford–Pershing Square Graduate Scholarships are more than financial awards—they are an investment in future leaders committed to reimagining what is possible. For candidates with ambition, integrity, and a clear vision for changing the world, this scholarship offers an unparalleled opportunity to gain world-class education while building lasting global impact.
