Oxford Pershing Square Scholarships for MBA and Master’s Students
The Oxford Pershing Square Scholarship is a fully funded award offered by the University of Oxford. It supports outstanding students who want to pursue a combined Master’s degree and MBA at Oxford’s Saïd Business School.
This scholarship is designed for individuals committed to solving world-scale social challenges. If you are looking for UK scholarships that combine business and social impact, this is one of the top choices.
Why the Oxford Pershing Square Scholarship Matters
- It enables global leaders to study without financial stress.
- It combines deep academic training with practical business skills.
- It prepares graduates to make measurable impact across sectors.
Oxford University is a world leader in education and innovation. This scholarship opens its doors to the most driven global minds, including African applicants.
Oxford Pershing Square Scholarships for African Students
The scholarship welcomes candidates from all backgrounds. African students have previously received the award and are encouraged to apply. Scholars from Nigeria, Kenya, South Africa, and Ghana have studied through this programme.
These UK scholarships are a gateway for African students to join a powerful global network and return home equipped to lead change.
What the Oxford Pershing Square Scholarship Covers
This is a fully funded scholarship. It includes:
- Full tuition fees for both the Master’s and MBA programmes
- Living stipend of at least £17,668 per year
- Travel and visa expenses
- Participation in events, conferences, and internships
This comprehensive support makes it one of the most generous UK scholarships available.
Who Can Apply?
You must:
- Be applying to one of the 1+1 MBA partner programmes at Oxford
- Demonstrate strong academic performance
- Show leadership potential and commitment to social change
- Submit a complete application to both the Master’s programme and the MBA
Applicants from any country are eligible, including across Africa.
Eligible Programmes
This scholarship supports students entering Oxford’s 1+1 MBA programme, which combines a Master’s degree with a one-year MBA.
Some eligible Master’s programmes include:
- MSc in Education
- MSc in Global Governance and Diplomacy
- MSc in Computer Science
- Master of Public Policy (MPP)
- MSc in Environmental Change and Management
- MSc in International Health and Tropical Medicine
- MSc in African Studies
For a full list of eligible Master’s programmes, visit the Oxford 1+1 MBA page.
Oxford Pershing Square Scholarship Application Timeline and Deadlines
Key deadlines:
- August – September: Research programme requirements
- October – December: Submit your application for the Master’s and MBA programmes
- January (Stage 1): Final date for scholarship consideration
- March – April: Interviews and final selection
All applications must be submitted through the University of Oxford’s official portal.
Required Documents
To apply for the Oxford Pershing Square Scholarship, you must submit:
- Online application form
- Academic transcripts
- CV or resume
- GMAT or GRE score (for MBA)
- English language proficiency (if required)
- Personal statement
- Scholarship essay (up to 500 words) answering: “How do you intend to change the world and what does this tell us about you as a person?”
Ensure all documents are submitted before the January deadline for full consideration.
Selection Criteria
Applicants are assessed on:
- Academic excellence
- Leadership and innovation
- Personal character and resilience
- Clear career vision
- Commitment to addressing global challenges
Scholars are those who combine strong intellect with deep purpose.
How to Apply for the Oxford Pershing Square Scholarships for MBA and Master’s Students
Steps:
- Choose an eligible Master’s programme paired with the Oxford MBA
- Review application deadlines
- Submit both Master’s and MBA applications before the January deadline
- Indicate your interest in the Oxford Pershing Square Scholarship
- Upload the required scholarship essay
- Await invitation to interview (if shortlisted)
More information is available at the Pershing Square Foundation.
Why the Oxford Pershing Square Stands Out Among UK Scholarships
| Feature | Oxford Pershing Square | Other UK Scholarships |
|---|---|---|
| Fully funded | Yes | Varies |
| Combines Master’s + MBA | Yes | Rare |
| Leadership training | Yes | Limited |
| Focus on social impact | Yes | Varies |
| Personal development support | Yes | Limited |
This scholarship not only funds your education. It also invests in your potential.
Real Example: Scholar from Kenya
A Kenyan environmental science graduate joined Oxford’s MSc in Environmental Change and Management followed by the MBA. After returning home, she launched a clean energy initiative in Nairobi serving rural households.
Her story reflects what this programme is about: skills for sustainable impact.
What Happens After You Graduate?
Scholars join the global Pershing Square Scholar community. They:
- Launch social enterprises
- Lead in public policy, education, or healthcare
- Drive sustainable business solutions
The scholarship is not just about education. It’s about lifelong leadership.
Additional Resources for African Students
These platforms offer useful insights into UK scholarships and study requirements.
Tips for a Strong Application
- Start early. Prepare your documents by October.
- Research your Master’s programme and its connection to your goals.
- Use your scholarship essay to tell your story.
- Show how your education links to social impact.
- Be authentic. Reviewers value originality and clarity.
The selection team is looking for purpose-driven leaders.
Can You Work in the UK After Graduation?
Yes. Graduates on student visas are eligible for the Graduate Route, which allows up to two years of post-study work in the UK.
Many Pershing Square Scholars gain work experience before returning home to contribute locally.
Oxford’s Commitment to Global Talent
The Oxford Pershing Square Scholarships for MBA and Master’s Students show Oxford’s long-term commitment to global leadership. Through UK scholarships like this, Oxford brings together minds that can collaborate across continents.
The programme strengthens ties between Africa and the UK by supporting future changemakers.
Final Thoughts
The Oxford Pershing Square Scholarship is a chance to study at one of the world’s best universities with full financial support.
If you have a vision for change and want to develop both academic and leadership skills, this programme fits you.
Research carefully. Apply early. Write with purpose.
Let your goals shape your application.
These UK scholarships exist to support students like you—driven, smart, and ready to lead.
