Oxford Pershing Square Scholarship 2025-2026 (Fully Funded)

The Oxford Pershing Square Scholarship represents one of the most prestigious fully funded scholarship opportunities for international students seeking to pursue Master’s and MBA degrees at the University of Oxford. This comprehensive scholarship program, established through a partnership between Oxford University and Pershing Square Foundation, provides exceptional financial support and transformative educational experiences for outstanding students worldwide.

Oxford Pershing Square Scholarship Overview

The Oxford Pershing Square Scholarship is designed to support exceptional students who demonstrate academic excellence, leadership potential, and a commitment to addressing global challenges. This fully funded scholarship covers all educational and living expenses, enabling recipients to focus entirely on their studies and research at one of the world’s leading universities.

The scholarship program specifically targets students pursuing Master’s degrees and MBA programs at Oxford University, with a particular emphasis on those interested in social entrepreneurship, public policy, and innovative solutions to global problems.

Scholarship Benefits and Coverage

The Oxford Pershing Square Scholarship provides comprehensive financial support that includes:

• Full tuition fees for the entire duration of the program
• Living allowance of approximately £18,622 per year
• College fees and university charges
• Research and thesis allowance up to £2,500
• Travel costs including one return flight from home country
• Health insurance coverage throughout the study period
• Access to exclusive networking events and mentorship programs
• Professional development opportunities with industry leaders

Eligible Programs and Degrees

The scholarship supports students pursuing various Master’s and MBA programs at Oxford University, including:

• Master of Business Administration (MBA) – Oxford Saïd Business School
• Master of Public Policy (MPP) – Blavatnik School of Government
• Master of Science in Social Entrepreneurship
• Master of Science in Global Governance and Diplomacy
• Master of Science in Economics for Development
• Master of Science in Evidence-Based Social Intervention
• Master of Philosophy (MPhil) programs in relevant fields
• Other Master’s programs aligned with social impact and innovation

Eligibility Requirements

To be eligible for the Oxford Pershing Square Scholarship 2026, applicants must meet the following criteria:

• Academic Excellence: Outstanding undergraduate degree with first-class honors or equivalent
• Program Admission: Must have received or be eligible for admission to a qualifying Oxford Master’s or MBA program
• Leadership Potential: Demonstrated leadership experience in academic, professional, or community settings
• Social Impact Focus: Clear commitment to addressing social challenges and creating positive change
• International Status: Open to students from all countries, with preference for developing nations
• English Proficiency: Meet Oxford’s English language requirements (IELTS 7.5+ or TOEFL 110+)
• Age Requirement: Typically under 30 years of age at the time of application

Application Process and Requirements

The application process for the Oxford Pershing Square Scholarship involves several key steps:

Step 1: University Application

• Apply for admission to a qualifying Oxford Master’s or MBA program
• Submit all required academic transcripts and certificates
• Provide English language proficiency test scores
• Complete the university’s standard application requirements

Step 2: Scholarship Application

• Complete the Oxford Pershing Square Scholarship application form
• Submit a detailed personal statement (1,000 words maximum)
• Provide a comprehensive CV highlighting leadership experiences
• Include three academic or professional references
• Submit a research proposal or career plan (program-specific)

Step 3: Selection Process

• Initial screening based on academic merit and eligibility
• Shortlisted candidates invited for interviews
• Final selection by the scholarship committee
• Notification of results by April 2026

Important Dates and Deadlines

Key dates for the Oxford Pershing Square Scholarship 2026 application cycle:

• Application Opens: September 1, 2025
• University Application Deadline: January 6, 2026
• Scholarship Application Deadline: January 20, 2026
• Interview Period: March 2026
• Results Announcement: April 2026
• Program Commencement: October 2026

How to Apply: Step-by-Step Guide

Follow this comprehensive guide to maximize your chances of success:

1. Research and Program Selection

• Thoroughly research Oxford’s Master’s and MBA programs
• Identify programs that align with your career goals and interests
• Review specific admission requirements for your chosen program
• Connect with current students or alumni for insights

2. Prepare Application Materials

• Obtain official transcripts from all previous institutions
• Take required English proficiency tests (IELTS/TOEFL)
• Secure strong letters of recommendation
• Draft compelling personal statements and essays

3. Submit Applications

• Complete the Oxford University application through their online portal
• Submit the scholarship application with all required documents
• Pay application fees (fee waivers available for eligible candidates)
• Ensure all deadlines are met

4. Interview Preparation

• Prepare for potential interviews with scholarship committee
• Practice discussing your research interests and career goals
• Review current global challenges and potential solutions
• Demonstrate your commitment to social impact

Tips for a Successful Application

To strengthen your Oxford Pershing Square Scholarship application:

• Demonstrate Impact: Highlight specific examples of leadership and social impact
• Show Alignment: Clearly connect your goals with the scholarship’s mission
• Be Authentic: Share genuine experiences and motivations
• Quantify Achievements: Use specific metrics and outcomes where possible
• Address Challenges: Explain how you’ve overcome obstacles
• Future Vision: Articulate clear post-graduation plans for social impact
• Cultural Awareness: Demonstrate understanding of global perspectives

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Can I apply for multiple Oxford programs simultaneously?

A: Yes, you can apply to multiple programs, but you must specify your preference order. The scholarship application should align with your primary program choice.

Q2: Is there an age limit for the scholarship?

A: While there’s no strict age limit, preference is typically given to candidates under 30 years of age who demonstrate exceptional potential for future leadership.

Q3: Can I defer my scholarship if accepted?

A: Deferral requests are considered on a case-by-case basis and must be supported by compelling reasons. Contact the scholarship office for specific guidance.

Q4: Are there any post-graduation obligations?

A: While there are no formal work obligations, scholars are expected to contribute to positive social change and maintain connections with the Oxford-Pershing Square community.

Q5: What makes this scholarship different from other Oxford scholarships?

A: The Oxford Pershing Square Scholarship specifically focuses on social entrepreneurship and innovation, offering unique networking opportunities and mentorship from industry leaders in social impact.

Q6: Can I work while holding the scholarship?

A: Limited part-time work may be permitted with prior approval, but the scholarship is designed to allow full focus on academic pursuits.

Alternative Scholarships and Funding Options

If you’re not selected for the Oxford Pershing Square Scholarship, consider these alternative funding opportunities:

• Rhodes Scholarship: Prestigious scholarship for exceptional students
• Clarendon Scholarship: Oxford’s flagship graduate scholarship program
• Chevening Scholarship: UK government’s global scholarship program
• Commonwealth Scholarship: For students from Commonwealth countries
• Weidenfeld-Hoffmann Scholarship: For students from developing countries
• Oxford-Hoffmann Scholarship: Focus on environmental and sustainability studies

Success Stories and Alumni Impact

Oxford Pershing Square Scholarship alumni have gone on to create significant social impact worldwide:

• Founded social enterprises addressing poverty and inequality
• Led policy initiatives in government and international organizations
• Developed innovative solutions for healthcare and education challenges
• Created sustainable business models for social good
• Contributed to academic research on global development issues

Conclusion

The Oxford Pershing Square Scholarship for Master’s + MBA Degrees 2026 represents an extraordinary opportunity for exceptional students to pursue world-class education while developing solutions to global challenges. This fully funded scholarship not only covers all educational expenses but also provides access to an influential network of changemakers and leaders.

If you’re passionate about creating positive social impact and possess the academic excellence and leadership potential required, this scholarship could be your gateway to transforming both your career and the world around you. Start preparing your application early, focus on demonstrating your commitment to social change, and take advantage of this remarkable opportunity to study at one of the world’s most prestigious universities.

Apply now through the official Oxford University website and take the first step toward your transformative educational journey at Oxford University.