The Oxford Pershing Square Scholarship is one of the most prestigious and competitive scholarships offered by the University of Oxford, one of the world’s leading institutions. This scholarship is a highly sought-after opportunity for students who aspire to become leaders with the potential to make a significant impact on society.
It is designed to support exceptional candidates pursuing the Oxford 1+1 MBA Program, a unique and highly flexible master’s degree that combines a one-year MBA with another graduate-level degree of the student’s choice.
The Pershing Square Scholarship is more than just financial support—it is an opportunity for students to be part of a distinguished community of scholars, innovators, and future leaders. In this article, we will dive into everything you need to know about the Oxford Pershing Square Scholarship 2025, including its benefits, eligibility criteria, the application process, and more.
About the University of Oxford
The University of Oxford is one of the oldest and most respected universities in the world. Located in Oxford, England, it has a long history of academic excellence, and its reputation for world-class teaching, groundbreaking research, and influential global network makes it a top choice for students from around the globe. The university offers a wide range of graduate and undergraduate programs in various fields, including the humanities, social sciences, business, and natural sciences.
Oxford is renowned for its rigorous academic standards and its tradition of fostering critical thinking, leadership, and innovation. Students at Oxford benefit from access to exceptional resources, including libraries, research centers, and a diverse network of alumni who are leaders in various industries around the world.
What is the Oxford Pershing Square Scholarship?
The Oxford Pershing Square Scholarship is a fully funded scholarship designed for exceptional students pursuing the Oxford 1+1 MBA Program. This program allows students to combine the one-year Master of Business Administration (MBA) degree with a second graduate degree of their choice. The program is offered in collaboration with several other graduate schools at Oxford, making it a unique and highly flexible option for students who want to gain expertise in both business and a complementary field.
The Pershing Square Scholarship is intended to support students who have a clear vision of how they want to use their education to create positive change in society, particularly in leadership roles. The scholarship is highly competitive, with only a small number of awards granted each year. Scholars are expected to have not only a strong academic background but also the potential to become leaders in their field and contribute to the global community.
Benefits of the Oxford Pershing Square Scholarship
The Oxford Pershing Square Scholarship offers numerous benefits, making it one of the most generous and valuable opportunities available for students at Oxford. These benefits include:
1. Full Financial Support
The Oxford Pershing Square Scholarship provides full funding for the entire duration of the 1+1 MBA program. This includes:
- Tuition fees for both the MBA and the second graduate degree program.
- Living expenses to support students while they are studying in Oxford.
- Additional allowances for academic and professional development, ensuring that recipients can fully focus on their studies and personal growth without the financial stress.
2. Exclusive Leadership Development Opportunities
Scholars are part of an exclusive group of high-achieving individuals who are given special leadership development opportunities. The scholarship offers:
- Access to tailored leadership coaching and professional development resources.
- Opportunities to attend networking events, workshops, and seminars that focus on leadership and entrepreneurship.
- Mentorship from industry leaders, alumni, and other professionals who can guide scholars throughout their academic and professional journeys.
3. A Unique, Flexible Academic Program
The Oxford 1+1 MBA Program allows students to combine their MBA with a second graduate degree of their choice. This could include a program in law, public policy, social sciences, engineering, or other fields that complement the business training. The flexibility of the program allows students to tailor their education to their individual career goals and ambitions.
4. Global Network and Career Opportunities
Being part of the Oxford University community means access to a vast and influential global network of alumni, industry leaders, and professionals. The Pershing Square Scholars also benefit from:
- Access to Oxford’s extensive career services, including job placement support, internships, and career coaching.
- Opportunities to connect with global business leaders, potential employers, and other top scholars in the program.
- A lifelong connection to the Oxford alumni network, which can provide career opportunities, collaborations, and guidance long after graduation.
Eligibility Criteria
The Oxford Pershing Square Scholarship is highly competitive, and applicants must meet certain eligibility criteria to be considered for the award. Here are the key requirements:
1. Academic Excellence
Applicants must demonstrate strong academic performance in their undergraduate degree or equivalent qualifications. This includes a proven record of outstanding achievements in relevant fields and a solid academic background. While the scholarship does not specify exact GPA requirements, applicants are expected to show that they are among the top students in their field.
2. Admission to the Oxford 1+1 MBA Program
To be eligible for the Pershing Square Scholarship, applicants must first gain admission to the Oxford 1+1 MBA Program. The application for the program is separate from the scholarship application, and students must meet the admissions requirements for both the MBA and the second graduate degree of their choice. Applicants must submit their application to both programs simultaneously.
3. Strong Leadership Potential
The scholarship is intended for students who have demonstrated strong leadership skills and the potential to create a positive impact on society. This includes showing:
- A commitment to social impact and making a difference in the world.
- Experience in leadership roles or involvement in projects that demonstrate initiative, problem-solving, and innovation.
- A clear vision for how an MBA, combined with the second graduate degree, will help the applicant achieve their career and leadership goals.
4. Financial Need
The Pershing Square Scholarship is aimed at students who may require financial assistance to pursue their studies at Oxford. While financial need is not the only criterion, the scholarship is designed to support talented individuals who may not otherwise have the means to attend a world-class institution.
5. Commitment to Giving Back
The scholarship looks for candidates who are not only academically talented but who are also committed to using their education for the greater good. This can include involvement in charitable organizations, social enterprises, or projects that focus on improving communities, industries, or the environment.
How to Apply for the Oxford Pershing Square Scholarship
Applying for the Oxford Pershing Square Scholarship involves several steps, and students must follow a specific process to be considered for the award. Here’s how you can apply:
Step 1: Apply for the Oxford 1+1 MBA Program
The first step in the process is to apply to the Oxford 1+1 MBA Program. You will need to complete the MBA application on the University of Oxford’s official admissions website and submit all required documents, including:
- Academic transcripts.
- A strong personal statement explaining why you want to pursue an MBA and how the program aligns with your career goals.
- Letters of recommendation from individuals who can speak to your academic ability and leadership potential.
- English proficiency scores (if applicable).
- A current CV or resume outlining your achievements and professional experience.
Step 2: Apply for the Pershing Square Scholarship
Once you have submitted your application for the Oxford 1+1 MBA Program, you will need to apply separately for the Oxford Pershing Square Scholarship. The scholarship application requires:
- A personal statement specifically addressing why you want to receive the scholarship and how you plan to use your education to make a difference in the world.
- Financial documents to demonstrate your financial need (if applicable).
- Details about your leadership experience, including specific examples of projects, roles, or achievements where you have had a positive impact.
Step 3: Interview (If Required)
If shortlisted for the scholarship, you may be invited for an interview. This is an opportunity for the selection committee to learn more about your leadership potential, commitment to social impact, and why you are the right candidate for the Pershing Square Scholarship.
Step 4: Wait for the Decision
After your interview (if applicable), the Oxford admissions team will notify you of the outcome. Successful candidates will be awarded the Pershing Square Scholarship and will be provided with the necessary instructions to accept the scholarship and enroll in the Oxford 1+1 MBA Program.
Key Deadlines
Be sure to check the University of Oxford’s official website for the most accurate and up-to-date deadlines. However, typical deadlines for the 1+1 MBA Program and Pershing Square Scholarship are:
- Application deadlines for the MBA program: Usually in January and March (for different rounds).
- Pershing Square Scholarship application deadlines: Typically align with the MBA program deadlines.
Make sure to check both the scholarship and program application deadlines to ensure you submit everything on time.
Conclusion
The Oxford Pershing Square Scholarship 2025 is an extraordinary opportunity for talented students who want to pursue the Oxford 1+1 MBA Program and make a lasting impact on society. With full financial support, leadership development opportunities, and access to Oxford’s world-renowned resources and network, this scholarship provides an excellent foundation for students who aspire to become influential leaders in business and beyond.
If you have the academic excellence, leadership potential, and a vision to make a difference in the world, the Pershing Square Scholarship could be your pathway to a bright and impactful future at one of the world’s top universities.
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