Are you an aspiring leader with a vision to change the world? The Oxford Pershing Square Graduate Scholarships 2026 present a life-changing, fully funded opportunity for exceptional postgraduate students. Here’s your comprehensive guide covering application deadlines, eligibility, benefits, required documents, application steps, living expenses, and frequently asked questions.
Basic Information & Application Deadline
The Oxford Pershing Square Graduate Scholarships are awarded annually to up to five outstanding students from any country who apply to the 1+1 MBA program at the University of Oxford. This unique two-year degree combines a world-class Master’s course with the Oxford MBA.
- Application Deadline:
For the 2026 entry, the application deadline for the Oxford 1+1 MBA is January 7, 2026.
Each partnering Master’s program may have its own deadline in December 2025 or January 2026; applicants must check individual department requirements.
University/Institution Overview
- Host Institution: University of Oxford, United Kingdom
- Business School: Saïd Business School (Oxford’s globally ranked MBA school)
- Degree Awarded: Two Oxford Masters – one subject-focused and one MBA.
Study Areas & Eligible Program Names
The Oxford 1+1 MBA allows you to combine the MBA with a partnered Master’s offered by other departments at Oxford. Eligible master’s programs (subject to annual updates) include, but are not limited to:
| Master’s Program | Area of Study |
|---|---|
| Master of Public Policy (MPP) | Public Policy |
| MSc Criminology & Criminal Justice | Social Sciences |
| MSc Computer Science | STEM |
| MSc Education (various pathways) | Education |
| MSc Visual, Material, & Museum Anthro | Humanities |
| MSc Cognitive & Evolutionary Anthro | Science |
| MSc Sociology | Social Sciences |
| MSc Environmental Change & Management | Environmental Sciences |
| MSc Biodiversity, Conservation & Management | Life Sciences |
| MSc Social Science of the Internet | Social Science/Tech |
| MSc Migration Studies | Social Sciences |
| MSc Water Science, Policy & Management | Environment |
| MSc African Studies, Japanese Studies, etc. | Area Studies |
For a full, current list, consult the official Oxford website or your program of interest.
Scholarship Benefits
What does the Oxford Pershing Square Scholarship provide?
- Full tuition fee coverage (both Master’s and MBA — two years)
- Living stipend: At least £19,237 per year (totaling more than £38,000 across both years)
- Exclusive networking: Attend high-profile events, conferences, and a funded “New York Trek” with the Pershing Square Foundation
- Mentorship: Access to seasoned global leaders, innovators, and the Saïd Business School faculty
- Career development: Workshops, mentorship, and cross-disciplinary networking opportunities.
Benefits Not Included
- Travel expenses to and from Oxford (unless specified for special scholarship events)
- Visa application costs
- Health insurance fees not covered by the National Health Service
- Personal expenditures (laptop, phone, entertainment)
- Any costs above the annual living stipend or additional dependents’ costs.
Eligibility Criteria
- Open to applicants from ALL countries and backgrounds
- Must apply to and be admitted to both a partnering Master’s program and the Oxford MBA (1+1 MBA)
- Strong academic record (1st class degree or equivalent)
- Demonstrated leadership potential and commitment to solving global challenges
- Clear vision for world change, as articulated in essays/interviews
- Meet program-specific entry/admission requirements (includes English proficiency).
Required Documents
- Completed applications for both the MBA and the selected 1+1 Master’s program
- Academic transcripts and certificate(s)
- GMAT or GRE scores (as required by MBA)
- Up-to-date Resume/CV
- English language test results (if applicable)
- Scholarship essay: “How do you intend to change the world and what does this tell us about you as a person?” (max 500 words) — submitted via MBA funding section
- Letters of reference/recommendation (usually 2–3)
- Statement of purpose/personal statement.
Application Process: Step-by-Step Guide
- Choose Your Course:
Select a partnering Master’s AND ensure you are eligible for the 1+1 MBA. - Apply to Both Programs:
Submit complete applications for both courses through the Oxford Graduate Application Portal by the relevant deadlines. - Scholarship Essay:
In the MBA application’s funding section, upload the required Pershing Square essay (500 words). - Submit Documentation:
Ensure academic records, test scores, and references are uploaded for BOTH applications. - Application Fees:
Pay relevant application fees for both courses. - Shortlisting:
If shortlisted, attend an interview with the scholarship panel. - Result Notification:
Receive formal outcome via email. If selected, follow the steps to secure your place and funding.
Tips for a Successful Application
- Research Master’s Programs: Make sure to apply only to eligible 1+1 MBA partner courses.
- Showcase Leadership: Clearly demonstrate leadership potential and impact in your field.
- Be Specific & Visionary: Use the scholarship essay to articulate a bold, actionable plan for global change.
- Highlight Achievements: Academic excellence, community/professional impact, and personal initiatives matter.
- Proofread & Customize: Tailor your essay and documents to each program and the scholarship—avoid generic content.
- Secure Strong References: Obtain recommendations that specifically comment on your leadership, vision, and potential.
- Meet Deadlines: Early applications are encouraged; late or incomplete applications will not be considered.
Monthly Living Expenses for International Students (in USD)
Oxford is an expensive city for students, but the Pershing Square stipend aligns well with average expenses. Here’s a breakdown for 2025–26:
| Expense Type | Monthly Cost (GBP) | Monthly Cost (USD; £1 ≈ $1.30) |
|---|---|---|
| Accommodation | £1,000–£1,500 | $1,300–$1,950 |
| Food & Groceries | £150–£250 | $195–$325 |
| Transport | £40–£60 | $52–$78 |
| Utilities | £100–£200 | $130–$260 |
| Internet/Phone | £40–£50 | $52–$65 |
| Miscellaneous | £70–£100 | $91–$130 |
Total Estimate: $1,900–$2,800 per month, but many students live comfortably on the stipend of ~£19,237 ($25,000) per year if budgeting wisely.
Why Choose the Oxford Pershing Square Scholarship? (5+ Reasons)
- 1. Fully Funded World-Class Education
Covers all tuition, college, and living costs at a top-ranking institution. - 2. Unique 1+1 MBA Structure
Earn two Oxford degrees in two years—one specialized and one in business. - 3. Global Leadership Network
Access mentorship, network with world leaders, and participate in exclusive conferences. - 4. Transformational Experience
Attend the “New York Trek,” leadership workshops, and be part of a diverse, inspiring community. - 5. Career Acceleration
Stand out to global employers with an Oxford pedigree and real-world leadership preparation. - 6. Make An Impact
Be empowered to develop and scale sustainable solutions to world challenges, with Oxford’s support.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Can I apply if I am currently enrolled in a Master’s program at Oxford?
Yes, if you plan to apply for the Oxford MBA as part of the 1+1 MBA pathway and have not previously been considered for the scholarship.
Q2: Is the scholarship open to all nationalities?
Yes, applicants from all countries are eligible.
Q3: Does the stipend cover all living expenses?
The living stipend is designed to cover basic costs, but high spenders may need extra funds. Careful budgeting is recommended.
Q4: What is the required essay for the scholarship?
You must submit a 500-word essay answering: “How do you intend to change the world and what does this tell us about you as a person?”
Q5: When do I hear back about the scholarship?
Shortlisted candidates are invited for interviews after the application deadline, with decisions typically emailed in spring.
Q6: Can I defer my scholarship offer?
Deferrals are not generally permitted; check directly with Oxford for exceptions.
Ready to transform your future and the world? Apply for the Oxford Pershing Square Graduate Scholarships 2026 by January 7, 2026!