Country Focussed
United Kingdom
Scholarship Type
Need Based
Organising Entity
Skoll Centre for Social
Entrepreneurship at Saïd
Business School
Scholarship Coverage
Fully Funded
Skoll Scholarship – Study Social Impact at Oxford's Saïd Business School
The Skoll Scholarship is a prestigious and fully funded scholarship designed for social entrepreneurs and impact professionals seeking to pursue an MBA at the Saïd Business School, University of Oxford. Offered by the Skoll Centre for Social Entrepreneurship, the scholarship empowers changemakers working on pressing global challenges by supporting their higher education goals at one of the world’s most recognized institutions. It offers financial support, leadership opportunities, and a unique platform to scale social impact. With only a few recipients chosen annually, the Skoll Scholarship is highly competitive and tailored for those who have already demonstrated an unwavering commitment to driving meaningful change.
Why Study in the UK?
Studying in the UK offers a world-class education, globally recognized degrees, and access to some of the oldest and most prestigious universities. With a strong emphasis on research and innovation, UK institutions foster critical thinking and academic excellence. The multicultural environment, wide range of courses, and post-study work opportunities like the Graduate Route – make the UK an attractive destination for Indian students seeking quality education and career growth on a global scale.
Everything You need to Know about the Skoll Scholarship
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for the Skoll Scholarship, applicants must demonstrate a strong commitment to social or environmental change. The eligibility criteria include:
1. Background
The candidate must be either a social entrepreneur or an impact career professional.
2. Experience
The applicant must have at least 3 years of experience working in a social venture or an impact-driven organization.
3. Entrepreneurial Approach
The applicant should have used entrepreneurial methods to tackle social or environmental issues.
4. Evidence of Impact
- Founding or leading a social enterprise
- Developing a change initiative within an existing organization
- Contributing significantly to a social impact project or startup
5. Academic and Professional Readiness
The applicant must also meet the academic and English language requirements of the Oxford MBA programme.
The scholarship looks for values-driven candidates with a strong ethical foundation, commitment to systemic change, and a vision to scale up their social impact.
Organising Entity
The scholarship is administered by the Skoll Centre for Social Entrepreneurship at Saïd Business School, which is part of the University of Oxford. The Centre was founded to foster social innovation and support entrepreneurs who are developing creative solutions to some of the world’s toughest social and environmental issues.
Is it Country Focused?
Yes – United Kingdom
While applicants can be from anywhere in the world, the scholarship is specifically aimed at those who wish to pursue an MBA at the University of Oxford in the UK and are involved in global or local change-making work.
Is it University Focused?
Yes – the scholarship is specifically offered for the Oxford MBA programme at the Saïd Business School, University of Oxford.
Type of Scholarship
Need-Based
The Skoll Scholarship is a need-based scholarship, offered to talented social innovators who may not have the financial means to pursue a full-time MBA at Oxford. The focus is not only on academic and professional excellence but also on the need for financial support to access this world-class education.
Number of Students Selected
Approximately 4 Scholars are selected each year. Given the small cohort size, this scholarship is incredibly competitive and prestigious.
What are the Benefits Available
The Skoll Scholarship is one of the most comprehensive scholarships available for social entrepreneurs and impact leaders. It offers:
Full MBA Program Tuition
Covers the entire tuition fees for the one-year MBA programme at the Saïd Business School, Oxford.
Exclusive Networking Opportunities
Scholars become part of the Skoll Scholar community and gain access to a robust network of global impact leaders.
Access to Mentorship and Resources
The Skoll Centre provides resources and mentorship to help scale students’ social ventures or prepare them to lead systems change initiatives globally.
Partial Living Expenses
Scholars receive up to USD 19,480.50 to support their living costs during their stay in the UK.
Leadership and Social Innovation Workshops
Scholars participate in Skoll Centre activities, workshops, and events including the Skoll World Forum, an internationally recognized platform on social entrepreneurship.
How to Apply for the Skoll Scholarship?
1: Apply for the Oxford MBA Programme
Visit Oxford MBA website and complete the application.
Ensure your application includes details of your social venture, impact work, and leadership experience.
Submit your application before your preferred Oxford MBA deadline.
2: Apply for the Skoll Scholarship
If shortlisted after your MBA application, you’ll receive an email invitation to apply for the Skoll Scholarship.
Complete the Skoll Scholarship essay questions sent via email (this replaces a separate application form).
Essays should demonstrate your passion for impact, social entrepreneurship journey, and vision for the future.
3: Final Interview
Successful essay applicants will be invited for a final virtual interview with the Skoll Centre’s selection committee.
Application Timeline (At a Glance)
Oxford MBA Application Deadlines: The Oxford MBA typically has multiple application stages (Rounds 1 to 4), with the first one usually closing in September and the final round by April of the following year.
Skoll Scholarship Deadline: After submitting the MBA application, eligible applicants will receive an invitation to apply for the Skoll Scholarship. This usually takes place between January and March.
Interview Rounds: Shortlisted candidates are invited for interviews in April.
Scholar Selection: Final results are announced by May.
Pro Tip
Strengthen Your Application
- Write clear, impactful essays showcasing your leadership, networking skills, and how the UK education will help you make a difference.
- Choose postgraduate courses that align with your career goals.
- Prepare well for the interview, where you’ll discuss motivations, career plans, and leadership potential.
Planning to Study in the UK?
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Final Thoughts
The Skoll Scholarship is more than financial assistance; it is a gateway for social entrepreneurs and changemakers to amplify their work on a global stage. Studying at Oxford’s Saïd Business School, backed by the Skoll Centre’s mentorship and network, equips scholars with the tools to scale systemic change. If you’re someone who’s committed to tackling global inequalities, climate challenges, or social injustice through entrepreneurial innovation, the Skoll Scholarship is the opportunity of a lifetime.
Make sure to mark your calendar, prepare your documents, and apply early. A life of purpose-driven leadership at Oxford may be just one application away.
