The Skoll Scholarship offers full funding, including a living stipend, for social entrepreneurs worldwide seeking to pursue an MBA at the University of Oxford’s Saïd Business School. Eligible candidates must exhibit specific qualities and experiences that align with the scholarship’s mission.
Entrepreneurial Action
Applicants should have identified opportunities and taken action to create positive social impacts.
A minimum of three years’ experience in driving change through entrepreneurial approaches is preferred.
Examples include starting or growing a social venture, leading the expansion of a social impact initiative, or addressing a specific social/environmental issue with a unifying core thread.
Impact with a Focus on Systems Change
Candidates must demonstrate the outcomes and impact of their entrepreneurial actions.
The impact should address unjust systems and practices within their area of work.
Personal Qualities of a Social Entrepreneur
Applicants should embody qualities such as being a force for positive change, single-mindedness, persistence, a bias toward action, and a willingness to explore environments for opportunities.
Demonstrated willingness to take personal and, at times, financial risks is essential.
Developing networks and leveraging collaboration to pursue mutual goals is also valued.
Applicants should have apprenticed with the problem they are trying to solve or possess direct experience in the field.
Critical Role of Oxford MBA
Candidates must articulate how an Oxford MBA is critical to their career trajectory.
The ability to explain how business education will help develop their work and impact at this stage is crucial.
Financial Need
Applicants should be in a position where the cost of the program represents a significant financial burden.
The ability to demonstrate the need for the scholarship, based on previous work experiences or personal circumstances, is important.
“Apprenticing with a Problem” refers to developing a deep understanding of a problem not personally lived through, achieved through work in the field, at related organizations, or through research.
Diversity and Inclusion
The Skoll Scholarship emphasizes the value of diversity within its community. Encouraging individuals from different backgrounds, cultures, religions, sectors, genders, and ideologies to apply enriches the learning experience. The scholarship particularly encourages applications from women, members of historically underrepresented groups, and those from the global south. Join the Skoll Scholarship Community and contribute to collaborative solutions for global challenges.
