The Weidenfeld-Hoffmann Scholarships & Leadership Programme at the University of Oxford is one of the most exciting fully funded opportunities for postgraduate students aiming to study in the UK. This scholarship is specifically designed for ambitious graduates and early-career professionals who are committed to becoming leaders and changemakers in their fields.
Funded through a partnership between the University of Oxford and the Weidenfeld-Hoffmann Trust, the programme combines full tuition support, a generous living stipend, and a comprehensive leadership development curriculum that prepares scholars for global impact.
What Is the Weidenfeld-Hoffmann Scholarships & Leadership Programme?
The Weidenfeld-Hoffmann Scholarships & Leadership Programme is a fully funded graduate scholarship at the University of Oxford that supports outstanding students from developing and emerging economies (and other eligible countries) to pursue Master’s level study. Alongside academic funding, the programme includes formal leadership training, mentorship, networking opportunities, and professional development.
The aim of the programme is not only to provide financial support but also to equip scholars with the skills, confidence, and networks needed to take on leadership roles and contribute positively to their home countries or regions after graduation.
What the Scholarship Covers
The Weidenfeld-Hoffmann Scholarship is fully funded and includes the following components:
Full Tuition Coverage
The scholarship covers 100% of course fees for your chosen Master’s programme at the University of Oxford.
Generous Living Stipend
Scholars receive a living cost grant for the full duration of their course. For 2025–26 scholars, this stipend is at least £20,780 per year, which helps cover accommodation, food, study materials, and personal costs.
Leadership Training and Professional Development
A unique feature of this scholarship is the leadership programme, which includes workshops, seminars, mentoring, and networking activities tailored to build leadership capacity. This programme complements academic study and helps scholars grow personally and professionally.
Mentorship and Networking
Scholars gain access to mentoring from experienced professionals and academics, as well as opportunities to build networks with peers, alumni, and industry leaders.
All benefits are provided for the full duration of the Master’s programme — typically nine to twelve months — and the leadership training that accompanies it.
Who Is Eligible
The Weidenfeld-Hoffmann Scholarships are open to international applicants who meet the following core criteria:
- You must be applying for a new full-time Master’s degree at the University of Oxford.
- You should be ordinarily resident in an eligible country (primarily developing and emerging economies, though other countries may be included in the official list).
- You should intend to return to your home country or region after completing your studies, and be able to explain how your course links to long-term career objectives that will benefit public life.
- Applicants must secure an offer of admission to an eligible Master’s programme by the relevant Oxford course deadline.
- The programme is not open to deferred offers or current Oxford students unless already Weidenfeld-Hoffmann scholars.
There is no age limit, and applicants from a wide range of academic backgrounds — such as social sciences, law, public policy, health, environment, business, and others — can apply as long as their course is on the list of eligible programmes at Oxford.
Eligible Courses
The scholarship supports a broad range of one-year Master’s programmes at Oxford. These often include (but are not limited to):
- Master of Public Policy (MPP)
- Master of Business Administration (MBA)
- MSc Economics for Development
- MSc Global Health Science and Epidemiology
- MSc Environmental Change and Policy
- MSc Water Science, Policy and Management
- MSc Social Data Science
- MSt Asian and Middle Eastern Studies
- BCL (Bachelor of Civil Law)
- MJur (Magister Juris)
- …and many more taught Master’s degrees offered by the University.
It’s important to confirm eligibility for your specific course on the official University of Oxford website when preparing your application.
How to Apply
Applying for the Weidenfeld-Hoffmann Scholarship requires the following steps:
- Apply for Admission to the University of Oxford: Start by applying for your chosen Master’s programme through the University of Oxford’s graduate application portal.
- Select the Scholarship Option: In the scholarships section of your application form, select the Weidenfeld-Hoffmann Scholarships & Leadership Programme.
- Submit the Scholarship Statement: You must fill out and upload the Weidenfeld-Hoffmann Scholarships Statement — a specific document detailing your motivations, leadership potential, and future impact.
- Submit All Supporting Documents: Include academic transcripts, degrees, CV, references, and any required English language test results.
- Shortlisting and Interview: Shortlisted candidates are usually invited to a virtual interview in April 2026 as part of the selection process.
- Final Decisions: Successful applicants are typically informed by late May 2026.
Note that the scholarship application is submitted alongside your degree application — you do not apply separately after receiving an Oxford offer.
Deadline for 2026 Intake
For the 2026 academic year, most applications for the Weidenfeld-Hoffmann Scholarships & Leadership Programme must be submitted by January 2027 (exact dates vary by course, but deadlines often fall between December 2026 and January 2027).
This means you should prepare your graduate application and scholarship statement well in advance, giving yourself enough time to refine your leadership statement and gather references.
Why This Scholarship Is Exceptional
The Weidenfeld-Hoffmann Scholarships stand out for three main reasons:
1. Full Academic and Living Support:
Scholars receive 100% tuition coverage and a substantial stipend that helps them focus on their studies and leadership growth without financial stress.
2. Leadership Programme:
Unlike many scholarships that only cover finances, this programme includes a structured leadership development curriculum featuring mentoring, workshops, and networking designed to build real-world leadership skills.
3. Global Network:
Participants become part of a global community of leaders, mentors, and alumni, which can open doors to collaborations, careers, and influence across sectors and regions.
This combination of academic funding, personal development, and professional support makes the Weidenfeld-Hoffmann Scholarships especially attractive for those who want not just a degree, but a transformative educational and leadership experience.
Final Thoughts
The Weidenfeld-Hoffmann Scholarships & Leadership Programme 2026 is a remarkable opportunity for ambitious individuals who want to pursue a fully funded Master’s degree at the University of Oxford while also honing their leadership skills. The scholarship’s focus on academic excellence, leadership potential, and future impact makes it ideal for students and young professionals who are ready to take on challenges and contribute meaningfully to society.
If you are passionate about advancing your career, making a difference in your community, and gaining world-class education and leadership training, this scholarship is worth pursuing. Preparing early, crafting a strong scholarship statement, and demonstrating your commitment to leadership and impact will be key to a successful application.
