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MBA Scholarships in UK

MBA Scholarships in UK

The United Kingdom is a prominent hub for business schools, with over 11 institutions ranking in the top 100 Global MBA Rankings. While MBA programs here offer numerous benefits, they can be costly. However, the good news is that these schools provide plenty of scholarship options, making education accessible to talented individuals without financial constraints.

Here are some of the top business schools in the UK and some of the scholarships available for MBA students:

London Business School


London Business School is a leading institution renowned for its academic excellence and global perspective, inspiring innovative and daring business ideas. Offering full-time, part-time, executive, face-to-face, and online study options, the school caters to diverse career stages while fostering an exceptional diversity of perspectives among its students.

As such, the school offers a variety of scholarships as well:

SARI Foundation Trust Scholarship


The SARI Foundation Trust Scholarship is generously funded by the SARI Foundation Trust and alumnus Savio Kwan MSc09(1976). It covers 100% of the tuition fees for the MBA program.

The scholarship is open to all successful MBA applicants, with only one award available. Applicants do not need to apply separately for this scholarship as all candidates will be automatically considered during the selection process.

Mo Ibrahim Foundation Scholarship


The Mo Ibrahim Foundation Scholarship is funded by the Mo Ibrahim Foundation and covers 100% of tuition fees for the MBA program. It is available to all successful MBA applicants who are nationals of African countries, with one scholarship being awarded.

Eligible candidates do not need to apply separately, as they will automatically be considered for this prestigious scholarship during the admission process.

London Business School Fund Scholarships


The London Business School Fund Scholarships are funded by the London Business School and cover up to full fees for the MBA program.

These scholarships are open to all successful MBA applicants who exhibit strong academic and professional merit and can contribute significantly to all aspects of the MBA program.

This category of scholarships is the largest general group, and multiple awards are given each year.

Candidates do not need to apply separately for these scholarships, as all applicants will automatically be considered during the selection process.

Cambridge (Judge)


Established in 1990, Cambridge Judge Business School is a renowned focal point for management teaching and research within the prestigious University of Cambridge. The MBA program at this business school is highly qualitative, fostering innovation, interdisciplinary insights, and real-world impact through rigorous thinking, collaborative learning, and diverse perspectives.

To support its students through their MBA journey, Cambridge Judge offers numerous scholarships such as:

The Cambridge MBA Scholarship for Regional Diversity


The Wider Cambridge MBA Scholarship for Regional Diversity is offered by Cambridge Judge Business School for the MBA program.

It provides 50% of tuition fees to five global candidates from specific regions, including Southeast Asia, Central and South America, the Caribbean, Africa, Central Asia, Western Asia (Middle East), and Eastern Europe.

Eligible candidates will be automatically considered based on their GMAT scores and undergraduate academic performance. Recipients are expected to be ambassadors for the Cambridge MBA, supporting and attracting future candidates to the program.

The application deadline for this scholarship is 7th May 2024, and applicants will be notified if they receive the award at the time of an offer being made, after a successful interview.

The Cambridge MBA Scholarship for Professional Diversity


The Wider Cambridge MBA Scholarship for Professional Diversity is another scholarship offered for the MBA program.

It provides 50% of tuition fees to five candidates working in underrepresented sectors, including Arts, Culture, and Media; Social Enterprise, NGOs, and Non-Profit sectors; and those in family businesses.

Eligible candidates will be automatically considered based on their GMAT scores and undergraduate academic performance.

Recipients are expected to be ambassadors for the Cambridge MBA, supporting and attracting future candidates to the program.

The application deadline for this scholarship is 7th May 2024, and candidates may apply in any of the 5 rounds in the recruitment cycle.

Applicants will be notified of any award at the time of an offer being made, after a successful interview.

The Forté Foundation Fellowship


The Forté Foundation Fellowship is a scholarship offered by Cambridge Judge in partnership with the Forté Foundation, which promotes women's advancement in business through education. his fellowship provides 50% of tuition fees to outstanding female students joining the Cambridge MBA, with five awards available.

Eligible candidates can indicate interest during the MBA application process. Successful applicants show leadership through academic achievements or community roles and a commitment to supporting women's career potential.

Applications can be made in any of the 5 MBA recruitment rounds, and recipients become ambassadors for the Cambridge MBA while accessing valuable resources. The application deadline is 11th March 2024.

Chicago (Booth)


Chicago Booth is the University of Chicago's graduate business school located in Illinois. At Chicago Booth's London Campus, they offer an esteemed Executive MBA Program (EMBA) in the heart of London's financial district. The campus provides an excellent learning environment for senior executives from Europe, the Middle East, and Africa, with top-notch faculty and a strategic location.

This school offers some generous scholarships for the EMBA program in the Rothman Campus in London:

Dean's Initiative Scholarship for Underrepresented Groups (The Rothman Campus)


The Dean's Initiative Scholarship for Underrepresented Groups supports high-potential leaders from underrepresented backgrounds in the Executive MBA Program London. The scholarship is based on industry, citizenship, background, or a combination of these factors.

Candidates with professional experience in the nonprofit, NGO, public, or military sector, as well as citizenship in emerging and/or developing economies with a commitment to work in those countries, are eligible.

If you have met the criteria and were accepted to the Executive MBA Program London by April 3, 2023, you're automatically considered for the scholarship; no separate application is needed.

Merit-Based Scholarship


Each year, the Executive MBA program awards a limited number of merit-based scholarships to incoming students at all its three locations, including the London Campus. No separate application is needed as candidates are automatically considered based on their admission application. Scholarships are awarded based on factors such as professional and academic achievements, goals, and leadership experience.

Global Dean’s Scholarship for Commitment to Diversity


The Global Dean's Scholarship for Commitment to Diversity is available for high-potential Executive MBA students in Chicago, London, and Hong Kong campuses who advocate for gender-related issues.

The scholarship considers criteria such as educational achievements, professional background, leadership experience, goals, and potential for high-level leadership.

If you met the criteria and were accepted to the program by April 3, 2023, you are automatically considered for this scholarship, and no additional application is needed.

Oxford (Saïd)


Saïd Business School at the University of Oxford is a young, vibrant, and entrepreneurial business school, deeply integrated with one of the world's most prestigious universities. With a focus on addressing global challenges, the school provides a diverse range of degree programs and collaborates with companies and governments to make a positive impact on the world.

Some of the scholarships offered for MBA students include:

Rewley Scholarships


The Rewley Scholarships at Saïd Business School offer partial awards, up to £20,000, for MBA students, promoting gender parity and diversity. About 10 scholars in the MBA class receive these scholarships, generously supported by alumni contributions to the Rewley Fund.

Eligibility is based on academic excellence, and applicants are automatically considered during the MBA application process. Starting in 2024, access to the scholarships will expand to students in Executive MBA, Diploma, and MSc in Major Programme Management programs.

Adara Foundation Scholarships


The Adara Foundation Scholarships, provided by a non-profit social enterprise in Nigeria, support women's empowerment and education advancement in Africa.

The scholarship covers 50% of course fees and is open to female candidates who are ordinarily resident in and national of an African country. The selection is based on academic excellence and a commitment to Africa's development. The successful scholar will work on a project contributing to Africa's development during or after the MBA program.

No additional application is required, and eligible candidates will be considered after each MBA admissions deadline, although early application is recommended due to limited availability in later stages.

Eni-Oxford Africa Scholarships


The Eni-Oxford Africa Scholarships, funded by the international energy company Eni, aim to support aspiring and high-potential African MBA candidates. The scholarships cover course fees, a grant for living costs, and one return airfare.

Up to two scholarships are available for candidates ordinarily resident in African countries where Eni operates:

  • Algeria
  • Angola
  • Côte d’Ivoire
  • Democratic Republic of Congo
  • Egypt
  • Gabon
  • Ghana
  • Kenya
  • Libya
  • Morocco
  • Mozambique
  • Nigeria
  • South Africa
  • Tunisia

Selection is based on academic excellence and the potential to contribute to better leadership and governance in the continent. No separate application is required, and all eligible offer-holders will be considered after each MBA admissions deadline. However, early application is recommended due to limited availability in later stages.

Imperial College Business School


Imperial College Business School is the graduate business school of Imperial College London. Guided by a vision to benefit business and society through innovative thinking, the school combines business, technology, and an entrepreneurial mindset. With lifelong professional development and a global alumni network, graduates find success in various industries worldwide.

This school provides a great number of scholarships to support exceptional MBA students:

Advisory Board Scholarship


The Advisory Board Scholarship offers full tuition fee coverage for exceptional self-funded candidates enrolling in the Full-Time MBA program.

Eligibility is based on outstanding academic merit, potential, and financial need. Applicants must apply in admissions rounds 1-2, receive an offer for the program, and complete a video assessment.

The deadline for application is 15th January 2024. This scholarship reflects the school's commitment to supporting talented individuals and fostering future business leaders.

Sainsbury Management Fellowships


The Sainsbury Management Fellowships, funded by the Gatsby Charitable Foundation, provide £50,000 to support engineers with high career potential to pursue full-time MBA courses at approved international business schools. The scheme aims to enhance the economic performance of UK businesses by equipping engineers with business skills.

Eligible candidates must have a first degree in an engineering, allied technology, or science discipline and the right to work and live in the UK.

Applications can be submitted at any time, and the deadline for the current year is 26 September 2023. Interviews will be held in early November 2023.

Black Future Leader Award


The Black Future Leader Award offered by Imperial College Business School provides 50% of the tuition fee as a scholarship to students from Black or mixed black backgrounds worldwide.

The aim is to increase representation in their student cohort and encourage leadership potential among applicants. Eligible candidates must demonstrate outstanding leadership track records or potential and self-identify their ethnicity as Black or mixed black.

To apply, candidates must submit their application by the specified deadline and receive an offer for the program.

The deadlines for applications are as follows:

  • Global Online MBA January 2024 intake: 11 September 2023
  • Weekend MBA: 30 October 2023
  • Executive MBA: 16 October 2023
  • Full-Time MBA September 2024 intake: 18 March 2024*

*Full-Time MBA and Global Online MBA September 2023 entries have already passed.

Warwick Business School


Warwick Business School (WBS) is a leading academic department within Warwick University's Faculty of Social Sciences. Established in 1967, WBS has grown into the University's largest department with a global network of over 53,000 alumni in 167 countries. Their MBA scholarships offer global opportunities for aspiring business leaders to pursue excellence in their studies and careers.

Some of them include:

The Inspiring Females Scholarship


The Inspiring Females Scholarship scholarship aims to support exceptional female candidates who demonstrate business excellence and serve as inspiring role models. Successful applicants may receive scholarships of at least 25% of tuition fees.

To apply, you need to submit a 500-word written statement outlining your achievements and how you have inspired others, aligning with WBS' core values and future ambassadorial duties for the School.

The scholarship also collaborates with We Are the City & City Women's Network, providing an additional 25% membership discount to active members. Any further scholarship awarded by WBS is inclusive of this discount.

Change Maker - Personal Impact in Your Society


The Change Maker Scholarship at Warwick Business School is designed for individuals who aim to use business as a force for good and positively influence society.

Applicants must demonstrate a commitment to generating better social outcomes through their work or volunteering experience. The award is between 10% and 50% of tuition fees, depending on availability.

Applicants must submit a statement (up to 500 words) addressing criteria like individual impact, alignment with WBS' values, and future potential. Early application is recommended for higher chances of success.

Championing Diversity - Geographical


The Championing Diversity Scholarship - Geographical scholarship is aimed at encouraging a diverse international community of Change Makers from various backgrounds. It offers scholarships for candidates from Africa, Latin America, and Europe. Each region has five scholarships of a minimum of 30% of the tuition fee available for eligible candidates.

To apply, applicants need to list their nationality and demonstrate their potential as Change Makers through their drive, vision, and determination to succeed. They must submit a written statement (up to 500 words) referencing the scholarship they are applying for, and address how they fulfill the criteria outlined in the scholarship.

Manchester (Alliance)


Alliance Manchester Business School is a prestigious business school affiliated with the University of Manchester in England. Accredited by AACSB International, AMBA, and EQUIS, it offers world-class education to undergraduates, postgraduates, and executives globally.

With impactful research and a focus on 'Original Thinking Applied,' it remains a leading institution in business and management education.

Some of its scholarships for MBA students include:

Alliance MBS Women In Business Scholarships (in support of the Forté Foundation Fellows Program Scholarships)


Alliance Manchester Business School offers Women in Business Scholarships, supporting the Forté Foundation Fellows Program Scholarships. Female students of all nationalities with exceptional academic, professional, and personal achievements, and strong leadership abilities, are eligible.

These scholarships, valued at up to 50% of the tuition fee, are awarded on a rolling basis as part of the admissions process, and applicants are encouraged to apply early.

The application involves addressing questions related to female senior leadership barriers, career achievements, initiatives to support women in business, and inspiring others. Candidates may also be considered for the Forté Foundation Fellows Programme Scholarship automatically.

Inspirational Leaders Scholarships


The Inspirational Leaders Scholarships are targeted toward individuals with exceptional leadership qualities and a minimum of 6 years of professional experience since completing their bachelor's degree.

Candidates should have at least 3 years of experience in a strategic leadership position within a multinational company and be currently working in a senior management role.

The scholarship application includes a written statement addressing the candidate's qualifications and contributions to inspirational leadership, both within the MBA program and as an alumnus of the school.

The scholarships are awarded on a rolling basis as part of the admissions process, providing candidates who apply early with a better chance. GMAT is not required, but applicants must take the Manchester Admissions Test (MAT) to assess leadership characteristics and qualities.

Young Potential Leaders


The Young Potential Leaders scholarship at Alliance Manchester Business School is designed for young British talent with high potential for rapid career advancement and a track record of contributing to society. Up to ten individuals are awarded this scholarship annually, ranging from £10,000 to £25,000.

To be eligible, applicants must have permanent residency in the UK, hold a first-class bachelor's degree or a combination of upper second-class bachelor's and distinction in a master's degree from a Russell Group University, and possess less than three years of work experience.

Prospective applicants can reach out to the school representatives for more detailed information on the entry requirements.

University of Edinburgh Business School


Established in 1919, the University of Edinburgh Business School boasts a rich heritage of teaching and research. With triple accreditation from AACSB, EQUIS, and AMBA, it stands among the top business schools in Europe. Offering diverse undergraduate, postgraduate, and executive education programs, the school fosters a global learning environment with students hailing from over 74 countries.

Here are some of the scholarships with which this school supports its MBA students:

Somewhere MBA LGBT+ Scholarship


The Somewhere MBA LGBT+ Scholarship offers £10,000 to a candidate committed to making a difference in the LGBT+ community within the business environment. Applicants should demonstrate their dedication to the community and have sound academic credentials.

The deadline for application is 01 August 2023, and successful candidates will receive mentoring from Somewhere (a social enterprise promoting LGBT+ visibility and representation in business).

Applicants must have received an offer to join an eligible MBA program to be considered. The scholarship will be paid directly towards tuition fees, and recipients are expected to act as ambassadors for the Business School during and after the program.

MBA Leadership Scholarships


The MBA Leadership Scholarships, offered by the Business School, are worth £10,000 each and will be awarded to candidates with strong leadership experience or potential and a minimum of 7 years of work experience. Applicants must have received an offer to join an eligible MBA program to be considered for the scholarship.

The scholarship amount will be deducted from tuition fees, and recipients are expected to act as ambassadors for the Business School during and after the program. Successful Executive MBA applicants will receive half the scholarship amount in each of the two years of the program.

The scholarship application deadlines for 2023 ranged from 3rd March 2023 to 4th August 2023. As for next year, the dates are yet to be announced, so stay tuned for updates.

MBA Merit Scholarships


The Business School offers £5,000 MBA Merit Scholarships to candidates with exceptional prior qualifications, measured through academic credentials, professional qualifications, and/or GMAT scores.

Deadlines for 2023 were on multiple dates from the 3rd of March to the 4th of August 2023 (the latest). Applicants must have an offer to join an eligible MBA program in order to qualify for the scholarship.

The scholarship amount will be deducted directly from the tuition fees of the recipients. In return, scholarship recipients are expected to actively participate as ambassadors for the Business School during and after their program.

For successful applicants enrolled in the Executive MBA, the scholarship amount will be distributed in equal parts for each of the two years of the program.

Scholarships are vital in realizing the dreams of talented individuals from diverse backgrounds. They provide the necessary financial support and recognition to empower future leaders to excel in their careers and make a positive impact in the business world. If you have the drive to succeed, don't hesitate to explore the available MBA scholarships above and take a bold step towards a brighter future in business.