Women in Business Laidlaw Scholars (IE Foundation & Laidlaw Foundation)

What you get

You get 50% to 100% of your tuition fees paid for the International MBA (IMBA) at IE Business School in Madrid and Segovia. Part or all of your living costs may be covered on top. The award runs for the full length of the IMBA. You also join a programme for IE Laidlaw Scholars with networking, mentoring (guidance from experienced leaders) and events. At least 14 scholarships are awarded each academic year. The award is funded jointly by the Laidlaw Foundation, a British charity, and the IE Foundation, and aims to bring more women into senior leadership.

Who can apply

• Gender: Women only.
• Programme: You are applying for the International MBA (IMBA) at IE Business School.
• Nationality: Any nationality can apply.
• Financial need: You can show you could not do the MBA without this funding.
• Grades: You have a strong academic record, shown through your transcripts and test results.
• Leadership: You can point to real leadership potential, for example through past roles, running your own venture, or how you handled personal challenges.
• Motivation: You want to help other women succeed and to lead with integrity.

How to apply

First apply for admission to the International MBA. Then fill in the online scholarship form, which has two essay questions, and submit a financial aid application listing Laidlaw as one of your chosen awards. The MBA deadline is 15 April for the autumn intake and 15 September for the spring intake. A joint IE and Laidlaw committee reviews applications twice a year and shortlists a limited number of candidates.

How realistic are your chances?

The eligibility is narrow: women only, applying to one specific MBA, with proven financial need and a clear leadership record. That makes the pool smaller than for open scholarships. Selection is competitive and not everyone is shortlisted. If you clearly fit all the requirements and can evidence both your need and your leadership, your prospects are solid.