Institute for Strategic Dialogue (ISD) - Weidenfeld-Hoffmann Scholarship and Leadership Programme

What you get

You will receive a scholarship of fully funded master's place at the University of Oxford. The scholarship covers 100% of your tuition fees, as well as a living allowance of approximately 1,370 EUR per month (at least £20,780 per year). The funding covers the entire duration of your studies, which is usually one year for a Master’s degree. You will also take part in the Leadership Programme: 200 hours of skills training, as well as sessions on ethics, leadership, business and communication. You will receive mentoring (regular support from an experienced adviser) and build a lasting network with fellow scholarship holders. The scholarship is awarded by the University of Oxford in partnership with the Weidenfeld-Hoffmann Trust.

Who can apply

• Degree level: You are applying for a new full-time Master’s programme at Oxford. If you are already studying at Oxford, you cannot apply (unless you are already a Weidenfeld-Hoffmann Scholar).
• Field of study: Your degree programme must be included on the list of eligible degree programmes, which primarily comprises social sciences, political science, law, economics, regional studies, education and environmental sciences.
• Where you live: Your usual place of residence is in one of the 150 eligible countries, primarily in Africa, Asia, Latin America, Eastern Europe and the Middle East, as well as in some EU and other Western countries.
• Return plan: You are planning to return to your home country after completing your studies.
• Career link: Your field of study is linked to your career goals and to improving public life in your home country or region.
• Financial need: Otherwise, you wouldn’t have been able to afford to study at Oxford.
• Fresh start: You must start this year. Deferred offers of admission will not be accepted. Refugees and displaced persons may apply, provided their nationality meets the country-specific requirements.

How to apply

Applications must be made via the University of Oxford’s application portal for Master’s programmes. Select the Weidenfeld-Hoffmann Scholarship and attach the required scholarship motivation letter. Submit all documents by the application deadline for your programme in the winter intake. Shortlisted candidates will be invited to an online interview in the spring, and decisions will be made by the end of May.

How realistic are your chances?

This is a fully-funded Oxford scholarship open to applicants from more than 150 countries and is therefore highly sought-after. You must first secure a place at Oxford before your application for the scholarship can even be considered. It is about more than just grades: a clear plan to drive change in your home country is what sets applicants apart from the rest. If your degree programme is on the list of eligible courses, your background meets the country-specific criteria, and you can demonstrate a strong link between your studies and your goals in public service, you have a genuine chance. Expect stiff competition.