If you are a social entrepreneur with a vision to create meaningful change in the world, the Skoll Scholarship 2026-2027 could be the opportunity that transforms your career. Offered through the University of Oxford’s Saïd Business School, this prestigious scholarship provides full financial support for exceptional individuals pursuing an MBA — with the powerful added benefit of joining one of the most influential social innovation networks on the planet.
What Is the Skoll Scholarship?
The Skoll Scholarship is funded by the Skoll Foundation, established by Jeff Skoll, the first president of eBay and a pioneering philanthropist in the social entrepreneurship space. The scholarship is specifically designed for individuals who are already working — or plan to work — at the intersection of business and social impact. It is not just a financial award; it is an entry point into a global community of change-makers, thought leaders, and mission-driven investors who are reshaping industries and systems around the world.
The scholarship covers the cost of the full-time Oxford MBA program at Saïd Business School, which is consistently ranked among the top business schools globally. Recipients gain access to world-class faculty, a rigorous curriculum, and the unique Oxford ecosystem of entrepreneurship and innovation.
Who Is Eligible?
The Skoll Scholarship is aimed at candidates who demonstrate a strong and credible commitment to social entrepreneurship and systems-level change. While the full eligibility criteria are detailed on the official application page, candidates are typically expected to meet the following general requirements:
- Acceptance into the Oxford MBA program — You must apply to and receive an offer from Oxford’s Saïd Business School as part of the process.
- Demonstrated social entrepreneurship experience — This means a track record of founding, leading, or significantly contributing to initiatives that address social, environmental, or systemic challenges.
- Leadership potential — The selection committee looks for individuals who show the capacity to drive large-scale, lasting change through entrepreneurial thinking.
- Global perspective — Candidates from any country are encouraged to apply, and the scholarship values diverse geographic and cultural backgrounds.
This is not a scholarship for those just beginning to explore social impact — it is designed for people who have already demonstrated meaningful commitment and are ready to scale their influence with the support of Oxford and the Skoll network.
What Does the Scholarship Cover?
The Skoll Scholarship provides full financial support for the duration of the Oxford MBA program. This typically includes tuition fees and may also cover living expenses, though applicants should confirm the exact scope of funding through the official application portal. Beyond the financial package, scholars benefit from mentorship opportunities, invitations to the annual Skoll World Forum, and lifelong membership in a network of Skoll Scholars and Fellows across the globe.
How to Apply
Applying for the Skoll Scholarship involves a two-part process. First, you must submit your application to the Oxford MBA program at Saïd Business School and indicate your interest in the Skoll Scholarship during that process. Scholarship consideration is typically integrated into the MBA admissions process, so early and thorough preparation is essential.
Your application will need to compellingly articulate your social entrepreneurship journey, your vision for impact, and how the Oxford MBA will help you achieve it. Strong essays, a clear narrative of your work, and well-chosen references are all critical components.
Key Deadline to Remember
The deadline for the Skoll Scholarship 2026-2027 is September 2, 2026. Given the competitive nature of this award and the time required to prepare a strong Oxford MBA application, it is strongly advisable to begin your preparation as early as possible. Do not wait until the final weeks — give yourself time to craft a compelling, authentic application.
Why This Scholarship Is Worth Pursuing
Few scholarships combine financial generosity with community access the way the Skoll Scholarship does. For social entrepreneurs, the real value extends far beyond tuition — it is about gaining the tools, credentials, and relationships needed to operate at a higher level of impact. If you are serious about scaling your work and joining a global movement of entrepreneurial problem-solvers, this opportunity is worth every effort it takes to apply.
Ready to apply? Visit the official page here: Apply Now
