Think you can’t afford to study in Oxford?

Think again.

We know that the Master of Public Policy (MPP) can mean a significant financial commitment. And we believe that access to finance should never be a barrier to studying with us. So we’ve worked hard to open the door to the best and brightest applicants.

90%

of our MPP students received full or partial scholarships in recent years

75%

or more of our MPP students have received full scholarships in recent years

1,000

full or partial scholarships each year are offered by the central University

You’re thinking of applying. What’s next?

First, look at the figures: course fees and living costs. 

Course fee

Annual fees for entry in 2025–26

Fee statusAnnual course fee
Home (UK, ROI, Channel Islands and Isle of Man)£53,340
Overseas (including EU)£53,340

What do course fees cover? Your teaching and other academic services and facilities provided to support your studies. They don’t cover accommodation or other living costs. Need more detail? The Graduate Admissions pages under 'Funding and Costs' has further information.

Deposits

If your application is successful, you will be asked to pay a deposit against your course fees as a condition of your offer. The deposit amount and date by which payment must be made are shown below.

If you have secured a scholarship or other external funding source equal to a minimum of the full course fee, we will be able to waive the deposit requirement on the understanding that the fees will be paid on your behalf at the start of the Michaelmas Term. If, by the deposit payment deadline, you are still being considered for a scholarship we should be able to grant you an extension.

Further information regarding deposits is available on the University website.

Deposit amountPayment deadline
£8,00031 May 2025

How much does it cost to live in Oxford?

You can get a good idea of living costs for a graduate student at Oxford on the University living costs pages. There may also be costs associated with the Summer Project, depending on the type and location you choose.

Can I work to fund my studies?

The MPP is an intensive, full-time programme and we encourage students not to take on any work commitments outside the course. Your budgeting should take this into account.

Can I bring my family to Oxford with me?

In 2023 plans were announced by the UK government to make changes to the current system which allows family members to apply to come to the UK. After 1 January 2024, family members will only be able to join you as student dependants if you have a government financial award for study or your course is a DPhil or a Masters by research. Further information about eligibility can be found on the University's site.

If you do bring dependents, there are facilities available across the University for students with partners and families. Limited accommodation is available from colleges and the University Accommodation Office, and we would encourage you to investigate this once a college place has been confirmed.

Read all about living in Oxford.

Mona Murad

Having this scholarship means I can take full advantage of all the opportunities at Oxford without any worry on my back about funding my studies. Being able to join a group of outstanding UK civil servants who’ve received this scholarship is also really incredible.

Mona Murad, Duke of Cambridge Scholar, MPP Class of 2021
Alexander Michie

The MPP was a formative and pivotal moment for me professionally and personally and I made deep connections and friendships. I still interact professionally with former fellow students and professors on a monthly basis. I would not have been able to do the MPP without the support of a Luksic Scholarship.

Alexander Michie, Luksic Scholar, MPP Class of 2014
Applying for funding

You need to apply for and be receipt of funding before coming to Oxford so that you can pay for your course fees in advance and fund your living expenses across the year. The School cannot accept requests for funding once students arrive at the School.

Below you’ll see the wide range of funding opportunities available.

  1. First, explore all funding opportunities available to you as early as possible, including through your own employer, governments, private sponsorship, external funding, and scholarship or bursary opportunities. Some scholarship schemes have deadlines before the MPP application deadline, so make sure you check. The Chevening deadline is normally in early November.
  2. University of Oxford funding. Many of our students have been successful in receiving University Scholarships such as Clarendon, Weidenfeld Hoffman, and Jardine awards. You will automatically be considered for the majority of University scholarships for which you are eligible when you apply.
  3. Funding from the Blavatnik School: We are hugely grateful to the many different donors who make it possible for us to offer a variety of scholarships and financial awards. Please note the Blavatnik School’s funding is limited and you should not rely on it as a main source of financial support. In order to be considered for awards managed by the Blavatnik School, if you are successful in getting a place, you will be required to complete and submit a Scholarship Questionnaire, usually within a week of receiving your offer. We do not collect this information at the point of application as it is important to us that we credibly signal that this does not influence our admissions process.
  4. Loans. Many students consider funding their studies, in part, through financial loans. The School has an arrangement to provide students with access to loans through loan provider Prodigy Finance, which we recommend students investigate alongside other options if they are considering taking out a loan.

The Blavatnik School blog features some posts and experiences from alumni that might help or inspire your search for the right financial support.

Scholarships

UNIVERSITY-WIDE SCHOLARSHIPS

The University of Oxford offers a mixture of scholarships and awards, with a range of eligibility criteria often including the applicant’s country of origin. Many Oxford colleges also offer scholarship schemes and several have partnered with the Blavatnik School of Government specifically to support MPP students.

There are more than 1,000 full scholarships available through the University for graduate courses. For most of these, your application is automatically considered as soon as you submit your general course application online. To find out which scholarships you are eligible for, including those that require additional applications, please visit the University of Oxford's fees and funding pages.

BLAVATNIK SCHOOL OF GOVERNMENT SCHOLARSHIPS

We work hard to provide financial support for students from all regions of the world. And we’re constantly developing new ways of supporting students financially. By asking our supporters to donate precious funds, we make it possible to assist the very best future public leaders from countries across the world to study with us.

In order to be considered for a Blavatnik School of Government scholarship you need to have received an offer to study the MPP. You will then be required to complete and submit a Scholarship Questionnaire, usually within one week of receiving your offer letter.

EXTERNAL FUNDING AND SCHOLARSHIP OPTIONS

The Alternative Guide to Postgraduate Funding gives advice about applying for funding from charities and trusts, provides a searchable database of external funders, and advises on how to make a strong application. You may also want to check the University of Oxford external scholarships webpage for links to external funders which you can also search for by region.

View details of the available scholarships you may be eligible for below:

  • AfOx Scholarship
    Region/country: Africa
    Scholarship source: University of Oxford

    • Amount: The AfOx graduate scholarship will cover 100% of course fees, a grant for living costs and one return flight to and from the UK. Awards are made for the full duration of your fee liability for the agreed course. The scholarship also provides logistics support, including an economy return flight, visa and Immigration Health Surcharge fees, settling down allowance. The first year includes a Leadership and Impact Programme, which supports scholars to develop the collaborative leadership qualities needed to build cross-sector, interdisciplinary solutions to address complex social and environmental problems. Beyond this, the scholarship provides academic and social support programs and links with the broader AfOx networks across the UK and Africa.

      After completing their Master’s Program, Scholars will be supported to take up 4-6 months placements in leading Africa-based organisations for their Ubuntu Period of Service. The scholars will work on initiatives in Africa, receiving mentoring from leading Africa-based academics and practitioners, enabling the Scholars to develop pathways to building impactful careers in Africa. Scholars will be linked with research, business and policy leaders based in the continent for mentorship and experiential learning.
    • Eligibility: AfOx Scholarships enable students from all African countries to pursue graduate studies at the University of Oxford, for full details of eligibility please see the AfOx website. All eligible offer holders who receive a conditional offer from the University will be considered for the scholarship. The scholarship emphasises explicitly groups who have historically been under-represented, including but not limited to female scholars, people from refugee and displaced backgrounds and disabled scholars. Necessary residence considerations will be made for students from refugee and displaced backgrounds.
    • Application process: To be considered for this scholarship, submit your application for graduate study by the January deadline for MPP or MSc applications. All invited candidates will be expected to fill in the AfOx Graduate Scholarship questionnaire during the application process. Shortlisted candidates will be interviewed virtually before decisions are made. The decision timelines will be communicated at the interview stage. AfOx has strategic partnerships with specific Oxford colleges and scholars will be expected to be hosted by the partner colleges during their studies. For more information, please see the AfOx website.
  • Aig-Imoukhuede Foundation (AIG) Scholarship
    Region/country: NigeriaAfrica
    Scholarship source: Blavatnik School of Government

    • Amount: Full fees and a set amount to cover living expenses
    • Eligibility: Applicants who are ordinarily resident in Nigeria, currently employed in the Nigerian public service and with a clear commitment to continuing in public service in Nigeria.
    • Application process: Firstly, applicants for the scholarship must complete the foundation's application process (visit the Aig-Imoukhuede Foundation website for more information). Secondly, applicants must complete the Blavatnik School of Government scholarship questionnaire (which will be sent to everyone who receives an MPP offer).
    • There is one AIG Scholarship each year for a student from Nigeria to join the MPP. AIG’s pioneering initiative brings proven private sector innovation, leadership and funding in a private-public partnership to attract, inspire and support future leaders of the public sector. These future leaders will drive best practice standards of governance across Africa, ensuring sustainable economic growth and social justice.

    Visit the Aig-Imoukhuede Foundation website for more information on the scholarship.
    Further information on the partnership with the Aig-Imoukhuede Foundation.

  • Black Academic Futures Scholarship
    Region/country: United Kingdom (UK)Europe
    Scholarship source: University of Oxford

    • Amount: Full fees and a set amount to cover living expenses
    • Eligibility: These scholarships are available for applicants who are ordinarily resident in the United Kingdom, who are of Black or Mixed Black ethnicity and who hold an offer for either a taught or research postgraduate degree, starting in the 2025–26 academic year. This includes all full-time and part-time DPhil and master’s courses.
      These scholarships support students across the University and are open to all subject areas, with some funding dedicated to supporting students on specific courses.
    • Application process: To apply for the Black Academic Futures scholarships, all you have to do is submit your completed graduate course application, including ethnicity information, by either the December or January deadline (whichever is relevant for your course) and you will automatically be considered. You do not need to submit any additional documents and there is no separate scholarship application form for these awards.

    If you are eligible for these scholarships, you will be considered automatically regardless of which college (if any) you state as your preference on your graduate application form. However, some of these awards are only tenable at specific colleges and successful applicants will be transferred to the relevant college in order to take up the scholarship if applicable. Selection is expected to take place in May.

  • Blavatnik School of Government Public Service Scholarship
    Region/country: AfricaAsiaEuropeEurope (excluding UK)Latin America and the CaribbeanNorth AmericaOceaniaSouth America
    Scholarship source: Blavatnik School of Government

    • Amount: Variable, often half or full fees
    • Eligibility: Any applicant to the MPP
    • Application process: The Blavatnik School of Government Scholarship Questionnaire (which will be sent to everyone who receives an offer)
    • So many of our applicants demonstrate real and positive commitment to serving their communities. They share our vision of a world better served, better led, and better governed. Everyone who is offered a place on the MPP has impressed us as a change-maker who wants to make a lasting contribution through public policy. The Blavatnik School of Government Public Service Scholarships provide full funding to top candidates in recognition of their unwavering dedication to public service, shown through their exceptional academic and professional record. Recipients will hold the title of Blavatnik School of Government Public Service Scholar.
    • Read about Wasif Rehman's time on the MPP as a Blavatnik School of Government Public Service Scholar.
  • Blavatnik School Scholarships
    Region/country: AsiaEuropeEurope (excluding UK)Latin America and the CaribbeanNorth AmericaOceaniaAfricaSouth America
    Scholarship source: Blavatnik School of Government

    • Amount: Variable; depending on need and available resources.
    • Eligibility: Any applicant with financial need
    • Application process: The Blavatnik School of Government Scholarship Questionnaire (which will be sent to everyone who receives an offer)
    • These scholarships collect the gifts generously made available by some of our donors who wish to remain anonymous. Please contact the Admissions team if you have any questions relating to the Blavatnik School of Government Scholarships process. Please also be aware that due to other scholarship deadlines, the Blavatnik School of Government Scholarships Committee may not be able to make some decisions until late June.
  • Care-Experienced Academic Futures Scholarship
    Region/country: United Kingdom (UK)Europe
    Scholarship source: University of Oxford

    The Care-Experienced Academic Futures Scholarships offer financial support to pursue graduate study at Oxford to students who have experienced being in care in the UK to pursue graduate study at Oxford.

    • Amount: These scholarships are open to applicants to all academic subjects and will provide funding packages to assist with course fees and living costs.
    • Eligibility: The Care-Experienced Academic Futures scholarships are open to applications from those who have been in care in the UK at some point in their life, and faced barriers to progressing their education. Applicants must hold an offer to commence a postgraduate degree, starting in the 2025–26 academic year.
      These scholarships support students across the University and are open to all subject areas. Available awards include the Oxford-Rees Graduate Scholarship, which supports Care-Experienced Social Sciences candidates.

    For further information on this scholarship visit the University’s Academic Futures webpage.

  • Chevening Scholarship
    Region/country: AfghanistanAlbaniaAlgeriaAngolaAnguillaAntigua and BarbudaArgentinaArmeniaAustraliaAzerbaijanBahamasBangladeshBarbadosBelarusBelizeBeninBermudaBhutanBoliviaBosnia and HerzegovinaBotswanaBrazilBritish Virgin Islands (BVI)BruneiBurkina FasoBurundiCambodiaCameroonCanadaCabo VerdeCentral African Republic (CAR)ChadChileChinaColombiaComorosCook IslandsCosta RicaCote d'IvoireCubaDemocratic Republic of the CongoDjiboutiDominicaDominican RepublicEcuadorEgyptEl SalvadorEquatorial GuineaEritreaSwazilandEthiopiaFalkland Islands (Islas Malvinas)FijiGabonGambiaGeorgiaGhanaGrenadaGuatemalaGuineaGuinea-BissauGuyanaHaitiHondurasHong KongIcelandIndiaIndonesiaIranIraqIsraelJamaicaJapanJordanKazakhstanKenyaKiribatiKosovoKyrgyzstanLaosLebanonLesothoLiberiaLibyaMadagascarMalawiMalaysiaMaldivesMaliMarshall IslandsMauritaniaMauritiusMexicoMicronesiaMoldovaMongoliaMontenegroMontserratMoroccoMozambiqueMyanmarNamibiaNauruNepalNew ZealandNicaraguaNigerNigeriaMacedoniaPalestinePakistanPalauPanamaPapua New GuineaParaguayPeruPhilippinesRepublic of the CongoRussiaRwandaSaint HelenaSaint Kitts and NevisSaint LuciaSaint Vincent and the GrenadinesSamoaSao Tome and PrincipeSenegalSerbiaSeychellesSierra LeoneSingaporeSolomon IslandsSomaliaSouth AfricaSouth KoreaSouth SudanSri LankaSudanSurinameSyriaTaiwanTajikistanTanzaniaThailandTimor-LesteTogoTongaTrinidad and TobagoTunisiaTurkeyTurkmenistanTurks and Caicos IslandsTuvaluUgandaUkraineUruguayUzbekistanVanuatuVenezuelaVietnamYemenZambiaZimbabweAfricaAsiaEuropeEurope (excluding UK)Latin America and the CaribbeanMiddle EastNorth AmericaOceaniaSouth America
    Scholarship source: External

    Chevening Scholarships is the UK government's international awards scheme aimed at developing global leaders. Funded by the Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) and partner organisations, Chevening offers two types of awards – Chevening Scholarships and Chevening Fellowships – the recipients of which are personally selected by British Embassies and High Commissions throughout the world. The deadline for Chevening in most countries is early November.

    Read about Esther Soma's journey to the MPP as a Chevening Scholar

  • Clarendon Scholarship
    Region/country: AfricaAsiaEuropeEurope (excluding UK)Latin America and the CaribbeanNorth AmericaOceaniaSouth America
    Scholarship source: University of Oxford

  • Commonwealth Scholarship
    Region/country: BangladeshBelizeBotswanaCameroonDominicaSwazilandFijiGabonGhanaGrenadaGuyanaIndiaJamaicaKenyaKiribatiLesothoMalawiMalaysiaMaldivesMauritiusMontserratMozambiqueNamibiaNauruNigeriaPakistanPapua New GuineaRwandaSaint HelenaSaint LuciaSaint Vincent and the GrenadinesSamoaSierra LeoneSolomon IslandsSouth AfricaSri LankaTanzaniaGambiaTogoTongaTuvaluUgandaVanuatuZambiaAfricaAsiaLatin America and the CaribbeanOceania
    Scholarship source: External

    Commonwealth Scholarships for master's and PhD study in the UK are offered to applicants from developing Commonwealth countries. These scholarships are funded by the UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office with the aim of contributing to the UK's international development aims and wider overseas interests, supporting excellence in UK higher education, and sustaining the principles of the Commonwealth.

    There may be one scholarship available each year for the Commonwealth Shared Scholarship, in partnership with the Queen’s College. For the Commonwealth Shared Scholarships entry requirements, please visit the CSC website. In funding the scholarships, the CSC requires the University to work towards gender equality in its nomination of candidates for a Commonwealth Shared Scholarship. To be considered for this scholarship applicants must apply directly to the Commonwealth Scholarship using their online application form.

    Read about Umar Nadeem's experience as a Commonwealth Scholar on the MPP.

  • Cyril Shroff Scholarship
    Region/country: IndiaAsia
    Scholarship source: University of Oxford

    • Amount: Not stated
    • Eligibility: Applicants must be ordinarily resident in India. The Scholarship is for the Master of Public Policy, the Bachelor of Civil Law or the MSc in Sustainability, Enterprise and the Environment.
    • Application process: This scholarship is only tenable at Somerville. All eligible candidates who have applied for graduate study by the relevant funding deadline will be considered, regardless of which college preference, if any, is included in the graduate application. Successful scholars will be transferred to Somerville. There is no separate application process, but shortlisted candidates will be asked to attend a video interview in late April or early May. You can find more information on the Somerville College website and in this article.
  • Duke of Cambridge Scholarship
    Region/country: United Kingdom (UK)Europe
    Scholarship source: Blavatnik School of Government

    • Amount: Full fees and a set amount to cover living expenses
    • Eligibility: Applicants ordinarily resident in the UK
    • Application process: The Blavatnik School of Government Scholarship Questionnaire (which will be sent to everyone who receives an offer)
    • The Duke of Cambridge Scholarship at the University of Oxford presents an opportunity for future British leaders from all backgrounds. It has been made possible by the generosity of Leonard Blavatnik, donors to University College, and the University of Oxford. This scholarship will be awarded to a candidate ordinarily resident in the UK who shows extraordinary academic merit or potential.
    • Read about Stephanie Ifayemi's time as a Duke of Cambridge Scholar on the MPP.
    • Read about Medha Bhasin's time as a Duke of Cambridge Scholar on the MPP.
  • Eisenhower Global Scholars Program
    Region/country: United States of America (USA)North America
    Scholarship source: External

    The Eisenhower Global Scholars Program provides full scholarships for four outstanding American university graduates to study overseas for a full academic year leading to a Master of Public Policy degree at the University of Oxford’s Blavatnik School of Government or a Master in International Relations degree at the School of Global and Public Affairs at IE University in Madrid. Sponsored by Eisenhower Fellowships, the Global Scholars will meet with Eisenhower Fellows in Europe during and after their year of study, setting the stage for a lifelong connection to an influential global network of like-minded leaders intent on bettering their societies.

    The Eisenhower Global Scholars Program will select academically high-performing recent college graduates admitted to Oxford and IE who have demonstrated a commitment to public service or to fostering entrepreneurship. For further information on the program and how to apply, please visit the Eisenhower Global Scholars website.

    We would like to highlight that the application deadline for the program closes very soon after MPP offers are made. Therefore, it is highly advisable that interested candidates begin to prepare their applications to the program alongside their applications to the MPP and before MPP offers are announced.

    Read about Naomi Ducat's experience as an Eisenhower Global Scholar on the MPP.

  • Felix Scholarship
    Region/country: IndiaAfghanistanAngolaBangladeshBeninBhutanBurkina FasoBurundiCambodiaCentral African Republic (CAR)ChadComorosDemocratic Republic of the CongoDjiboutiEritreaEthiopiaGambiaGuineaGuinea-BissauHaitiKiribatiLaosLesothoLiberiaMadagascarMalawiMaliMauritaniaMozambiqueMyanmarNepalNigerRwandaSao Tome and PrincipeSenegalSierra LeoneSolomon IslandsSomaliaSouth SudanSudanTanzaniaTimor-LesteTogoTuvaluUgandaYemenZambiaNorth KoreaSyriaAfricaAsiaLatin America and the Caribbean
    Scholarship source: University of Oxford

    • Amount: The scholarship will cover 100% of course fees, a grant for living costs and one return flight from India to the UK. Awards are made for the full duration of your fee liability for the agreed course.
    • Eligibility: The Felix Scholarship enables outstanding students from India to pursue graduate studies. One award is made each year to a non-Indian student who is ordinarily resident in a country (outside of India) which is categorised as Other Low Income Countries or Least Developed Countries on the DAC List of ODA Recipients. For full details of eligibility please see the Felix Scholarship website.
    • Application process: To be considered for this scholarship, submit your application for graduate study by the January deadline for MPP applications. Decisions are expected to be made by the end of May.
    • Felix has been supporting students at Oxford since 1991. The scholarships are administered by the three partner universities, with the support of the Felix Trustees. Please see the Felix Scholarship website for more information.
  • Jardine Scholarship
    Region/country: CambodiaChinaHong KongIndonesiaMalaysiaMyanmarPhilippinesSingaporeTaiwanThailandVietnamAsia
    Scholarship source: University of Oxford

    • Amount: Full fees and a set amount to cover living expenses
    • Eligibility: Residents of countries identified by the Jardine Matheson Group, and applicants to specific Oxford colleges
    • Application process: You can apply directly to the Foundation – applicants will also be considered through a separate strand automatically if applying to the MPP.
    • Up to five full scholarships are available for applicants who are ordinarily resident in Cambodia, mainland China, Hong Kong, Indonesia, Malaysia, Myanmar, the Philippines, Singapore, Taiwan, Thailand or Vietnam. The scholarships have been made possible through the support of the Jardine Foundation, an educational trust supporting scholars who have the potential to become outstanding citizens with a high commitment to the community.
    • The scholarship is only tenable at one of the Foundation’s four link colleges: Exeter College, Oriel College, The Queen’s College and Trinity College. All eligible applicants will be considered for this scholarship, regardless of which college (if any) you state as your preference on the graduate application form. However, successful applicants will be transferred to one of the link colleges in order to take up the scholarship.
    • Read about Weijie Tan's experience on the MPP as a Jardine Scholar.
  • Kwok Scholarship Programme
    Region/country: ChinaHong KongAsia
    Scholarship source: External

    As part of the Kwok Scholarship Programme, up to two scholarships are available each academic year for MPP candidates with exceptional merit. The funding will be accessible to Chinese students from Hong Kong or mainland China who have been offered a place to study for the MPP.

    Watch an interview with Thomas Hale about what makes the Oxford MPP programme unique, the classes he teaches and how the Blavatnik School of Government prepares Hong Kong students for a career in public policy.

    For further information, please visit the Kwok Scholarship Programme website.

    Read Qingling Kong's experience as a Kwok Scholar on the MPP.

  • Lemann Foundation Fellowships
    Region/country: BrazilLatin America and the CaribbeanSouth America
    Scholarship source: Blavatnik School of Government

    • Amount: Variable
    • Eligibility: Offer holders who are ordinarily resident in Brazil
    • Application process: The Blavatnik School of Government scholarship questionnaire (which will be sent to everyone who receives an offer)
    • Funded by the Lemann Foundation, this scholarship is an opportunity available to appropriately qualified Brazilians demonstrating exceptional academic merit and intending to return to Brazil on completion of their studies. Candidates should have a demonstrated interest in social change in Brazil and intend to use their studies at the University to further those interests. The Blavatnik School and the Lemann Foundation are committed to opening this opportunity to students from a range of socio-economic contexts, and to ensure that financial circumstances should not be a barrier to applying. To apply candidates will be asked to supply details of their commitment to social change in Brazil, and invited to include any personal experience of socio-economic or other obstacles to social mobility.

    Read about João Francisco Maria’s time as a Lemann Scholar.

  • Luksic Scholarship for Public Service
    Region/country: ChileSouth AmericaLatin America and the Caribbean
    Scholarship source: Blavatnik School of Government

    • Amount: Full tuition coverage and a monthly stipend to cover living expenses for the entire programme duration.
    • Eligibility: Offer holders who are Chilean nationals (being ordinarily resident in Chile).
    • Application process: The Blavatnik School of Government scholarship questionnaire (which will be sent to everyone who receives an offer). Admissions and aid decisions are made exclusively and independently by the Blavatnik School of Government.
    • Administered by the Luksic Scholars Foundation, this scholarship is an opportunity available to highly motivated Chilean nationals, appropriately qualified and proven to have exceptional academic merit. Candidates should have a demonstrated interest in social and public policy challenges in Chile, and a strong commitment to public service.
    • There are up to three scholarships available each year.
    • Awardees have the opportunity to join the Luksic Scholars Network, an international community that provides scholars with the chance to collaborate and shape lasting academic, social and professional networks.

    Read about Francisco Carrillo Magna’s time as a Luksic Scholar.

  • Mo Ibrahim Scholarship
    Region/country: SudanSouth SudanAfrica
    Scholarship source: Blavatnik School of Government

    • Amount: Variable; depending on need
    • Eligibility: Offer holders ordinarily resident in Sudan or South Sudan
    • Application process: The Blavatnik School of Government Scholarship Questionnaire (which will be sent to everyone who receives an offer)
    • The Mo Ibrahim Scholarship supports outstanding current or future Sudanese leaders undertaking one of the Blavatnik School of Government’s programmes, such as the MPP, MSc, or the Executive Public Leaders Programme. Recipients will hold the title of Mo Ibrahim Scholars.
  • National governments
    Region/country: AfricaAsiaEurope (excluding UK)Latin America and the CaribbeanNorth AmericaOceaniaSouth America
    Scholarship source: External

    Many national governments provide funds for their students to study overseas in the interest of fostering the skills and knowledge of their citizens.

    Many of our students have successfully been awarded funding to complete their studies. For example, previous students have been successful in securing scholarship support from the governments of Chile (through the BECAS Chile), India, Indonesia, Singapore, Mexico (through CONACyT), and Qatar.

  • Open Society Foundations
    Scholarship source: External

    The Open Society Foundations award grants, scholarships, and fellowships throughout the year.

  • Oriel College and Yalda Hakim Foundation Scholarship
    Region/country: AfghanistanAsia
    Scholarship source: University of Oxford

    • Amount: Full fees and a set amount to cover living expenses
    • Eligibility: Female Afghan applicants – please see the Oriel College website for further details.
    • Application process: If you would like to be considered for the Yalda Hakim Foundation Scholarship at Oriel College, please contact: info@yaldahakimfoundation.org in the first instance. All scholarship applicants must complete the usual University of Oxford graduate admissions process for their chosen course. When applying for your chosen course at the University of Oxford, please select Oriel College as your college of residence, and select ‘Yalda Hakim Scholarship at Oriel College' when asked about scholarships.
  • Oxford Pershing Square Graduate Scholarship
    Scholarship source: University of Oxford

    • Amount: Full fees and a set amount to cover living expenses
    • Eligibility: Applicants to the 1+1 MBA
    • Application process: Please see the Saïd Business School website
    • Every year, the Pershing Square Foundation awards up to six full scholarships to support outstanding students on the 1+1 MBA, covering both the master's degree and the MBA year. Pershing Square Scholars are exceptional individuals who can demonstrate the potential and commitment to finding scalable and sustainable solutions to world-scale social challenges. The scholarship is if you would like to pursue any of the partnering master’s degrees (including the MPP at the Blavatnik School) and combine it with Saïd Business School’s MBA. Please see the Saïd Business School website for further details on the scholarship and the 1+1 programme.
  • Oxford Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Graduate Scholarship
    Region/country: AlgeriaBahrainComorosDjiboutiEgyptIraqJordanKuwaitLebanonLibyaMauritaniaMoroccoOmanPalestineQatarSaudi ArabiaSomaliaSudanSyriaTunisiaUnited Arab Emirates (UAE)YemenAfricaMiddle EastAsia
    Scholarship source: University of Oxford

    • Amount: Full fees and a set amount to cover living expenses
    • Eligibility: Applicants who are ordinarily resident in one of the following countries: Algeria, Bahrain, Comoros, Djibouti, Egypt, Iraq, Jordan, Kuwait, Lebanon, Libya, Mauritania, Morocco, Oman, Palestine, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Somalia, Sudan, Syria, Tunisia, United Arab Emirates, and Yemen. You should be intending to return to one of the eligible countries on completion of your studies.
    • Application process: Via University of Oxford application form

    The scholarships have been jointly funded by the University and H.H. Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum through the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Knowledge Foundation. The Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Knowledge Foundation (MBRF) was established in 2007 to provide support for knowledge and development in the Arab region and beyond. The Foundation actively promotes education at all levels to enable individuals to make the best use of their abilities to benefit themselves and others.

  • Oxford Thai Foundation Graduate Scholarship
    Region/country: ThailandAsia
    Scholarship source: University of Oxford

    • Amount: Full fees and a set amount to cover living expenses
    • Eligibility: Academic merit and potential
    • Application process: No separate application process
    • The Oxford Thai Foundation Graduate Scholarship is available for applicants who are ordinarily resident in Thailand and intending to return there after graduation. Preference will be given to applicants who are applying for the Master of Public Policy (MPP). The scholarship is jointly funded by the University and the Oxford Thai Foundation.

    The Oxford Thai Foundation is a scholarship programme to help promising young professionals from Thailand in the broader field of public policy to pursue advanced degrees at the University of Oxford. The programme wishes to create a strong network of future thinkers and leaders, built on mutual respect and trust developed during their time at Oxford, as well as through activities organised by the Foundation upon their return to Thailand. The goal is a more cohesive and equitable society, built on an inclusive public policy development platform.

  • Oxford University College – Burma Graduate Scholarship
    Region/country: Myanmar (Burma)Asia
    Scholarship source: University of Oxford

    • Amount: Full fees and a set amount to cover living expenses
    • Eligibility: Please see the Graduate Admission website.
    • Application process: No separate application process
    • One full scholarship will be available to applicants who are nationals of, or who were born in, Myanmar (Burma) and who are applying to any full-time course in a subject accepted by University College. The scholarship is jointly funded by the University and a syndicate of generous donors to University College. Preference is given to applicants to the MPP. Awards are made for the full duration of your fee liability for the agreed course. The scholarship is only tenable at University College. All eligible applicants will be considered for this scholarship, regardless of which college (if any) you state as your preference on the graduate application form. However, successful applicants will be transferred to University College in order to take up the scholarship. Selection is expected to take place in April.
  • Oxford-Creat Group Graduate Scholarship
    Region/country: MacauHong KongChinaAsia
    Scholarship source: University of Oxford

    • Amount: Full fees and a set amount to cover living expenses
    • Eligibility: The Oxford-Creat Group Graduate scholarships are available for applicants who are ordinarily resident in the People's Republic of China (including the Hong Kong and Macau SARs) and who are applying for one of the following full-time courses: MBA; Master of Public Policy (MPP); MSc Financial Economics; and MSc Law and Finance. Preference for one award will be given to an MPP applicant.
    • Application process: To be considered for this scholarship, submit your application for graduate study by the January deadline for MPP applications.
    • The scholarships have been jointly funded by the University and by the Creat Group of Beijing. The Creat Group is a leading investment company with a global portfolio and partnerships with leading financial institutions in the UK and Japan. The Creat Group intends that scholars will make a considerable contribution to the development of China’s economy over the course of their lifetime. Selection is expected to take place in April.
  • Oxford-Indira Gandhi graduate scholarship
    Region/country: IndiaAsia
    Scholarship source: University of Oxford

    • Amount: The scholarship covers course fees and a grant for living costs. Awards are made for the duration of fee liability for the course.
    • Eligibility: Applicants must be ordinarily resident in India or have previously studied at an Indian higher education institution.
    • Application process: Via University of Oxford application form. This award is only tenable at Somerville. All eligible candidates who have applied for graduate study by the January deadline will be considered, regardless of which college preference (if any) is included in the graduate application. Successful scholars will be transferred to Somerville. There is no separate application process, but shortlisted candidates will be asked to attend a video interview..

    Find out more about the Oxford-Indira Gandhi Graduate Scholarship.

  • Oxford–Oak Zimbabwe Graduate Scholarship
    Region/country: Zimbabwe
    Scholarship source: University of Oxford

    • Amount: The Oxford-Oak Zimbabwe Graduate Scholarships cover 100% of course fees and a grant for living costs.
    • Eligibility: Offer-holders who are ordinarily resident in Zimbabwe or Zimbabwean nationals ordinarily resident outside of Great Britain and committed to returning to Zimbabwe on the completion of their studies to support its  future through public service.
    • Application process:  The Blavatnik School of Government scholarship questionnaire (which will be sent to everyone who receives an offer).
    • Preference will be given to students commencing a Master’s course of study in Public Policy at the University’s Blavatnik School of Government, then to other eligible students studying on a degree programme at the School. 
  • Poler Family Oxford Scholarship
    Region/country: Africa
    Scholarship source: Blavatnik School of Government

    • Amount: Full fees and a contribution towards living expenses
    • Eligibility: Outstanding candidates ordinarily resident in Africa
    • Application process: No separate application process
    • The Poler Family Oxford Scholarship is a postgraduate award for candidates ordinarily resident in Africa applying for the Master of Public Policy. It will support the top student from Africa who has demonstrated a commitment to serving others, to learning, and to contributing to the continent through public service. Candidates will demonstrate significant personal leadership potential and the highest standards of ethics, efficiency, integrity and vision. The award is made possible thanks to the generosity of the Poler Family Foundation.
  • Policy Leadership Scholarships
    Region/country: GuineaSouth AfricaMongoliaSerbiaMadagascarZambiaChilePeru
    Scholarship source: Blavatnik School of Government

    • Amount: The Policy Leadership Scholarships cover up to 100% of course fees and a grant for living costs.
    • Eligibility: Offer-holders who are nationals of Guinea, South Africa, Mongolia, Serbia, Madagascar, Zambia, Chile, or Peru, who have proven and potential academic excellence, and demonstrated leadership and impact, and an unwavering commitment to public service. The financial need of the candidates will be taken into consideration in the amount awarded.
    • Application process: The Blavatnik School of Government Scholarship Questionnaire (which will be sent to everyone who receives an offer)
       
  • Political Leadership Scholarship
    Region/country: EnglandIrelandNorthern IrelandScotlandWalesUnited Kingdom (UK)EuropeEurope (excluding UK)
    Scholarship source: Blavatnik School of Government

    • Amount: Full fees and a set amount to cover living expenses
    • Eligibility: Applicants ordinarily resident in the Republic of Ireland or the UK who have received an offer to study the MPP and are politically motivated to seek elected office in the near future
    • Application process: The Blavatnik School of Government Scholarship Questionnaire (which will be sent to everyone who receives an offer)
    • The Political Leadership Scholarship aims at improving the diversity, calibre and training of public leaders from all backgrounds in the UK and Ireland. There are up to three scholarships available each year and distributed between applicants resident in the Republic of Ireland, Northern Ireland and mainland UK or Great Britain (England, Scotland and Wales). Candidates will need to demonstrate exceptional academic merit and potential, as well as being active in party politics and having a desire to play a part in shaping future governments; they will also have a goal of contributing to government through actively seeking elected office at a local or national level within five years from graduation.
    • Read about Keir Mather's time on the MPP as a Political Leadership Scholar.
  • Refugee Academic Futures Scholarships
    Region/country: AfricaAsiaEuropeEurope (excluding UK)Latin America and the CaribbeanNorth AmericaOceaniaSouth America
    Scholarship source: University of Oxford

    The Refugee Academic Futures Scholarships offer financial support to pursue graduate study at Oxford to students who are refugees or other people with lived experience of displacement.

    • Amount: Full fees and a set amount to cover living expenses
    • Eligibility: The Refugee Academic Futures scholarships are available for applicants who have been displaced due to conflict, persecution, or other serious human rights violations or deprivations, whether within or outside their country of origin, and who hold an offer for either a one-year full-time or two-year part-time master’s degree, starting in the 2024–25 academic year. In order to be eligible for the award applicants must:
      • Hold an offer to commence a master’s degree at the University of Oxford in 2025–26 for a one-year full-time course or two-year part-time course.
      • Have been displaced within, or beyond, their home country due to conflict or violation of human rights, such as persecution. Further details will be published at the start of the application process for this scholarship.
      • Face barriers to progressing their education and have limitations on the financial support for their university studies.
      • Have not previously completed a degree at the same level (master’s) for which they are making an application.

    For further information on this scholarship visit the University’s Academic Futures webpage.

  • Rhodes Scholarship
    Region/country: AustraliaBermudaCanadaChinaAnguillaAntigua and BarbudaBahamasBarbadosBelizeBritish Virgin Islands (BVI)Cayman IslandsDominicaGrenadaGuyanaMontserratSaint LuciaSaint Kitts and NevisSaint Vincent and the GrenadinesTrinidad and TobagoTurks and Caicos IslandsUgandaTanzaniaRwandaSouth SudanBurundiGermanyHong KongIndiaIsraelJamaicaKenyaMalaysiaNew ZealandPakistanSaudi ArabiaSingaporeSouth AfricaBotswanaLesothoMalawiNamibiaSwazilandSyriaJordanLebanonPalestineUnited Arab Emirates (UAE)United States of America (USA)BeninBurkina FasoCabo VerdeGambiaGhanaGuineaGuinea-BissauCote d'IvoireLiberiaMaliMauritaniaNigerNigeriaSaint HelenaSenegalSierra LeoneSao Tome and PrincipeTogoZambiaZimbabweAfricaAsiaEuropeEurope (excluding UK)North AmericaOceaniaSouth AmericaLatin America and the Caribbean
    Scholarship source: University of Oxford

    • Amount: Full fees and a set amount to cover living expenses
    • Eligibility: Please see the Rhodes Trust website.
    • Application process: Separate application process through the Rhodes Trust – follow link for details
    • The Rhodes Scholarships are postgraduate awards supporting exceptional students from around the world to study at the University of Oxford. Rhodes's vision in founding the Scholarship was to develop outstanding leaders who would be motivated to fight 'the world's fight' and to 'esteem the performance of public duties as their highest aim' and to promote international understanding and peace.
    • Read Rafiullah Kakar's experience on the MPP as a Rhodes Scholar.
  • The Brasenose-Blavatnik-Marshall Commission Scholarship
    Region/country: United States of America (USA)North America
    Scholarship source: Blavatnik School of Government

    • Amount: Full fees and a set amount to cover living expenses
    • Eligibility: Americans of high ability that wish to study the Master of Public Policy at the Blavatnik School of Government, University of Oxford. Applicants must have applied for and be in receipt of a Marshall Scholarship (see below). Please note the deadline for applications is typically mid-late September of the year preceding tenure.
    • Application process: Firstly, applicants for the scholarship must complete the Marshall Commission application process (visit the Marshall Scholarships website for more information). Secondly, applicants must apply and be offered a place at the Blavatnik School of Government (to study the MPP). Where there is more than one Marshall Scholar offered a place on the MPP, decisions will be made informed by the Blavatnik School of Government Scholarship questionnaire (which will be sent to everyone who receives an offer) in collaboration with Brasenose College.
    • There is one Brasenose-Blavatnik-Marshall Commission Scholarship each year for students from America to join the MPP. As future leaders, with a lasting understanding of British society, Brasenose-Blavatnik-Marshall Scholars will strengthen the enduring relationship between the British and American peoples, their governments, and their institutions. Marshall Scholars are talented, independent and wide-ranging, and their time as Scholars enhances their intellectual and personal growth
  • The FirstRand Oxford Blavatnik School of Government Scholarship for a Master of Public Policy
    Region/country: South AfricaAfrica
    Scholarship source: Blavatnik School of Government

    • Amount: Full fees and a set amount to cover living expenses.
    • Eligibility: Those ordinarily resident in South Africa will be considered.
    • Application process: Firstly, applicants for the scholarship must complete the MPP course application by the January deadline. Eligible candidates should also apply for the scholarship via the FirstRand website.
    • There is one scholarship available each year.
  • The Hong Kong Jockey Club Graduate Scholarships at the University of Oxford
    Region/country: Hong KongAsia
    Scholarship source: University of Oxford

    • Amount: Full fees and a set amount to cover living expenses
    • Eligibility: The scholarships are available for applicants who are ordinarily resident and have permanent residency in Hong Kong. Selection will be based on the following criteria: academic merit; evidence of outstanding leadership and teamwork; commitment to service and improving the lives of others; and strength of character, including truth, courage, devotion to duty, empathy, social awareness, and commitment to fairness and justice.
    • Application process: Via University of Oxford application form

    The Hong Kong Jockey scholarships are funded by The Hong Kong Jockey Club Charities Trust. Since 1998, the Trust has been awarding annual scholarships at the city's tertiary institutions to students who combine outstanding academic performance with a strong commitment to serving the community.

  • The John Monash Scholarship
    Region/country: AustraliaOceania
    Scholarship source: External

    • Amount: Annual stipend of AUD $70,000 per year for up to a maximum of three years (AUD $210,000) for postgraduate study (depending on the length of the degree at a full-time study load). Support to travel to the location of your postgraduate study overseas from Australia.
    • Eligibility: Australians
    • Application process: Apply through their website between May and July for programmes starting in September.
    • John Monash Scholarships recognise excellence and leadership and celebrate one of Australia’s finest leaders: General Sir John Monash. Scholarships are awarded annually to outstanding Australian graduates to support them with postgraduate study at the world’s best universities. Successful applicants have demonstrated excellence in their field, leadership potential, and are motivated to contribute to a better Australia.
  • The Joint Japan/World Bank Graduate Scholarship Program
    Region/country: AfghanistanAlgeriaAngolaBangladeshBeninBhutanBoliviaBurkina FasoBurundiCabo VerdeCambodiaCameroonCentral African Republic (CAR)ChadComorosDemocratic Republic of the CongoRepublic of the CongoCote d'IvoireDjiboutiDominicaEgyptEl SalvadorEritreaEthiopiaFijiGambiaGhanaGrenadaGuineaGuinea-BissauGuyanaHaitiHondurasIndiaIndonesiaIranIraqKenyaKiribatiKosovoKyrgyzstanLaosLebanonLesothoLiberiaLibyaMadagascarMalawiMaldivesMaliMarshall IslandsMauritaniaMicronesiaMongoliaMoroccoMozambiqueMyanmarNepalNicaraguaNigerNigeriaPakistanPapua New GuineaPhilippinesRwandaSamoaSao Tome and PrincipeSenegalSierra LeoneSolomon IslandsSomaliaSouth SudanSri LankaSaint LuciaSaint Vincent and the GrenadinesSudanSyriaTajikistanTanzaniaTimor-LesteTogoTongaTunisiaTuvaluUgandaUkraineUzbekistanVanuatuVenezuelaVietnamPalestineYemenZambiaZimbabweSwazilandAfricaAsiaEuropeEurope (excluding UK)North AmericaSouth AmericaOceania
    Scholarship source: External

    • The Joint Japan/World Bank Graduate Scholarship Program (JJ/WBGSP) is open to applicants from certain developing countries with relevant professional experience and a history of supporting their countries' development efforts who are applying to a master's degree programme in a development-related topic.
    • The Master of Public Policy is a Participating Programme accepting applications under Window 2 of the scheme. This means the Blavatnik School of Government is allowed to select a number of nominees who are invited to apply to this scholarship. If you are successful in receiving an offer for the MPP then you will be considered for a potential nomination to this award and will receive further instructions on how to apply.
    • After earning their degree, developing country scholars commit to return to their home country to use their new skills and contribute to their countries social and economic development.
  • The Oxford Lebanon Master of Public Policy Graduate Scholarship
    Region/country: LebanonAsiaMiddle East
    Scholarship source: Blavatnik School of Government

    • Amount: Full fees and a set amount to cover living expenses.
    • Eligibility: Those ordinarily resident in Lebanon will be considered. Candidates must demonstrate a clear commitment to returning to and supporting Lebanon.
    • Application process: Firstly, applicants for the scholarship must complete the MPP course application by the January deadline and those that meet the criteria must complete the Blavatnik School of Government scholarship questionnaire (which will be sent to everyone eligible who receives an MPP offer).
    • There is one scholarship available each year.
  • Vicky Noon Education Foundation Oxford Scholarship
    Region/country: PakistanAsia
    Scholarship source: University of Oxford

    • Amount: The size and duration of awards vary according to each scholar's circumstances. The scholarship is jointly funded by the University and the Vicky Noon Educational Foundation.
    • Eligibility: Up to two full/partial scholarships are available for applicants who are ordinarily resident in Pakistan. You should be intending to return to Pakistan once your course is completed. If you have previously studied outside Pakistan you will not normally be considered unless there are exceptional circumstances which explain why you have studied abroad.
    • Application process: To be considered for this scholarship, submit your application for graduate study by the relevant January deadline. If you are eligible for this scholarship, you will be contacted by email in April and asked to submit a short statement setting out how you intend to contribute to Pakistan on your return, and how your studies in Oxford will help with this. Only applicants who submit the statement will be considered for the scholarship.
    • Selection is expected to take place in July.
    • Read about Batool Asadi's time as a Vicky Noon Scholar on the MPP.
  • Weidenfeld-Hoffmann Scholarship and Leadership Programme
    Region/country: AfricaAsiaEuropeEurope (excluding UK)North AmericaOceaniaSouth AmericaAfghanistanAlbaniaAlgeriaAngolaAntigua and BarbudaArgentinaArmeniaAzerbaijanBahamasBahrainBangladeshBarbadosBelarusBelizeBeninBhutanBoliviaBosnia and HerzegovinaBotswanaBrazilBruneiBulgariaBurkina FasoBurundiCambodiaCameroonCabo VerdeCentral African Republic (CAR)ChadChileChinaHong KongMacauColombiaComorosDemocratic Republic of the CongoRepublic of the CongoCosta RicaCote d'IvoireCroatiaCubaCyprusCzech RepublicDjiboutiDominicaDominican RepublicEcuadorEgyptEl SalvadorEquatorial GuineaEritreaEstoniaEthiopiaFijiFrench GuianaGabonGambiaGeorgiaGhanaGrenadaGuatemalaGuineaGuinea-BissauGuyanaHaitiHondurasHungaryIndiaIndonesiaIranIraqIsraelJamaicaJapanJordanKazakhstanKenyaKiribatiNorth KoreaSouth KoreaKosovoKuwaitKyrgyzstanLaosLatviaLebanonLesothoLiberiaLibyaLithuaniaMacedoniaMadagascarMalawiMalaysiaMaldivesMaliMarshall IslandsMauritaniaMauritiusMexicoMicronesiaMoldovaMongoliaMontenegroMoroccoMozambiqueMyanmarNamibiaNauruNepalNigerNigeriaOmanPakistanPalauPalestinePanamaPapua New GuineaParaguayPeruPhilippinesPolandQatarRéunionRomaniaRussiaRwandaSaint HelenaSamoaSao Tome and PrincipeSaudi ArabiaSenegalSerbiaSeychellesSierra LeoneSingaporeSlovakiaSloveniaSolomon IslandsSomaliaSouth AfricaSouth SudanSri LankaSaint Kitts and NevisSaint LuciaSaint Vincent and the GrenadinesSudanSurinameSwazilandSyriaTaiwanTajikistanTanzaniaThailandTimor-LesteTogoTongaTrinidad and TobagoTunisiaTurkeyTurkmenistanTuvaluUgandaUkraineUnited Arab Emirates (UAE)UruguayUzbekistanVanuatuVenezuelaVietnamWestern SaharaYemenZambiaZimbabwe
    Scholarship source: University of Oxford

    • Amount: Full fees and a set amount to cover living expenses
    • Eligibility: Various by country residency
    • Application process: Via questionnaire and University of Oxford application form – follow link for details
    • The Weidenfeld-Hoffmann Scholarships and Leadership Programme cultivates the leaders of tomorrow by providing outstanding university graduates and professionals from developing and emerging economies with the opportunity to pursue fully-funded graduate studies at the University of Oxford, combined with a comprehensive programme of leadership development, long-term mentoring and networking. There are two scholarship schemes for which MPP applicants are eligible: the Weidenfeld-Hoffmann Scholarship and the Louis Dreyfus-Weidenfeld Scholarship.

    Read about Rusudan Kemularia’s time as a Weidenfeld-Hoffmann Scholar.

In addition, we are aware that students from the US coming to the MPP would be eligible for the Fulbright Scholarship, and Truman Scholarships.

This is not an exhaustive list – if you know of publicly funded scholarships for studying at the University of Oxford in your country, please let us know. You can find all types of scholarships on the International Scholarship website.

If you are in contact with an external funding body who would like to liaise with us directly please contact the Admissions team, who will be happy to give advice or provide a letter of support for an external funding application.

Nikunj Agarwal

Having a fully funded scholarship has meant I can focus my energies on the MPP programme. Without it I don’t think I would be here.

Nikunj Agarwal, Chevening Scholar, MPP Class of 2021
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Feel at home in Oxford

With its medieval colleges, stunning nature reserves and unbeatable cultural activities, living in Oxford will be one of the highlights of your year on the Master of Public Policy (MPP).