Weidenfeld-Hoffmann Scholarships & Leadership Programme

The Weidenfeld-Hoffmann Scholarships & Leadership Programme cultivates the leaders of tomorrow by providing outstanding university graduates and young professionals from emerging and transitional economies with the opportunity to pursue fully-funded graduate studies at the University of Oxford, combined with a specially created programme of leadership development, long-term mentoring and networking.

The Leadership Programme equips Scholars with the knowledge, skills and networks they will require to contribute optimally to public life in their countries and regions of origin and to build lasting professional links across cultures and continents.

The Weidenfeld-Hoffmann Scholarships and Leadership Programme is recognised as one of the most distinguished and diverse scholarship programmes at Oxford. Since its foundation in 2007, the Programme has supported 216 Weidenfeld Scholars (including the current 2016-17 cohort) originating from 63 countries and studying across over 30 different academic departments at Oxford.

How to apply

To qualify for any of the schemes within the Weidenfeld-Hoffmann Trust's Scholarships Programme, potential scholars must be admitted to an eligible graduate course at the University of Oxford. They should also be ordinary residents in one of the selected countries. 

There are currently three schemes within the Weidenfeld-Hoffmann Scholarships and Leadership Programme:

- the Oxford-Weidenfeld and Hoffmann Scholarships and Leadership Programme

- the Louis Dreyfus-Weidenfeld and Hoffmann Scholarships and Leadership Programme

- the Weidenfeld-Hoffmann Scholarships and Leadership Programme

Applicants should be aware that it is acceptable to apply to more than one, or all three, scholarships.

Annual Applications Cycle

SEPTEMBER:

Applications for university entry and the Weidenfeld-Hoffmann Scholarships should be submitted online to the University of Oxford’s Graduate Admissions and Funding Office. 

Applicants should apply to their chosen course at the University of Oxford and the Weidenfeld-Hoffmann Scholarships and Leadership Programme simultaneously.

JANUARY - FEBRUARY: APPLICATION DEADLINES AND OXFORD’S SELECTION PROCESS

Application deadlines vary according to course  

Candidates’ applications are first assessed by the University of Oxford.

Only candidates accepted to their selected course at the University of Oxford are eligible for Weidenfeld-Hoffman Trusts’ scholarship selection.

MARCH - MAY: SCHOLARSHIP SELECTION PROCESS 

 Interviews for shortlisted candidates will be held via Skype. Assessment is based on the selection criteria detailed on this page.

 The interview committee consists of Weidenfeld-Hoffmann Trusts’ representatives, as well as Louis Dreyfus’ or the University of Oxford’s representatives, when applicable.

In May, successful applicants are informed by the University of Oxford.

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER: INDUCTION AND START OF TERM

Shortly before the start of the academic year, the new cohort of Weidenfeld-Hoffmann Scholars assembles in Oxford for an Induction and Welcome event, combined with the Moral Philosophy Seminar.

Classes at the University of Oxford begin in early/mid-October (start dates vary depending on course).

Selection Criteria

Applications will be assessed against the following three areas, as demonstrated in the course application, scholarship application questionnaire and (for shortlisted candidates) at interview.

1. MOTIVATION AND PURPOSE

a. Relevance of proposed course of study to future professional objectives
b. Excellence in extra-curricular/professional activities
c. Demonstrable commitment to beneficial social, economic or political change at a local, national, regional or international level

 2. LEADERSHIP POTENTIAL

Evidence of possession from extra-curricular and/or professional experience of:
a. Leadership skills such as communication skills, interpersonal skills, strategic thinking, teamwork;
b. Leadership qualities such as initiative, commitment, responsibility, originality, creativity, risk-taking.

3. ACADEMIC EXCELLENCE AND POTENTIAL

Indicators of high academic achievement will include:
a. degree results;
b. individual marks on student transcripts;
c. evidence of previous university prizes or awards;
d. information on the student’s overall position within their cohort;
e. academic references; and
f. publications (if applicable).

COMMITMENT TO THE PROGRAMME

 Scholars are required to commit to all compulsory events organised by the Weidenfeld-Hoffmann Trust, which include our pre-term residential Moral Philosophy Seminar, a residential practical skills workshop in December, and a one-day Annual Leadership Forum in June.

Scholars are also expected to prioritise and participate in other programmes organised by the Weidenfeld-Hoffmann Trust during the academic year to the best of their ability.

Tips for a successful application

SATISFACTION OF ASSESSMENT CRITERIA

Applicants should clearly explicate their motivations, leadership potential, and academic excellence in their applications. Evidence of past experience, successes, and future professional direction are encouraged.

DURING THE INTERVIEW

Clear motivation: Shortlisted candidates should demonstrate strong motivation for their choice of course and its relevance to their future professional objectives.

 Proven leadership: Shortlisted candidates should demonstrate their leadership skills and qualities with specific evidence, explicating their actions’ impact and significance.

Scholarship understanding: Shortlisted candidates should demonstrate an understanding of Weidenfeld-Hoffmann Trusts’ commitment and activities.
Technical matters: Interviews are conducted via Skype. Reliable Internet, a working camera on the computer, and a quiet and uninterrupted environment ensure that the interview goes smoothly.

Click here for further scholarship details and application