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

Overall, the programme provides Scholars with the knowledge, skills and international networks necessary to contribute optimally to public life in their countries and regions of origin and to build lasting professional linkages across cultures and continents.

The Weidenfeld Leadership Programme includes:  

• an annual ten day long Leadership and Public Policy Seminar including conferences, moderated discussions and workshops on political philosophy and leadership development;
• practical skills training in public speaking, conflict management and decision making;
• an annual European Study Tour;
• engagement in the Institute’s projects and conferences;
• an annual Weidenfeld Debate;
• a public policy analysis training for a selected group of Scholars long-term professional mentoring; and
• a myriad of networking opportunities throughout the year.

The programme is managed by the Institute for Strategic Dialogue (ISD). The ISD is an independent think tank working with leaders in government, business, media and academia to develop multi-country responses to the major security and socio-economic challenges of our time and to enhance Europe’s capacity to act effectively in the global arena. 

Activities include research, specialised task forces, high level policy briefings, scholarships and cross border networks that foster leadership and stability across Europe and its wider neighbourhood, actively bridging inter-communal, religious, socio-economic and political divides.

What does it cover?

100% of university and college fees, and a grant for living costs (the rate in 2010-11 was £13,500)

Awards are made for the full duration of a student’s fee liability for the agreed course.  If your scholarship is offered for a course lasting more than one year, the continuation of your scholarship each year is subject to an annual renewal process based on satisfactory academic progress.