London Business School (LBS) is globally recognised for academic excellence, leadership development, and a strong commitment to diversity and inclusion. One of the key ways the School supports gender diversity in business leadership is through a wide range of MBA scholarships for women, designed to reduce financial barriers and empower talented female professionals from around the world.
This comprehensive guide explores London Business School MBA Scholarships for Women, covering available funding opportunities, eligibility criteria, application process, benefits, selection considerations, and expert tips to help you maximise your chances of success.
Introduction to Women-Focused Scholarships at London Business School
Despite progress, women remain underrepresented in senior leadership and executive roles worldwide. LBS actively addresses this gap by offering targeted scholarships for women pursuing its MBA programme, alongside merit-based and need-based awards that women applicants frequently receive.
These scholarships aim to:
-
Increase female representation in the MBA classroom
-
Support women with strong leadership potential
-
Promote gender equity in global business leadership
-
Empower women to pursue ambitious career goals
Women typically make up 40–45% of the LBS MBA cohort, reflecting the School’s sustained investment in gender balance.
Overview of the London Business School MBA Programme
Before exploring the scholarships, it is important to understand the MBA programme they support.
Key Features of the LBS MBA
-
Duration: 15–21 months (flexible exit points)
-
Location: London, United Kingdom
-
Format: Full-time, highly flexible
-
Class Profile: Highly international, with students from 60+ countries
-
Focus Areas: Leadership, global business, entrepreneurship, finance, strategy, and innovation
The LBS MBA is consistently ranked among the top MBA programmes globally, making its scholarships highly competitive and prestigious.
Major London Business School MBA Scholarships for Women
LBS offers both women-specific scholarships and broader MBA awards that strongly support female candidates. Below are the most relevant funding options.
1. LBS Women’s Scholarships
Overview
The LBS Women’s Scholarships are specifically designed to encourage outstanding women to pursue an MBA at London Business School and to help close the gender gap in business leadership.
Key Objectives
-
Support women with strong leadership potential
-
Encourage diversity of thought, background, and experience
-
Enable women to access world-class business education
Award Value
-
Typically ranges from £25,000 to £50,000
-
In some cases, awards may be higher depending on merit and need
Eligibility Criteria
-
Female applicants admitted to the LBS MBA programme
-
Demonstrated leadership potential
-
Strong academic and professional background
-
Commitment to supporting women in business and leadership
Selection Criteria
-
Academic excellence
-
Professional achievements
-
Leadership experience and future impact
-
Contribution to diversity within the LBS community
2. Forte Foundation Fellowship (LBS Partner School)
Overview
London Business School is a long-standing partner of the Forté Foundation, a global organisation dedicated to advancing women in business education and leadership.
Benefits
-
Tuition scholarships (amount varies annually)
-
Access to Forté leadership conferences and networking events
-
Exclusive career resources and mentorship
-
Membership in a global community of high-achieving women
Eligibility
-
Female candidates admitted to the LBS MBA
-
Strong leadership profile and career progression
-
Commitment to advancing women in business
Why This Matters
The Forté Fellowship is one of the most prestigious recognitions for women in MBA programmes worldwide and significantly enhances career visibility.
3. LBS Leadership Scholarships (Women Strongly Encouraged)
Overview
While not exclusively for women, Leadership Scholarships at LBS frequently support female candidates with exceptional leadership track records.
Award Value
-
Typically £25,000–£50,000
Evaluation Focus
-
Leadership impact at work or in the community
-
Initiative, resilience, and influence
-
Clear leadership vision post-MBA
Women with strong leadership stories are highly competitive for these awards.
4. Merit-Based MBA Scholarships (Highly Relevant for Women)
Overview
LBS offers a wide range of merit-based MBA scholarships, many of which are awarded to women based on excellence rather than gender alone.
Typical Award Range
-
£20,000–£50,000+
Selection Factors
-
Academic strength
-
GMAT/GRE performance
-
Professional achievements
-
International exposure and leadership
High-performing female candidates often receive multiple scholarship considerations automatically upon admission.
5. Need-Based Financial Support and Bursaries
Overview
LBS recognises that financial constraints disproportionately affect women globally. As a result, need-based awards are available alongside merit scholarships.
Coverage
-
Partial tuition support
-
Consideration of personal and family financial circumstances
Applicants may be required to submit financial information to support their request.
Eligibility Criteria for LBS MBA Scholarships for Women
While each scholarship has unique requirements, most share the following core criteria:
-
Admission to the London Business School MBA programme
-
Strong academic background
-
Competitive GMAT or GRE score
-
Professional experience with leadership exposure
-
Clear career goals and post-MBA vision
-
Demonstrated contribution to diversity and inclusion
There is no separate application for many scholarships—eligible candidates are automatically considered once admitted.
How to Apply for LBS MBA Scholarships for Women
Step 1: Apply to the LBS MBA Programme
-
Submit a complete MBA application
-
Meet all academic and professional requirements
Step 2: Indicate Scholarship Interest
-
Answer scholarship-related questions in the application form
-
Highlight leadership, impact, and diversity contributions
Step 3: Submit Additional Essays (If Required)
Some scholarships may require:
-
A short scholarship essay
-
Personal impact or leadership statement
Step 4: Interview and Admission
-
Scholarships are awarded after admission
-
Some awards may require additional interviews or assessments
Key Deadlines to Note
-
Scholarships are awarded on a rolling basis
-
Early application rounds significantly improve funding chances
-
Women applicants are strongly encouraged to apply in Rounds 1 or 2
Applying early maximises access to:
-
Higher-value awards
-
Multiple scholarship opportunities
Tips to Maximise Your Scholarship Chances
1. Apply Early
Earlier rounds have more funding available and less competition.
2. Showcase Leadership Beyond Job Titles
Highlight:
-
Initiative
-
Influence
-
Problem-solving
-
Community or social impact
3. Tell a Compelling Personal Story
Explain:
-
Barriers you’ve overcome
-
Why the MBA matters to your journey
-
How you’ll create impact post-MBA
4. Emphasise Contribution to Women in Business
Demonstrate:
-
Mentorship roles
-
Advocacy
-
Support for diversity and inclusion
5. Prepare Strong Recommendations
Choose referees who can:
-
Speak about your leadership and growth
-
Provide concrete examples of impact
Career Impact of LBS MBA Scholarships for Women
Recipients of LBS MBA scholarships often go on to careers in:
-
Consulting (McKinsey, BCG, Bain)
-
Finance and Investment Banking
-
Technology and Product Management
-
Entrepreneurship and Startups
-
Social Impact and Nonprofits
-
Senior leadership and executive roles
Beyond financial support, scholars benefit from:
-
Enhanced professional credibility
-
Strong alumni and mentor networks
-
Leadership development opportunities
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Are LBS MBA scholarships for women fully funded?
Most scholarships are partial, but they significantly reduce tuition costs.
Can international women apply?
Yes. LBS scholarships are open to women from all nationalities.
Is a separate application required?
Many scholarships are automatic, but some may require additional essays.
Can I receive more than one scholarship?
In some cases, yes—subject to LBS funding policies.
Final Thoughts
The London Business School MBA Scholarships for Women represent a powerful commitment to developing the next generation of female business leaders. By combining financial support, leadership recognition, and access to a global network, these scholarships enable women to pursue ambitious goals without being limited by cost.
For women seeking a top-tier MBA with strong institutional support for gender diversity, London Business School stands out as one of the best options globally.
