Applications are open for the BackPack Excellence Scholarship for Women at IMD, offering full MBA funding plus living expenses. Apply below:
Application Deadline:
The application deadline is 14 July 2026..
Tell Me About The IMD Business School Scholarships for Women:
The BackPack-Excellence Scholarship for Women exists to create a fairer playing field for talented and driven women who have faced obstacles that made an MBA feel out of reach, whether financial constraints, family responsibilities, or past disruptions in their professional path.
By supporting women with leadership potential but limited ability to realize opportunities, this scholarship provides the skills, network, and confidence to lead with impact in business, public life, and beyond.
This scholarship is about empowering women to step forward as leaders, opening doors to new possibilities, and creating a ripple effect for others.
Which Fields are Eligible?
All fields related to the MBA program at IMD Business School are eligible.
Type:
MBA Scholarship
Who can Apply for the IMD Business School Scholarships for Women?
Also, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Women with strong leadership potential who have faced financial or personal challenges that made pursuing an MBA difficult.
- Applicants must not be sponsored by their company.
- Open to applicants applying to the IMD MBA program.
How are Applicants Selected?
- Candidates will be shortlisted based on:
- Their academic and professional achievements
- Demonstrated leadership potential
- Passion for addressing meaningful challenges in their community or beyond
- Embodiment of the BackPack Foundation’s values: share, dare, and care
- Shortlisted candidates will be invited to a BackPack assessment.
- The final selection will also consider the applicant’s vision for impact and leadership post-MBA
Required Documents
- Completed MBA application form (includes scholarship section)
- A 500-word essay on the topic:
“What pressing challenge, whether in your community or more broadly, are you most passionate about addressing? How do you think a BackPack-supported MBA at IMD will enable you to contribute to addressing that challenge?” - A 90–120 second video describing a moment where you embodied one or more of the BackPack values: share, dare, care
- (If video submission is difficult, contact admissions: [email protected])
Which Countries Are Eligible?
All countries
Where will the Award be Taken?
IMD Business School, located in Switzerland.
How Many Awards?
Not specified
What is the Benefit of the Award?
The scholarship covers:
- Full tuition scholarship
- Living expenses covered
How Long Will the Award Last?
Duration of program
How to Apply:
- Apply through the scholarship section.
- Submit the required essay and video.
- Ensure you apply before the 15 July deadline.
Visit the Application Webpage for Details
