Backpack-Excellence Scholarships for Women in Switzerland are now available for ambitious international women applying to the prestigious IMD MBA program. Offered by the BackPack Foundation in collaboration with IMD, this scholarship aims to empower women who have experienced financial hardship, career disruptions, or personal challenges that have hindered their professional growth. Check also: ETH Zurich Postdoctoral Fellowship 2026 in Switzerland | Fully Funded
This fully funded opportunity is designed for women with outstanding leadership potential who are not company-sponsored and are ready to advance their careers through world-class education. To apply, candidates must submit a compelling essay and a video presentation, demonstrating resilience, ambition, and commitment to leadership. Check also: EPFL CYD Fellowship 2025-26 in Switzerland | Fully Funded
Benefits of Backpack-Excellence Scholarships for Women
- Full coverage of IMD MBA tuition fees
- Living expenses during the program
- Access to the IMD leadership development network
- Opportunity to join a community of driven women leaders supported by the BackPack Foundation
- Personal and professional growth to enable high-impact leadership.
Check also: UNITAR Traineeship 2025 in Switzerland (€964/Month)
Eligibility for Backpack-Excellence Scholarships for Women
- Eligible Countries: All nationalities
- Acceptable Course or Subjects: The scholarship will be awarded for the MBA program offered by IMD.
- Admissible Criteria: To be eligible, applicants must:
- Be women applying for the IMD MBA program
- Demonstrate exceptional talent and leadership potential
- Have faced obstacles such as financial limitations, family responsibilities, or disruptions in their professional journey
- Not be company-sponsored
- Submit a compelling scholarship essay and video as part of the application process.
- Check also: List of Summer Programs in Switzerland 2025 | Fully Funded
How to Apply for Backpack-Excellence Scholarships for Women
To apply for the Backpack-Excellence Scholarships for Women in Switzerland | Fully Funded, candidates must complete the application process through the IMD MBA admissions portal. This scholarship is designed to empower women who are passionate about driving change in their communities and beyond.
Follow these steps to apply:
- Start your application via the IMD MBA Program admissions form. Be sure to indicate interest in the Backpack-Excellence Scholarship during the process.
- Submit a compelling 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?” - Upload a 90–120 second video showing how you embody one or more of the core values: Share, Dare, and Care. If you’re unable to submit a video, contact admissions via [email protected] for alternatives.
- Participate in a BackPack assessment if shortlisted. Selected candidates will be invited for this step after initial evaluation.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
The BackPack‑Excellence Scholarship for Women awards CHF 133,500 in full funding for IMD’s MBA to one woman in 2025 who’s faced barriers like financial hardship or disrupted careers. Applicants need a 500‑word essay, a values video, and must complete a BackPack assessment.
What is the BackPack‑Excellence Scholarship for Women?
The BackPack‑Excellence Scholarship for Women is a full scholarship covering IMD’s MBA tuition and living expenses for one talented woman who’s overcome financial, career, or personal obstacles, empowering her to become a future leader in business or public sectors.
Who is eligible for this scholarship?
Female candidates eligible for the IMD MBA programme may apply. Priority is given to women who have faced financial constraints, family duties, or career disruptions that made pursuing an MBA feel out of reach, and who demonstrate strong leadership potential.
How much funding does the scholarship provide?
The scholarship grants CHF 133,500, covering full tuition, living costs, and additional fees for the IMD one‑year MBA, ensuring recipients can access the programme without financial burden while focusing on leadership development.
What is the application deadline?
Applications are accepted throughout 2025 until the scholarship is allocated, with the specific deadline indicated in IMD’s MBA scholarship form—applicants are encouraged to apply early to maximize their chances of success.
How can I apply for it?
To apply, fill in the Scholarships & Bursaries section of your MBA application. Submit a 500‑word essay on a pressing challenge you’re passionate about, plus a 90–120‑second video demonstrating your alignment with the values “share, dare, and care.”
What is assessed after submission?
Shortlisted candidates are invited to a BackPack assessment. Scholarships are non‑cumulative; applicants may apply to several, but only receive one. Company‑sponsored candidates are not eligible, so self‑funded applicants have priority.
What qualities do selectors look for?
Selectors seek committed leaders with a sense of purpose and drive to create positive change. Candidates should show resilience in overcoming obstacles, alignment with BackPack values, and ambition to catalyse social impact through leadership roles.
Does the scholarship include mentorship?
Yes. In addition to funding, the recipient benefits from ongoing mentoring support throughout the MBA and beyond. IMD and the BackPack Foundation provide guidance on leadership, career growth, and impact-making after graduation.
How has this scholarship impacted past recipients?
Recipients like the 2023 and 2024 scholars have reported transformative growth: gaining confidence, career clarity, and a supportive community. They’ve become role models, paying it forward by helping other women pursue MBAs and leadership roles.
Can I apply if my career was interrupted?
Absolutely. The scholarship is designed for women whose careers or education were disrupted, whether due to family, financial hardship, or other barriers. These applicants are prioritized, as resilience and potential are core selection criteria.
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