Imagine securing a place at one of the world’s top universities, studying a highly ranked MSc Finance programme in the heart of London’s financial centre, without the weight of tuition fees or living costs holding you back. The Empowering Futures Scholarship at Imperial College Business School turns this possibility into reality for exceptional candidates who have overcome significant financial challenges or are the first in their family to attend university.
This prestigious postgraduate taught scholarship, provides full tuition fees plus a maintenance grant to support living expenses. It is available to both Home and Overseas students studying full-time. Created in partnership with MUFG Investor Services, the scholarship reflects a deep commitment to widening access to world-class finance education.
This comprehensive guide explains everything you need to know about the scholarship so you can evaluate whether it matches your profile and prepare effectively for next cycles or similar opportunities at Imperial College London.
Scholarship Summary
- Host Country: UK
- Host University: Imperial College London
- Scholarship Type: MSC Scholarships
- Eligible Countries: All Countries
- Scholarship Benefits: Full tuition fee, Living stipend, etc.
What Makes the Empowering Futures Scholarship Unique?
Unlike many funding options that focus solely on academic merit, this scholarship specifically targets high-achieving students who have demonstrated resilience in the face of financial disadvantage or who are first-generation university students. It recognises that talent exists everywhere, but opportunity does not always follow the same path.
The award is available exclusively to applicants of the MSc Finance programme at Imperial College Business School. It is not open to students already enrolled on the course — only new entrants qualify.
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Beyond the substantial financial support, recipients gain access to personalised mentoring and coaching from experienced leaders at MUFG Investor Services. This industry connection provides real-world insights, professional development, and networking opportunities that extend far beyond the classroom. The scholarship was inspired by John Sergides, Chief Executive of MUFG Investor Services and an Imperial College London alumnus, who champions educational access and opportunity.
Why the MSc Finance Programme at Imperial College Business School Stands Out
Imperial College London consistently ranks among the very best universities globally. In the QS World University Rankings 2026, it placed 2nd in the world and 1st in the UK and Europe.
The Business School’s MSc Finance programme is equally well-regarded. It features in the top tier of the Financial Times Masters in Finance rankings and attracts ambitious students seeking careers in investment banking, asset management, fintech, consulting, and corporate finance.
Key highlights of the programme include:
- One-year full-time format (with an optional extended work placement route)
- Start date in August 2026 for the 2026/2027 academic year (If you missed the 2026/2027 academic year, you can start now to prepare for the next academic year).
- Strong quantitative focus that aligns perfectly with the scholarship’s emphasis on academic excellence in quantitative disciplines
- Location in South Kensington, London — one of the world’s leading financial hubs
- Outstanding career outcomes: 93% of the Class of 2024 were employed within six months of graduation
Graduates secure roles with leading employers in investment banking, asset management, and consultancy. The programme’s reputation, combined with London’s unparalleled access to global finance networks, creates powerful career momentum. Tuition fees for the 12-month programme stand at £51,000, making the full-fee coverage offered by the Empowering Futures Scholarship exceptionally valuable.
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Eligibility Criteria for Empowering Futures Scholarship At Imperial College: Who Should Apply?
The scholarship targets academically outstanding students from financially disadvantaged backgrounds or those who are first-generation university students. Applicants must meet all of the following criteria:
- Strong academic background and potential for future success — A first-class or upper second-class honours degree (or international equivalent) in a highly quantitative subject such as Mathematics, Engineering, Economics, Finance, or Science is typically expected.
- Track record of professional excellence — Demonstrated through internships, work experience, or leadership roles. Finance-related experience is advantageous but not mandatory if you can show transferable skills and achievement.
- Exceptional communication skills — Particularly important during the scholarship video assessment and interview stages.
- Ability to articulate overcoming financial challenges or first-generation experiences — This is a core element. The scholarship values authentic stories of resilience and determination.
The programme welcomes both UK (Home) and international (Overseas) applicants who fit this profile. Previous recipient Bruna Travassos, the first scholar under this initiative, described herself as a financially disadvantaged and first-generation student who overcame barriers to education. She highlighted how the scholarship removed financial pressure, allowing her to focus fully on her studies while gaining invaluable mentorship.
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The Application Process for Empowering Futures Scholarship At Imperial College: Step by Step Guide
Applicants must first apply and receive an offer for the MSc Finance programme through Imperial College’s online admissions portal. Only candidates who apply in admission Round 1 or Round 2 and receive an offer are invited to complete a video assessment as part of the scholarship application.
Notification timelines for scholarship decisions were:
- Round 1: Week commencing Monday 15 December
- Round 2: Week commencing Monday 30 March
Because the 2026/2027 scholarship deadline has now passed, anyone considering this opportunity for future years should monitor the official Imperial scholarships page closely. The process rewards thorough preparation, particularly around the video assessment where communication skills and your personal story of overcoming challenges are evaluated.
Relevant links to explore:
- Official Empowering Futures Scholarship page: https://www.imperial.ac.uk/study/fees-and-funding/scholarships-search/empowering-futures-scholarship-20262027.php
- MSc Finance programme details: https://www.imperial.ac.uk/business-school/masters/finance/
- Imperial College Business School admissions: https://www.imperial.ac.uk/business-school/masters/finance/admissions/
- Broader Imperial scholarships search
How to Build a Strong Application
Successful candidates typically demonstrate:
- Excellent academic performance in quantitative subjects
- Meaningful professional or extracurricular achievements
- Clear, compelling communication in the video assessment
- An authentic, specific narrative about financial barriers they have overcome or their experience as a first-generation student
Preparation tips include practising clear and concise video responses, reflecting deeply on your journey, and connecting your goals in finance to the opportunities the scholarship and Imperial’s network can provide. The mentoring component with MUFG leaders adds significant long-term value, making the scholarship far more than just financial support.
The Real Impact: More Than Just Funding
Recipients describe the scholarship as life-changing. It removes financial stress, enabling full focus on academic and professional development. The personalised coaching from senior MUFG professionals offers industry perspectives that complement the rigorous MSc Finance curriculum. Networking events and ambassador opportunities further enhance leadership and communication skills.
For students from backgrounds where higher education was never guaranteed, this combination of funding, mentorship, and recognition of their resilience creates both immediate security and lasting career advantages.
Final Thoughts
The Empowering Futures Scholarship represents a powerful commitment by Imperial College Business School and MUFG Investor Services to support talented individuals whose potential might otherwise be limited by financial circumstances. While the 2026/2027 cycle has closed, the information in this guide will help you assess your fit and prepare a compelling application for future opportunities. Start preparing NOW. To know when the next cycle opens or If you have any additional questions, please contact business.school@imperial.ac.uk.
If your background includes academic excellence in a quantitative field, professional experience or internships, strong communication skills, and a story of overcoming financial challenges or being first in your family to pursue higher education, this scholarship (or similar future awards) could be the catalyst that transforms your career trajectory in finance.
For the latest updates on Imperial College scholarships and postgraduate funding, visit the official pages linked above regularly. Thorough research and early preparation are the best strategies for maximising your chances with competitive awards like this one.