International Institute for Management Development (IMD) - Backpack-Excellence Scholarship for Women

Opening doors to leadership

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.

How to apply?

• Please complete the Scholarships and Bursaries form found under the Financial Planning section of your MBA applicationform.
• Submit a 500-word essay: “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
• Share, dare and care are the fundamental values guiding every step of the BackPack Foundation. In a 90-120 second video, please describe a moment when you embodied one or more of these values. (In case of difficulty submitting a video please contact admissions.mba@imd.org)
• Shortlisted candidates will be invited to a BackPack assessment.
• Please note that you may apply for multiple scholarships, however scholarships are non-cumulative, therefore you will not be selected for more than one. In addition. scholarships are reserved for those who are not sponsored by their company.

ABOUT US

Relevant. Practical. Impactful. Real.

You’re ambitious, driven, and ready to accelerate your career to the next level. You want a hands-on, practical program that empowers you to make a positive impact. You aim to lead with confidence, authenticity, and purpose, gaining skills that are directly applicable to real-world challenges. And you’re looking to join a connected global community that will expand your perspectives and increase your opportunities. 

At IMD, we are committed to helping you achieve your goals. Our new future-oriented MBA curriculum combines renowned leadership development with the latest award-winning AI technology and hands-on experiential learning that bridges theory with practice. You’ll go beyond functional business knowledge to be equipped with the transversal skills and experience that are needed to navigate and thrive in this changing world.

During this intensive 12-month program you’ll tackle real business challenges, collaborate on projects with top companies, work with personal coaches, expand your global awareness during an immersive month at our Future Lab in Singapore, and develop in-demand skills like critical thinking, effective problem-solving, and confident decision-making. 

When you graduate, you’ll be positioned to become a real leader. Guided by integrity and driven by purpose, you’ll be ready for leadership that inspires teams and organizations to shape the future of business and make a real impact.