Application Deadline: 31 March 2026
Are you passionate about global change, sustainable development, and leadership? Do you dream of studying in Europe while making a real contribution to the world’s most pressing challenges? The Ban Ki-moon Scholarship 2026 offers a unique opportunity to combine high-quality European education with a strong commitment to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Offered under the patronage of Ban Ki-moon, the 8th Secretary-General of the United Nations, this prestigious scholarship supports outstanding students from around the world to study at MCI | The Entrepreneurial School® in Innsbruck, Austria. Through this program, scholars are empowered to become responsible leaders, innovators, and changemakers equipped to shape a more sustainable and inclusive future.
About the Ban Ki-moon Scholarship
The Ban Ki-moon Scholarship was established to honor the legacy and vision of Ban Ki-moon, whose leadership at the United Nations emphasized global cooperation, peace, education, and sustainable development. The scholarship aims to support students who demonstrate strong academic ability, leadership potential, and a clear commitment to advancing the UN Sustainable Development Goals through their studies and future careers.
Rather than focusing solely on academic excellence, the scholarship places strong emphasis on purpose-driven education—encouraging students to align their professional ambitions with social responsibility, innovation, and global impact.
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Host Institution: MCI | The Entrepreneurial School (Austria)
The scholarship is hosted by MCI | The Entrepreneurial School®, located in Innsbruck, Austria, one of Europe’s most livable and student-friendly cities. MCI is internationally recognized for its practice-oriented approach to education, blending academic theory with real-world application, entrepreneurship, and innovation.
MCI offers a modern learning environment with:
- Strong links to industry and global partners
- Innovative teaching methods
- International faculty and student community
- A focus on entrepreneurship, leadership, and applied research
Studying at MCI provides students with both European academic excellence and practical skills needed in today’s global workforce.
Programmes Covered by the Scholarship
The Ban Ki-moon Scholarship 2026 supports a wide range of study levels and disciplines, allowing students from diverse academic backgrounds to apply.
Eligible Study Levels
- Bachelor’s Degree Programmes
- Master’s Degree Programmes
- Executive MBA (EMBA) Programmes
Fields of Study Include
- Business and Management
- Innovation and Entrepreneurship
- Engineering and Technology
- Information Technology and Digital Transformation
- Health Sciences and Life Sciences
- Tourism and Hospitality Management
- Sustainability and Applied Sciences
All programmes emphasize innovation, responsible leadership, and alignment with global sustainability challenges.
Scholarship Funding and Benefits
The Ban Ki-moon Scholarship provides financial support of up to €13,500 per year, which is applied toward tuition fees at MCI.
What the Scholarship Covers:
- Partial tuition fee support (up to €13,500 annually)
- Recognition as a Ban Ki-moon Scholar
- Access to a global network of sustainability-focused students and professionals
- Enhanced academic and leadership profile
While the scholarship does not fully cover living expenses, Innsbruck offers various student support options, part-time work opportunities, and a high quality of life.
Who Can Apply?
One of the most inclusive aspects of the Ban Ki-moon Scholarship is that it is open to applicants of all nationalities. Students from any country are encouraged to apply, provided they meet the academic and motivational requirements.
Ideal Candidates:
- Highly motivated students with strong academic performance
- Individuals passionate about sustainability, innovation, and global development
- Applicants who can clearly demonstrate how their studies contribute to the UN SDGs
- Future leaders committed to social, environmental, or economic impact
This scholarship is particularly suitable for students who see education as a tool for global problem-solving rather than personal advancement alone.
The Role of the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
A defining feature of the Ban Ki-moon Scholarship is its strong alignment with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. Applicants are expected to demonstrate how their chosen field of study, career aspirations, or prior experiences contribute to one or more of the 17 SDGs, such as:
- Quality Education (SDG 4)
- Gender Equality (SDG 5)
- Decent Work and Economic Growth (SDG 8)
- Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure (SDG 9)
- Climate Action (SDG 13)
- Partnerships for the Goals (SDG 17)
Scholars are viewed not just as students, but as future global citizens and leaders working toward sustainable solutions.
Selection Criteria
Applications are assessed based on a holistic evaluation process, including:
- Academic performance and qualifications
- Quality and clarity of the motivation letter
- Demonstrated commitment to sustainability and the SDGs
- Leadership potential and personal initiative
- Alignment between the chosen programme and long-term goals
Pro Tip: The motivation letter is a critical part of the application. Strong candidates clearly explain how their academic journey, professional goals, or community involvement directly support the SDGs.
How to Apply
Interested applicants must complete the scholarship application through MCI’s official scholarship portal. Apply now
Applicants should ensure they:
- Apply for an eligible programme at MCI
- Submit all required academic documents
- Prepare a compelling motivation letter focused on sustainability and impact
- Complete the scholarship application before 31 March 2026
Early submission is strongly recommended.
Key Dates
- Scholarship Application Deadline: 31 March 2026
- Programme Start Date: 2026 academic year
Why Choose the Ban Ki-moon Scholarship?
The Ban Ki-moon Scholarship is more than financial assistance—it is a platform for global leadership. Scholars gain access to world-class education, international exposure, and a values-driven academic community focused on shaping a better future.
By studying in Austria at MCI, students develop the skills, mindset, and global perspective needed to advance sustainable development in their communities, industries, and countries.