The Rhodes Scholarship is a fully funded, merit-based postgraduate award that supports talented students from around the world to study full-time at the University of Oxford. Aimed at developing public-spirited leaders and fostering global understanding, the Rhodes Scholarships at Oxford University offers the opportunity to pursue most postgraduate courses for two or more years.
Established in 1902, Rhodes Scholarships at Oxford University covers tuition, living expenses, and travel costs. Though the application process is competitive, it has helped many young people achieve academic and personal growth. Applications for entry in 2026 will reopen in June 2025. The application deadline is 5 August 2025.
University/Institution Overview
- Name: University of Oxford
- Location: Oxford, England, United Kingdom
- Global Ranking: #3 in QS World University Rankings 2025
- Programs: Master’s, MPhil, DPhil (PhD) across all academic disciplines
- Duration: Varies by course; typically 1–3 years
Study Areas
Rhodes Scholars can pursue nearly any full-time postgraduate degree, including:
- Humanities and Social Sciences
- Sciences and Engineering
- Medical Sciences
- Public Policy
- Law
- Global Affairs
- Business (excluding the MBA, unless it’s a second degree)
- A-Z Graduate Courses at University of Oxford
- Conditions of Tenure: Courses covered by the Scholarship
Rhodes Scholarships at Oxford University Benefits
The Rhodes Scholarship includes:
- Covers full course fees at the University of Oxford
- Annual stipend of £19,800 (£1,650/month) for living expenses (accommodation, food, etc.)
- Covers application fee to Oxford
- Covers UK student visa and International Health Surcharge (IHS)
- Two economy-class flights: to and from the UK at the start and end of the scholarship
- Settling-in allowance on arrival
- Visa renewal and IHS fee support if transitioning to a second course
- Up to three years of funding for DPhil (PhD) programs
- Full Conditions of Tenure outline permitted degree combinations
- Scholar Support
- Ongoing pastoral and financial support from the Rhodes team
- Help with adjusting to life at Oxford
- Emergency grants and funding for research, travel, and creative work
Character, Service and Leadership Programme (CSLP)
- Flagship development program based on:
- Self-awareness and values
- Community-building
- Purpose-driven leadership
- Offers workshops, seminars, and mentoring during your Oxford journey
Benefits Not Included
- Family or dependent support
- Costs for elective travel beyond academic needs
- Personal luxuries or entertainment
- Additional course-related expenses not covered by Oxford
Eligibility Criteria for Rhodes Scholarships at Oxford University
- Must be a citizen of an eligible Rhodes constituency or apply through the Global category if your country is not listed.
- Age (as of 1 October 2025):
- 18–24 years old (born after 1 October 2000 and on or before 1 October 2006), or
- Up to 27 years old (born after 1 October 1997) if your undergraduate degree was completed later than usual and after 1 October 2025.
- Must hold or be completing an undergraduate degree by June/July 2026.
- Must have a First Class Honours degree or minimum GPA of 3.70/4.0, or equivalent.
- Must meet Oxford’s English language proficiency requirements (Higher Level).
- Choosing Your Oxford Course
- You can choose any full-time postgraduate course offered at Oxford, except some cases like the MBA unless it’s a second degree.
- Ensure your qualifications meet the specific entry requirements of the course.
- Age limits are strict, but exceptions may apply in conflict-affected regions.
- If your country is not listed, apply through the Global category.
- You must hold an undergraduate degree to be eligible.
- Applicants may only apply twice in total.
- English proficiency tests may be required for non-native speakers, depending on the constituency and course.
Constituency Scholarships
- United States (32), India (6), Canada (11), Australia (9), West Africa (3), Southern Africa (10), Global (2), and many more.
- Constituency list determines application route and deadlines.
Selection Criteria
- Academic excellence: top performer, critical thinker, intellectually curious
- Energy and achievement in extracurriculars: sports, arts, debate, etc., especially team-based
- Commitment to service: demonstrated care for others and social responsibility
- Leadership and character: moral courage, influence, initiative
Required Documents
Applicants typically need to submit:
- Academic transcripts
- Personal statement (max 1,000 words)
- CV or resume
- Birth certificate or passport copy
- Proof of citizenship or residency
- Four to eight reference letters
- University application documents (only if shortlisted)
Rhodes Scholarships at Oxford University Application Process
Here’s how to apply:
- Check eligibility for your country at the Rhodes Trust website
- Gather and prepare required documents
- Apply online via the official Rhodes application portal
- Submit before your constituency’s deadline (July–October 2025)
- If shortlisted, attend an interview in person or online
- Successful candidates then apply to Oxford University with Rhodes support
Eligible Countries with Deadlines:
- AUSTRALIA 02 June to 12 August 2025
- BERMUDA 02 June to 1 October 2025
- CANADA 02 June to 27 September 2025
- CHINA 02 June to 1 August 2025
- EAST AFRICA 02 June to 29 August 2025
- GERMANY 02 June to 12 September 2025
- HONG KONG SAR 02 June to 30 September 2025
- INDIA 02 June to 01 August 2025
- ISRAEL 02 June to 30 September 2025
- JAMAICA & THE COMMONWEALTH CARIBBEAN 02 June to 30 September 2025
- KENYA 02 June to 29 August 2025
- MALAYSIA 02 June to 2 September 2025
- NEW ZEALAND 02 June to 01 August 2025
- PAKISTAN 02 June to 01 August 2025
- SAUDI ARABIA 02 June to 23 September 2025
- SINGAPORE 02 June to 30 August 2025
- SOUTHERN AFRICA 02 June to 15 August 2025
- SYRIA, JORDAN, LEBANON AND PALESTINE 02 June to 31 August 2025
- UNITED ARAB EMIRATES 02 June to 23 September 2025
- UNITED STATES 02 July to 02 October 2025
- WEST AFRICA 02 June to 15 September 2025
- ZAMBIA 02 June to 2 September 2025
- ZIMBABWE 02 June to 31 August 2025
- Any Other Country 02 June to 02 August 2025
Tips for a Successful Application
- Start early—give referees enough time
- Craft a compelling, honest personal statement that reflects your goals
- Showcase both academic excellence and leadership experience
- Practice for your Rhodes interview; it’s rigorous but fair
- Be authentic—Rhodes looks for character, not perfection
Monthly Living Expenses for International Students
Living expenses in Oxford for international students typically range between £1,300 to £1,700 per month, covering:
- Accommodation: £700–£1,000
- Food and groceries: £200–£300
- Transportation: £50–£100
- Other personal expenses: £200–£300
Rhodes’ stipend usually covers these basic needs.
Why Choose This Opportunity?
Choosing the Rhodes Scholarship opens doors to:
- Study at a top-ranked global university with world-class academics
- Access to social, cultural, and sports facilities within Oxford colleges
- Dedicated space at Rhodes House for community and learning
- Experience living in a historic and vibrant city
- A platform to make a meaningful impact in your field
- Join a lifelong global network of Scholars, Alumni, and Fellows
- Build friendships and collaborations with driven, kind, and thoughtful peers
- Opportunities to connect across diverse disciplines and countries
The Rhodes Scholarship is more than funding—it’s a transformative journey toward leadership and service.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. Can I apply if I’m already studying at a postgraduate level?
Yes, as long as you meet the age and eligibility requirements.
Q2. Do I need to have a specific GPA to apply?
There’s no fixed GPA, but you must demonstrate academic excellence—equivalent to a First Class degree or 3.7+ GPA.
Q3. Can I apply for more than one course at Oxford?
Yes, but your primary focus should align with your Rhodes application.
Q4. Is the scholarship renewable each year?
Yes, it is awarded for 2 years initially and may be extended to 3 years depending on the program.
Q5. Can I defer the Rhodes Scholarship?
Deferrals are generally not allowed. You must take it up in the academic year it’s awarded.
Official Link for More Details and Application
🔗 https://www.rhodeshouse.ox.ac.uk/scholarships/
