Are you aiming to study at the prestigious University of Oxford on a fully funded scholarship? The SJPL Rhodes Scholarships 2026 in the UK presents the chance of a lifetime for remarkable students from Syria, Jordan, Lebanon, and Palestine. Below is your definitive guide to everything you need to know in 2025 about this elite opportunity, including eligibility, benefits, application process, tips, and costs for international students.
Basic Information about SJPL Rhodes Scholarships 2026
- Scholarship Name: SJPL Rhodes Scholarships 2026 (Syria, Jordan, Lebanon, Palestine)
- Location: University of Oxford, United Kingdom
- Degree Level: Master’s, PhD (DPhil)
- Eligibility: Citizens/permanent residents of Syria, Jordan, Lebanon, or Palestine
- Scholarship Coverage: Fully funded
- Application Deadline: 28 August 2025
- Number of Scholarships: 2 scholarships each year (1 reserved for Syrian candidates).
Rhodes Trust & Legacy
The Rhodes Scholarship, established by Cecil Rhodes and managed by the Rhodes Trust, is globally recognized as one of the world’s oldest and most prestigious international scholarship programs. It fosters academic excellence and promotes leadership and service.
University/Institution Details
- Host University: University of Oxford
- Global Ranking: Top 3 in the QS World University Rankings 2025
- Programs Offered: More than 350 graduate degree options, including Master’s, MPhil, and DPhil (PhD) programs across various disciplines.
Study Areas (Available Program Names)
The SJPL Rhodes Scholarship grants recipients full access to nearly every graduate program offered at Oxford University, except for certain exceptions (such as the MBA, MFE, and graduate-entry Medicine). Sample areas include:
- Advanced Computer Science
- Engineering Science
- Social Data Science
- Financial Economics
- Law (excluding MBA or MFE)
- Neuroscience
- Molecular and Cellular Medicine
- Mathematical Modelling and Scientific Computing
For a full up-to-date list of eligible programs, visit the Oxford graduate course catalogue.
Scholarship Benefits
The Rhodes Scholarship for SJPL students is one of the most comprehensive packages available:
- Full University and College Tuition Fees
- University Application Fee
- Personal Stipend: Approx. £16,218 per year for living expenses
- One Economy Airfare: To Oxford at the start and back to home country after the scholarship ends
- Visa Costs & Health Surcharge: Covered
- Duration: 2 years (with a possible 3rd year for DPhil applicants based on academic performance).
Benefits Not Included
- Dependent Costs: The scholarship does not cover family or dependent expenses (partners, children, etc.)
- Additional Personal Travel: Beyond the initial arrival and final return airfare, other travel costs are the scholar’s responsibility
- Personal Luxuries: Any costs for entertainment, luxury shopping, or personal lifestyle choices are not included
- Certain Courses: The MBA, MFE, and graduate-entry Medicine are NOT eligible programs.
Eligibility Criteria for the Scholarship
To qualify, you must:
- Nationality: Be from Syria, Jordan, Lebanon, or Palestine (citizen or legal resident)
- Residency/Education: Have lived and/or been educated in the above countries for at least 5 years
- Age: Be aged 18–25 as of 1 October 2025 (born after 1 October 2000 and on or before 1 October 2007), or up to 27 years old for those whose undergraduate degree was delayed (completed or completing after 1 October 2024)
- Academic Excellence: Hold (or expect to hold by June/July 2026) an undergraduate degree with a First Class or minimum GPA of 3.70/4.0, or equivalent, typically ranking at/near the very top of your class
- English Language Proficiency: Meet Oxford’s “Higher Level” English requirement (IELTS/TOEFL/CAE; waivers possible in limited cases)
- Course Eligibility: Meet the entry requirements for your chosen graduate course at Oxford.
Required Documents for the Application
- Birth Certificate
- Valid Passport Copy
- Official Transcripts: Undergraduate and, if applicable, graduate
- Certified High School Certificate or equivalent
- Evidence of English Proficiency (IELTS/TOEFL score report or waiver letter)
- Proof of Residency/Education: Showing 5 years in eligible SJPL countries
- Comprehensive CV: Detailing academics, leadership, activities, achievements (max. 2 pages, no photo)
- Personal Statement: Up to 1,000 words
- Head-and-Shoulders Colour Photograph (jpg)
- (Optional, after shortlisting) Letters of Recommendation: Academic and personal.
Scholarship Application Process (Step-by-Step Guide)
1. Research & Prepare
- Investigate eligible graduate programs at Oxford; verify you meet all prerequisites.
2. Register Online
- Go to the official Rhodes Scholarship application portal when applications open.
3. Document Assembly
- Gather all required documents, ensuring translations and certifications where necessary.
4. Complete Application Form
- Fill out the scholarship questions online. Upload your statement, CV, certificates, and official documentation.
5. English Proficiency
- Upload your test score or request a waiver as per Oxford requirements.
6. Submit Before Deadline
- Submit your entire application by 23:59 GMT, 28 August 2025. Late entries are not accepted.
7. Interviews for Shortlisted Candidates
- If shortlisted, attend an interview (in person or online) with the selection committee.
8. Final Selection
Tips for a Successful Rhodes Scholarship Application
- Start Early: Begin preparing your documents and personal statement at least 6 months before the deadline.
- Personalize Your Statement: Show your leadership, community commitment, and academic achievements in a compelling and original way.
- Select Strong Referees: Choose referees who know you well and can provide detailed, enthusiastic recommendations.
- Highlight Your Impact: Emphasize leadership, community involvement, and how you plan to contribute globally.
- Meet All Deadlines: Late or incomplete applications will not be considered.
- Prepare for the Interview: Practice discussing your achievements and future ambitions confidently.
- Contact Current Scholars: Reach out to past or current Oxford scholars from your region for insights.
Monthly Living Expenses for International Students (USD)
Living in Oxford, while fully funded by the scholarship, still demands careful budgeting:
| Expense | Amount Per Month (GBP) | Amount Per Month (USD) (1 GBP ≈ 1.30 USD) |
|---|---|---|
| Accommodation | £790 – £955 | $1,025 – $1,240 |
| Food | £330 – £515 | $430 – $670 |
| Personal Items | £200 – £335 | $260 – $435 |
| Social Activities | £45 – £100 | $60 – $130 |
| Study Costs | £40 – £90 | $52 – $117 |
| Other Costs | £20 – £40 | $26 – $52 |
| Total Estimate | £1,425 – £2,035 | $1,850 – $2,650 |
Approximate monthly living expenses in Oxford for 2025–26 are $1,850–$2,650.
Why Choose the SJPL Rhodes Scholarship? (Top 5 Reasons)
- World-Class Education: Study at Oxford, a global top-3 university, and network with the brightest minds.
- Full Financial Support: All major costs, including tuition, fees, and living are covered.
- Prestige & Recognition: Rhodes Scholars gain instant international respect and access to an elite alumni network.
- Career & Leadership Opportunities: The program develops outstanding leaders, opening doors globally.
- Personal Growth: Exposure to diverse cultures, cutting-edge research, and Oxford’s unique academic environment shapes your future like nowhere else.
- Limitless Study Choices: Choose from over 350 graduate programs spanning sciences, humanities, social sciences, business, and more.
- Legacy of Impact: Join a network of inspiring changemakers who have gone on to become presidents, Nobel laureates, and global leaders.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Who can apply for the SJPL Rhodes Scholarship 2026?
A: Citizens and legal residents of Syria, Jordan, Lebanon, or Palestine who meet the academic and age criteria.
Q2: What is covering the scholarship?
A: Tuition, fees, stipend, application and visa fees, health surcharge, and two economy flights.
Q3: What is not covered?
A: Costs for dependents, additional personal travel, luxury goods, and courses like the MBA, MFE, or graduate medicine.
Q4: What academic level do I need?
A: You must have (or expect to have) at least a first-class degree or a GPA of at least 3.70/4.0 (or equivalent), plus meet Oxford’s course requirements.
Q5: Which Oxford programs are included?
A: Nearly all full-time master’s, MPhil, and PhD (DPhil) courses are eligible except a few listed above.
Q6: Can I reapply next year if not selected?
A: You may reapply if you continue to meet the eligibility criteria.
Q7: Will there be interviews?
A: Yes, shortlisted applicants are invited for interviews as part of the selection process.
Q8: Is English proficiency compulsory?
A: Yes. IELTS/TOEFL (or equivalent) is required unless you qualify for a test waiver.
Q9: When does the program start?
A: Scholarship recipients typically begin study at Oxford in October 2026.
Q10: Where do I apply?
A: Applications are submitted online through the Rhodes Trust portal for your constituency.
Get ready – your journey to Oxford begins here!
For official updates, always check the Rhodes Trust and University of Oxford websites before submitting your application.