If you are planning to study in the UK with full financial support, the Rhodes Scholarship is one of the most prestigious opportunities available for international students. This fully funded scholarship allows outstanding students to pursue postgraduate studies at the University of Oxford across many academic fields. This guide explains the scholarship benefits, eligibility requirements, documents needed, and the full application process.
The Rhodes Scholarship 2027–2028 is open for master’s and PhD studies. It covers a living stipend of £20,400 per year, university and college fees, and the university application fee.
The Rhodes Scholarship is a fully funded postgraduate award that gives exceptional young leaders from different parts of the world the chance to study full-time at the University of Oxford. The scholarship is awarded on merit and aims to support future leaders who are committed to public service, global understanding, and positive change.
Applying for the Rhodes Scholarship is competitive, but it can be a life-changing opportunity. Beyond financial support, selected scholars join a strong international network of leaders, professionals, and change-makers. Talented students from eligible countries are encouraged to apply.
Rhodes Scholars usually study in the UK for two or more years and may apply for most full-time postgraduate courses offered at Oxford University.
Rhodes Scholarship Scholarship Summary
- Level of Study: Master’s, PhD.
- Institution: University of Oxford
- Opportunity Focus Areas: All courses are available
- Program Period: Master’s: 2 years, and PhD: 4 years
- Study Destination: UK
Rhodes Scholarship Application Deadline
The Rhodes Scholarship deadline depends on the applicant’s country or constituency. In most cases, applications usually open between June and August each year. For updated deadline details, click this link.
Rhodes Scholarship Scholarship Coverage
The Rhodes Scholarship offers the following benefits to selected candidates:
- A living stipend of £20,400 per year, which is approximately £1,700 per month;
- Full coverage of University and College fees;
- One economy-class flight to Oxford at the beginning of the scholarship and one economy flight back home after completion;
- Payment of the university application fee;
- The scholarship is normally awarded for two years, subject to satisfactory academic progress and personal conduct. In some cases, it may be extended for a third year for scholars following an approved DPhil pathway.
Eligibility Criteria for the Rhodes Scholarship
To qualify for the Rhodes Scholarship, applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Citizenship and residency: Applicants must meet the citizenship and residency rules for the Rhodes constituency through which they are applying.
- Education: Applicants should have completed an honours bachelor’s degree by October. They must also have strong academic results that can meet the competitive admission standards of the University of Oxford.
- Age: Age requirements differ by constituency. In many cases, applicants must be between 18 and 24 or 25 years old, while some constituencies allow applicants up to 28 years old by October 1st of the year after selection.
- Required Language: English
How to Apply for the Rhodes Scholarship?
Please follow the step-by-step procedure below to apply for the Rhodes Scholarship:
(1) Apply online through the Rhodes Scholarship application portal at http://www.rhodeshouse.ox.ac.uk/scholarships/apply under the scholarships section.
(2) Complete and submit the online application together with all required supporting documents before the stated deadline.
(3) Before submitting your application, carefully review the Rhodes Scholarship information, the scholarship conditions, and the graduate admissions requirements of the University of Oxford.
(4) Shortlisted applicants are usually invited to a social engagement and a final interview. Attendance is normally required in person, and candidates cannot be selected without completing the interview process.
(5) Applicants are notified of the outcome of their application by email.
Selection Procedure:
- Selection is based on merit and is not influenced by the applicant’s financial background.
- The selection process does not discriminate based on marital status, race, ethnicity, gender, religion, disability, social background, caste, or other unrelated factors.
- Applicants are applying for entry to the University of Oxford in the stated intake year, and the scholarship normally cannot be deferred.
- The Rhodes Scholarship is confirmed only after the successful candidate secures admission to the University of Oxford.
- A candidate will only be selected if they meet the required standard.
- The decision of the selection committee is final.
Procedure after Selection:
- Successful applicants must apply to the University of Oxford soon after being selected. Further guidance is provided after selection.
- The candidate’s Rhodes application may be accessed by Rhodes House, Oxford, and references may be reused to support the Oxford admission process where appropriate.
- Successful candidates may be invited to confidentially share any medical condition or special support need so that Rhodes House can help them transition smoothly to Oxford.
Required Documents
Although requirements may vary by constituency, applicants are generally expected to submit the following documents:
- A curriculum vitae/resumé or a list of major activities. Applicants should not include a photograph in the CV for this scholarship.
- Academic transcripts or records for undergraduate studies and any postgraduate studies completed or in progress.
- Personal statement or essay, including a clear explanation of what the applicant wants to study at Oxford and why.
- Proof of English language proficiency where required. Check the requirements here.
- Proof of age, date of birth certificate, or passport.
- Photograph.
- Four reference letters from referees who can speak confidentially about the applicant’s character, intellect, academic ability, leadership, and extracurricular achievements.
Website
To learn more about the Rhodes Scholarship, please visit the official website: