About This Opportunity

The Rhodes Scholarship is the oldest and one of the most prestigious international scholarship programmes in the world, established in 1902 by the Rhodes Trust. It selects outstanding young people from eligible countries and fully funds them to pursue a postgraduate degree at the University of Oxford in the UK. The scholarship's mission goes beyond academic excellence — it seeks to develop purpose-driven leaders committed to public service, international understanding, and positive change. Applications for the Class of 2027 are currently open, with Oxford entry in October 2027.

Eligibility Requirements

  • Must be a citizen or national of an eligible constituency country — check your eligibility at rhodeshouse.ox.ac.uk
  • Must meet the age requirements specified by your constituency
  • Must demonstrate outstanding academic achievement, leadership potential, and a commitment to service
  • If you hold dual citizenship or have lived in multiple countries, apply through the country you have the strongest connection to
  • Ghanaian applicants should check the specific West Africa constituency requirements and deadlines directly on the Rhodes Trust website

What You Get / Benefits

  • Full coverage of University of Oxford course fees for your postgraduate programme
  • Annual stipend of £20,400 (£1,700/month) for the 2025–26 academic year, from which scholars cover living expenses including accommodation
  • Oxford graduate application fee covered
  • Student visa fees and International Health Surcharge (IHS) covered — granting access to the UK's National Health Service
  • Two economy class flights to and from the UK at the start and end of your studies
  • Up to three years of funding for scholars pursuing a DPhil (PhD)
  • Access to Rhodes House programming — welcome weeks, leadership workshops, cultural events, career development sessions, and research and travel grants

How to Apply

  • Visit rhodeshouse.ox.ac.uk and enter your country to confirm eligibility and identify your constituency
  • Review the selection criteria at rhodeshouse.ox.ac.uk/scholarships/selection-criteria
  • Prepare your application materials — personal statement, academic transcripts, references, and any constituency-specific documents
  • Submit your application through the official Rhodes Trust portal before your constituency's deadline
  • Shortlisted candidates will be invited to attend interviews with a selection committee in their home constituency

    • Tips

    • Deadlines vary by constituency — do not assume a universal closing date. Find your country's specific deadline on the Rhodes Trust website as early as possible and work backwards to plan your application timeline.
    • The Rhodes Scholarship values the whole person, not just academic grades. Your leadership record, community involvement, and clarity of purpose matter just as much as your transcript.
    • The stipend is not designed to cover partners or dependents — factor this into your decision to apply if you have family commitments.

    ⏰ Deadline varies by constituency. Check your country's specific deadline at rhodeshouse.ox.ac.uk immediately and apply early — some constituencies close as early as mid-year.