The Rhodes Scholarship stands as one of the most esteemed postgraduate awards globally, offering exceptional students the opportunity to pursue full-time postgraduate study at the University of Oxford. Established in 1902 by Cecil John Rhodes, the scholarship aims to promote unity among English-speaking nations and instill a sense of civic-minded leadership and moral fortitude in future leaders, irrespective of their chosen career paths. Rhodes Scholarships at Oxford University 2026 in UK.
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Scholarship Summary
The Rhodes Scholarship is a fully funded program that covers nearly all expenses related to studying at Oxford University. It is awarded to outstanding students worldwide who demonstrate academic excellence, leadership potential, and a commitment to making a positive impact in their communities. The scholarship provides recipients with the opportunity to engage in rigorous academic study at one of the world’s leading universities, while also becoming part of a global network of scholars dedicated to addressing global challenges.
| University: | Oxford University |
| Degree level: | Masters, PhD |
| Scholarship coverage: | Fully Funded |
| Eligible nationality: | All Nationalities |
| Award country: | United Kingdom |
| Last Date: | 5 August 2025 |
Study Fields Of Rhodes Scholarships at Oxford University 2026 in UK
Rhodes Scholars have the flexibility to pursue any full-time postgraduate course offered by the University of Oxford. This includes:
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Taught Master’s Programs: These are structured programs typically lasting one or two years.
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Research Degrees (DPhil): Equivalent to a PhD, these programs involve original research and typically last three to four years.
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Second Bachelor’s Degrees (Senior Status): For those who wish to pursue a second undergraduate degree at Oxford.
The scholarship is designed to support scholars across a wide range of disciplines, allowing them to tailor their studies to their academic and professional interests.
Eligibility Criteria For Rhodes Scholarships at Oxford University
To be considered for the Rhodes Scholarship, applicants must meet the following general criteria:
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Citizenship: Applicants must be citizens or permanent residents of one of the eligible countries listed by the Rhodes Trust. Dual citizenship may be allowed, but applicants must apply from the country they have the strongest connection to.
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Age: Applicants must generally be between 18 and 24 years old on October 1 of the year of application. However, in some regions, candidates up to 27 may apply.
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Education: Candidates must either be Bachelor’s graduates or be close to graduating with a strong academic record.
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Leadership and Commitment: The Rhodes Scholarship seeks individuals with proven leadership skills and a commitment to public service.
Eligibility criteria may vary slightly depending on the country of application, so it’s essential to consult the specific requirements for your country .
Financial Benefits Of Rhodes Scholarships at Oxford University in UK
The Rhodes Scholarship is a fully funded program that covers:
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Tuition Fees: Full coverage of tuition fees for the course of study at Oxford.
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Living Stipend: Scholars receive a stipend to cover living expenses, including accommodation, food, and other necessities.
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Travel Expenses: The scholarship covers economy-class airfare to and from the UK at the beginning and end of the program.
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Visa and Healthcare Costs: The Rhodes Trust covers the cost of the UK student visa and the International Health Surcharge (IHS), which allows scholars to access the UK’s National Health Service during their stay.
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Settling-in Allowance: An allowance to help scholars settle in at Oxford.
In addition to these core benefits, students receive an allowance to help them settle in at Oxford. If a student chooses to pursue a second degree at Oxford (for example, progressing from a master’s to a DPhil), the Rhodes Trust covers the cost of visa renewal and IHS for the additional period .
Required Documents For Rhodes Scholarships in UK
Applicants must submit the following documents as part of their application:
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Academic Transcripts: Official records of all post-secondary education.
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Curriculum Vitae (CV): A detailed resume outlining academic achievements, extracurricular activities, and work experience.
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Personal Statement: A compelling essay that demonstrates the applicant’s leadership potential, commitment to public service, and reasons for pursuing postgraduate study at Oxford.
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Letters of Recommendation: Typically, two to four letters from individuals who can speak to the applicant’s academic abilities, character, and leadership qualities.
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Proof of English Language Proficiency: If applicable, evidence of proficiency in English through standardized tests or academic qualifications.
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Proof of Citizenship: Official documents verifying the applicant’s nationality or permanent residency status.
It’s important to note that specific requirements may vary depending on the country of application, so applicants should refer to the Rhodes Trust’s official website for detailed information.
Application Process For Rhodes Scholarships at Oxford University
The application process for the Rhodes Scholarship involves several steps:
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Check Eligibility: Ensure that you meet the eligibility criteria for your country or region.
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Prepare Documents: Gather all required documents, including academic transcripts, CV, personal statement, letters of recommendation, and proof of citizenship.
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Submit Application: Complete the online application form available on the Rhodes Trust’s official website and upload all required documents.
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Selection Committees: Applications are reviewed by selection committees in each constituency. Shortlisted candidates may be invited for interviews.
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Final Selection: Successful candidates are notified and must accept the scholarship offer.
It’s crucial to adhere to all deadlines and provide accurate and complete information in your application.
Deadline
The application deadline for the Rhodes Scholarship varies by constituency. For the 2026 intake, applications deadline are 05 July 2025. It’s essential to check the specific deadlines for your country or region on the Rhodes Trust’s official website to ensure timely submission .
Conclusion
The Rhodes Scholarship offers a unique opportunity for exceptional students to pursue postgraduate study at the University of Oxford. With its comprehensive financial support, diverse study options, and emphasis on leadership and public service, the scholarship provides a platform for scholars to make a meaningful impact in their communities and beyond. If you meet the eligibility criteria and are committed to academic excellence and leadership, consider applying for the Rhodes Scholarship and embark on a transformative educational journey at one of the world’s most prestigious institutions.
For more detailed information and to begin your application, visit the official Rhodes Trust website: https://www.rhodeshouse.ox.ac.uk/scholarships/applications/global/eligibilitycriteria/.