Rhodes Scholarship 2025 | University of Oxford (Completely Funded)

Rhodes Scholarship 2025 | University of Oxford (Completely Funded)

Applications for the Rhodes Scholarship are now open. This guide provides detailed information about the scholarship program, including its benefits and the application process.

The Rhodes Scholarship 2025-2026 is a fully funded opportunity for international students pursuing master’s or PhD studies. This prestigious scholarship covers living expenses (£15,144 per year), all university and college fees, and the university application fee.

Scholarship Summary

– Level of Study: Master’s, Ph.D.
– Institution: University of Oxford
– Location: UK
– Deadline: Varies by country

Scholarship Benefits

– Annual living stipend of £15,144
– Coverage of all university and college fees
– One economy class airfare to Oxford at the beginning and one return flight to the home country at the end of the scholarship
– Coverage of the university application fee
– Duration: Typically two years, with the possibility of extension for a third year for those pursuing a DPhil (Ph.D.), subject to application and satisfactory academic performance and conduct

Eligibility Criteria for the Rhodes Scholarship:

Citizenship and Residency: Applicants must meet the citizenship and residency criteria for the Rhodes constituency they are applying to. Check the eligible countries here.
Education: Candidates must have completed an honours bachelor’s degree by October and have a strong academic record that meets the competitive entry requirements of the University of Oxford. For example, in Canada, a minimum GPA of 3.75/4.0 or its equivalent is expected.
Age: Age limits vary by constituency, generally ranging from 18 to 28 years by October 1st of the year following selection. Most constituencies have an age limit of 24 or 25. Be sure to verify the specific age requirements for your constituency before applying. The scholarship usually cannot be deferred.
Language: Proficiency in English is required.

How to Apply for the Rhodes Scholarship:

Follow these steps to apply for the Rhodes Scholarship:

Prepare Required Documents:
- Curriculum Vitae/Resumé: Include a list of principal activities but do not add a photograph.
- Academic Records/Transcripts: Provide complete or current transcripts of your undergraduate degree and any postgraduate studies.
- Personal Statement/Essay: Include a clear explanation of what you wish to study at Oxford and your reasons for choosing this path.
- English Language Proficiency: Submit proof if English is not your first language. Check specific requirements here.
- Evidence of Age: Provide a birth certificate or passport as proof of age.
- Photograph: Include a recent photo.
- Reference Letters: Obtain four confidential reference letters from individuals who can attest to your character, intellect, academic performance, personal achievements, and leadership skills. Avoid references from relatives.

Ensure you meet the specific requirements of your constituency and submit your application before the deadline.

Step-by-Step Application Process:

(1) You can apply online at http://www.rhodeshouse.ox.ac.uk/scholarships/apply via the scholarships tab.

(2) You must submit your application online, with all supporting documents, by the deadline.

(3) In preparation for making your application, you should read carefully the general information, particularly that held on the Scholarships tab, on the Rhodes website, the Conditions of Tenure for the Rhodes Scholarship, the information in this document and the graduate admissions pages of the University of Oxford: www.ox.ac.uk/admissions/graduate.

(4) Shortlisted candidates will be invited to a social engagement and a final interview. You must be available to attend both, in person, as no accommodations can be made on the date time, or mode, of these events. No candidate will be selected without an interview. Travel expenses will be paid by the Rhodes Trust, and will cover the round trip cost of a First Class rail ticket, but excluding hotel expenses. International travel for those attending from overseas cannot be funded.

(5) All applicants will be emailed with the outcome of their application.

Additional Information on the Rhodes Scholarship Application Process:

Shortlisted Candidates:
- If shortlisted, you will be invited to attend both a social engagement and a final interview in person. Attendance is mandatory, and no alternative arrangements can be made for the timing or mode of these events.
- Travel expenses, including a first-class rail ticket, will be covered by the Rhodes Trust. However, hotel costs and international travel cannot be funded.
Selection Procedure:
- The Rhodes Scholarship selection process is based solely on merit and does not consider financial means, marital status, race, ethnic origin, colour, gender, religion, sexual orientation, social background, disability, caste, or other irrelevant distinctions.
- Applicants are not required to provide information about these factors, though such information helps in ensuring fair selection and effective outreach. Selection will be made based on qualifications alone, and the decision of the Selection Committee is final.
- The scholarship is only available for entry to the University of Oxford in October 2024 and cannot be deferred. Confirmation of the scholarship is contingent upon successful admission to Oxford.
Procedure After Selection:
- Successful candidates must apply to the University of Oxford promptly after selection. Detailed instructions will be provided upon selection.
- The Rhodes House in Oxford will have access to your full application, including references, which may be reused for your Oxford application if appropriate.
- You are encouraged to confidentially disclose any medical conditions or special needs to receive appropriate support at Oxford. This disclosure is voluntary and intended to facilitate a smooth transition to Oxford.