Rhodes Scholarship: Fully-funded Postgraduate Award for Full-time Study at the University of Oxford

The Rhodes Scholarship is a fully-funded postgraduate award which enables talented young people from around the world to study full-time at the University of Oxford. The Rhodes Scholarship is merit-based, with the purpose of developing public-spirited leaders, and to promote international understanding and peace through an international community of Scholars.

Rhodes Scholars come to the UK for two or more years and can apply to study most full-time postgraduate courses in almost any field offered by Oxford University.

Costs Covered

The Rhodes Scholarship covers University of Oxford course fees, as well as providing an annual stipend. For the 2024/25 academic year, the stipend is £19,800 per annum (£1,650 per month) from which Scholars pay all living expenses, including accommodation. Please note: this is not sufficient to cover partners or dependents.

The detailed Conditions of Tenure document outlines permitted combinations of degrees, and how many years of study are covered by the Scholarship, as the latter depends on course choice — for example, up to three years of fees and stipend is available to Scholars who choose to undertake a DPhil (PhD) at Oxford.

Following selection for the Scholarship, the Rhodes Trust will also cover:

• The fee required to apply to study at the University of Oxford
• Fees for a student visa and associated International Health Surcharge (IHS), which enables international students to access the UK’s National Health Service
• Two economy class flights to and from the UK, for the beginning and end of studies in Oxford.

On arrival in Oxford, Scholars receive a settling in allowance, and Scholars who transition to a second course of study in Oxford will receive assistance to cover the fees for visa renewal and further application for IHS.

Benefits of the Scholarship

Life as a Rhodes Scholar at Oxford: 

The University of Oxford offers a world-class academic environment, consistently ranked among the top universities globally. As a Rhodes Scholar, you will have access to leading academic departments and a vibrant, interdisciplinary college community rich in social, sports, and cultural experiences. At the heart of this experience is Rhodes House—a dedicated space to gather, reflect, and grow. Living and learning in Oxford’s historic and dynamic setting makes the Rhodes experience truly unique.

A Global and Lifelong Community:

From the moment of selection, Rhodes Scholars become part of a global community of current scholars, alumni, and fellows from partnership programs. This network fosters meaningful, lifelong connections with individuals who are thoughtful, kind, and ambitious—each committed to advancing the greater good through leadership and service.

Character, Service and Leadership Programme (CSLP):

At the core of the Rhodes experience is the Character, Service and Leadership Programme (CSLP). Based on the principles of character, service, and leadership, the CSLP offers diverse opportunities for personal growth and community engagement. Scholars participate in activities that help them:

• • Deepen self-awareness and clarify their values
  • Build strong and inclusive communities
  • Navigate their personal and professional journeys from Oxford onward

Comprehensive Scholar Support:

The Rhodes Trust Scholar Team is dedicated to supporting scholars from selection through to the completion of their studies. This includes pastoral care, financial support, and tailored assistance to help scholars thrive in Oxford. Additional resources include:

• • Emergency financial aid
  • Grants for research, travel, and creative projects
  • Orientation and transition support for international scholars

What Makes a Rhodes Scholar?

Rhodes Scholars are selected not for fitting a mold, but for their excellence and individuality. Selection is guided by rigorous, merit-based criteria established in 1902 and still relevant today:

• Academic Excellence: You are intellectually curious, excel in challenging courses, and are among the top in your academic cohort.
• Energy and Mastery: You pursue excellence beyond the classroom—whether in sports, arts, or other pursuits—and demonstrate teamwork and sustained achievement.
• Character and Service: You act with integrity, show compassion, and have a strong sense of duty to serve others.
• Leadership and Moral Force of Character: You lead with initiative, inspire others, and commit to impactful change.

Check Your Eligibility

The Rhodes Scholarship has specific eligibility requirements based on your constituency (country or region of application). You can use the official Eligibility Checker to determine whether you’re eligible to apply. If you hold dual citizenship or have lived in multiple countries, select the one with which you have the strongest connection.

Some key considerations when choosing the right course at University of Oxford.

Resources

• Conditions of Tenure: Courses covered by the Scholarship
• A-Z Graduate Courses at University of Oxford

For more information, visit the call for applications

 

For more scholarship opportunities, visit our website