Rhodes Scholarship at the University of Oxford, 2025

The Rhodes Scholarship is the oldest (first awarded in 1902) and perhaps most prestigious international scholarship programme at the University of Oxford. The scholarship enables outstanding young people from around the world to study at the University of Oxford.

The Rhodes Scholarship also supports exceptional young people for postgraduate study at the University of Oxford, and actively fosters lifelong learning and fellowship.

What is distinctive about the Rhodes Scholarship?

The Rhodes Scholarship transcends the realm of mere financial assistance; it is a life-altering opportunity for exceptional young individuals. The prospective scholars possessing the potential to positively impact the world. Rhodes Scholars are visionaries who envision a better world and possess the energy to catalyze change, irrespective of their sphere of interest. Rhodes alumni have distinguished themselves across diverse fields, and their inspiring stories exemplify how they are actively shaping a better world.

The selection process goes beyond assessing intellectual prowess; it also evaluates character, leadership qualities, and commitment to service. Consequently, the Scholar Programme at Oxford aims to nurture and enhance these Rhodes Scholar attributes through various means. This includes first and second-year retreats, workshops, conferences, social gatherings, and thought-provoking discussions hosted at Rhodes House.

The fellowship of Rhodes Scholars is a vibrant global community spanning generations and comprising over 7,000 members. Upon receiving the Scholarship, individuals gain entry into this lifelong fellowship, opening up ongoing opportunities to connect with current and senior scholars. Moreover, this community fosters a warm and engaging environment, where scholars typically forge enduring friendships. The Rhodes Scholarship unlocks opportunities for its recipients before, during, and after their time at Oxford, offering a transformative experience that extends far beyond academic pursuits.

The key qualities of a Rhodes Scholar

Rhodes Selection Committees are looking for young people of outstanding intellect, character, leadership, and commitment to service.

The four guiding criteria for the selection of Rhodes Scholars:

• Literary and also scholastic attainments (academic excellence)
• Energy to use one’s talents to the full (as demonstrated by mastery in areas such as sports, music, debate, dance, theatre; and artistic pursuits, particularly where teamwork is involved)
• Truth, courage, devotion to duty, sympathy for and also protection of the weak, kindliness, unselfishness and fellowship.
• moral force of character and instincts to lead, and to take an interest in one’s fellow beings.

Eligibility for the Rhodes Scholarship at the University of Oxford

The eligibility criteria for the Rhodes Scholarships vary depending on which constituency you are applying for. You can also use the Eligibility Checker if you are eligible to apply for the Rhodes Scholarships.

• Must be a citizen of the following West African countries:

Benin

Burkina Faso

Cape Verde

Gambia

Ghana

Guinea

Guinea-Bissau

Ivory Coast

Liberia

Mali

Mauritania

Niger

Nigeria

the island of Saint Helena

Senegal

Sierra Leone

São Tomé and Principe

Togo

• Must also be resident in one or more of the countries listed above for at least five of the last ten years.
• Must be between the age of 18-27.
• Must also have completed your first undergraduate degree on or after 1 October 2023 with First Class Honours Degree.
• Must also have sufficiently high standard of English.

Costs covered by the Rhodes Scholarship

The Rhodes Scholarship offers a comprehensive package for students pursuing their academic endeavors at Oxford University. Firstly, it covers the course fees, providing financial relief to the scholars. Additionally, it offers an annual stipend of £19,092 (£1,591 per month) for the 2023/24 academic year, which scholars must utilize to cover all living expenses, including accommodation. However, it is important to note that this stipend may not be sufficient to support partners or dependents.

The Conditions of Tenure document meticulously outlines the permitted combinations of degrees and the duration of study covered by the Scholarship. The latter varies based on the chosen course; for instance, scholars undertaking a DPhil (PhD) at Oxford can receive up to three years of fees and stipend coverage. This comprehensive document serves as a valuable resource for scholars to plan their academic journey effectively.

Upon selection for the Scholarship, the Rhodes Trust facilitates the application process by covering the required fee to study at the University of Oxford. Moreover, it covers the cost of obtaining a student visa and the associated International Health Surcharge (IHS), enabling international students to access the UK’s National Health Service seamlessly. Notably, the Trust also covers the cost of two economy class flights, ensuring a smooth transition to and from the UK for the commencement and conclusion of studies in Oxford.

Furthermore, upon arrival in Oxford, scholars receive a settling-in allowance to aid their initial adjustment. For those scholars who transition to a second course of study at Oxford, the Trust extends its support by covering the fees for visa renewal and further application for IHS, ensuring a seamless continuation of their academic pursuits.

Application Deadline

The deadline for prospective scholars in West Africa to apply for the Rhodes Scholarship is 28th August 2024 at 23.59 GMT.

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APPLY HERE

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For more information, Visit the Rhodes Scholarship Website Here.