RH

Rhodes Scholarship

by Rhodes Trust

The Rhodes Scholarship is the oldest and most prestigious international scholarship, fully funding graduate study at the University of Oxford. Established in 1903, it selects exceptional young leaders from over 60 countries each year.

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Funding

Full funding at University of Oxford (tuition + stipend)

Duration

2-3 years (depending on degree)

Geography

Multiple countries

Eligibility

Age requirements vary by country (typically 18-28). Must hold at least a bachelor's degree by the start of the scholarship. Applicants must apply through their country of citizenship or legal residency. Strong academic record required (GPA typically 3.7+).

Application

Annual (applications open in spring, due in fall)

Deadline

October 2025

About This Fellowship

The Rhodes Scholarship is widely considered the most prestigious academic award in the world. Established in 1903 through the will of Cecil Rhodes, the scholarship fully funds graduate study at the University of Oxford for exceptional young people who demonstrate outstanding intellect, character, leadership, and commitment to service. Approximately 100 scholars are selected each year from over 60 countries.

Rhodes Scholars receive full tuition at Oxford, a generous living stipend, health insurance, and travel allowances. They can pursue virtually any graduate degree the university offers, from a second BA to a DPhil (PhD). The scholarship community at Rhodes House provides a rich intellectual and social environment, with regular events, lectures, and retreats that bring together current scholars and the global alumni network.

The Rhodes alumni network is one of the most accomplished in the world. Rhodes Scholars include former US President Bill Clinton, astronomer Edwin Hubble, Nobel laureate economist Michael Spence, former Australian Prime Minister Bob Hawke, journalist Rachel Maddow, and LinkedIn co-founder Reid Hoffman. The scholarship continues to be a transformative experience that shapes careers in government, academia, business, journalism, and public service.

What You Get

The Rhodes Scholarship covers the full cost of studying at Oxford, one of the world's greatest universities.

  • Full tuition fees for your chosen Oxford degree program
  • Annual living stipend (approximately $20,000-$22,000 per year)
  • Economy class airfare to and from Oxford each year
  • Health insurance coverage for the duration of the scholarship
  • Access to Rhodes House, a dedicated community hub for scholars
  • Regular intellectual programming: lectures, symposia, and retreats
  • Lifetime membership in the Rhodes Scholar alumni network (8,000+ members)
  • Possible funding for a second degree at Oxford (up to 3 years total)

Selection Process

The Rhodes selection process is rigorous and highly competitive, evaluating candidates on four criteria established by Cecil Rhodes.

  • Literary and scholastic attainment (academic excellence)
  • Energy to use one's talents to the full (ambition and follow-through)
  • Truth, courage, devotion to duty, and kindliness (character)
  • Moral force of character and instincts to lead (leadership)
  • Application includes transcripts, personal statement, and 5-8 recommendation letters
  • District-level interviews followed by state/national finals
  • Final interviews are conducted by committees of Rhodes alumni and leaders
  • Approximately 32 scholars selected from the US; ~100 globally each year

Notable Alumni

Rhodes Scholars have gone on to leadership positions across every major field of human endeavor.

  • Bill Clinton — 42nd President of the United States
  • Edwin Hubble — astronomer who proved the universe is expanding
  • Reid Hoffman — co-founder of LinkedIn
  • Rachel Maddow — journalist and MSNBC host
  • Susan Rice — former US National Security Advisor
  • Cory Booker — US Senator
  • Ronan Farrow — Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist
  • Pete Buttigieg — US Secretary of Transportation

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