What is the Rhodes Global Scholarship?
Rhodes Global Scholarship 2026: The Rhodes Global Scholarship is a prestigious, fully funded postgraduate award for outstanding students from countries without specific Rhodes constituencies. These scholarships enable recipients to pursue graduate studies at Oxford University. First awarded in the early 1900s, the Rhodes is widely considered one of the world’s most esteemed scholarships.
Why It Matters for International Students
- Full funding at one of the world’s top universities—Oxford offers access to world-class faculty and facilities.
- Global community—Rhodes scholars form a lifelong, international network of peers.
- Leadership development—The program emphasizes character, service, and leadership through its dedicated Character, Service, and Leadership Programme
What the Scholarship Covers
The Rhodes Global Scholarship includes:
- Full Oxford tuition fees
- Monthly stipend (approximately £1,650 in 2025–26)
- A settling-in allowance
- Two economy flights (to and from the UK)
- Visa and International Health Surcharge (IHS) coverage
- Opportunity to explore the UK and live in Oxford
Who Can Apply?
✔ Global Eligibility
- Citizens of countries without a traditional Rhodes constituency or those who don’t qualify elsewhere
✔ Age Requirements (as of Oct 1, 2025)
- 18–24 (born Oct 2, 2000 – Oct 1, 2007)
- 18–25 for medical students with internships (born Oct 2, 1999 – Oct 1, 2007)
- Under 27 for late graduates, who earned first degree by July 2026 (born after Oct 1, 1998)
✔ Academic Standards
- Undergraduate degree completed or expected by July 2026
- Likely First Class honours or 3.70+ GPA
- Must meet Oxford’s English-language entry standards by July 31, 2025; tests may be waived for English-taught degrees
How to Apply
- Check eligibility via Rhodes’ global page by July 29, 2025.
- Secure nomination—your university must nominate you (no self-nominations).
- Start online application (opens June 2, 2025; closes July 31, 2025, 23:59 GMT)
- Prepare documents—transcripts, CV, personal and academic statements, four references, test results, passport, photos, etc.
- Select your Oxford course(s) and complete the form.
- Watch for eligibility confirmation from Rhodes staff before submitting a final application.
- Final checklist and submission by deadline. You may apply again only once if initially unsuccessful. Any withdrawals after the deadline need valid reasons.
Key Dates & Required Documents
Deadlines
- June 2, 2025: Application opens
- July 29, 2025: Final date to request eligibility check
- July 31, 2025, 23:59 GMT: Final submission deadline
Documents (in English)
- University transcripts
- Academic & personal statements
- CV (Rhodes template)
- Four referees
- University nomination letter
- Passport copy
- Birth certificate/national ID
- English test scores (if required)
- Headshot photograph
Tips to Stand Out
- Emphasize leadership and character—Rhodes looks for more than academic achievement.
- Show impact in your personal story—explain how you’ve made a difference or plan to.
- Tailor your statements to both Rhodes values and your Oxford course.
- Start preparing early—secure references and nominations well before deadlines.
- Use your nomination wisely—a strong institutional endorsement boosts credibility.
🔗 Helpful Links
- Official Rhodes Global information & application: Rhodes Trust Global page
- Oxford graduate courses and entry requirements: Oxford’s A–Z listings
- Rhodes nomination guidance: Available via Rhodes House
- Oxford course application: Submit after Rhodes selection
For more about graduate student scholarships or study abroad scholarships, visit our Scholarships Hub and check resources from organizations like the British Council.
Final Take
The Rhodes Global Scholarship 2026 is a rare chance for exceptional international students to study at Oxford. With full funding and a pathway to global leadership, it’s worth the preparation. If you’re motivated, talented, and ready to lead — this could be it.
Next Steps:
- Double-check your eligibility by July 29
- Confirm documents and nomination status
- Fill out the online form starting June 2
- Submit everything before 23:59 GMT on July 31
Good luck! And feel free to ask if you need help outlining your personal statement or choosing Oxford courses.
