Rhodes Scholarship 2027

Overview

The Rhodes Scholarship is the oldest international postgraduate award in the world, established in 1903. It funds two to four years of full graduate study at the University of Oxford. The scheme has dedicated constituencies for Kenya, Nigeria, South Africa, Zimbabwe, and a Pan-Africa constituency that covers most other African countries. Around 100 Rhodes Scholars are selected each year worldwide. The 2027 cycle closes 1 October 2026 (deadlines vary slightly by constituency).

Benefits

• All Oxford tuition and college fees.
• Annual personal stipend of GBP 18,910 (figures revised each cycle).
• Round-trip economy flights to and from Oxford at the start and end of the scholarship.
• Coverage for two to four years depending on the course of study.
• Rhodes Scholar transition fund for unexpected costs.
• Active alumni network across more than 80 countries.

Eligibility

• Citizen of one of the Rhodes Scholarship constituencies (Kenya, Nigeria, South Africa, Zimbabwe, or eligible for the Pan-Africa constituency).
• Aged between 18 and 25 (some constituencies extend to 27).
• Bachelor’s degree with first-class honours or its strong equivalent.
• Outstanding academic record combined with character, leadership, energy to use your talents to the full, and commitment to service.
• Holding or applying for admission to an Oxford graduate course you plan to start in October 2027.

How to apply

1. Open the Rhodes Trust scholarships page at the source link to find your constituency.
2. Apply for admission to Oxford for graduate study (separate Oxford application).
3. Complete the Rhodes Scholarship application for your constituency: personal statement, academic transcripts, CV, six to eight references depending on the constituency.
4. Submit before the constituency’s deadline (most are in late September or early October 2026).
5. Shortlisted candidates attend interviews and selection events in November or December 2026. Scholars are announced before the end of the year for October 2027 entry.