Applications are now open for the Rhodes Global Scholarships 2026. This fully funded award offers students worldwide the chance to pursue postgraduate study at the University of Oxford. The scholarship is for future leaders with academic excellence, leadership development, and community impact.
This scholarship doesn’t just pay for your education. It helps you become part of a powerful global community of change-makers, innovators, and leaders.
Let’s walk you through everything to apply for the Rhodes Global Scholarship program.
What Is the Rhodes Global Scholarship?
The Rhodes Global Scholarship is one of the oldest international scholarship programs in the world. It allows exceptional students from countries not covered by existing Rhodes constituencies (like India, Pakistan, USA, etc.) to study a full-time postgraduate degree (Master’s or PhD) at Oxford University, UK.
Each year, only two Global Scholars are selected—making it extremely competitive but also incredibly rewarding. The extreme competition makes it interesting for students to take challenges and apply for the scholarship.
Who Can Apply?
To apply for the Rhodes Global Scholarship 2026, you must:
Be from an eligible country
You must not be eligible for any other Rhodes regional scholarship (like India, Australia, etc.). This scholarship is open to students from all other countries worldwide.
Meet the age requirement
You must be:
- Between 18 and 24 years old on 1 October 2025 (born between 2 October 2000 and 1 October 2007),
OR - Up to 25 years old if you’re a medical student who completed an internship
OR - Under 27 years old if you’ve completed your undergraduate degree after 1 October 2024
Have an excellent academic background
- You must have completed (or will complete by July 2026) a bachelor’s degree
- Your academic record must show first-class honors, or a GPA of 3.70 or higher (out of 4.0)
Speak and write fluent English
You must meet Oxford’s higher-level English proficiency. If your previous studies were in English, you may be exempted from providing test scores. Otherwise, acceptable tests include:
- IELTS (7.5 overall, minimum 7.0 in each section)
- TOEFL (110 overall)
- Cambridge C2 Proficiency (Score 200+)
Show strong character and leadership
This scholarship isn’t just about grades. The selectors look for:
- Leadership potential
- Moral courage
- Commitment to service
- Kindness and respect for others
- Determination to make a difference
You must fulfill both academic and leadership qualities.
What Does the Rhodes Global Scholarship Cover?
This is a fully funded scholarship. It pays for:
- Oxford University course fees
- Annual stipend of approximately £19,800 (around £1,650 per month) for living expenses
- Visa fee and International Health Surcharge
- Two economy-class flights (to and from the UK)
- Settling-in allowance when you first arrive
- Re-application support if you pursue a second degree at Oxford
Basically, everything you need to live and study comfortably at Oxford is covered.
Important Dates for Rhodes Global Scholarships 2026
Timeline of Rhodes Global Scholarship:
| Step | Date |
| Applications Open | 2 June 2025 |
| Last Date to Confirm Eligibility | 29 July 2025 |
| Application Deadline | 31 July 2025 (11:59 PM GMT) |
| Longlisting and Shortlisting | August–September 2025 |
| Final Interviews in Oxford | 30–31 October 2025 |
| Results Announced | November 2025 |
| Deadline to Apply to Oxford | December 2025 – January 2026 |
| Course Starts at Oxford | September–October 2026 |
Documents requirements for Rhodes Global Scholarship
Start preparing these documents as early as possible:
- Proof of age (birth certificate or passport)
- Valid passport or national identity card
- Academic transcripts and certificates
- Curriculum Vitae (CV) – up to 2 pages
- Personal Statement – explaining who you are, your achievements, goals, and why you want to study at Oxford
- Academic Statement of Study – explain the Oxford course you want to pursue and how it fits into your plans
- Four reference letters – from people who know you well (at least 2 should be academic referees)
- English language test scores (if required)
- University Nomination Letter – a senior official (like Dean, Rector, or Vice Chancellor) from your current or last university must officially nominate you
Step-by-Step Application Process for Rhodes Global Scholarship
A complete guide to applying:
Confirm You’re Eligible
- Use the criteria above to check if you’re eligible.
Get Nominated
- Ask your university for a formal nomination. Only one nomination per university is allowed, so you must be one of their best candidates.
Prepare Your Documents
- Start gathering academic records, writing your personal statement, and reaching out to referees.
Fill Out the Online Application
- Applications open on 2 June 2025 and must be completed by 31 July 2025. The application portal will ask for your documents, references, and essays.
Interview Preparation
- If shortlisted, you’ll be invited for a final interview in Oxford in late October 2025. Prepare well—they want to see your clarity of thought, leadership vision, and your knowledge.
Apply to Oxford University
- If selected, you will then apply to your chosen course at Oxford (the Rhodes team will guide you).
Why You Should Apply for Rhodes scholarship
- Rhodes Scholars are globally respected
- Join an elite group of scholars and leaders from around the world
- Gain lifelong access to events, support, and alumni
- Live and study in one of the world’s most historic and advanced academic environments
- Rhodes looks for future change makers—they invest in people who will solve global challenges
✅ Final Checklist Before You Apply
| Task | Status |
| Read eligibility criteria | ☐ |
| Ask for university nomination | ☐ |
| Collect academic documents | ☐ |
| Write personal and academic statements | ☐ |
| Contact four referees | ☐ |
| Take English test (if needed) | ☐ |
| Submit application before 31 July 2025 | ☐ |
| Prepare for interview | ☐ |
| Apply to Oxford if selected | ☐ |
The Rhodes Global Scholarships 2026 offer more than just a degree—they offer an opportunity to shape the future. If you’re passionate about creating positive change in the world and meet the eligibility requirements, start preparing now.
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