The Rhodes Scholarship remains one of the world’s most prestigious and competitive fully funded scholarships for postgraduate studies. Administered by the Rhodes Trust, the scholarship enables exceptional students from around the world to pursue master’s, MPhil, and doctoral degrees at University of Oxford.
Applications for the Rhodes Scholarship 2027 cohort officially opened in June 2026, offering outstanding young leaders the opportunity to study at Oxford and join a global network of scholars, policymakers, researchers, entrepreneurs, and changemakers.
This guide covers everything you need to know. Have you applied it: Scholarships for International Students 2027?
Rhodes Scholarship 2027 Quick Highlights
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Scholarship Name | Rhodes Scholarship 2027 |
| Host University | University of Oxford |
| Host Country | United Kingdom |
| Scholarship Type | Fully Funded |
| Degree Level | Master’s, MPhil, DPhil (PhD) |
| Eligible Students | International Students |
| Coverage | Tuition, stipend, flights, visa costs, health surcharge |
| Application Opening | June 2026 |
| Study Start Date | October 2027 |
| Funding Duration | 2–3+ Years (depending on course) |
What is the Rhodes Scholarship?
Established in 1903, the Rhodes Scholarship is considered one of the oldest and most respected international graduate scholarship programs in the world.
Each year, more than 100 exceptional students are selected to study at Oxford University. The program focuses not only on academic excellence but also on leadership, character, service, and the ability to make a positive impact on society.
The scholarship aims to develop future leaders who can address global challenges and contribute meaningfully to their communities.
Benefits of the Rhodes Scholarship 2027
One of the biggest reasons students pursue the Rhodes Scholarship is its comprehensive funding package.
The Scholarship Covers:
- Full Oxford University tuition fees
- Oxford college fees
- Annual living stipend
- Student visa fee
- UK Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS)
- Oxford application fee
- Two economy-class flights to and from the UK
- Arrival and settling-in allowance
- Access to leadership development programs
- Membership in the global Rhodes Scholar network
For the 2025-26 academic year, Rhodes Scholars received an annual stipend of approximately £20,400 (£1,700 per month) for living expenses. Updated figures for future cohorts may vary slightly.
Eligible Degree Programs
Rhodes Scholars can apply for most full-time postgraduate programs offered by Oxford University.
Popular choices include:
- Public Policy
- International Relations
- Engineering
- Computer Science
- Artificial Intelligence
- Economics
- Law
- Environmental Studies
- Medicine
- Public Health
- Education
- Business-related programs
- DPhil (PhD) research programs
Applicants should review Oxford’s course requirements before applying.
Rhodes Scholarship Eligibility Criteria 2027
Eligibility varies slightly by constituency and country.
Generally, applicants must:
Academic Requirements
- Hold or be completing a bachelor’s degree.
- Meet Oxford University’s academic entry requirements.
- Demonstrate outstanding academic performance.
Age Requirements
Most applicants should be:
- Between 18 and 24 years old on the specified eligibility date.
Some constituencies offer flexibility for:
- Medical graduates
- Candidates who completed undergraduate studies later than usual
Leadership Potential
Applicants should demonstrate:
- Leadership experience
- Community service
- Social impact initiatives
- Extracurricular achievements
Character and Integrity
Selection committees strongly value:
- Ethical leadership
- Commitment to service
- Public engagement
- Global citizenship
How to Apply for the Rhodes Scholarship 2027
Step 1: Check Your Constituency
Rhodes Scholarships are awarded through specific constituencies (countries or regions).
Applicants should first determine whether they:
- Apply through their national constituency
- Apply through the Global Rhodes Scholarship route
Step 2: Prepare Required Documents
Typical requirements include:
- Academic transcripts
- CV or resume
- Personal statement
- Leadership statement
- Academic references
- Passport copy
- Proof of nationality
- Evidence of achievements
Step 3: Submit Online Application
Applications are submitted through the Rhodes Scholarship portal.
Step 4: Interview Stage
Shortlisted candidates are invited for interviews conducted by selection committees.
Step 5: Oxford Admission
Successful Rhodes Scholars must then secure admission to Oxford University. Winning the scholarship does not automatically guarantee Oxford admission.
Application Timeline for Rhodes Scholarship 2027
| Stage | Expected Timeline |
|---|---|
| Applications Open | June 2026 |
| Country Deadlines | August–October 2026 |
| Interviews | Late 2026 |
| Oxford Admission Process | Early 2027 |
| Arrival at Oxford | September 2027 |
| Classes Begin | October 2027 |
Deadlines differ by constituency, so applicants should verify their regional deadlines.
Countries Eligible for the Rhodes Scholarship
The Rhodes Scholarship is available across numerous constituencies worldwide.
Popular applicant regions include:
- United Arab Emirates
- Saudi Arabia
- Qatar
- Bahrain
- Oman
- Kuwait
- India
- Pakistan
- Nepal
- Bangladesh
- Canada
- United States
- Australia
- Germany
- South Africa
- Kenya
- Nigeria
- Singapore
- Malaysia
Students not covered by a constituency may qualify under the Global Rhodes Scholarship category.
FAQs
Is the Rhodes Scholarship fully funded?
Yes. The Rhodes Scholarship covers tuition fees, living expenses, flights, visa fees, health surcharge, and other study-related costs.
Can UAE students apply for the Rhodes Scholarship?
Yes. Students from the UAE may apply through the relevant Rhodes constituency if they meet eligibility requirements.
Does the Rhodes Scholarship cover PhD programs?
Yes. Eligible DPhil (PhD) programs at Oxford University can be funded through the scholarship.
What GPA is required for the Rhodes Scholarship?
There is no universal GPA requirement, but successful applicants generally have exceptional academic records and meet Oxford’s entry standards.
When will Rhodes Scholars start studying at Oxford?
Applicants selected during the 2026 application cycle will begin studies at Oxford in October 2027.
Conclusion
The Rhodes Scholarship remains one of the most prestigious fully funded opportunities available to international students in 2027. Beyond financial support, it offers access to world-class education at Oxford University, leadership development programs, and a powerful global alumni network.
For ambitious students seeking a transformative academic and professional journey, the Rhodes Scholarship 2027 could be the opportunity that shapes the next chapter of their lives. With applications now open, this is the ideal time to begin preparing your application, strengthening your leadership profile, and building a compelling vision for your future.