National and International Scholarship Office John Martinson Honors College

Rhodes Scholarship

Information Session: 2025 campus competition closed

2026 and later info - NISO Week Sept 16-19, 2024 and Global Grad Scholarships Week - TBD March 2025

Campus Deadline: August 12, 2024

Fields of Study: Open

Funding for: 2-3 years of study at the University of Oxford, United Kingdom

Begin Application: junior or senior year, recent grad or graduate student

Website: www.rhodesscholar.org/

Description

The Rhodes Scholarships support exceptional, well-rounded students with promising leadership potential and a commitment to public service who plan to enroll in any graduate degree program at the University of Oxford. The Rhodes is the oldest and perhaps the most prestigious international graduate scholarship program in the world. The foundation seeks to develop outstanding leaders who are committed to the common good and who will promote international understanding and peace. The scholarship covers all university and college fees for one to two years, plus a modest personal stipend and airfare to and from the U.K.

Eligibility Requirements

  • U.S. citizen or citizen of a qualifying Rhodes country
  • Lawful permanent resident of the United States prior to the application deadline, including at least the last 5 years (U.S. applicants only)
  • At least 18, but not yet 24 years of age
  • Completion of a bachelor's degree before beginning studies at Oxford

Candidate Profile

  • Record of literary and scholastic achievement beyond outstanding grades
  • Strong moral character: truth, courage, devotion to public duty, humility
  • Ambitious vision, the drive to make that vision a reality, and the ability to inspire others
  • Energy to use one's talents to the fullest (demonstrated by extracurricular strength, such as in sport, debate, music, dance, etc.)
  • Rationale for the chosen program of study at Oxford and a clear link with future goals

Application Components

This list is for the U.S. competition. If applying though an international consituency, you must consult the application requirements on that specific competition page: https://www.rhodeshouse.ox.ac.uk/scholarships/constituency-information/ 

  • online application
  • 8 recommendation letters, 4 of which must be from individuals who have instructed you academically at the university level
  • 1,000 word personal statement
  • A list of principal activities (a focused resume or CV)
  • Evidence of age (e.g., birth certificate or passport)
  • Certified transcript(s)

Application Procedure

All applicants for the U.S. competition MUST be nominated by their college or university. As such, Purdue applicants are reviewed by an internal committee who will identify nominees. Those applying to international constituencies may or may not need an endorsement, but should consult with NISO either way as our expertise will be invaluable to the application process.

Detailed campus application information is provided directly to applicants once they declare their intention to apply.