The Rhodes Scholarship is a prestigious, fully-funded program designed for exceptional international students who wish to pursue postgraduate studies at the University of Oxford. Each year, the University awards 100 Rhodes Scholarships to outstanding individuals coming to study in the UK for the first time. These scholarships cover the full duration of the Oxford postgraduate program, including tuition fees, travel expenses, health insurance, accommodation, and a monthly stipend. For the academic year 2023/24, the monthly stipend is GBP 1,515, totaling GBP 18,180 annually. The selection process is highly competitive, based on academic excellence, a personal statement, and performance in an interview. A separate scholarship application form must be completed on the official website of the Rhodes Trust.
The Rhodes Scholarships for Indian Students:
- There are five Rhodes Scholarships available each year for Indian students.
- These scholarships cover all expenses, including tuition, college fees, living costs, and airfare to and from Oxford.
Selection Criteria:
Selection is based on:
- Academic Excellence: Good grades and achievements in studies.
- Leadership Potential: Ability to lead and inspire others.
- Character: Personal qualities like honesty and kindness.
- Commitment to Service: Dedication to helping others.
History:
- The first Indian Rhodes Scholars Asim Datta went to Oxford in 1947.
- Since then, over 200 Indians have received this scholarship.
Important Dates:
- Opening Date for Applications: June 3, 2024
- Closing Date for Applications: August 1, 2024 (11:59 PM Indian Standard Time)
The Rhodes Scholarship Application Information:
- The eligibility criteria, application requirements, and selection process can vary slightly depending on the country.
- Applicants should read the specific information for Indian candidates carefully.
- Applicants should also check the conditions to ensure their chosen course is covered by the scholarship.
- Current Rhodes Scholars at Oxford have created a guide to help applicants, and they offer a group to answer questions.
- Click here to find more about the application.
- Are you wondering the cost of studying abroad for Indian Students 2024
The Rhodes Scholarship Selection Criteria:
- There is no specific ‘type’ of person selected. The strength of the scholarship comes from its diversity.
- Criteria from 1902 still apply:
- Academic Excellence: Literary and scholastic achievements.
- Use of Talents: Excellence in areas like sports, music, debate, dance, theatre, and the arts.
- Character Qualities: Truth, courage, duty, kindness, unselfishness, and fellowship.
- Leadership and Interest in Others: Moral character and instincts to lead and care for others.
- Want to study in the UK but the Rhodes Scholarship feels too competitive? Consider applying for Scholarship at Cardiff University.
Community:
- The Rhodes community is welcoming and inclusive, selecting scholars from all backgrounds without regard to gender, marital status, sexual orientation, race, religion, social background, or disability.
The Rhodes Scholarship Eligibility Criteria:

- Nationality: Must be a citizen of a Rhodes-eligible country (e.g., India, Australia, Germany, Singapore).
- Education: Must have completed education in your home country for at least 4 of the last 10 years (e.g., Indian applicants could have completed their 10th/12th standard or undergraduate program in India).
- Age: Must be between 19 to 25 years old at the time of the scholarship application.
- Academic Achievement: Must have completed or will complete an undergraduate degree with first-class honors.
Note: Applicants who meet these criteria can be considered for the Rhodes Scholarship.
The Rhodes Scholarship represents a remarkable opportunity for talented students from around the world to further their education at one of the most prestigious universities globally. For Indian students, five fully-funded scholarships are available each year, covering all necessary expenses for studying at Oxford. Selection is based on a comprehensive evaluation of academic excellence, leadership potential, character, and commitment to service. With a rich history of fostering diverse and inclusive communities, the Rhodes Scholarship continues to uphold its legacy of supporting future leaders. By fulfilling the eligibility criteria and excelling in the application process, applicants can join the distinguished ranks of Rhodes Scholars and make significant contributions to their fields and society.