Rhodes Scholarship

Who Can Apply:

Seniors, citizens of the United States under the age of 24, and completing a Bachelor’s degree may apply before October 1st.  You may be in any field of study and may continue your graduate degree at Oxford University.  There is no minimum GPA requirement, however, many Oxford departments may establish a GPA requirement for some degrees, usually a GPA of 3.8 or someone graduating in the top ten percent of their class.

Award Amount:

Rhodes Scholars are elected for two years of study at the University of Oxford, with the possibility of renewal for a third year.  All educational costs, such as matriculation, tuition, laboratory and certain other fees, are paid on the Scholar’s behalf by the Rhodes Trustees.  Each Scholar receives in addition a maintenance allowance adequate to meet necessary expenses for term-time and vacations.  The Rhodes Trustees cover the necessary costs of travel to and from Oxford, and, upon application, may approve additional grants for research purposes or study-related travel.

History:

The Rhodes Scholarships, the oldest of international fellowships, were initiated after the death of Cecil Rhodes in 1902.  The purpose is to bring outstanding students from many countries around the world to the University of Oxford.  Mr. Rhodes hoped that his plan of bringing able students from throughout the English-speaking world and beyond to study at Oxford University would aid in the promotion of international understanding and peace.

How to Apply:

Notice your application will not be complete until all components are complete and received.

1. You must be nominated by your area’s faculty representative.  Contact your representative to see if you may be considered for this nomination. Your representative will also be able to give you more information about the nomination process.

2. Once you are nominated by your faculty representative, you may begin the application process.  The online application form may be accessed here.

3. You will need three letters of recommendation.  Recommendations need to be obtained from individuals who know you best.

4. If selected as a finalist, you will be asked to attend an interview.

All materials must be submitted by the appropriate due dates. See list of important dates and deadlines and keep in mind campus deadlines may be earlier than other deadlines.

Truman’s first Rhode’s Scholarship recipient, Andrew McCall, provides helpful advice for Rhodes Scholarship applicants.

If you have any other questions or if we may be of further assistance, please contact the Graduate Office. Good luck with your application process.