For ambitious South African students with a thirst for academic excellence and a drive to contribute to the world, the Rhodes Trust Scholarship offers a great opportunity.
Established in 1902 by Cecil John Rhodes, it is the oldest and arguably the most prestigious international scholarship program in existence.
This fully-funded postgraduate scholarship allows exceptional South Africans to pursue a full-time degree at the world-renowned University of Oxford, opening doors to world-class education and a transformative network of scholars.
About the Rhodes Trust Scholarship
The Rhodes Trust Scholarship is awarded to individuals who demonstrate exceptional academic achievement, leadership potential, a commitment to service, and a passion for community engagement.
It is not simply about academic prowess; the selection committee seeks individuals who embody the ideals of Rhodes himself—intellectually curious, morally upright, and committed to making a positive impact on the world.
Rhodes Trust Scholarship Application Form
Applications are typically accepted between early June and early August, with slight variations depending on your region.
South African applicants should refer to the specific Rhodes Scholarship – Southern Africa guidelines on the Rhodes Trust website.
The application form itself comprises several sections, including:
- Personal details and academic transcripts: Showcase your academic achievements and personal background.
- Reflective essays: Demonstrate your critical thinking and ability to communicate effectively.
- Letters of recommendation: Secure insightful references from individuals who know you well academically and personally.
- Supporting documents: Provide any additional information relevant to your application, such as awards, achievements, and extracurricular activities.
Remember, adequate preparation and meeting deadlines are crucial.
Submit your complete application electronically through the Rhodes Trust online portal before the stipulated closing date.
The Rhodes Trust Scholarship Requirements
To be qualified for the Rhodes Trust Scholarship, you must meet all of the following criteria:
- Citizenship: Be a citizen of a country within the Rhodes Scholarship constituency, which, for South Africa, includes Namibia, Lesotho, Botswana, eSwatini, and Malawi.
- Age: Not be older than 28 years of age on 1 October of the year in which you wish to commence your studies at Oxford.
- Academic excellence: Possess a First-Class Honours degree or equivalent, demonstrating exceptional academic ability.
- Leadership potential: Exhibit leadership qualities and a commitment to service, with the potential to make a positive impact on your community and the world.
- Good character: Display integrity, responsibility, and a strong moral compass.
Beyond these core requirements, the selection committee looks for well-rounded individuals with diverse interests, a passion for learning, and a clear vision for their future contributions to society.
The Rhodes Trust Scholarship Closing Date
As mentioned earlier, the application window for the Rhodes Scholarship typically opens in early June and closes in early August.
The application deadline for the 2024 academic year was on August 1, 2023.
South African applicants are advised to carefully review the specific deadlines set for their region on the Rhodes Trust website.
Remember, punctuality is essential, so plan your application well in advance to avoid missing the crucial deadline.
The Rhodes Trust Southern Africa can be reached via telephone at +27 (0)12 882 6196 for any inquiries or clarifications regarding the scholarship application process.