Time is running out to apply for the Rhodes Scholarship 2027. The deadline is 23:59 SAST on 3 August 2026, and the award will fund full‑time postgraduate study at the University of Oxford starting in October 2027.
What the Rhodes Scholarship 2027 is
The Rhodes Scholarship is a world‑renowned postgraduate award that lets exceptional students from Southern Africa study at Oxford. It covers tuition, a living stipend, travel costs and membership in a global network of scholars.
Who can apply
You may apply if you meet all of the following:
- Citizen or legal permanent resident of South Africa, Botswana, Lesotho, Malawi, Namibia or eSwatini (refugees and asylum seekers in South Africa are also considered).
- Have lived in one of these countries for at least five of the last ten years.
- Born after 1 October 2002 and on or before 1 October 2008 (you must be at least 19 but not older than 25 when you start at Oxford; older candidates may qualify under special conditions).
- Will have completed an undergraduate degree (usually a Bachelor’s) by July 2027.
- Meet the Oxford entry requirements for your chosen course.
What you gain
The Rhodes Scholarship provides full funding for tuition, a generous stipend, and travel to and from Oxford. You also join a community of leaders, gain access to mentorship, and build an international network that can boost your career and impact.
How to apply – step by step
- Read the official guidance on the Rhodes website.
- Check your eligibility and choose up to three Oxford courses.
- Gather the required documents:
- Birth certificate and valid passport or ID
- Academic transcripts and degree certificates
- Final Grade 12/Matric results
- Rhodes CV (use the provided template)
- Head‑and‑shoulders colour photo (JPG)
- Academic Statement (why you want to study the chosen course)
- Personal Statement (your story, leadership, service and goals)
- Contact four referees early – three academic and one character referee – and ask for permission to list them.
- Complete the online form on the official Rhodes Scholarship Southern Africa application page. Upload all documents in English (or provide certified translations).
- Submit the application before 23:59 SAST on 3 August 2026. Remember that referees must submit their references by 23:59 SAST on 17 August 2026.
Tips to improve your chances
- Start the referee process today. Give them your CV, study plan and examples of your leadership.
- Write clear, honest statements. Use real examples rather than vague praise.
- Follow the Rhodes CV template exactly – formatting counts.
- Proofread every part of the application for spelling and factual errors.
- Choose Oxford courses that match your academic background and career goals.
- Stay organized with a checklist so nothing is missed before the deadline.
Final thoughts
The Rhodes Scholarship 2027 is a life‑changing chance for Southern African graduates who want to study at Oxford. Applications opened on 1 June 2026 and close at 23:59 SAST on 3 August 2026. Meet the eligibility criteria, prepare your documents early, and give your referees plenty of time. This careful preparation will give you the best possible shot at joining the Rhodes community.