Rhodes Scholarship 2026 - Study at Oxford University

The Rhodes Scholarship is the oldest, most prestigious and most celebrated international scholarship programme in the world. Established in 1902 under the will of Cecil John Rhodes, the scholarship enables outstanding young Nigerians to study at the University of Oxford — consistently ranked as one of the top two universities in the world. Being selected as a Rhodes Scholar is one of the highest academic and personal distinctions any young Nigerian can achieve. About the Rhodes Scholarship The Rhodes Scholarship is awarded to exceptional young people who demonstrate outstanding intellectual and academic achievement, integrity of character and commitment to truth and justice, instinct to lead and motivate others, energy to use their talents to the full, and devotion to the welfare of others and making a difference in the world. Rhodes Scholars are not selected purely on academic merit — the selection process looks for the complete person who combines academic excellence with leadership, community service, and personal character. What the Scholarship Covers The Rhodes Scholarship is fully funded and covers all the costs associated with studying at Oxford. The scholarship pays full University of Oxford tuition fees for your chosen degree programme. It provides a generous monthly living stipend of approximately £17,310 per year which is sufficient to cover accommodation, food, books, and living expenses in Oxford. The scholarship covers return economy class airfare from Nigeria to the United Kingdom at the beginning and end of your scholarship. It also provides comprehensive health insurance, settling-in allowance, and thesis allowance where applicable. Programmes Available at Oxford As a Rhodes Scholar you may apply to study virtually any postgraduate programme offered by the University of Oxford. Popular choices among African Rhodes Scholars include Master of Public Policy (MPP), Master of Science in Evidence-Based Social Intervention, BCL (Bachelor of Civil Law), MSc in Financial Economics, MSc in Global Health Science, DPhil (PhD) in various fields, MBA, and Master of Science in Water Science Policy and Management. The scholarship typically covers one or two years of study though some doctoral programmes may be extended with Rhodes support. The Rhodes Community Being a Rhodes Scholar connects you to a global community of over 8,000 living Rhodes Scholars and tens of thousands of alumni around the world. This network includes heads of government, Nobel laureates, judges, CEOs, doctors, lawyers, academics, artists and activists who are among the most influential people in their respective fields. The Rhodes Trust actively facilitates connections among Scholars through annual events, the Rhodes Forum, and online networks. Impact on Nigerian Rhodes Scholars Nigerian Rhodes Scholars have gone on to hold extraordinary positions of leadership and influence in Nigeria and across the world. Alumni have served as government ministers, senior UN officials, World Bank executives, Supreme Court judges, university vice-chancellors, and founders of significant organisations working to improve lives across Nigeria and Africa. Eligibility Requirements To be eligible for a Rhodes Scholarship for Nigeria candidates must be Nigerian citizens. Candidates must be between 19 and 25 years old at October 1 of the year they are applying. Candidates must hold or be in their final year of a first undergraduate degree with exceptional academic results. There is no restriction on field of study. Candidates from all disciplines are encouraged to apply. Selection Process The selection process for the Rhodes Scholarship Nigeria takes place over several months. You must first submit a detailed application including academic transcripts, personal statement, and letters of recommendation from people who know you well. Shortlisted candidates are invited to a regional Selection Committee interview where a panel of distinguished Nigerians assesses you against the Rhodes criteria. Successful candidates are then confirmed as Rhodes Scholars for Nigeria. How to Apply Applications are submitted through the official Rhodes Trust website at rhodeshouse.ox.ac.uk. The application opens annually and the deadline for Nigerian applications is typically July of each year. Deadline for 2026 intake is July 2026. Begin preparing your application at least 6 months in advance. Visit micrise.com.ng daily for more fully funded international scholarships and opportunities for Nigerians.