What makes a Rhodes Scholar
The Rhodes Scholarship is a merit scholarship, and there is no such thing as a 'type' when considering who gets selected. In fact, the strength of the Scholarship comes from its rigorous selection criteria and diversity.
Endorsements from Institutions
An institutional endorsement is a mandatory prerequisite of the Rhodes Scholarship application in Canada and the United States. The guidance below explains how to identify which students to endorse, and how to write a letter of nomination on their behalf.
The selection criteria which determined the first Rhodes Scholars in 1902 still guide us today:
➜ Literary and scholastic attainments (academic excellence)
➜ Energy to use one's talents to the full (as demonstrated by mastery in areas such as sports, music, debate, dance, theatre, and artistic pursuits, particularly where teamwork is involved)
➜ Truth, courage, devotion to duty, sympathy for and protection of the weak, kindliness, unselfishness and fellowship
➜ Moral force of character and instincts to lead, and to take an interest in one's fellow beings.
Learn more about the Selection CriteriaAcademic excellence is a foundational requirement of the Rhodes Scholarship. Candidates are expected to demonstrate intellectual and scholarly achievement at the highest level, broadly equivalent to the academic calibre required for entry to Canada’s and the United States’ most selective graduate programmes. A GPA of 3.7/4.0 is considered the minimum threshold for admission to the University of Oxford.
While academic excellence is essential, it must be combined with exceptional strength of character, a commitment to serving others, and instincts for leadership. A candidate who excels academically but does not demonstrate these qualities in equal measure is unlikely to succeed in their application.
Related pages
Outreach Resources
Help us spread the word about the Rhodes Scholarship and reach talented young people from around the world.
Outreach Resources Find out more Key Facts about the Rhodes Scholarship
Established in 1902, the Rhodes Scholarship is the oldest international graduate scholarship programme in the world.
Key Facts about the Rhodes Scholarship Find out more Information for Academic Advisors
As an academic advisor, you are uniquely placed to help your students pursue the Rhodes Scholarship.
Information for Academic Advisors Find out more Guidance for Referees
References are a crucial part of the selection process, and can significantly influence application outcome.
Guidance for Referees Find out more