The selection criteria which determined the first Rhodes Scholars in 1902 still guide us today.
Application Process
The application process is explained as you navigate through the pages outlined in the navigation below
Selection Criteria
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.
What makes a Rhodes Scholar?
➜ Literary and scholastic attainments (academic excellence)
You are intellectually curious, with a deep love of learning and can think critically about a range of subjects.
You are consistently one of the top performers in your class.
You thrive in academically challenging and rigorous courses.
➜ 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)
Your passion for developing yourself extends outside the classroom.
You have worked hard to develop mastery in your skills, whether competitive, cultural or creative.
You can demonstrate sustained and outstanding achievement in your chosen pursuit.
➜ Truth, courage, devotion to duty, sympathy for and protection of the weak, kindliness, unselfishness and fellowship
You seek to live out your values in all that you do.
Serving others is a duty you take seriously, whether your community is large or small, local or international.
➜ Moral force of character and instincts to lead, and to take an interest in one's fellow beings
You have the courage to act on your initiative and inspire others to follow.
You demonstrate leadership in both thought and action.
The detailed eligibility criteria varies slightly depending on which constituency you are applying for. You can use our eligibility checker tool to find out if you meet the criteria and are eligible to apply for the Scholarship.