Rhodes Trust Scholarship Application for 2026/2027

Rhodes Trust Scholarship Application for 2026/2027

Detailed Guide on Rhodes Trust Scholarship Application 2026/2027. Are you a South African student with exceptional academic achievements, leadership potential, and a commitment to making a global impact? The Rhodes Trust Scholarship 2026/2027 is now open for applications, offering fully-funded opportunities to outstanding learners who wish to pursue postgraduate studies at the University of Oxford. As one of the world’s most prestigious scholarships, the Rhodes Trust invests in developing scholars who demonstrate intellectual excellence, moral character, leadership, and a dedication to service.

The Rhodes Scholarship provides comprehensive financial support, including full tuition fees, living expenses, airfare, and additional allowances for academic and cultural activities. Beyond financial assistance, recipients gain access to a global network of Rhodes Scholars, mentorship programs, leadership development initiatives, and opportunities to engage in research that addresses pressing global challenges. This scholarship is particularly aimed at students who show exceptional promise in their chosen field of study and a strong desire to contribute positively to society.

By applying for the Rhodes Trust Scholarship 2026/2027, students not only secure full funding for world-class education at Oxford University but also position themselves to become leaders, innovators, and change-makers on a global scale.

In addition, satrends.co.za offers a wide range of other bursary categories to suit your preference. Click on the links below to access other kinds of bursaries.

Universities in South Africa Bursaries Available for 2026

Government Departments Bursaries Available for 2026

Field of Studies Specified Bursaries Available for 2026

Keep reading to find out more about the eligibility criteria, fields of study covered, application process, and closing dates for the Rhodes Trust Scholarship Programme 2026/2027.

About Rhodes Trust

The Rhodes Scholarship is the oldest international scholarship program in the world, first awarded in 1902. Administered by the Rhodes Trust in Oxford, the scholarship is awarded to more than 100 candidates each year, enabling them to study at the University of Oxford. Over more than a century, the Rhodes Trust has become a symbol of academic excellence, leadership, and social impact.

About Rhodes Scholarship Programme 2026/2027

Fields Covered

The Rhodes Trust invites applications for the Southern Africa region, which includes:

• South Africa
• Botswana
• Lesotho
• Malawi
• Namibia
• eSwatini

The scholarship supports postgraduate studies at Oxford University, starting October 2026. Candidates should carefully review the Rhodes Trust Scholarship Conditions of Tenure (.pdf) to ensure their course of interest is covered.

Types of Awards and Selection Process

The following awards are available for Southern African applicants:

• 4 scholarships for applicants from South Africa
• 1 scholarship for an applicant from KwaZulu-Natal
• 1 scholarship for applicants from Botswana, Namibia, Lesotho, Malawi, and eSwatini
• 1 scholarship for selected schools or past pupils from prestigious institutions, including:
• • Bishops Diocesan College (and partner schools)
  • Paul Roos Gymnasium (and partner schools)
  • South African College School (and partner schools)
  • St Andrew’s College (and partner school)

Selection Process

Shortlisted candidates will be invited for:

• Social engagement
• Final interview in their respective regions (Sept–Nov 2026)

Successful candidates will be notified via email. Unsuccessful applicants will not receive feedback.

Eligibility Requirements for Rhodes Trust Scholarship Application for 2026/2027

Applicants must meet all minimum criteria to be considered:

• Be a citizen or legal permanent resident of Southern African countries listed above (refugees or asylum seekers in South Africa may also qualify)
• Have lived in the eligible country for 5 out of the last 10 years
• Plan to pursue full-time postgraduate studies at Oxford University for a minimum of 2 years
• Meet English language proficiency requirements
• Be aged 19–25 years on 1 October 2026 (specific age relaxations for certain graduates apply)
• Hold, or expect to hold, a Bachelor’s degree by July 2026
• Meet the specific entry requirements for their chosen Oxford course
• Preference is given to candidates with:
• • First Class Honours or equivalent
  • GPA of 3.70/4.0 or higher
  • Honours degree outside their home country or Masters-level qualification

How to Apply for Rhodes Trust Scholarship 2026/2027

Applications are submitted online via the Rhodes Trust Scholarship Application Portal 2026. Applicants must register an account before applying.

Required Supporting Documents

Applicants must submit clear copies of the following:

• Birth certificate
• ID or passport
• Proof of citizenship, permanent residency, or refugee status
• Full academic transcripts
• Degree certificates
• Matric/school leaving certificate
• Curriculum Vitae (CV) using Rhodes Trust template
• Head-and-shoulders colour photograph (jpg)
• Personal statement (max 750 words)
• Academic statement of study (max 350 words)
• 4 referees (as per Rhodes Trust guidelines)

Failure to submit any of these documents may disqualify your application.

Closing Date for Rhodes Trust Scholarship Application for 2026/2027

Application Deadline: 1 August (23:59)

Late submissions will not be accepted, so ensure your application is completed well before the deadline.

Contact the Rhodes Trust

For enquiries related to the Rhodes Scholarship 2026, contact:

National Secretary for Southern Africa

Contact Person: Ndumiso Luthuli

Email: southernafrica.secretary@rhodestrust.com