The Rhodes Scholarship is the world’s oldest and most prestigious fully funded international graduate award, enabling outstanding students to pursue postgraduate studies at the University of Oxford. For India, six scholarships are awarded each year, covering tuition, living stipend, and travel.
Rhodes Scholarship – Key Facts (2025)
Application Timeline (India)
- Opening date: 2 June 2025
- Closing date: 23 July 2025 (23:59 IST)
- Entry: Successful candidates will begin studies at Oxford in October 2026.
Eligibility (India Constituency)
- Must be a citizen of India or have lived in India for at least 5 years.
- Age: Between 19–25 years (as of 1 October 2025).
- Academic: Must have completed (or be in final year of) an undergraduate degree with a first-class or equivalent GPA.
- Selection emphasizes academic excellence, leadership, character, and commitment to service.
Scholarship Benefits
- Full tuition fees at Oxford.
- Annual stipend (~£18,180 per year, covering living expenses).
- Travel allowance for flights to and from Oxford.
- Duration: 2–3 years, depending on the course.
Global Reach
- Established in 1902 by Cecil Rhodes.
- Each year, over 100 scholars worldwide are selected.
- Indian scholars have been part of the program since 1947, with over 200 Indians awarded to date.
Rhodes Scholarship India 2025 Snapshot
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Scholarships/year | 6 (India) |
| Application window | 2 June – 23 July 2025 |
| Entry year | 2026 (Oxford) |
| Eligibility | Indian citizen, 19–25 yrs, strong academics |
| Benefits | Tuition, stipend (~£18,180/yr), travel |
| Focus | Leadership, service, character, academics |
Takeaway
The Rhodes Scholarship is not just about funding — it’s about joining a global network of leaders committed to public service and impact. For Indian students, preparing early (essays, references, leadership evidence) is crucial, as competition is intense.