What Does It Take To Become A Rhodes Scholar?
Rachel Maddow, Myron Rolle, and Bill Clinton have something in common: they are all Rhodes Scholars. The Rhodes Scholarship is a prestigious award that allows selected individuals to study at the University of Oxford.
If you see yourself as a strong leader, dedicated to helping others, and committed to academic excellence, you might be a good fit for the Rhodes Scholarship. Here’s what you need to know:
What Is a Rhodes Scholar?
A Rhodes Scholar is someone who has received the Rhodes Scholarship, an international award that supports postgraduate study at Oxford University. It is one of the oldest and most respected scholarships in the world, attracting thousands of applicants each year.
Rhodes Scholars can study almost any subject at Oxford and typically spend two to three years there, earning degrees like a bachelor’s, master’s, or doctorate.
The scholarship was established in 1904 by Cecil John Rhodes with the goal of bringing together young leaders from around the world to foster understanding and cooperation for the benefit of humanity.
Who Is Eligible to Apply?
To apply for a Rhodes Scholarship, you must meet the following requirements:
- Follow the citizenship and residency rules of your country. Over 20 countries participate in the program.
- Be between 18 and 24 years old by October 1 of the following year.
- Have excellent academic grades in your undergraduate degree.
- Demonstrate qualities like energy, courage, kindness, leadership, and a strong desire to help others.
The Rhodes Trust encourages applicants from all backgrounds, including all genders, races, religions, and personal characteristics.
Rhodes Scholarship Requirements
To qualify for the Rhodes Scholarship, you must:
- Be at least 18 but no older than 27 at the time of application. Most successful applicants are between 19 and 25.
- Have completed an undergraduate degree before applying.
- Meet all citizenship and residency requirements of the country from which you are applying.
- Have an exceptionally high GPA in your undergraduate studies.
Applicants from a wide range of cultural and educational backgrounds are welcome, and successful candidates are chosen regardless of gender, race, culture, or sexual orientation. The key traits of Rhodes Scholars are exceptional intelligence, leadership, and a commitment to service.
How to Apply for the Rhodes Scholarship
The application process takes about five months, starting in July and ending in November when winners are announced. Your application will include:
- University transcript
- Identification
- Endorsement from your university
- CV/Resume
- Headshot
- Academic Statement
- Personal Statement
- References
Your personal statement is especially important as it allows you to showcase your uniqueness and why you want to be a Rhodes Scholar. You’ll also need strong references, ideally five to eight, including at least four academic ones.
What Happens After You Apply?
After submitting your application, here’s what you can expect:
- January – February: Research the Rhodes Scholarship criteria for your region, begin drafting your personal statement, and start gathering your academic achievements.
- March – April: Finalize your referees and continue working on your personal statement and CV.
- May – June: Finish your application materials and submit them.
- July – August: If shortlisted, prepare for a social engagement event where you’ll network with other applicants and panellists.
- Late August – Early September: If you impress at the social event, you may be invited for a final interview in October.
- October: Attend the interview, which lasts 30-45 minutes, and use it to further demonstrate your character, motivations, and ambitions.
If successful, you will be notified of your acceptance around the end of November, usually the day after American Thanksgiving.
How Hard Is It to Get a Rhodes Scholarship?
The Rhodes Scholarship is very competitive, with only about 100 awarded worldwide each year, and just 32 of those going to U.S. citizens. It’s important to start preparing early, build strong relationships with professors, and make a positive impact at your college.
You can only apply twice, so if you don’t succeed the first time, you must apply again within the same constituency.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When applying, avoid focusing solely on academics. Rhodes Scholars also need strong character, leadership, and a commitment to helping others. Be genuine in your personal statement, choose recommenders who know you well, and start preparing early. Be sure to proofread your application carefully to make it error-free.
By avoiding these mistakes and presenting an authentic application, you can improve your chances of becoming a Rhodes Scholar.