Rhodes Scholarship 2026 India: The prestigious Rhodes Scholarship, one of the world’s oldest and most sought-after international scholarships, has officially opened its application window for Indian students aiming to pursue postgraduate studies at the University of Oxford in 2026. This fully funded opportunity is a gateway for exceptional young leaders from India to join a global network of scholars and make a significant impact in their chosen fields.
What is the Rhodes Scholarship?
The Rhodes Scholarship is a fully funded, full-time postgraduate award that allows outstanding students to study at the University of Oxford for two to three years, depending on their chosen academic path. Established in 1902, the scholarship aims to nurture public-minded leaders with academic excellence, leadership skills, and a commitment to service.
Established in 1903, the Rhodes Scholarship is the oldest and perhaps most well-known international scholarship program in the world. It was created through the will of Cecil John Rhodes, a British businessman and politician, with the aim of promoting leadership and fostering international understanding.
Each year, a select group of exceptional young people from around the globe are chosen to study at the University of Oxford. The scholarship covers all university fees, a living stipend, and airfare to and from Oxford, making it a truly transformative experience.
Key Highlights: Rhodes Scholarship for India 2026
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Application Opens | June 2, 2025 |
| Application Deadline | July 23, 2025 (11:59 PM IST) |
| Reference Deadline | August 5, 2025 |
| Number of Scholarships | 6 for Indian students |
| Coverage | Full Oxford tuition, ₹22.94 lakh yearly stipend, visa, travel, health insurance |
| Duration | 2–3 years (extendable in special cases) |
| Official Website | rhodeshouse.ox.ac.uk |
Who Can Apply? Rhodes Scholarship India 2026 Eligibility
To be eligible for the Rhodes Scholarship for India 2026, applicants must:
- Be an Indian citizen with a valid Indian passport or proof of citizenship (OCI/PIO not accepted).
- Have completed at least 4 of the last 10 years of formal education in India, including either Class 10 or 12, or be in the final year of an undergraduate degree at an Indian university.
- Be aged 18–23 years on October 1, 2025 (up to 27 years for those who completed their first degree after October 1, 2024).
- Hold or expect to receive a Bachelor’s degree by July 2026 that meets Oxford’s entry requirements (usually First Class Honours or equivalent).
- Meet Oxford’s English language proficiency standards if English is not their first language.
While academic brilliance is crucial, the Rhodes Trust emphasizes a holistic view of a candidate. They are looking for well-rounded individuals who possess not just intellectual prowess but also the drive and compassion to effect meaningful change in the world.
Key Dates for Indian Applicants (2026 Intake)
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Applications Open | June 2, 2025 |
| Applications Close | July 23, 2025 |
| Reference Deadline | August 5, 2025 |
While specific deadlines can vary slightly each year, the application window typically opens in June and closes in August of the preceding year. For the 2026 intake, you should be looking for applications to open in June 2025 and close around August 2025. Always refer to the official Rhodes Trust website for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
How to Apply for the Rhodes Scholarship (Indian Students):
Applying for the Rhodes Scholarship is a rigorous process that requires careful preparation. Here’s a general overview of the steps involved:
- Register Online: Visit the official Rhodes House website and go to the India Scholarship section.
- Fill Application Form: Complete personal, academic, and course preference details.
- Upload Documents: Required documents include:
- Birth certificate or passport
- Proof of Indian citizenship
- 10th and 12th marksheets
- University/college transcript
- Recent headshot photo (JPG format)
- CV (academic, leadership, volunteering, awards, etc.)
- Personal & Academic Statements: Write a Personal Statement (up to 1000 words) and an Academic Statement (up to 350 words).
- References: Add 4–5 referees (at least 3 must be professors who have taught you). Referees will receive email instructions.
- Submit Application: Ensure all details are correct and submit by July 23, 2025. There is no application fee.
- Shortlisting and Interviews: If shortlisted, you will be invited for an interview process. This typically involves a preliminary interview followed by a final interview. These interviews are comprehensive and designed to assess your intellectual curiosity, leadership qualities, and overall suitability for the scholarship.
Direct portal link to apply for the Rhodes Scholarship India 2026 is: