Rhodes Scholarship (India)
Rhodes Trust · All India
| Scheme Name | Rhodes Scholarship (India) |
| Provided By | Rhodes Trust |
| Eligibility Summary | Class 11-12, Graduation, Engineering (< ₹8L Income) |
About the Program
The Rhodes Scholarship is the world's oldest and most prestigious international scholarship, funding postgraduate study at the University of Oxford. The Rhodes Scholarship for India selects candidates who demonstrate exceptional academic achievement, leadership qualities, commitment to others, and physical vigour. Indian students apply through the Rhodes Trust India selection process and compete for a very limited number of places each year.
Benefits & Financial Support
£20,400 (approx. ₹30.0 Lakh+)
Fully funded award covering University and College tuition fees, an annual living stipend (~£20,400/year), economy class travel to/from Oxford, student visa fees, and International Health Surcharge (IHS) coverage.
- —
Tuition Coverage:Full University and College tuition fees at the University of Oxford.
- —
Living Stipend:An annual stipend of £20,400 (paid in monthly installments) for living expenses.
- —
Travel Allowance:Economy class airfare to Oxford at the start and returning at the end of the scholarship.
- —
Additional Expenses:Coverage for the University of Oxford application fee, student visa application fee, and the UK International Health Surcharge (IHS).
- —
Settling-in Allowance:A one-time settling-in allowance upon arrival in the UK.
Eligibility Criteria & Income Limit
| Education Level | Postgraduate |
| Course / Stream | Relevant courses |
| Income Limit | No income bar |
| Category / Caste | Open to all |
| Domicile State | All India |
Mandatory Documents Checklist
- ✓Valid Indian Passport
- ✓Official Undergraduate Transcripts
- ✓Birth Certificate or Proof of Age
- ✓Detailed Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- ✓Personal Statement (maximum 1,000 words)
- ✓Academic Statement of Study (maximum 350 words)
- ✓4 to 6 Recommendation Letters (academic/professional)
- ✓English Language Proficiency Test Scores (IELTS/TOEFL)
Selection Process
- —
Selection is highly competitive and is based on academic excellence, character, leadership potential, and commitment to service
- —
Shortlisted candidates must participate in personal interviews with the Rhodes India Selection Committee
- —
The final selection is announced in late November.
Renewal Policy
- —
The scholarship is awarded for the standard duration of the chosen postgraduate course (typically 2 years for Master's programs and 3 years for DPhil/PhD research)
- —
Funding is maintained each term contingent upon the scholar's satisfactory academic progress and standing at the University of Oxford.
How to Apply Online
Applications are submitted online via the official portal. Complete eKYC, upload scanned documents, and submit before the closing date.
- 1Verify Course Eligibility
Check the entry requirements for your desired graduate course at the University of Oxford.
- 2Register on Portal
Create an account on the official Rhodes Trust online application portal.
- 3Submit Admission Application
Apply separately for admission to your chosen full-time postgraduate program at Oxford.
- 4Prepare Personal Statements
Draft a personal statement (explaining your goals and values) and an academic statement of study.
- 5Secure References
Nominate 4 to 6 academic or professional referees who can submit recommendation letters directly through the portal.
- 6Upload Documents
Upload your passport, academic transcripts, and CV, then submit the application before the July deadline.
Common Questions (FAQs)
Can PIO or OCI cardholders apply for the Rhodes Scholarship (India)?
No, applicants must be citizens of India holding a valid Indian passport. PIO and OCI cardholders are not eligible to apply under the India constituency.
Is there an age limit for the Rhodes Scholarship?
Yes, applicants must be aged 18 to 23 as of October 1, 2026. However, an extension up to 27 is allowed if you completed your first undergraduate degree later than usual.
Do I need an admission offer from Oxford University before applying?
No, you do not need an admission offer to apply for the scholarship. However, you must apply for admission to Oxford separately, and securing admission is a prerequisite to receiving the scholarship.
How many letters of recommendation are required?
You must provide contact details for 4 to 6 referees who will submit recommendation letters. At least 3 of these referees must be academic contacts who have taught you.
Scholarship News
Similar Opportunities You Can Apply For Today
Khelo India Sports Scholarship Scheme
Applications OpenMinistry of Youth Affairs and Sports, Government of India
Target Olympic Podium Scheme (TOPS)
Applications OpenMinistry of Youth Affairs and Sports, Government of India
LIC Golden Jubilee Scholarship
Applications OpenLIC Golden Jubilee Foundation
HDFC Bank Parivartan's Educational Crisis Scholarship Support (ECSS) Programme 2026-27
Applications OpenHDFC Bank (CSR Initiative)
Discover More
Legal Disclaimer
IndiaScholarships.in attempts to provide accurate information manually curated from official sources. Scholarship details, timelines, and eligibility can change without notice as per the provider's discretion. Applying for a scholarship does not guarantee selection. Always verify all information on the official Rhodes Trust website before final submission.