Rhodes Trust invites outstanding students and young leaders from Southern Africa to apply for the Rhodes Scholarship 2027.
Scholarship Application Closing Date: 03 August 2026 at 23:59 SAST
Scholarship Location: University of Oxford, United Kingdom
Rhodes Scholarship 2027 for Southern Africa
Applications are now open for the prestigious Rhodes Scholarship 2027 for candidates from Southern Africa.
The scholarship gives exceptional students and young leaders an opportunity to pursue fully funded postgraduate studies at the University of Oxford in the United Kingdom.
The Rhodes Scholarship is one of the oldest and most respected international scholarship programmes in the world. It supports outstanding individuals who show academic excellence, leadership potential, commitment to service and the desire to make a positive impact in society.
About the Rhodes Scholarship
The Rhodes Scholarship was established in 1902 and enables talented students from different parts of the world to study at the University of Oxford.
The scholarship aims to develop future leaders who are committed to addressing global challenges and creating meaningful change in their communities and beyond.
Rhodes Scholars also become part of a lifelong global network of scholars, professionals, innovators, policymakers, entrepreneurs and social impact leaders.
Eligible Southern African Countries
The Rhodes Scholarship for Southern Africa is open to eligible candidates from the following countries:
South Africa
Botswana
Lesotho
Malawi
Namibia
Eswatini
Applications for these countries are administered through the Southern Africa Regional Secretariat based in Johannesburg, South Africa.
What the Rhodes Scholarship Covers
The Rhodes Scholarship provides comprehensive financial support for postgraduate study at the University of Oxford.
The scholarship generally covers:
Full University of Oxford tuition fees.
Oxford college fees.
Annual living stipend.
Travel expenses to and from the United Kingdom.
Visa and health-related support where applicable.
Leadership development opportunities.
Membership in the global Rhodes Scholar community.
Selection Criteria
The Rhodes Scholarship selection process is highly competitive.
Candidates are assessed based on academic excellence, leadership potential, initiative, service to the community, integrity, character and moral courage.
Applicants should also show energy to use their talents effectively for the benefit of others and the potential to contribute positively to the world.
Application Requirements
Applicants should carefully read all official guidance documents before submitting their applications.
Key resources include:
Information for Candidates.
CV Template for Southern Africa.
Guidance for Referees.
Conditions of Tenure.
List of eligible schools and applicant pools.
Applicants are also encouraged to attend official information sessions offered by the Rhodes Trust to better understand the application process and scholarship expectations.
Why You Should Apply
The Rhodes Scholarship offers more than financial support.
Successful candidates get the opportunity to study at one of the world’s leading universities while joining a respected international network of leaders and changemakers.
The scholarship can also open doors to academic, professional and leadership development opportunities across different fields, including public service, research, entrepreneurship, diplomacy, civil society, business and international development.
How to apply
Click here to apply for Rhodes Scholarship 2027 for Southern Africa.
Applicants must complete the online application and submit all required supporting documents before the closing deadline.
Late applications will not be considered.
Contact Details
For assistance with the Southern Africa application process, applicants may contact:
Mr Ndumiso Luthuli
Email: southernafrica.secretary@rhodestrust.com
Important Dates
Applications Open: 01 June 2026
Applications Close: 03 August 2026 at 23:59 SAST
Applicants are encouraged to start preparing early so that they have enough time to gather documents and referee recommendations.
Final Thoughts
The Rhodes Scholarship 2027 is a life-changing opportunity for talented young leaders from Southern Africa who want to pursue postgraduate studies at the University of Oxford.
Candidates from South Africa, Botswana, Lesotho, Malawi, Namibia and Eswatini who meet the requirements should apply before 03 August 2026 at 23:59 SAST.