Apply for the Rhodes West Africa Scholarship 2027 to Study at Oxford University

Rhodes West Africa Scholarship 2027 for Postgraduate Study at the University of Oxford, United Kingdom (Fully Funded)

Applications are now open for the prestigious Rhodes West Africa Scholarship 2027, a fully funded opportunity for exceptional young leaders from West Africa to pursue postgraduate studies at the University of Oxford, United Kingdom.

Established in 1902, the Rhodes Scholarship is the world’s oldest international scholarship programme and is widely regarded as one of the most prestigious scholarships globally. The programme seeks outstanding young people with exceptional academic ability, leadership potential, integrity, and a commitment to creating positive change in society.

Beyond funding your studies, the Rhodes Scholarship provides access to a lifelong global network of leaders, changemakers, and professionals committed to public service and international understanding.

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Scholarship Benefits

Successful applicants will receive:

• Full University of Oxford tuition and college fees
• Annual living stipend of approximately £20,400 (£1,700 per month)
• University of Oxford application fee
• UK student visa fees
• International Health Surcharge (IHS)
• Two economy-class flights to and from the United Kingdom
• Settling-in allowance upon arrival in Oxford
• Additional support for visa renewal and healthcare charges where necessary

Scholars may also access leadership development opportunities, mentorship, and a global network of Rhodes Scholars.

Eligible Countries

Applicants must be citizens of one of the following countries:

• Benin
• Burkina Faso
• Cabo Verde
• Côte d’Ivoire
• Gambia
• Ghana
• Guinea
• Guinea-Bissau
• Liberia
• Mali
• Mauritania
• Niger
• Nigeria
• Senegal
• Sierra Leone
• São Tomé and Príncipe
• Togo
• Saint Helena
• Ascension and Tristan da Cunha

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Eligibility Requirements

Applicants must:

• Be citizens of an eligible West African country.
• Have lived in one or more eligible countries for at least five of the last ten years.
• Have completed an undergraduate degree before the application deadline.
• Possess a First Class Honours degree or equivalent qualification.
• Demonstrate exceptional academic achievement, leadership potential, character, and commitment to service.

For Medicine, Dentistry, and Pharmacy graduates, the highest academic classification awarded by the university (such as Distinction) may be accepted as equivalent to a First Class degree.

Age Requirements

Applicants must satisfy one of the following:

• Be aged 18–24 on 1st October 2026.
• Be aged 18–25 on 1st October 2026 for certain professional degree holders completing mandatory internships.
• Be under 27 years old on 1st October 2026 and have completed their first undergraduate degree on or after 1st October 2025.

Selection Criteria

Candidates will be assessed based on:

• Outstanding academic excellence
• Leadership potential
• Integrity and strong moral character
• Commitment to serving others
• Energy and talent demonstrated through activities such as sports, arts, music, debate, theatre, entrepreneurship, or community engagement
• Ability to make a positive impact in society

Applicants with a First Class degree, GPA of 3.7/4.0 or higher, or equivalent qualifications are particularly competitive.

Application Process

Applicants must complete and submit the online Rhodes Scholarship application before the deadline.

There is no application fee.

Candidates should apply for the Rhodes Scholarship before applying for admission to Oxford. Those selected for the scholarship will subsequently receive support to apply for their chosen postgraduate programme at the University of Oxford.

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Deadline: 27th August, 2026

The Rhodes Scholarship is an exceptional opportunity for talented young Africans seeking a fully funded postgraduate education at Oxford while joining a prestigious global community of future leaders.

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