The Rhodes Scholarship is a prestigious fully funded scholarship that enables outstanding students to pursue postgraduate study at Oxford University in the United Kingdom. This scholarship covers tuition fees and provides a generous personal allowance for up to three years.
The University of Otago has a long history of Rhodes success, with its first Rhodes awarded in 1904 and over ten Rhodes scholars since 2000. The scholarship seeks individuals with proven intellectual ability, integrity, leadership potential, and a commitment to using their talents for the benefit of others.
Benefits of Rhodes Scholarship 2026
- Postgraduate study at Oxford University, England for up to 3 years
- £12,200 sterling per year personal allowance
- Plus fees
Eligibility Criteria for the Rhodes Scholarship 2026
- New Zealand citizens or British subjects with at least five years’ domicile in New Zealand
- Graduates or expecting to graduate with a degree from a New Zealand university
- Must have passed their 19th and not passed their 25th birthday by 1 October in the year for which they were elected
- Age requirement for MB ChB candidates extended one year: must have passed their 19th and not passed their 26th birthday by 1 October in the year for which they were elected
How to Apply for the Rhodes Scholarship 2026
- Visit the Universities New Zealand website for further information and documents, including the application form
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are the most frequently asked questions about the Rhodes Scholarship. These answers cover eligibility, benefits, deadlines, and how to apply.
What is the Rhodes Scholarship?
The Rhodes Scholarship is a prestigious scholarship that provides funds to study at Oxford University, United Kingdom. It covers postgraduate study for up to three years, including a personal allowance and tuition fees.
What is the value of the Rhodes Scholarship?
The scholarship provides postgraduate study at Oxford University for up to 3 years, a personal allowance of £12,200 sterling per year, plus tuition fees.
How many Rhodes Scholarships are offered?
Up to three Rhodes Scholarships are offered nationally each year.
What is the closing date for the Rhodes Scholarship?
The closing date is 1 August.
Who is eligible to apply for the Rhodes Scholarship?
Applicants must be New Zealand citizens or British subjects with at least five years’ domicile in New Zealand, graduates or expecting to graduate from a New Zealand university, and of an age that they will have passed their 19th and not passed their 25th birthday by 1 October in the year of election.
Is there an age extension for MB ChB candidates?
Yes, for candidates undertaking an MB ChB course and pre-registration year, the age requirement is extended by one year. They should have passed their 19th and not passed their 26th birthday by 1 October in the year of election.
What criteria are used to select Rhodes Scholars?
Successful applicants are chosen based on proven intellectual and academic ability, integrity of character, interest in and respect for fellow human beings, the ability to lead, and the energy to use their talents to the full.
Does the University of Otago have a history of Rhodes success?
Yes, the University of Otago has a long history of Rhodes success. Its first Rhodes was awarded in 1904, and since 2000, it has had over ten Rhodes scholars.
Where can I find the application form and further information?
For further information and documents, including the application form, please visit the Universities New Zealand website.
What is the host institution for the Rhodes Scholarship?
The host institution is Oxford University in the United Kingdom.
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