RHODES SCHOLARSHIP 2027 — SOUTHERN AFRICA (UNIVERSITY OF OXFORD)

The Southern Africa constituency is the largest single Rhodes Scholarship grouping, awarding ten fully funded scholarships each year — more than any other constituency worldwide. It covers six countries: South Africa, Botswana, Lesotho, Malawi, Namibia, and eSwatini, and is administered through a regional secretariat based in Johannesburg.

Note: this constituency has an earlier deadline than West Africa and Kenya — applications close August 3, 2026, almost a month before the other African constituencies.

What It Covers

• Full University of Oxford tuition and college fees for a minimum of two years
• Annual stipend covering accommodation and living expenses in Oxford
• Oxford application fee
• UK visa and Immigration Health Surcharge fees
• Two economy-class return flights to and from the UK

Who Can Apply

• Citizens of South Africa, Botswana, Lesotho, Malawi, Namibia, or eSwatini (refugees and asylum seekers in South Africa may also be considered)
• Hold, or be on track to complete, an undergraduate degree at upper-second-class (2:1) honours level or equivalent
• Intend to study full-time at Oxford for a minimum of two years
• Demonstrate academic excellence, leadership, integrity, and commitment to service

Study Levels: Master’s, PhD
Host Country: United Kingdom
Number Available: 10 scholarships per year (the largest Rhodes constituency)
Deadline: Opens June 1, 2026; closes 23:59 SAST, August 3, 2026

How to Apply

Apply online. Required documents include a birth certificate, ID/passport, proof of citizenship or residency status, full academic transcripts, degree certificates, matric/school-leaving certificate, a CV on the Rhodes Trust template, a personal statement (max 750 words), an academic statement of study (max 350 words), and details of four referees. Missing documents can lead to disqualification, so prepare early.