Rhodes Scholarships - myFootpath

Once upon a time (around 1167), King Henry II got mad and banned English students from studying at the University of Paris. Good thing he did, because shortly afterwards the University of Oxford found its footing and became the first university in the English-speaking world. Today, it’s one of the most respected institutions worldwide, and thanks to British statesman Cecil J. Rhodes, you can study there as a Rhodes Scholar.

How Rhodes Scholarships work:
To apply for a Rhodes Scholarship, you must be an American student between the ages of 18 and 24. You must also have finished enough undergraduate work that you can complete your degree during your time at Oxford (college freshman, you might want to wait until you’re a junior or a senior to apply). Typical scholarships cover 2-3 years worth of study, including all matriculation fees, lab fees, and tuition, plus a stipend. Scholarships can be extended depending on what degree you’re pursuing. Best of all, you can apply to study in any subject you like, from literature to world politics.

Benefits of being a Rhodes Scholar:
What you may have heard about Rhodes Scholarships is true: competition is fierce. Each year, only 32 students from the 50 states are selected to study at Oxford. What this means is that you’ll not only reap the benefits from studying at one of the world’s best institutions, but you’ll be included in an elite and diverse group of scholars from around the world, including Australia, Bermuda, Canada, the Commonwealth Caribbean, Germany, Hong Kong, India, Jamaica, Kenya, New Zealand, Pakistan, South Africa, Zambia, and Zimbabwe.

But it doesn’t mean is that you have to be from an Ivy League or elite school to apply. On the contrary, almost every year Rhodes Scholarships are awarded to students from institutions that haven’t had a Rhodes Scholar before. The selection committee is looking not just at your scholastic credentials, but your personal achievements and leadership ability.

On a side note, being a Rhodes Scholar gives you the opportunity to explore Europe and the surrounding area during mid-term breaks and summer vacation. And for the sports fanatics out there, this is your chance to give rowing or rugby a try. (Rhodes Scholars are actually encouraged to participate in traditional Oxford sports).

For more information on Rhodes Scholarships, visit http://www.rhodesscholar.org/. One thing to note: applications are due each October. The selection committee requires a 1,000-word essay, plus 5 to 8 letters of recommendation, so start preparing your materials early.