The Southern African states are prominently among the over 22 designated Rhodes constituencies awarded Rhodes Scholarships. Applications are hereby invited from suitably qualified candidates from the Southern African states for an opportunity to study in the United Kingdom through this prestigious scholarship program.
This application guide contains only constituency-specific information on Rhodes Scholarships to Oxford for applicants from South Africa, Botswana, Lesotho, Malawi, Namibia and eSwatini.
SUMMARY:
- Scholarship Sponsor(s): Rhodes Trust
- Scholarship Type: Fully Funded Scholarships
- Host Institution(s): University of Oxford, UK
- Number of Awards: Several
- Study Level: Postgraduate
- Nationality: Southern African Countries
Also Check: The Mandela Rhodes Scholarship 2026 [Fully Funded]
The Rhodes Scholarships Southern Africa | DETAILS
The Rhodes Scholarship is a life-changing postgraduate opportunity which enables talented young people from around the world to study at the University of Oxford, and actively fosters lifelong learning and fellowship.
Eligibility Criteria
- Nationality/citizenship: You must be a citizen or legal permanent resident of South Africa, Botswana, Lesotho, Malawi, Namibia or eSwatini. Applications from refugees/asylum seekers in South Africa will also be considered in this constituency.
- Education/residency: You must have resided for at least five years within the period of ten years immediately preceding your application in South Africa, Botswana, Lesotho, Malawi, Namibia or eSwatini
- Age: Upon 1 October 2026, you must be at least 19 and have not reached your 25th birthday (Age requirement varies depending on your course of study or condition of your graduation)
- Academic achievement: You must have completed (or will have completed by 30 June 2026) an undergraduate degree from a college or university (normally a Bachelor’s degree) to a sufficiently high standard to be admitted to postgraduate study at the University of Oxford. In this respect, please note carefully the requirements for your chosen course at Oxford.
Application Procedures
- How-to-Apply: You can apply online from 01 June 2026 via the scholarships tab.
- You must submit your application online, with all supporting documents, by 23:59 SAST on the application closing date
Application Deadline: 3rd August 2026
