Applications for the Rhodes West Africa Scholarship 2027 are now open. This scholarship provides fully funded opportunities for selected candidates to pursue Master’s degrees at Oxford University, covering tuition, living expenses, accommodation, and flight costs.
Application Deadline:
- 27 August 2026, 23:59 GMT
Tell Me About the Scholarship:
The Rhodes West Africa Scholarship is part of the prestigious Rhodes Trust programme at the University of Oxford, UK. Established in 2017, it offers fully funded postgraduate opportunities for outstanding young leaders from West Africa.
It covers tuition, living stipend, accommodation, visa, and travel costs, enabling scholars to pursue Master’s or PhD studies at Oxford while joining a global network of principled leaders.
Which Fields are Eligible?
- Master’s degrees at Oxford University
- PhD degrees at Oxford University
- All postgraduate fields covered by the Rhodes Scholarship.
Type:
- Postgraduate Scholarship | UK | Fully Funded
Who can Apply?
Applicants must:
- Be citizens of one of the following West African countries: Benin, Burkina Faso, Cape Verde, Gambia, Ghana, Guinea, Guinea-Bissau, Côte d’Ivoire, Liberia, Mali, Mauritania, Niger, Nigeria, Saint Helena, Ascension & Tristan da Cunha, Senegal, Sierra Leone, São Tomé & Principe, Togo.
- Have resided in one or more of these countries for at least five of the last ten years.
- Meet age criteria:
- 18–24 years on 1 October 2025.
- 18–25 years for medical, dental, pharmaceutical, law, and engineering students.
- Under 27 years for older candidates who completed their first degree later than usual.
- Hold an undergraduate degree with First Class Honours or equivalent.
- Demonstrate leadership, service, and commitment to tackling global challenges.
How are Candidates Selected?
- Based on academic excellence, leadership, character, and service.
- Applications reviewed by Rhodes Trust; shortlisted candidates invited for interviews.
- Selection guided by the original Rhodes criteria (intellect, leadership, moral force of character, and commitment to service).
Which Countries Are Eligible?
- West African countries listed above.
Where will the Scholarship be Taken?
- University of Oxford, United Kingdom.
How Many Awards?
- Three scholarships awarded annually for West Africa.
What is the Benefit of the Scholarship?
- Full tuition and college fees.
- Annual stipend of £20,400 (approx. £1,700/month).
- Visa fees and International Health Surcharge (IHS).
- Economy airfare to Oxford at the start and return flight at the end of studies.
How Long Will the Scholarship Last?
- Duration of the chosen postgraduate programme (Master’s or PhD).
Required Documents:
- Proof of citizenship, residency, and age (birth certificate, passport, national ID, voter’s card, or affidavit).
- Official university transcripts.
- Evidence of residency in West Africa for at least five of the last ten years.
- Proof of English proficiency (TOEFL/IELTS or waiver request if degree taught in English).
- References (shared via Rhodes referee guidance).
How to Apply:
- Review Information for Candidates – West Africa and Guidance for Referees.
- Confirm eligibility and prepare required documents.
- Apply online via the Rhodes Trust application portal between 1 June – 27 August 2026.
- Submit all documents in English (translations required where necessary).
- Shortlisted candidates will be invited for interviews.
Visit the Application Webpage for Details
