The Rhodes West Africa Scholarship 2026 is more than just a prestigious award—it’s a life-changing opportunity for talented individuals across West Africa to study at the University of Oxford on a fully funded basis. Established in 1903 and administered by the Rhodes Trust, this scholarship is one of the oldest and most esteemed international postgraduate awards in the world.
Each year, three exceptional students from West Africa are selected to join the global community of Rhodes Scholars at Oxford. This is your chance to learn, lead, and launch a career of impact with access to world-class academics and a powerful international network.
The scholarship is hosted in the United Kingdom, at the University of Oxford — consistently ranked among the world’s top universities. Scholars will have the opportunity to immerse themselves in Oxford’s rich academic and cultural heritage while preparing to make meaningful contributions to their communities and the world.
What sets this scholarship apart is its focus on leadership, service, and academic excellence. It’s not just about having top grades—Rhodes looks for individuals who are visionary, compassionate, and ready to engage with complex global challenges.
Benefits of the Rhodes West Africa Scholarship
- Full coverage of Oxford University course fees
- Annual stipend of £19,800 (~£1,650/month)
- Accommodation and living costs included
- Visa fees and International Health Surcharge fully paid
- Two economy-class flights to and from the UK
- Oxford application fee covered
- Access to exclusive leadership training, mentoring, and global networking
Eligibility Criteria for Rhodes West Africa Scholarship 2026
To apply, you must:
- Be a citizen of one of the following: Benin, Burkina Faso, Cape Verde, Gambia, Ghana, Guinea, Guinea-Bissau, Ivory Coast, Liberia, Mali, Mauritania, Niger, Nigeria, Saint Helena, Senegal, Sierra Leone, São Tomé and Principe, or Togo
- Have resided in one or more of these countries for at least 5 of the last 10 years
- Be aged:
- 18–24 years old as of 1 October 2025, OR
- 18–25 for professional degrees like medicine, law, engineering, OR
- Under 27 if you earned your first degree later than usual and after 1 October 2024
- Hold or be completing an undergraduate degree with First Class Honours or equivalent
- Demonstrate academic distinction, leadership potential, and commitment to service
Required Documents for Rhodes Application
Applicants must submit:
- Two documents proving citizenship, age, and residency:
- Birth certificate
- Passport/National ID/Voter’s Card
- Affidavit confirming nationality
- Official transcripts from all tertiary institutions attended
- Proof of residency for at least 5 of the last 10 years
- Evidence of English language proficiency (IELTS/TOEFL) OR a waiver letter
- Personal statement and academic CV
- References (shared through referee guidance document)
Application Timeline for Rhodes West Africa Scholarship
- Opening Date: 2 June 2025
- Deadline: 28 August 2025, 23:59 GMT (fixed deadline)
How to Apply for the Rhodes West Africa Scholarship 2026
- Visit the Rhodes Trust application portal and select the West Africa constituency
- Confirm your eligibility by carefully reading the information for candidates
- Gather all required documents and ensure they are in English or translated
- Complete the online application and upload your documents
- Share the referee guidelines with your referees
- Submit before the deadline—late applications are not accepted
Tips for Success
- Start early to gather and certify your documents
- Your personal statement should reflect leadership, purpose, and resilience
- Reach out to mentors or former Rhodes Scholars for guidance
FAQs about the Rhodes West Africa Scholarship
Can I apply without IELTS?
Yes, if your undergraduate degree was taught in English, you may request a waiver.
How many scholarships are available?
Three (3) Rhodes Scholarships are awarded to West African students each year.
Is this open to Master’s and PhD applicants?
Yes. You can apply for any postgraduate program offered at Oxford, including Master’s and DPhil (PhD) degrees.
Are dependents covered?
No, the stipend only covers the scholar’s personal expenses.
Final Thoughts on the Rhodes West Africa Scholarship
This is more than a scholarship—it’s a gateway to becoming part of a century-old community of leaders. If you’re driven by purpose, hungry for knowledge, and committed to making a difference, this opportunity is yours to seize. Oxford awaits.
Submit your application now before the deadline closes. Don’t miss this opportunity to study in the UK.