Applications are now open in India for the Rhodes Scholarships. These scholarships are postgraduate awards supporting students, to enable two to three years of study, depending on the academic route taken, at the University of Oxford.
The Rhodes Scholarships aspire to create ‘leaders for the world's future’ and are achievement-based awards. Each year, five Indian Scholars are selected on the basis of their intellect, character, leadership, and commitment to service, to join 78 other Rhodes Scholars from around the world at the University of Oxford.
Applications for the 2015 edition of the scholarship are open to Indian citizens between the ages of 19 and 25 (as of October 1, 2015) who have received at least one first-class degree from an Indian university. Students in the final year of college with exceptional academic backgrounds may also apply. This year's enrolment closes on July 31. The Rhodes Scholarships, which were instituted under the will of Cecil Rhodes in 1902, include all university and college fees for two to three years (depending on the academic route taken), an annual stipend of not less than £13,390, health insurance and travel expenses to the University of Oxford before the start of the programme and a return ticket following the course of study.
To apply, aspirants must submit an online application, which includes submission of academic transcripts, the names of six references, a medical certificate, proof of age and an essay describing the proposed course of study at Oxford, general interests and activities, including sports or other activities demonstrating energy and drive, and future aims of the candidate, each as further described in the Rhodes Scholarships 2015 India Memorandum.
Outstanding applicants will be shortlisted for regional and final interviews with a panel consisting of eminent personalities who will recommend the final five Rhodes scholars for 2015.
