Rhodes Scholarship

One of the oldest and most notable scholarships in the world is the Rhodes Scholarship. Starting as a provision in the will of Cecil John Rhodes, the scholarship was funded in the beginning with most of the fortune he made in the diamond business. In 1902 the first scholarship was awarded for study at Oxford University in Great Britain. Typically, the Rhodes Scholarship pays for two years of study at Oxford, but in some cases it can be awarded for one additional year. Most recipients use the scholarship to earn a second bachelor's degree, but it can be used to earn an advanced degree.

There are certain characteristics that are favorable in Rhodes scholars. Most importantly, candidates for the Rhodes Scholarship should have a strong academic record, with a GPA no less than 3.6. They should also have the motivation and initiative to use all of their skills to reach their goals. The abilities to lead and care for others are also attributes that must be inherent in the prospective scholar. To be eligible for a Rhodes Scholarship, applicants must be between 18 and 23 years of age and possess a bachelor's degree before the application deadline. Only 32 people from the United States are awarded the scholarship each year.

Applicants need to apply with and get an endorsement from their current school before applying directly with the Rhodes Trust. In addition to the application, there is a 1,000 word essay describing both personal and scholarly interests, and list of extracurricular activities and awards that should be about two pages long. Applicants must also get five to eight recommendations, with four being from college professors, and submit an official transcript. Oxford's deadline for applications will differ from all the other colleges, so applicants need to check with individual campuses for their application deadlines.