The Rhodes Trust is pleased to announce the commencement of applications for the prestigious 2025 Rhodes Scholarships designated for the United Arab Emirates (UAE). These scholarships, known worldwide for their academic rigor and commitment to cultivating future leaders, provide a unique platform for exceptional students to engage in full-time postgraduate studies at the esteemed University of Oxford, commencing in October 2026.
In this cycle, two Rhodes Scholarships will be conferred upon candidates who either hold citizenship in the UAE or are non-UAE nationals who have completed their undergraduate education at an accredited institution within the Emirates. This initiative, which is made possible through a partnership with the Salama Bint Hamdan Al Nahyan Foundation, underscores a mutual aspiration to nurture a new generation of innovative leaders within the UAE.
The Rhodes Scholarship offers a comprehensive financial package designed to alleviate the burdens often associated with advanced study. Covering not only the full fees for university and college expenses but also providing a substantial annual stipend—£19,800 for the 2024-2025 academic year—to support living costs, including housing, the scholarship significantly reduces financial barriers to attending Oxford. Moreover, recipients benefit from essential amenities including health insurance, a settling-in allowance, visa fees, and two economy class flights to and from the UK, facilitating a smoother transition for scholars as they embark on this transformative educational journey.
Prospective applicants must be aged between 18 and 23 as of 1 October 2025, with a degree of flexibility permitted for older candidates under specific academic conditions. It is crucial that applicants possess, or are on the trajectory toward, a first-class undergraduate degree or its equivalent by July 2026. Additionally, candidates must meet the English language requirements as well as the entry standards set forth by the University of Oxford for their chosen fields of study.
The application process is scheduled to open on 2 June 2025 and will conclude on 23 September 2025. Given the competitive nature of these scholarships, prospective candidates are strongly advised to commence their preparations early. The application will necessitate a variety of supporting documentation, including but not limited to academic transcripts, a comprehensive CV, personal and academic statements, and references. Each element plays a critical role in allowing evaluators to comprehend the applicant’s experiences, aspirations, and suitability for the prestigious scholarship.
The Rhodes Scholarships represent more than just financial support; they are an invitation to join a global network of leaders dedicated to public service, innovation, and community impact. The program boasts an illustrious history, having inducted numerous distinguished alumni who have gone on to make significant contributions across multifaceted domains including politics, academia, business, and humanitarian work.
For students in the UAE, this opportunity is particularly significant. The nation’s commitment to education and the development of its human capital is paramount in its pursuit of growth and diversification. By investing in the future leaders of the UAE through the Rhodes Scholarships, the Rhodes Trust and its partners are aligning with the broader strategic objectives of the UAE in nurturing talents and fostering leaders whose aspirations resonate with the nation’s transformation goals.
Individuals interested in exploring their eligibility and understanding the application process in greater detail are encouraged to consult the Al-Fanar Media Scholarship Database, which provides resources and guidance specifically tailored for prospective Rhodes Scholars.
In conclusion, the 2025 Rhodes Scholarships represent a formidable opportunity for aspiring leaders from the UAE to propel their academic careers and impact communities worldwide. As they prepare to navigate the complexities of this application cycle, candidates will not only seek to enhance their educational pursuits but also contribute to a legacy of service and leadership that the Rhodes Scholarships embody.
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