The Zimbabwe Rhodes Scholarship 2027 offers an exceptional opportunity for talented Zimbabwean students to pursue postgraduate study at the prestigious University of Oxford in the United Kingdom. The scholarship seeks outstanding young people who demonstrate academic excellence, leadership potential, commitment to service, and the ability to make a positive impact in their communities and beyond.
For the 2027 intake, two Rhodes Scholarships are available for Zimbabwe, through a partnership between the Rhodes Trust and the Nicky Oppenheimer Foundation with applications opening on 1 June 2026. The application deadline is 13 August 2026 at 23:59 Central Africa Time, making it important for eligible candidates to begin preparing their applications and supporting documents well in advance.
This guide provides key information about the Zimbabwe Rhodes Scholarship 2027, including eligibility requirements, eligible courses, application procedures, scholarship benefits, selection criteria, and the official application deadline.
Zimbabwe Rhodes Scholarship Facts & Quick Verification Tracker
- Constituency: Zimbabwe
- Number of Scholarships: 2 per year
- University: University of Oxford
- Degree level: Full-time postgraduate (Master’s or DPhil)
- Applications open: 1 June 2026
- Deadline: 23:59 Central Africa Time, 13 August 2026
- National Secretary: Dalumuzi Mhlanga
- Official page: rhodeshouse.ox.ac.uk/scholarships/applications/zimbabwe
Zimbabwe Rhodes Scholarship Coverage & Requirements
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Tuition Fees | Fully covered |
| Living Stipend | Annual living allowance |
| Travel | Economy class flights to and from the UK |
| Visa & Settling-in | Covered |
| Duration | Usually 2–3 years (depending on the course) |
| Academic Requirement | Strong undergraduate degree meeting Oxford entry standards |
| Leadership & Character | Demonstrated energy, leadership, and commitment to service |
Official Source & Portal Verification for Zimbabwe Rhodes Scholarship
All official information is available on the Rhodes Trust website:
- Zimbabwe constituency page: https://www.rhodeshouse.ox.ac.uk/scholarships/applications/zimbabwe/
- Information for Candidates document (essential reading)
- Online application system (open since 1st June 2026)
The Step-by-Step Roadmap for Zimbabwe Rhodes Scholarship
- Confirm you meet the full eligibility criteria for the Zimbabwe constituency.
- Read the official “Information for Candidates” document carefully.
- Prepare your personal statement, academic transcript, CV, and referee details.
- Submit the online application before the deadline.
- Ensure referees submit their references by the same deadline.
- If shortlisted, attend interviews.
- If selected, apply for your chosen course at the University of Oxford.
Supporting Academic Collaboration
Rhodes Scholars join a global community of leaders and researchers at Oxford. The programme encourages interdisciplinary learning and long-term collaboration that benefits Zimbabwe’s development.
Duration and Funding Opportunities
The Scholarship typically covers two years of study (with the possibility of a third year for certain research degrees). It is fully funded, covering all university and college fees, a living stipend, travel to and from Oxford, and visa costs.
Focus on Development Through Scientific Research
Scholars may pursue almost any full-time postgraduate course at Oxford. Many Zimbabwean Rhodes Scholars focus on areas that contribute to national development, including public policy, health, education, law, engineering, and the sciences.
International Research Partnerships
The Rhodes Scholarship strengthens academic and professional links between Zimbabwe and the University of Oxford, fostering research collaboration and leadership networks that continue long after the Scholarship ends.
Broader Fellowship Mission
The Rhodes Trust seeks young people of outstanding intellect, character, leadership, and commitment to service who will fight the world’s fight and contribute positively to society.
Research Expectations and Academic Responsibilities of Zimbabweans
Scholars are expected to complete their chosen postgraduate programme successfully and engage fully with the academic and residential life of their Oxford college and the wider Rhodes community.
Scholarship Overview and Academic Purpose
The Rhodes Scholarship provides fully funded postgraduate study at the University of Oxford for exceptional young leaders. Its purpose is to develop individuals who combine academic excellence with the energy and character needed to make a lasting positive impact.
What This Fellowship Offers
- Full funding for postgraduate study at one of the world’s leading universities
- Membership of a global network of Rhodes Scholars and alumni
- Access to Oxford’s academic resources, colleges, and leadership opportunities
- Lifelong community of people committed to public service and positive change
Key Features of the Fellowship
- Fully funded
- Two scholarships awarded annually for Zimbabwe
- Partnership with the Nicky Oppenheimer Foundation
- Open to almost all full-time postgraduate courses at Oxford
- Strong emphasis on leadership, character, and service
Eligible Courses for Zimbabwe Rhodes Scholarship
The Zimbabwe Rhodes Scholarship 2027 allows successful candidates to undertake full-time postgraduate study at the University of Oxford. The scholarship covers most full-time postgraduate courses, although applicants must ensure that their proposed programme is among the courses covered by the Rhodes Scholarship and that they meet Oxford’s individual admission requirements.
Eligible study options generally include:
- Master’s degrees (MSc, MPhil, MSt and related programmes)
- Master of Business Administration (MBA)
- Master of Public Policy (MPP)
- Master of Philosophy (MPhil)
- Master of Science (MSc) programmes
- Doctor of Philosophy (DPhil/PhD) programmes
- Other eligible full-time postgraduate courses offered by Oxford, subject to the Rhodes Trust’s Conditions of Tenure.
Applicants should carefully check the specific Oxford course requirements, including academic qualifications, subject prerequisites and any additional application requirements. The Rhodes Trust also notes that the permitted combination and duration of Oxford degrees depend on the course selected.
Who can Apply
Citizens or legal permanent residents of Zimbabwe who meet the residency, education, age, and academic criteria.
Key Eligibility Requirements
- Nationality/Citizenship: Citizen or legal permanent resident of Zimbabwe
- Age: Aged 18–23 on 1 October 2026 (with limited provisions for older candidates who completed their first undergraduate degree later than usual)
- Academic achievement: Completed (or will complete) an undergraduate degree that meets or exceeds the entry requirements of the chosen Oxford course
- Additional residency and education connection requirements apply (see official Information for Candidates document)
Full details are in the official Information for Candidates document.
Period and funding
The Scholarship supports study beginning in October 2027. Funding covers the full duration of the approved course (normally two years, sometimes three).
What Past Winners & Student Forums Say
Zimbabwean Rhodes Scholars and alumni often highlight the transformative academic experience at Oxford, the value of the global network, and the opportunity to develop leadership skills that benefit Zimbabwe. Strong advice includes starting early, writing an authentic personal statement, and choosing referees who know you well.
The University offering the Scholarship
The University of Oxford is consistently ranked among the world’s top universities. It offers an outstanding environment for postgraduate study across almost every discipline, with a collegiate system that combines academic excellence with a strong residential community.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How many scholarships are available for Zimbabwe?
Two each year. - Is there an application fee?
No. - Do I need an Oxford offer before applying for the Rhodes Scholarship?
No. You apply for the Scholarship first; successful candidates then apply to Oxford. - Can the Scholarship be deferred?
No. Awards are for entry in October 2027 only.
Current Application Deadlines
- Applications open: 1 June 2026
- Applications and references close: 23:59 Central Africa Time, 13 August 2026
Contact Information for Applicants
National Secretary for Zimbabwe
Dalumuzi Mhlanga
Email: zimbabwe.secretary@rhodestrust.com
General queries: scholarship.queries@rhodeshouse.ox.ac.uk
How To Apply
- Visit the official Zimbabwe page on the Rhodes Trust website.
- Read the Information for Candidates thoroughly.
- Complete and submit the online application form before the deadline.
- Ensure all required documents and references are submitted on time.
There is no application fee. Late or incomplete applications are not accepted. You can take a look at How to Verify Scholarships, Fellowships, Grants, and Financial Aid Funding. You can also learn How to Avoid Scholarship Scams. Finally, you can Apply for Zimbabwe Rhodes Trust Scholarship.
Concluding Remarks
The Rhodes Scholarship 2027 for Zimbabwe offers two fully funded places for outstanding young Zimbabweans to study at the University of Oxford. With a deadline of 13 August 2026, eligible candidates should begin preparing early. Always refer to the official Rhodes Trust website for the most accurate and up-to-date information.