Ambitious Zambian graduates with a strong record of academic achievement, leadership, and community service have an opportunity to pursue postgraduate studies at the University of Oxford through the Rhodes Scholarship 2027. The prestigious scholarship is designed to support exceptional young people who have the potential to make a meaningful contribution to their communities, Zambia, and the wider world.
The scholarship provides a fully funded opportunity to study at Oxford and join an international community of scholars and future leaders. This guide covers the eligibility requirements, eligible courses, benefits, application process, selection criteria, required documents, and important deadline for the Zambia Rhodes Scholarship 2027.
For the 2027 intake, two Rhodes Scholarships are available for Zambia. Applications opened on 1 June 2026, and eligible candidates must submit their applications by 23:59 Central Africa Time on 1 September 2026.
This guide provides key information about the Zambia Rhodes Trust Scholarship 2027, including eligibility requirements, eligible courses, application procedures, scholarship benefits, selection criteria, and the official application deadline.
Zambia Rhodes Scholarship Facts & Quick Verification Tracker
- Constituency: Zambia
- 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, 1 September 2026
- National Secretary: Dr. Namukale Chintu
- Official page: rhodeshouse.ox.ac.uk/scholarships/applications/zambia
Zambia 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 Zambia Rhodes Scholarship
All official information is available on the Rhodes Trust website:
- Zambia constituency page: https://www.rhodeshouse.ox.ac.uk/scholarships/applications/zambia/
- Information for Candidates document (essential reading)
- Online application system (opens 1 June 2026)
The Step-by-Step Roadmap
- Confirm you meet the full eligibility criteria for the Zambia 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 Zambia’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 Zambian 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 Zambia 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
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 Zambia
- Open to almost all full-time postgraduate courses at Oxford
- Strong emphasis on leadership, character, and service
- Selection through a rigorous national process
Who can Apply
Citizens or legal permanent residents of Zambia who meet the residency, education, age, and academic criteria.
Key Eligibility Requirements
- Nationality/Citizenship: Citizen or legal permanent resident of Zambia
- Residency: Resident in Zambia for at least 4 of the last 10 years
- Education: Completed secondary education in Zambia or an undergraduate degree at a university in Zambia
- Age: Aged 18–25 on 1 October 2026 (with limited provisions for candidates aged up to 27 who graduated recently)
- Academic achievement: Completed (or will complete) an undergraduate degree that meets or exceeds the entry requirements of the chosen Oxford course
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
Zambian 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 Zambia. Strong advice includes starting early, writing an authentic personal statement, and choosing referees who know you well.
About 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 Zambia?
Two each year. - Can I apply if I studied outside Zambia?
Yes, provided you meet the citizenship, residency, and education connection requirements. - 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.
Current Application Deadlines
- Applications open: 1 June 2026
- Applications and references close: 23:59 Central Africa Time, 1 September 2026
Contact Information for Applicants
National Secretary for Zambia
Dr. Namukale Chintu
Email: zambia.secretary@rhodestrust.com
General queries: scholarship.queries@rhodeshouse.ox.ac.uk
How To Apply
- Visit the official Zambia 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 Zambia Rhodes Trust Scholarship.
Concluding Remarks
The Rhodes Scholarship 2027 for Zambia offers two fully funded places for outstanding young Zambians to study at the University of Oxford. With a deadline of 1 September 2026, eligible candidates should begin preparing early. Always refer to the official Rhodes Trust website for the most accurate and up-to-date information.