7 Things You Didn’t Know About the Rhodes Scholarship; The Rhodes Scholarship is among the most prestigious awards offered to young Americans, helping to fund two years of study at Oxford University in England.
But did you know that the first recipient of the scholarship was Harry Truman, who went on to become one of America’s most well-known presidents? Or that the first African American winner of the award was selected only last year? This article from our archives looks at seven things you probably didn’t know about this famous academic award.
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1) The founders of the Rhodes Scholarships were all white, wealthy, Protestant males
Cecil John Rhodes, a South African diamond tycoon and founder of De Beers Mining Company; Andre w Carnegie, an American steel magnate; Alfred Beit, a German financier; and Lord Nuffield, founder of Morris Motors in England.
The scholarships were first awarded in 1902 to men from these countries who sought careers in government service or advanced study which included medicine and law.
They also focused on science, math, literature, and linguistics. In 1904 more students from other countries were accepted but only with support from Rhodes’ funds. Finally, in 1976 scholarships were offered to women.
There are over 100 scholars each year studying at Oxford University in England for up to three years and selected by committees within their respective nations.
A scholarship is worth about USD 100,000per a year (not including living expenses) as well as funding for graduate studies. Each nation can nominate two applicants every four years.
Applicants must be between the ages of 18-24 and show exceptional intellectual talent and character.
To qualify they must be citizens of a country belonging to the Commonwealth and have already completed a degree.
The process includes taking a test based on academic ability, extracurricular activities, leadership skills, and personal qualities such as integrity and community involvement.
They then submit essays describing why they should receive this prestigious award.
A long list of candidates is narrowed down by members of the selection committee until finally six candidates are chosen to go forward into the next round: three Americans, one Canadian, one Australian, and one New Zealander.
