Frequently Asked Questions

Who should I use as my references?

Six referees are required to provide a letter of appraisal for the applicant. It is stated on the application that the applicant must have studied under at least three of their referees at University, and four of the six references must “comment upon the applicant’s academic preparation and scholastic achievements.”

Aside from professors, applicants have a number of referee choices open to them based on their individual circumstances, for example:

• work supervisors
• directors/organizers of volunteer organizations, clubs, or symposiums
• chairs of committees the applicant has served on
• coaches/trainers of athletic activities

How important is the sporting prowess in the deliberation of the Selection Committee?

Applicants do not need to be a member of a sports team in order to be selected however they do need to show that they are able to withstand the physical demands of being a Rhodes Scholar.

Do my references submit their letters to Queen’s for the internal application?

Your references do not submit their letters to Queen’s for the internal application.  References are contacted directly by Rhodes when you submit their contact information during your online application. The names and contact details of your references are submitted to Queen’s as a means for us to ensure that you are fully prepared to complete the online Rhodes application process.

Should I include transcripts from other universities where I have studied?

The only transcripts requested are those for your undergraduate degree, and, if you are currently working on a Master’s, your Master’s degree.  Transcripts for individual courses taken that do not pertain to either of these degrees should not be submitted.    

Can I still apply if I’m not a Canadian citizen?

If you are studying at a Canadian university, are domiciled in Canada, and you meet the other qualifications, you can apply for the Rhodes Scholarship.

Is my GPA good enough to get in to Oxford?

Please check with the Registrar at the University of Oxford for the program you would like to study as they are best qualified to discuss your GPA with you.  It is a good idea to check that you meet Oxford’s admission criteria prior to beginning your Rhodes Scholarship application as you must be granted admission to your chosen program before the scholarship will be granted.