Rhodes Scholarship

The Rhodes Scholarship is a highly prestigious award that enables a student to study at Oxford University in the United Kingdom for two years with a possibility of a third year.  Mr. Cecil Rhodes' intention was to strengthen ties between the United Kingdom and the rest of the English-speaking world and to advance the careers of those seeking to advance the public good.

There is no specific GPA requirement, but superior academic performance is very important. Equally important, however, are certain personal qualities:  a demonstrated ability to lead; a commitment to others and to the common good; physical vigor (as demonstrated in sports or other activities); and, in general, energy, ambition, and success in fields of endeavor other than academic study.

In other words, intellectual distinction is a necessary but not a sufficient condition for selection for a Rhodes Scholarship. Selection committees are charged to seek excellence in qualities of mind and in qualities of person which, in combination, offer the promise of significant service to the world in the decades ahead. The Rhodes Scholarships, in short, are investments in individuals rather than in project proposals. Accordingly, applications are sought from talented students without restriction as to their field of academic specialization or career plans, although the proposed course of study must be available at Oxford, and the applicant's undergraduate program must provide a sufficient basis for further study in the proposed field. 

All educational costs, such as matriculation, tuition, laboratory and certain other fees, are paid on the Scholar's behalf by the Rhodes Trustees. Each Scholar receives in addition a maintenance allowance adequate to meet necessary expenses for term-time and vacations. The Rhodes Trustees cover the necessary costs of travel to and from Oxford, and upon application, may approve additional grants for research purposes or study-related travel.

Luther's nomination is required. If interested, contact Terry Sparkes, Director of College Honors, for more information on applying.

The application deadline is typically around September 19.

More information can be found at http://www.rhodesscholar.org.

Luther College Rhodes Scholars:

2012:  Georgianna (Annie) Whiteley

2001:  Phillip Assmus

1985:  Mary S. Larson

1959:  Anthony Preus

1951:  George Mohr

1924:  Carl Strom

1914:  David T. Nelson

1911:  J.A.O. Larsen