Rhodes College aspires to graduate students with a life-long passion for learning, a compassion for others, and the ability to translate academic study and personal concern into effective leadership and action in their communities and the world. We will achieve our aspiration through four strategic imperatives:

1. Student Access 
   To attract and retain a talented, diverse student body and engage these students in a challenging, inclusive and culturally broadening college experience.
2. Student Learning
   To ensure our faculty and staff have the talent, the time and the resources to inspire and involve our students in meaningful study, research and service.
3. Student Engagement
   To enhance student opportunities for learning in Memphis.
4. Student Inspiration
   To provide a residential place of learning that inspires integrity and high achievement through its beauty, its emphasis on values, its Presbyterian history, and its heritage as a leader in the liberal arts and sciences.

Rhodes College’s Commitment to Diversity

A diverse learning community is a necessary element of a liberal arts education, for self-understanding is dependent upon the understanding of others. We, the members of Rhodes College, are committed to fostering a community in which diversity is valued and welcomed. To that end, Rhodes College does not discriminate – and will not tolerate harassment – on the basis of race, gender, color, age, religion, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, genetic information, and national or ethnic origin.

We are committed to providing an open learning environment. Freedom of thought, a civil exchange of ideas, and an appreciation of diverse perspectives are fundamental characteristics of a community that is committed to critical inquiry. To promote such an academic and social environment we expect integrity and honesty in our relationships with each other and openness to learning about and experiencing cultural diversity. We believe that these qualities are crucial to fostering social and intellectual maturity and personal growth.

Intellectual maturity also requires individual struggle with unfamiliar ideas. We recognize that our views and convictions will be challenged, and we expect this challenge to take place in a climate of open-mindedness and mutual respect.

Revised July 2019

Rhodes College is an accredited four-year college of liberal arts and sciences. With an endowment of $406 million and a physical plant valued at $626 million, the College has one of the largest investments per student ($532,000) in the nation.

Rhodes College is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools - Commission on Colleges (SACS COC) to award baccalaureate and master's degrees. Contact the Commission on Colleges at 1866 Southern Lane, Decatur, Georgia, 30033-4097 or call 404-679-4500 for questions about the accreditation of Rhodes College.  All potential substantive changes--whether proposed by students, faculty, staff, or Board of Trustees-- must be discussed with and reviewed by the SACS COC Accreditation Liaison, who is appointed by the Rhodes College President. It is the responsibility of the SACS COC Accreditation Liaison to ensure that potential substantive changes are reported to, and approved by the SACS COC, prior to implementation.

The purpose of this Policy and Procedures document is to comply with the Substantive Change for Accredited Institutions of the Commission on Colleges, Policy Statement, Institutional Obligations, Item #2, that “Member institutions are required to have a policy and procedure to ensure that all substantive changes are reported to the Commission in a timely fashion” (p. 1).

What Is a Substantive Change?

Substantive change is a significant modification or expansion in the nature and scope of an accredited institution. Under federal regulations, substantive change includes:

• Any change in the established mission or objectives of the institution
• Any change in legal status, form of control, or ownership of the institution
• The addition of courses or programs that represent a significant departure, either in content or method of delivery, from those that were offered when the institution was last evaluated
• The addition of courses or programs of study at a degree or credential level different from that which is included in the institution’s current accreditation or reaffirmation.
• A change from clock hours to credit hours
• A substantial increase in the number of clock or credit hours awarded for successful completion of a program
• The establishment of an additional location geographically apart from the main campus at which the institution offers at least 50 percent of an educational program.
• The establishment of a branch campus
• Closing a program, off-campus site, branch campus or institution
• Entering into a collaborative academic arrangement that includes only the initiation of a dual degree program or a joint degree program with another institution
• Acquiring another institution or a program or location of another institution
• Adding a permanent location at a site where the institution is conducting a teach-out program for a closed institution
• Entering into a contract by which an entity not eligible for Title IV funding offers 25% or more of one or more of the accredited institution’s programs

What Are the Procedures for Reporting Substantive Change?

SACS COC has identified three procedures for addressing the different types of substantive changes. These include:

Procedure One – for the review of substantive changes requiring notification and approval prior to implementation,

Procedure Two – for the review of substantive changes requiring only notification prior to implementation, and

Procedure Three – for closing a program, site, branch campus or institution.

The different types of substantive change, the specific procedure to be used for each, their respective approval notification requirements, and their reporting time lines are included in the document “Substantive Change for Accredited Institutions of the Commission on Colleges - Policy Statement” located on pages 6-9 at: www.sacscoc.org/pdf/081705/Substantive%20change%20policy.pdf.

Procedures for the institutional changes such as mergers, acquiring or adding programs, or changes in governance or legal status can be found in a separate document, “Mergers, Consolidations, Change of Ownership, Acquisitions, and Change of Governance, Control, Form, or Legal Status.” at:

www.sacscoc.org/subchg/policy/Mergers.pdf.

The initiation or revision of programs not offered for academic credit and that are not eligible for federal financial aid does not require reporting: however, such programs are subject to review at the time of reaffirmation.

Identifying and reporting substantive change

The President is responsible for:

• Submitting substantive change notification letters and associated documentation to the President of the SACS COC and providing a copy of the letters and documentation to the Accreditation Liaison

or

• Designating the Accreditation Liaison as his representative to submit substantive change notification letters and associated documentation to the President of the SACS COC

The President and Vice Presidents are responsible for:

• Informing relevant personnel under their supervision about the existence of the SACS COC Policy on Substantive Change and the need to check with the Accreditation Liaison regarding any and all significant changes in policy to determine if they meet the criteria for a substantive change as defined in the policy
• Consulting with the College’s SACS COC Accreditation Liaison regarding questions about substantive changes within their divisions
• Providing sufficient time to notify the SACS COC prior to the implementation of any changes
• Assisting with the writing of appropriate documentation and notification of substantive changes as needed by the SACS COC

The SACS COC Accreditation Liaison is appointed by the President and is responsible for:

• Staying up to date with the SACS COC Substantive Change Policy Statement
• Serving as the contact person and communication liaison between SACS COC staff and the College regarding substantive change matters
• Meeting with the President and Vice Presidents yearly to review the policy and planned initiatives
• Working with the appropriate Vice President to develop a plan of action and timeline for any substantive change actions requiring approval from the SACS COC
• Preparing substantive change prospectus in collaboration with the appropriate administrators and faculty
• Submitting substantive change notification letters and associated documentation to the President of the SACS COC as requested by the President
• Maintaining a database of substantive changes, initiatives, action plans and their status

Attendance at Rhodes, a privately endowed college, is a privilege which may be forfeited at any time by any student who refuses or fails to conform to the regulations and standards of the College, or who is unwilling to adjust to the College’s traditions and environment. Among these traditions are the Honor System and the Social Regulations Council that are administered by students and are described elsewhere in the catalogue. Certain offenses and violations of College rules are considered serious enough to merit suspension or expulsion. Additionally, the College reserves the right to suspend or expel any student, if, in the sole discretion of the administration, such suspension or expulsion is necessary to protect the best interests or welfare of the College, including the health and well-being of other students, faculty, or staff.
Rhodes welcomes applications for admission from all persons and does not discriminate on the basis of gender, race, color, age, religion, disability, sexual orientation, or national and ethnic origin in its admissions policies, loan programs, or other college educational programs, policies and activities. In compliance with section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 and the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990, Rhodes will make every reasonable effort to accommodate the needs of its students with disabilities.

The information, policies, and procedures listed in this catalogue are current and up-to-date as of April 2022. Policies stated in this catalogue are expected to be in effect through the academic year 2022-2023 but are subject to revision. Normally, policy revisions are implemented in the next academic year, following notice thereof and are effective for all students who graduate in or after that academic year. However, occasionally a policy must be changed and implemented in the same academic year. In such cases, written notification of the revision will be mailed to all students currently enrolled.
The faculty of Rhodes College has the authority and the responsibility for establishing and maintaining those policies and procedures governing the academic standing of students at the College. Any deviation from the policies and procedures stated in this catalogue relating to academic standing requires the prior formal approval of the faculty. A compendium of all current policies and procedures in regard to the College is maintained in the office of the President.

Application Procedure

An applicant who wishes to apply for admission to Rhodes may do so any time after the end of his/her/their junior year in high school. Applicants may apply using the Common Application (www.commonapp.org). No application fee is required for first-year or transfer students.

Admission to Rhodes is competitive.

In addition to the application for admission, first-year applicants must submit an official high school transcript, a secondary school report, a teacher evaluation, and a midyear report (Regular Decision only). Applicants may provide standardized test scores (SAT or ACT) which can be self-reported. In addition to submitting the same application supporting documents as all other first-year applicants, home-schooled applicants are strongly recommended to participate in an interview with an admission counselor and may submit the results of two SAT Subject Tests from areas other than English or Mathematics. The deadlines for submitting the application for admission and all supporting documents are referenced in the following Early Decision Plans, Early Action Plan, and Regular Decision Plan sections. Please note that all accepted applicants are automatically considered for competitive scholarships. Transcripts and other documents required for admission become part of the permanent file of an enrolled student and cannot be returned or legally copied for the student or parent.

The College is a member of the National Association for College Admission Counseling (NACAC) and endorses the principles contained in the Association’s Guide to Ethical Practice in College Admission.

Admission Selection Process

Academic Record. An applicant's academic record is of primary importance in the admission selection process. Applicants must complete sixteen or more academic units in high school, including at least four years of English, two years of the same foreign language (classical or modern), two years of laboratory science and two years of history or social science. Furthermore, applicants are expected to have completed the mathematics course sequence Algebra I, Geometry, and Algebra II or their equivalent. A fourth year of high school mathematics, including trigonometry and advanced algebra is especially important for students who plan to study mathematics, natural science, computer science, economics or business administration. Applicants with slightly different high school curricula may be considered only if their records in other respects clearly indicate readiness for Rhodes’ program of study. Applicants are expected to have received or be in the process of receiving a high school diploma or G.E.D.

Special note is taken in the decision making process of honors, Advanced Placement, International Baccalaureate, Cambridge, Option International Baccalaureate, accelerated or enriched courses. Applicants who have taken college-level courses and wish to receive credit at Rhodes for those courses should refer to “Transfer Credit” in the Requirements for a Degree section of this catalogue.

Standardized Test Scores. All applicants for admission have the option to submit standardized test scores, either ACT or SAT. If planning to apply with a test score, it is advisable for the applicant to take the test in the junior year as a means of adjusting to this type of examination or for Early Decision, Early Action, or Early Admission purposes. Any applicant who intends to submit scores as a Regular Decision applicant should take the test no later than December of the senior year so that their scores will be available to the Admission Committee by January 15. At the time of application, scores may be provided in the secondary school record, self-reported by applicants or received from the testing agency. Test application forms may be obtained from high schools or by registering for them online at www.collegeboard.org (SAT) or www.act.org (ACT).

Supporting Documents. Additional supporting documents will be considered when deciding on an applicant's admissibility to the College. These documents include a listing of extracurricular involvements, leadership positions or summer experiences, an application essay, a secondary school report, and a teacher’s evaluation.

Applicant Interest. A visit to the Rhodes campus (in addition to other demonstrations of interest) can be a deciding factor in making an admission decision. Interest may also be demonstrated by meeting with an admission officer locally, virtually or personally corresponding with the Office of Admission. An applicant's ability to pay may be a deciding factor when considering applicants who rank within the lowest range of admissible students.

The Vice President for Enrollment has the discretion to deny any application to Rhodes College.

Applicants who wish to appeal their admission decision may do so by writing to the Vice President for Enrollment requesting reconsideration.

Campus Visit and Personal Meeting

A campus visit is the best way to experience life at Rhodes. Applicants are encouraged to visit between Monday and Friday so that, in addition to a personal meeting with an admission representative or information session and a campus tour, they may attend a class and meet faculty (during the academic year). 

Virtual visits allow applicants to experience a campus tour, information session, and a meeting with an admission counselor, coach, or faculty member while being remote. The Office of Admission is open year round from 8:30 am to 5:00 pm Monday through Friday and on select Saturdays.

Prospective applicants and applicants may arrange a campus visit online at www.rhodes.edu/visit. Questions concerning a campus visit may be addressed to our Campus Visit Coordinator at 1-800-844-5969 or, locally, 901-843-3700.

Early Decision Plans

Applicants who are certain they want to attend Rhodes may wish to take advantage of either Early Decision I (ED I) or Early Decision II (ED II). Under these plans, the applicant must submit an application for admission, high school transcript (including grades for the first marking period of the senior year), secondary school report, letters of recommendation, and the Early Decision Agreement form by November 1 for Early Decision I or January 15 for Early Decision II. Standardized test scores may be submitted by the applicant for consideration. The applicant may apply to other colleges, but not under any other Early Decision Plan. If accepted and provided adequate financial assistance, the applicant agrees to withdraw all applications submitted to other institutions, file no additional applications, and enroll at Rhodes.

Typically, Early Decision applicants who wish to be considered for need-based financial aid must complete and submit the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to the Office of Financial Aid by November 1 for Early Decision I and November 15 for Early Decision II in order to determine eligibility for non-federal financial assistance as well as for federal and/or state financial assistance. For the 2023-24 academic year, Early Decision I applicants will be required to submit the CSS Profile Light given the delayed launch and availability of the FAFSA. Applicants interested in receiving federal and state financial aid must submit the FAFSA.

Under the Early Decision Plans, the College agrees to render a decision on admission by November 15 for Early Decision I and February 1 for Early Decision II. Admitted applicants who are applying for need-based financial aid and have submitted the FAFSA will be contacted by the Office of Financial Aid concerning their request by December 1 for Early Decision I and February 1 for Early Decision II.

Early Decision is a binding agreement, designed for applicants for whom Rhodes is their top college choice. If accepted under the Early Decision Plan (and provided with financial assistance considered adequate by the applicant), the applicant is expected to submit the required deposit (as explained under Enrollment Deposit) by December 1 for Early Decision I and February 15 for Early Decision II. Offers of admission and financial aid to accepted applicants who do not enroll at the college will be rescinded.

If a decision on the application cannot be reached, the applicant will be notified that the application will be deferred and guaranteed unbiased consideration under Regular Decision.

Early Action Plan

Applicants who wish to know of their admission decision earlier in the year but are not prepared to make an enrollment decision prior to May 1 may wish to apply under our Early Action Plan. Early Action is an excellent option for applicants who are comfortable presenting their application earlier in the process.

Under this plan, the applicant must submit an application for admission, high school transcript, secondary school report, and letters of recommendation by November 15. Optional standardized test scores, if submitted, must also be provided by November 15. 

Early Action applicants who wish to be considered for need-based financial aid must complete and submit the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to the Office of Financial Aid by November 15 in order to determine eligibility for non-federal financial assistance as well as for federal and/or state financial assistance.  Early Action applicants will be required to submit the CSS Profile Light given the delayed launch and availability of the FAFSA. Applicants interested in receiving federal and state financial aid must submit the FAFSA.

Under the Early Action Plan, the Office of Admission will render an admission decision by January 15. Applicants will be notified of any scholarships and/or need-based aid they are eligible to receive by January 15. Admitted students have until May 1 to submit their enrollment deposit.

For various reasons, the Office of Admission may choose to defer an application to Regular Decision. The applicant will be notified that the application will be deferred and reconsidered under Regular Decision.

Regular Decision Plan

Under this plan, applicants must submit an application for admission, high school transcript, secondary school report, and letters of recommendation by January 15. Optional standardized test scores, if submitted, must be provided by January 15.

Regular Decision applicants who wish to be considered for need-based financial aid must complete and submit the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) by January 15.  

Under the Regular Decision Plan, the Office of Admission will render an admission decision by April 1. Applicants will also be notified of any scholarships and/or need-based aid they are eligible to receive by April 1. Admitted applicants have until May 1 to submit their enrollment deposit.

Early Admission Plan

High school students who wish to enroll at Rhodes as degree-seeking students prior to completion of their secondary schooling may apply under the Early Admission Plan. This option is provided for those students who have demonstrated exceptional ability and motivation in secondary school and are ready to experience the challenges of a college education earlier than normal.

To be eligible for consideration, an applicant must submit an application for admission, a high school transcript including grades for five semesters of course work, a secondary school report, a teacher’s evaluation, SAT or ACT test scores, and have a personal meeting with an admission representative. Successful applicants will have satisfied Rhodes’ general admission requirements, including the academic units requirements outlined under “Admission Selection Process” above. Normally, it will be necessary for an Early Admission applicant to enroll at a local college or university in the summer prior to their enrollment at Rhodes in order to fulfill any academic requirements.

Early Admission applicants must normally have the support of their secondary school counselor and of their parents or caregivers in order to be considered for admission under the plan.

Deferred Enrollment

Applicants who have been admitted for admission and wish to delay their enrollment at Rhodes for a semester or a year may request Deferred Enrollment by writing the Dean of Admission. The letter requesting Deferred Enrollment must indicate the length of time requested for deferral, the reason for requesting the deferral, and the proposed actions of the applicant during the time of the deferral. The Dean of Admission will respond to the deferral request in writing. If deferred enrollment is granted, the applicant must submit a nonrefundable $1,000.00 enrollment deposit to the Office of Admission. Applicants who have been admitted from the wait list are typically not offered deferred enrollment. The Vice President for Enrollment may waive the increased enrollment deposit in certain cases.

Admitted applicants requesting deferral who have been awarded one of the College’s competitive scholarships or fellowships may retain the award. 

Deferred applicants may not enroll in additional high school course work or in more than two college courses for credit in any one semester/term during their time of deferral. Doing so nullifies their admission and scholarship offers (if any) and requires new admission and scholarship decisions to be rendered. Applicants wishing to enroll in college courses are advised to consult with the Office of Admission to ensure credit will transfer to Rhodes.

Admission of Transfer Students

Rhodes welcomes applications from students who wish to transfer from other accredited colleges or universities. Applicants who have enrolled in more than two courses in any one semester or term at another college or university are considered transfer students. Applicants who have not graduated from high school, but have taken college course work, are not considered transfer students.

A transfer applicant should go to www.commonapp.org to access the Common App online for transfer students. The applicant should have official transcripts from his/her/their secondary school and all postsecondary institutions attended sent directly to the Office of Admission. Submitting SAT or ACT scores is optional. Unofficial copies of transcripts and score reports may be accepted by the Office of Admission for review purposes, although official copies must be sent before an admitted applicant enrolls. Transfer applicants must submit a college instructor evaluation, a College Official’s Report and a personal letter explaining the reason(s) for wanting to transfer to Rhodes. Transfer applicants who have previously applied for admission to Rhodes may complete a Reapply Form in lieu of the Common Application and submit a final high school transcript, college transcript, College Official's Report and explanation of why they wish to transfer to be considered for admission.

Transfer applicants applying for January entrance must also submit a Mid-Semester Grade Report (available on www.rhodes.edu) containing grade estimates from their professors. Admission and scholarship decisions are made in the context of both the secondary and post-secondary academic record. Prior college work is evaluated in light of Rhodes’ established degree requirements. Transfer applicants whose prior work is not compatible with a Rhodes degree program may find it necessary to extend their college career in order to complete all requirements for a degree.

Rhodes’ admission policy is to only consider transfer applications from students who are in good standing at the last institution attended. Those under academic or disciplinary suspension are not encouraged to apply to Rhodes until eligible for readmission to the suspending institution.

Transfer from an unaccredited college requires a more thorough analysis of academic credentials. If accepted, the applicant will be placed on probationary status for one academic year and will be expected to maintain a record satisfactory to the Faculty Standards and Standing Committee. Prospective applicants coming from colleges not accredited by a regional accrediting agency may find the acceptance of transfer credit to be very limited.

For more information regarding the transfer of credit, see “Transfer Credit” in the Requirements for a Degree section of this catalogue.

Admission of International Students

Rhodes encourages international students living both abroad and in the United States to apply for admission. International students are those individuals who are not citizens or permanent residents (resident alien status) of the United States.

In addition to those documents required of all first-year or transfer applicants, international applicants must have the official results of the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL), the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) or the Duolingo English Test (DET) forwarded to the Office of Admission from the appropriate testing agency. The English Proficiency exams are not required for native English-speaking applicants or if English is the primary language of instruction for at least two years of secondary school. International applicants may apply as test-optional and choose not to submit SAT or ACT scores but must still submit TOEFL/IELTS/DET scores, as applicable. All transcripts must include a certified English translation. International applicants who have studied at other colleges or universities must have official transcripts from those institutions sent to Rhodes.

All international applicants must submit the Rhodes Financial Supplement. It serves as the Certification of Finances which is required for issuance of a student visa from the United States government. International applicants may be eligible and competitive for merit-based scholarships ranging from US $12,000 to $40,000.

Rhodes strives to meet the demonstrated financial need of admitted international applicants. Need-based financial aid for international applicants (non-U.S. citizens) is determined from the Rhodes Non-Citizen Financial Supplement. Aid is awarded in the form of grants or "gift" aid, which varies in dollar amounts according to each applicant's demonstrated financial need. Admitted international applicants may also be considered for on-campus student employment.

Admission of Special Students (Non-degree Candidates)

Applicants who give evidence of sufficient academic ability may be admitted as special students to a course of study not leading directly to a degree, but allowing them to pursue that work for which they are best prepared and/or which they particularly need. Special students may enroll in no more than two classes, or for no more than eight credits per semester. Special students who wish to audit classes are limited to taking one course per semester.

Special students are not eligible to live in the residence halls or participate in intercollegiate athletics, fraternity or sorority membership, or other extracurricular activities. In addition, special students are not eligible for any Rhodes or federal financial aid funds. Directed Inquiries are not ordinarily available to special students. Should a special student subsequently become a degree candidate, credits earned while a special student are applicable towards the degree sought.

The deadline for submission of a special student application, including most recent transcript from high school or college, is two weeks prior to the beginning of a new semester/term.

Special student admission material is submitted only once. Students who have attended Rhodes as a special student and wish to continue their studies as a special student should report directly to Rhodes Express and register for classes during the first three days of a new semester/term.

Special students who have enrolled in two or more courses at another institution must reapply for special student status through the Office of Admission. A student seeking readmission as a special student will normally be held to the same academic standards as full-time, degree-seeking students at Rhodes.

Special students are held to the same standards of academic progress regarding academic probation and suspension as degree-seeking students.

Readmission of Students

Students who have voluntarily withdrawn from the College and have taken two courses or less in any one term at another institution, and students who have been academically suspended from Rhodes and wish to return, must apply for readmission through the Faculty Standards and Standing Committee.

Returning students, including those who have already graduated from Rhodes, must complete an Application for Readmission (obtained from the Registrar’s Office) which requests current information about the student, including an account of activities and educational experiences during the absence from Rhodes. In many cases interviews with the Dean of the Faculty and the Dean of Students will be necessary to complete the readmission process. Students seeking to be readmitted must initiate their requests at least two months prior to the beginning of a new semester.

Students who have voluntarily withdrawn from Rhodes and have taken more than two courses in any one term or semester at another institution are considered transfer students. These students must apply for readmission to Rhodes through the Office of Admission submitting the required applications and supporting documents.

Rhodes High School Scholars Program

Rhodes allows high school students who have demonstrated exceptional ability and motivation to begin their college work while completing their secondary school course of study. Such a student may enroll in up to two courses per semester at Rhodes.

To be eligible for consideration to the Rhodes High School Scholars Program, an applicant must complete an admission application; have scored at least 1140 on the SAT Critical Reading and Math tests or 25 on the ACT; rank in the upper one-fifth of his/her/their class;  have taken a very demanding course load, have a positive high school recommendation; and have a personal interview with an admission representative.

Course fees per credit hour are the same as Special Student tuition (see “Special Fees and Deposits” in the Expenses section). Financial aid is typically not available for students participating in the program. Participation in the High School Scholars Program will require coordination of the student’s college and high school course schedules. The Office of Admission will gladly assist the students, teachers, and counselors with these arrangements.

Advanced Placement

Rhodes will typically grant course credit to entering students who score either 4 or 5 on a College Board Advanced Placement examination. Those who score 3 on an Advanced Placement examination may enroll in advanced course work if the relevant department recommends it. 

Cambridge Pre-U, Cambridge A and AS Levels, International Baccalaureate, and Option International Baccalaureate Degree Programs

Rhodes recognizes the Cambridge Pre-U, A-Level and AS-level exams, International Baccalaureate, and Option International Baccalaureate academic programs and welcomes for review the submission of scores on these examinations. Course credit is typically granted for examinations on each of these programs passed with sufficiently high scores: M3 or higher in Cambridge Pre-U Principal Subject: C or higher in Cambridge A and AS levels:  5, 6 or 7 in IB Higher Level; 13 or higher in OIB. An IB score of 4 may qualify a student for advanced course work, subject to review by the appropriate academic department. 

A maximum combined total of thirty-two (32) credits may be earned through Advanced Placement, Cambridge Pre-U, International Baccalaureate, and Option International Baccalaureate examinations.

Advanced Placement, Cambridge Pre-U, International Baccalaureate, and Option International Baccalaureate credit may not be used to satisfy Rhodes’ Foundation requirements except for scores in English and, in certain subjects, scores of 5 on AP exams, D3 or higher on Cambridge Pre-U exams, 6 or 7 on IB higher-level exams, and 16 or higher on Option International Baccalaureate exams. All students must take the Rhodes placement test in the appropriate language to determine proficiency and placement, including students who took an AP language exam in that language. For more information about Advanced Placement and International Baccalaureate credit, go to this Transfer Credit Equivalencies Chart.

An applicant, who has successfully completed advanced secondary school education, including the British Advanced Level Examinations, the French Baccalaureate, the German Abitur, or the equivalent, may receive some advanced standing or transfer credit at Rhodes for that work. Such credit is not granted, however, until the applicant has enrolled at Rhodes, at which time his/her/their credentials will be reviewed by the Registrar and the academic departments in which the credit(s) will be applied.

Enrollment Deposit

In order to reserve a place in the class, all admitted applicants must submit a non-refundable $500.00 enrollment deposit to the College. Mailed deposits must be postmarked no later than our deadline of May 1 (December 1 for Early Decision I; February 15 for Early Decision II; June 15 for transfer students). The deposit is not an extra charge but is credited to the student’s account and deducted from other expenses. The balance of the first tuition, fees, room and board payment is due in early August. The College cannot guarantee that a residence hall room will be available unless this balance is paid at that time.

Orientation and Registration

All new students are expected to attend the Open Rhodes Orientation program during the summer prior to enrollment and to be present for Welcome Week, which immediately precedes the opening of the College. Orientation is designed to acquaint new students with the traditions, ideals, academic expectations, and regulations of Rhodes and to give them an opportunity to plan their courses of study in consultation with members of the faculty. During Orientation and Welcome Week, new students will also meet with the representatives of various student organizations, take placement tests, receive instruction in the use of the library, participate in social events and attend discussions with administrative officers of the College. Additional information about the Open Rhodes summer orientation program is available online at https://rhodes.edu/admission-aid/admitted-students/summer-orientation.

A complete medical examination and record of immunization are required of all full-time new students. This medical examination should take place prior to matriculation. The results of the examination along with immunization records, recorded on a form provided by the College, must be on file in the College Student Health Center before registration. Failure to provide the form may result in not being permitted to register and not being provided medical services until the form has been received. In the case of insufficient or missing medical data, the student may be granted provisional registration. Proof of health insurance is required of all students. A copy of your insurance card will be requested with the completed Health Form. Failure to provide proof of insurance may result in not being permitted to register and will result in not being provided medical services.

Additional Information

Office of Admission business hours are 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday (Central Time). Additional information is available upon request. Contact:

Office of Admission
Rhodes College
2000 North Parkway
Memphis, Tennessee 38112-1690
Telephone: 901-843-3700 or toll-free 1-800-844-5969
Fax: 901-843-3631
E-mail: adminfo@rhodes.edu
Online: rhodes.edu/admission

The cost of an education at Rhodes is of concern to students, their families, and to the College. Rhodes has been able to hold charges for tuition, room, and board to about 75% of the total cost of a student’s education. The College’s success in annual fundraising and the substantial income derived from the endowment have enabled Rhodes to hold costs below those at many comparable colleges. The tuition charge includes admission to athletic events, and a wide range of activities sponsored by academic departments or the College at large. The student activity fee supports student publications and student organizations, as well as many College-sponsored social activities which are held throughout the year. A summary of costs for the 2024-2025 academic year is listed below; students should bear in mind that charges for textbooks and supplies are not included.

The regular college plan provides for payment of tuition and associated fees in two installments prior to the beginning of classes each semester. Students are billed less deposits already made.

If monthly payments are preferred by parents and/or guardians, Rhodes allows such payments through Nelnet. A link for enrolling in the monthly payment plan offered by Nelnet will be included with the semester e-bill sent prior to each semester. If a monthly plan is chosen, arrangements should be made prior to the beginning of classes each semester.

The College has also made arrangements with A.W.G. Dewar, Inc. to offer a tuition refund coverage plan to Rhodes parents that will provide a refund in case of illness or accident causing the student to withdraw before the semester is completed. Information concerning the tuition refund plan that details the protection provided and cost of the coverage will be provided to parents before the first payment is due.  Parents and students have the option of waiving the coverage prior to the beginning of the fall semester.

Regulations Regarding Billing and Payment

A bill for the tuition charge along with applicable room and board and other charges will be sent electronically before each semester to the student and those whom the student has set up as authorized payers. Unless prior arrangements acceptable to the Bursar of the College are made, a student’s account not paid in full prior to classes will be regarded as delinquent. A student whose account is delinquent will be denied the privileges of registration, attending classes, obtaining academic transcripts, using College facilities, or being admitted to graduation.

Students may enroll in courses totaling up to nineteen credit hours in each semester. Students who receive permission to enroll in more than nineteen credit hours in a semester must pay the extra credit hour fee and exceptions are not made to this policy.

Once a student moves into a residence hall room, room and board charges for the full semester are due and payable on the student’s account. Even if the student moves out of the room during the semester, the full room and board charges for that semester remain due on the student’s account. Because of the high demand for College housing, the student who is not withdrawing from Rhodes and is a resident only in the Fall Semester will be fined $500 if he/she is not moved out of the room by the day after the last final examination of the Fall Semester.

Students living in the residence halls are required to be on a meal plan. First-year students are assigned an unlimited meal plan.  Returning students may choose either the 15 meals per week dining plan or the unlimited, all-access dining plan. Returning students living in East Village A, East Village B, East Village C Townhouses, Parkway Hall, or Spann Place also have the option of choosing the 7 meals per week dining plan. There are no exceptions to this policy. Meals may be taken in either the Burrow Refectory or with a cash equivalency in the Lynx Lair. Returning students are given the opportunity to choose the board plan they prefer prior to the start of the school year. Board plan changes for returning students are accepted thru the end of the first week of classes each semester. Non-resident students may purchase one of the commuter meal plan options by contacting Rhodes Express prior to the beginning of the semester.

All students living in the residence halls must pay the full comprehensive tuition, regardless of the number of credit hours taken in the semester.

If at some point it becomes necessary to turn the student account over for collection, the student will be required to reimburse the College the fees of any collection agency, which may be based on a percentage of the debt, and all costs and expenses, including reasonable attorney’s fees, incurred by the College in such collection efforts.

Withdrawal Policy

All requests for withdrawal must be initiated by the student through the Office of Student Life. The official date of withdrawal will be the last day that the student attended class. Once the Bursar has received all the necessary information concerning the withdrawal, the financial accounts of the student will be settled based upon the policies below. Involuntary withdrawals (i.e. suspensions or expulsions) are handled the same as voluntary withdrawals in that tuition and other fees remain due for the semester in which the suspension or expulsion occurs.

TUITION: If a student has attended classes, the full semester’s tuition is due and payable to the College regardless of the date of withdrawal, unless the student withdraws due to protracted illness or injury. Should this illness be certified by a physician, psychologist, or other qualified professional that it prevents the completion of the semester’s academic work, a pro-rata charge for tuition will be made on the following basis (“days” is defined as days when classes are scheduled, i.e. five days per week).

FINANCIAL AID: Rhodes financial aid remains credited to the account on the same basis as the charge for tuition above. When a student leaves the college, however, federal, state, and/or institutional financial aid funds may need to be returned to the entity providing the funding. The Bursar will determine the amount of unearned financial aid received by the student. The return of those funds may create a balance due to the college, and it is the student’s responsibility to pay that balance.

ROOM AND BOARD: The full room and board charges for the semester remain due and payable for any semester the student occupies a residence hall room. The charges remain due regardless of the date or reason for withdrawal. There are no pro-rata refunds of room and board charges.

HEALTH & WELLNESS AND ACTIVITY FEES: The full Health & Wellness and activity fee charges for the semester remains due and payable for any semester the student attends classes, regardless of the date or reason for withdrawal.

Special Fees and Deposits

Enrollment Deposit. $500.00. Applies to incoming students only. The deposit, due by May 1, is non-refundable.

Open Rhodes Registration Fee. $75.00

Welcome Week Fee. $250.00

Part-time Tuition (Undergraduate non-resident degree candidates taking 11 credit hours or less or graduate non-resident degree candidates taking 7 credit hours or less). $2,410.00 per credit hour.

Special Student Tuition (Students not seeking a degree at Rhodes), Fall and Spring Semesters. $1,280.00 per credit hour.

Special Student Tuition, Audit Rate, Fall and Spring Semesters. $640.00 per credit hour.

Summer Course Tuition, 2024. $950.00 per credit hour.

Summer Directed Inquiry and Internship Tuition, 2024. $640.00 per credit hour. All students earning Rhodes credit for directed inquiries and internships during the summer must be charged this rate in order to receive the credit.

Extra Credit Hour Fee. $880.00 per credit hour. This fee is charged of degree-seeking students enrolling in more than nineteen (19) credits in a semester.

Applied Music Fee. Students enrolled in applied music will be charged an additional fee of $490.00 per credit hour for private lessons. After the first applied music lesson, this applied lesson fee is nonrefundable.

Once declared, Music majors will have the Applied Music fees waived for up to eight (8) credits of their principal applied instrument. Music majors taking more than eight (8) credits of Applied Music and lessons taken prior to declaration of the major will be charged the applied fee for those credits.

Once declared, Music minors will have the Applied Music fees waived for up to four (4) credits of Applied Music and lessons taken prior to declaration of the minor will be charged the applied fee for those credits.

If a student fails to graduate as a music major or minor, the applied lesson fees that would have otherwise been assessed will be retroactively added to the student’s account.

NOTE: Music Talent Award and Fine Arts Award recipients' conditions for waivers of Applied Music fees are outlined in their award letters, which supersedes music major and minor fee waivers as contained here.

Extended Living During Winter Recess Fee (for certain dorms). $600.00

Parking Registration Fee. $400.00 per academic year.

Late Registration Fee. $50.00

Late Payment Fee. $25.00

Key Fob Replacement Fee. $25.00

Student ID Card Replacement Fee. $10.00

Financial Aid

Rhodes invests substantial funds in institutional financial assistance to help make it possible for students who are admitted to the College to attend. Currently, approximately 90% of Rhodes students receive some form of federal, state, institutional, or outside financial assistance, with total assistance amounting to over $100 million.

Most aid awarded by the College is offered as a combination of grant, loan and student employment. Rhodes takes full advantage of the available federal and state financial assistance programs when awarding financial aid to students. Additionally, through the generosity of loyal alumni and other friends of the College, Rhodes students benefit from a generous competitive fellowship and scholarship program.

General Policies

• The Office of Financial Aid will communicate with students primarily via the Rhodes-assigned student email address. It is the student's responsibility to communicate with parents concerning financial aid award information, requirements, etc. A student may not receive aid (scholarships, fellowships and/or grants) in excess of the total cost of attendance at Rhodes (tuition, fees, housing, food as well as an estimated allowance for books, transportation, and personal/living expenses). If the total amount of aid from all sources (Rhodes federal, state, private) exceeds Rhodes’ total cost of attendance, aid will be reduced according to federal, state and institutional guidelines.
• In general, information about the student's financial aid award(s), requirements for completing the financial aid process, cost of attendance, etc. may be found on LynxPartner.  The Office of Financial Aid does not mail paper award letters or documents to Rhodes students' home address.  Updated awards are made available via LynxPartner in March of each year.
• The total amount of Rhodes-funded gift aid (scholarships, fellowships and/or grants) a student is eligible to receive may not exceed Rhodes' direct cost of attendance (tuition, fees, food and/or housing). If the total amount of Rhodes-funded gift aid exceeds the direct cost of attendance, a portion of the Rhodes gift aid will be reduced to not exceed the amount of tuition, fees, Rhodes housing and/or eligible meal plan charges. 
• Rhodes scholarships, fellowships and grants are based on a normal course load (12 - 18 credits under the Foundations Curriculum). Additional costs incurred by a student taking an overload will be incurred at that student’s expense.
• Rhodes scholarships, fellowships and grants are provided only to students enrolled full-time (at least 12 credits) as of the last day of the extended drop period. Seniors who need less than twelve (12) credits to graduate in their final semester are NOT exempt from this policy.
• Institutional funds will be awarded for each classification year (i.e. first-year, sophomore, etc.) only once. A maximum of two semesters of assistance will be awarded for any classification. Exceptions to this may be made by formal approval by the Accessibility Support Committee.
• Students, who graduate early because of overloads, summer course work, etc., forfeit aid for the semester(s) not enrolled. Students who accept/decline financial aid awards via LynxPartner are electronically signing their award and agree to the terms of the financial aid package as listed in the Rhodes College Catalogue, in other Rhodes publications, and on the Rhodes website
• The following are the definitions for enrollment status for financial aid, including Rhodes scholarships, fellowships and grants
  • Full time: 12 credits or greater
  • ¾ Time: 9-11credits
  • ½ Time: 6-8 credits

Course Program of Study (CPoS)

The U.S. Department of Education regulations require that the student be enrolled in an eligible degree-seeking or certificate-seeking program to receive federal financial aid (grants, loans, the Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant, work-study compensation, etc.) known as the Course Program of Study (CPoS). To qualify for federal and state financial aid, the student must be enrolled in courses that are applicable toward the student's degree or certificate.

If a student is enrolled in courses that are not required to complete his or her eligible degree or certificate, the student's financial aid award could be prorated or cancelled as required by the U.S. Department of Education and Tennessee Student Assistance Corporation (TSAC).

Course Program of Study (CPoS) refers to all courses needed to earn your degree: Major concentration, eligible minor, general education, and elective courses within your declared major. If you haven't chosen a major yet and you are designated as Academic Focus Area-Gen Ed Core this is your program of study.

Only courses in your program of study count towards your enrollment status for federal financial aid (Pell, Student Equal Opportunity Grant (SEOG), Loans, and Federal Work Study (FWS)), and state aid programs (Tennessee HOPE, Tennessee GAMS, Tennessee Aspire, Ned McWherter, Tennessee Grant Program.)

Definitions

• Cost of Attendance (COA): This includes tuition, fees, estimated housing and food, estimated cost of books, estimated personal/living costs and estimated transportation costs). The term “Direct COA” only includes tuition and fees. Room and board is included as "Direct COA" only for students who reside at or have purchased a meal plan through Rhodes College. When calculating Rhodes scholarships or grants based on tuition, fees, and room and board, the amount used for room is the average amount charged by the College for a student at the multiple occupancy rate for that dorm; the amount used for board is the current on-campus 21-meal plan rate.
• Student Aid Index (SAI): An index used to determine the families ability to  contribute for the student’s education for a given academic year. The SAI is calculated by the FAFSA and the CSS PROFILE and assumes families will finance education utilizing current income, past savings, and student and/or parental borrowing.
• Demonstrated Need: The difference between the COA and the SAI.
• Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA): A financial aid application used in awarding federal and state grants, scholarships, and loans and student employment.
• Institutional Supplemental Application: May be completed in place of the CSS PROFILE to determine Rhodes Grant funding. Only needed first year.
• CSS PROFILE: A financial aid application used by Rhodes to determine Rhodes Grant funding. The CSS PROFILE is a product of The College Board.
• Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP): Federal and institutional requirement that students consistently progress toward completion of a degree; includes GPA and earned hours measured at the end of each academic year.

Financial aid Application Procedures for Prospective Students

All prospective students who want consideration for federal, state, and institutional assistance, including Early Decision applicants, must complete the FAFSA to receive federal and/or state aid. Failure to complete the FAFSA will result in the reduction or elimination of awarded federal aid. The Title IV Code for Rhodes to receive FAFSA results is 003519.

All prospective students who want consideration for institutional financial assistance, including Early Decision applicants, must complete the CSS PROFILE or the Institutional Supplemental Application to receive institutional grant funding. Failure to complete one of these applications may result in the reduction or elimination of awarded institutional aid. The code for Rhodes to receive the CSS PROFILE results is 1730.

 Submit the CSS PROFILE (https://cssprofile.collegeboard.org) or Institutional Supplemental Application (student portal) and/or the FAFSA (www.fafsa.gov) by the following dates, according to admission plan:

•  
  • Early Decision     - November 1
  •  Early Action        - November 15
  • Early Decision II  - January 15
  • Regular Decision - January 15

Notification of financial aid awards for admitted applicants are as follows:

•  
  • Early Decision                 - beginning November 15
  • Early Decision II              - notified on a rolling basis beginning November 29
  • Early Action applicants    - January 15
  • Regular Decision             - March 15

Financial aid Application Procedures for Transfer Students

A student transferring to Rhodes who is seeking financial assistance must submit a CSS PROFILE (https://cssprofile.collegeboard.org) or Institutional Supplemental Application by March 1 and a valid FAFSA (www.fafsa.gov) by March 1 in order to determine financial need for the upcoming year.

A transfer student shall be eligible for all forms of financial aid (except Bellingrath Fellowships, Bonner Scholarships, ACS and Day Scholars) provided:

• The student’s previous college academic record is commensurate with the requirements for the award (a 3.50 minimum grade point average is required for a Hon Scholarship and a 3.75 minimum grade point average is required for any scholarships or fellowships of greater value such as Morse and Cambridge Scholarships).
• The student would have been awarded the award had the student entered Rhodes during the first year in college.

NOTE: The number of semesters for which a transfer student may receive Rhodes-funded aid is based on the classification of the student upon enrollment. For example, if a transfer student enrolls at Rhodes as a sophomore, that student may receive Rhodes-funded aid for a total of six (6) semesters. A student enrolling as a junior may receive Rhodes-funded aid for a total of four semesters, and so forth.

Financial Aid Application Procedures for Currently Enrolled/Returning Students

Currently enrolled/returning students who wish to continue eligibility for federal financial aid and for the Tennessee Education Lottery Scholarships (TELS) and the TN State Grants (for Tennessee residents) must complete the FAFSA. Rhodes encourages students to complete the Renewal FAFSA as soon as possible prior to March 1. Returning Tennessee students who qualified for the State grant (TSAA) in previous years must complete the FAFSA by February 1 to be considered for renewal.

The Department of Education will send FAFSA renewal notices to students in October of each year via email. Returning students who are reapplying for financial aid do not need to resubmit the CSS PROFILE or the Institutional Supplemental Application.

Financial Aid Awards

If the results of the FAFSA reveal that a student has a financial need, Rhodes generally offers the student a financial aid award that consists of gift aid (federal and state grants) and self-help (loans and student employment). Rhodes funds, federal funds, state funds and funds provided to the student through outside organizations are all considered a part of the need-based financial aid package and are applied to need first, per federal regulations. The need-based programs commonly available at Rhodes are listed below.

• Institutional Grants
  • Rhodes Grant: Rhodes Grants are considered need-based awards. Rhodes uses this funding to meet need and/or to offer assistance based on the overall characteristics of students who show promise of success at Rhodes as well as the ability and desire to take full advantage of all Rhodes has to offer. The annual value of a student’s Rhodes Grant remains constant throughout the student’s tenure at Rhodes. Exceptions to this are within the purview of the Financial Aid Office in response to extreme increases in demonstrated financial need documented through the completion of the Special Circumstance Request and other supporting documents that may be required.
  • Rhodes On-Campus Housing Grant: This need based grant is awarded to offset direct costs associated with living in on campus housing.  A student who chooses to live off campus may no longer be eligible to receive this grant. However, this grant may be used to offset the cost of a meal plan up to the amount of the initial Rhodes On Campus Housing Grant for students who have satisfied their three-year residency requirements.  Students who request an appeal to move off campus prior to completing the three-year requirement will no longer qualify for this grant.
  • Ministerial Grant: As a church-related college, Rhodes will assist children of Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) ministers with a $1,000 ministerial grant above any Rhodes grant or scholarship previously awarded. Dependents of PCUSA ministers should indicate their interest in the Ministerial Grant on the Rhodes Part I Application for Admission/Common Application Supplement.
• Federal Grants
  • Federal Pell Grant: The federal government provides direct assistance to eligible students through the Federal Pell Grant Program. Eligibility for the Federal Pell Grant is determined by the results of the FAFSA.
  • Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant (SEOG): Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grants are awarded by Rhodes to Pell Grant recipients showing exceptional financial need, and are in addition to the Pell Grant. SEOG funds are limited and are awarded until funds are exhausted.
• Tennessee State Awards:
  • Tennessee Student Assistance Award (TSAA): Students who are residents of Tennessee apply for the TSAA via the FAFSA. To be eligible, a student must have:
    • Graduated from a Tennessee highschool
    • Been a continuous resident of Tennessee for the twelve-month period preceding the start of the academic year for which the grant is made.
    • An SAI of or below $7200 (subject to change per state funding).

  • In addition:

    • Returning students wishing to renew the award must complete the FAFSA before February 1 remain eligible. Further information may be obtained from the Tennessee Student Assistance Corporation. The State of Tennessee is the final authority on eligibility for the program. Rhodes is not responsible for replacing lost state grant funding.
    • Contact: Phone: ( 800) 342-1663 or (615) 741-1346, Website: www.TN.gov/collegepays.html

     

  • Tennessee Education Lottery Scholarship Program (TELS): The TELS Program includes the HOPE Scholarship, the General Assembly Merit Scholarship (GAMS), the ASPIRE Award and the Ned McWherter Scholarship (all detailed below). The State of Tennessee offers scholarships of up to $7500 for Tennessee residents who attend an approved college or university in Tennessee. TELS funding requires the submission of the FAFSA and must be completed by state-established deadlines as indicated on the FAFSA website at www.fafsa.gov.  Recipients of the TELS who begin enrollment in any term as a full-time student must maintain full-time status throughout the semester to continue receiving this award. Exceptions to this rule must be approved by the Standards and Standing Committee prior to the student’s dropping below full-time status. Only medical and family emergency issues are considered for exceptions.  Recipients of the TELS must complete the FAFSA every year by the state-established deadline as printed on the FAFSA. The State of Tennessee is the final authority on eligibility for the program. Rhodes is not responsible for replacing lost state grant funding. Information on all requirements for the TELS Program may be found at www.TN.gov/collegepaystn.html.  

     

  • HOPE Scholarship: Awarded $4500 for years one and two; $5700 for years three and four.  Students must maintain a minimum 2.75 GPA during the first 48 credit hours earned and 3.0 subsequent terms until graduation.  The HOPE scholarship is awarded for up to 5 years or until a student receives their Bachelor's Degree, whichever comes first. Students who start the semester as a full-time student must remain full time throughout the semester, or they will no longer be eligible for the HOPE Scholarship. Tennessee Residents eligible for the HOPE Scholarship, who start the semester as a part time student, may be eligible for a prorated HOPE award if they remain enrolled at least half-time throughout the entire semester. Students enrolled a minimum of 6 hours over the summer may be eligible to receive a HOPE award.
    • Aspire Award: An additional $1500 is awarded to HOPE Scholarship recipients whose family reports an adjusted gross income of $36,000 or less.
    • General Assembly Merit Scholarship (GAMS) Supplement: An additional $1000 is available to HOPE Scholarship recipients based on academic performance in high-school.  Students must have scored a minimum of 29 on the ACT (or equivalent score on SAT) AND a minimum 3.75 final GPA based on uniform grading policy. Students must be HOPE eligible and not qualify for the Aspire Award.

    • Ned McWherter: A $3000 competitive scholarship awarded to entering freshman who scored a minimum of 29 on the ACT (or equivalent SAT score) AND a minimum 3.5 final GPA based on uniform grading policy. A 3.2 GPA must be maintained in college for renewal up to 8 consecutive terms. Merit scholarships offered by the college at time of admission is considered matching dollars awarded for this award. Applications available at www.TN.gov/collegpays/student_portal.htm

       

  • SEB Scholarship:  A scholarship for students who are residents of the following counties in Tennessee: Bradley, Hamilton, Knox, Loudon, McMinn, Meigs, Putnam, or Rhea County, Typically one SouthEast Bank (SEB) Scholarship is awarded biannually. Students are nominated by the Financial Aid Office and selection of scholarship is based on the student’s community service/leadership record, academic achievements and financial need. The SEB Scholarship has a stipend of $7,000 per year for four years and will be renewed yearly as long as the recipient remains a full-time student at Rhodes and maintains a 2.5 grade point average. The scholarship is funded by SouthEast Bank located in Knoxville, TN.

• Loans

  • Federal Direct Student Loan Program: These federal loans are available as follows:
    • $5,500 are available to first-year undergraduate students
    • $6,500 upon earning 30 credits for the sophomore year
    • $7,500 upon earning 63 credits and for each of the remaining years of undergraduate study.

           Federal Direct Loans are either subsidized or unsubsidized:

  •  
    • Subsidized: The federal government pays the interest while the student is enrolled in an eligible institution on at least a half-time basis.
    • Unsubsidized: The student is responsible for interest payment while enrolled at least half-time.

           Repayment details for both subsidized and unsubsidized loans:

  •  
    • Repayment begins six months after the student graduates or ceases to be enrolled at least half-time.
    • The standard repayment period is ten years, and the interest rate for loans borrowed in a given year are fixed by the DOE annually  for both subsidized Federal Direct Loans and unsubsidized Federal Direct Loans.
    • This rate may change on July 1st each year as determined by federal appropriations.
  • Federal Direct Unsubsidized Loan for Graduate Students: These federal loans are available to students pursuing a graduate degree at Rhodes. The annual loan limit for a graduate or professional student is $20,500.  The interest rate changes each July 1 as determined by federal appropriations. The current interest rate can be found at https://studentaid.gov/understand-aid/types/loans/interest-rates 
  • Federal Direct Parent Loan for Undergraduate Students (PLUS) program: The parent of an undergraduate student may be eligible to borrow the cost of education at Rhodes less any financial assistance the student receives each year for educational expenses.   PLUS applicants are subject to credit approval. The interest rate changes each July 1st as determined by federal appropriations.  The current interest rate can be found at https://studentaid.gov/understand-aid/types/loans/interest-rates. 
  • Federal Direct GRAD (PLUS) Program: A student enrolled in a graduate program may be eligible to borrow the cost of education at Rhodes less any financial assistance the student receives each year for educational expenses.  PLUS applicants are subject to credit approval. The interest rate changes each July 1 as determined by federal appropriations.  The current interest rate can be found at https://studentaid.gov/understand-aid/types/loans/interest-rates.  
  • Other Loans
    • Student Loan of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.): Up to $1,000 annually may be borrowed from the Student Loan Fund administered by the General Mission Board on behalf of the Presbyterian Church. The student must have been a member of the denomination continuously for at least one year immediately preceding the date of application. Evidence of financial need is required. Students interested in this loan should address all communications to:

                       Presbyterian Church (U. S. A.

                       Office of Financial Aid for Studies

                       100 Witherspoon Street

                        Louisville, KY 40202-139

                       Telephone: (888) 728-7228

                       http://www.pcusa.org/financialaid (http://www.pcusa.org/financialaid)

  •  
    • Private Loans Rhodes students and parents have the opportunity to borrow non-federal educational loans, called "Private Loans" (also known as alternative loans), to help with college expenses. Numerous lending institutions offer private educational loans, which may be combined with federal loans up to the cost of attendance. Rhodes maintains a historical lenders’ list, which includes private educational loans that our students have used over the past five (5) years. Please note that this list is not inclusive, ordered by preference, or an endorsement of any specific lender.  FastChoice | Home (fastproducts.org)

•                   If you have questions, please contact:

                    Office of Financial Aid

                    Phone: 901-843-3278 (local) 800-844-5969 (toll-free)

                    Email: finaid@rhodes.edu

  Student Employment

  Student employment programs at Rhodes include the Student Employment Program @ Rhodes (SE@R) and the Rhodes Student Associate Program (RSAP). When an offer of student employment of any type is extended by the College and accepted by the student, this offer does not guarantee that the student will earn the full amount awarded. The student will be paid only for the hours worked, as the award amount represents maximum gross wages a student may earn. Earnings are paid directly to the student; they are not credited to the student’s account in the Bursar’s Office. To begin work, a student employee must have submitted an I-9 and a W-4 form to the college. These documents must be submitted to Rhodes Express with proper identification in person for processing. 

  • Student Employment Program @ Rhodes (SE@R) has two options based on financial need:
    • Federal Student Employment Program (FWS): Through the Federal Student Employment Program, part-time employment is offered to students to help them meet their financial need. A student may work for no less than the prevailing minimum wage rate for an average of ten (10) hours per week while enrolled as a regular student during the academic year.
    • Rhodes Student Employment Program (CCE): Employment on the campus may be offered through the Rhodes Student Employment Program to students who do not demonstrate financial need. In these cases, employment will be offered only after those commitments made to students eligible for the FWS Program (described above) are honored. Students in this category (no demonstrated need) who desire employment on campus should contact the financial aid office. A student may work for no less than the prevailing minimum wage rate for an average of ten (10) hours per week while enrolled as a regular student during the academic year and for as many as thirty-five (35) hours per week during the summer.
  • Rhodes Student Associate Program (RSAP): RSAP provides enhanced employment opportunities for a select group of highly qualified , highly motivated Rhodes Students who collaborate with specifically chosen faculty/administrator supervisors to provide valuable, meaningful service to both the student and the college. Employment may be offered on a part-time basis regardless of financial need. A student may apply for RSAP beginning in the fall of their freshman year as applications become available. A student must work between ten (10) and fifteen (15) hours per week during the academic year and maintain a minimum 2.75 cumulative grade point average. Summer employment is not available in this program. A student may not hold another job on campus in conjunction with their RSA position including the Bonner and Day fellowships.

  Scholarships and Fellowships

  Financial need is not a consideration in awarding scholarships and fellowships at Rhodes, with the exception of the Bonner Scholarship. Federal regulations, however, do require that any assistance, including scholarships and fellowships, first apply towards the demonstrated need when awarding need-based aid.

  Rhodes’ scholarships and fellowships are awarded only to entering students at the time of admission. Returning students not initially offered a competitive scholarship or fellowship will not be considered for a competitive scholarship or fellowship at a later time. Returning students who have been awarded a competitive scholarship or fellowship will not be considered for scholarships or fellowships of greater value as they progress through Rhodes.

   All qualified applicants are automatically considered for Rhodes' scholarships and fellowships, unless a separate application is required and specified.

   Please note: A description of our broader Fellowship Program, which provides opportunities for research, service, creative activities, internships and study abroad during the academic year and over the summer can be found in the Opportunities for Individualized Study section of this catalogue. Many of these opportunities include stipends.

  • Scholarships

  Scholarships are awarded on the basis of a candidate’s academic record, leadership, character, and personal achievements. Competitive scholarships may be renewed for a maximum of three renewals provided the student meets the financial aid satisfactory academic progress standards, enrolled in undergraduate program and maintains the GPA requirements of the scholarship; however, the student must maintain full-time student status (at least 12 credits) through the extended drop period of each semester. The total amount of Rhodes-funded scholarships, fellowships and grants may not exceed direct charges of tuition, fees, room, and board. Students receiving institutional aid in excess of tuition will be subject to a reduction if they live off campus. Rhodes funds are not available to students enrolled less than full-time (at least 12 credits) unless an exception is formally approved by the Accessibility Support Committee (see Reduced Course Load).

  Rhodes scholarships, fellowships, and grants may only be used for study at Rhodes or for approved study in an affiliate study abroad program.

  Rhodes institutional aid may be received up to (8) semesters as long as the student meets the Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP) standards for renewal of financial aid and, for competitive scholarships and fellowships, maintains the required GPA Scholarships are awarded to entering students based on the candidate’s academic record, leadership, character, and personal achievements include:

   

  • Cambridge
  • Ralph C. Hon
  • Diehl
  • Dean's/Founders
  • Presidential
  • Rhodes Awards

  Founders Scholarships are awarded to outstanding entering students who exemplify high academic standards, exemplify leadership in their community, and serve to enrich the college community.

   

  • Fellowships (a description of our broader Fellowship Program can be found in the Opportunities for Individualized Study section of the catalogue.)

• At Rhodes, we have taken traditional scholarships a step further by allowing students to invest in themselves through professional internships, community service, research or other requirements in exchange for financial assistance. In addition to funding, recipients of fellowships receive real-world experience that puts their education into action. Competitive fellowships for incoming students are awarded to students based on academic ability, leadership, character, personal achievement, or special talents and provide service, research, or internship opportunities to recipients. Most fellowships require the submission of a separate application through the Fellowships Office.

  Fellowships may be renewed for up to three times provided the student meets the financial aid satisfactory academic progress standards, the GPA requirements of the fellowship, and the service, internship, research, or other requirements of the fellowship. In addition, the student must maintain full-time student status (at least 12 credits) through the extended drop period of each semester to continue to receive the fellowship. The total amount of Rhodes-funded scholarships, fellowships and grants may not exceed tuition, fees, room and board. Rhodes funds are not available to students enrolled less than full-time (at least 12 credits) unless an exception is formally approved by Student Accessibility Services (see Student Accessibility Services). Rhodes scholarships, fellowships, and grants may only be used for study at Rhodes or for approved Rhodes affiliate study abroad program. Rhodes institutional aid may be received up to (8) semesters as long as the student meets the SAP standards for renewal of financial aid and, for competitive scholarships and fellowships, maintains the required GPA.

  •  
    • Fine Arts Fellowships: Fine Arts Fellowships are made each year to entering students who have demonstrated outstanding achievement in the areas of art or music. Auditions are required in music, and art requires the submission of slides. The Fine Arts Fellowships are valued up to $12,500 per year. If a student qualifies for a Fine Arts Fellowship and another competitive scholarship or fellowship, only one scholarship or fellowship (whichever is greater) will be awarded. Winners of these fellowships are required to major or minor in a Fine Arts discipline while at Rhodes.
    • Spencer Fellowships in Ancient Mediterranean Studies: Spencer Fellowships are awarded to first-year students who have distinguished themselves in the study of Latin, ancient Greek or the civilizations of ancient Greece and Rome. Each year, up to three Spencer Fellowships are awarded in the amount of $2,000 to $3,000 in addition to any other Rhodes grant or fellowship received. The fellowships are renewable for three years provided the student meets the financial aid satisfactory academic progress standards, maintains a 2.75 cumulative GPA, and participates in the Ancient Mediterranean Studies program.
    • Jack H. Taylor Fellowship in Physics: The Taylor Fellowship in Physics recognizes talented high school physics students and encourages their continued college development in physics. The Fellowship is valued up to $15,000 per year based on the qualifications of the recipient and is in addition to any other Rhodes grant or fellowship the student may receive. At least one fellowship will be awarded to a first-year student each year.
    • Bonner Scholarships: The Bonner Scholarships are for students who have demonstrated an exceptional record of leadership and service participation in their communities and who wish to become effective leaders who promote positive change in the world. The Bonner Scholarships are awarded on a competitive basis and support fifteen first-year students who have a strong high school record, and demonstrate an outstanding record of leadership, community service and/or social justice work. To be eligible, the student’s family must have a federal Expected Family Contribution (EFC) below $10,500 (exceptions may be made for outstanding candidates). Scholarships plus stipend are valued at $13,000 are in addition to any Rhodes scholarship the student may receive during the standard academic year. In addition to the award amount, the student’s financial need to cover direct costs is met with scholarship, grant, and subsidized loan. Unsubsidized loans may be offered to assist with indirect costs or offset calculated family contribution. Bonner Scholars are also awarded funding for two summer service projects, access to a community fund to support service projects, and up to $3,000 for the purpose of reducing total educational loan indebtedness upon graduation from Rhodes. The total amount of Rhodes-funded scholarships, including Bonner Scholarship, Bonner Stipend, Rhodes Fellowships and Rhodes grants may not exceed direct charges of tuition, fees, room and board. Students receiving institutional aid in excess of tuition will be subject to a reduction if they live off campus.
    • Clarence Day Scholarship: Day Scholarships are made each year to entering students who are from Shelby County and who have demonstrated a strong interest in the Memphis community. Students must have a strong academic record and have intentions of staying in Memphis after graduation. The scholarship is renewable for three years provided the student meets the renewal criteria. The scholarship is valued at $35,000 per year and an opportunity for a one-time fellowship experience with a stipend of $5,000. Applicants must apply and meet all deadlines to be considered for this scholarship. In addition to the award amount, a student’s financial need to cover direct costs is met with scholarship, grant, and work. Loans may be offered to assist with indirect costs or offset calculated family contribution. The total amount of Rhodes-funded scholarships, including Day Scholarship, Rhodes Fellowships and Rhodes grants may not exceed direct charges of tuition, fees, room, and board. Students receiving institutional aid in excess of tuition will be subject to a reduction if they live off campus.
    • Jewish Community Fellowship: Awarded through partnership with Jewish Community Partners (JCP) of Memphis.  Jewish Community Fellows receive a merit scholarship between $2500 and $10,000, dependent on other combined aid, and renewable for up to 3 years.  Jewish Community Fellows are expected to be active in Jewish life at Rhodes and fulfill the following requirements:
      • Complete an annual Fellowship Recertification Form
      • Make a presentation to Jewish Community Partners board
      • Write a yearly article about Jewish life
      • Attend monthly leadership meetings with other fellows
      • Attend Rhodes Hillel events/programs
  • Other Scholarships and Awards
    • Rhodes College-Sponsored National Merit Scholarships: Awards sponsored by Rhodes may be offered to first-year students who are designated as finalists in the National Merit Scholarship competition and who have designated Rhodes as their first choice. Recipients may not receive other National Merit Scholarships. These awards are valued at $1500 beginning with the incoming class of 2020-2021. They are renewable for three years provided the student meets the financial aid satisfactory academic progress standards.
    • Chicago Scholars Program Award: Chicago Scholar Program recipients receive institutional aid up to a student’s financial need to cover direct costs with scholarship, grant, subsidized loans and work. Unsubsidized loans may be offered to assist with indirect costs or offset calculated family contribution. The total amount of Rhodes-funded scholarships, including Day Scholarship, Rhodes Fellowships and Rhodes grants may not exceed direct charges of tuition, fees, room, and board. Students receiving institutional aid in excess of tuition will be subject to a reduction if they live off campus.
    • YES Prep Scholars Program Award: YES Prep Program recipients receive institutional aid up to a student’s financial need to cover direct costs with scholarship, grant, subsidized loans and work. Unsubsidized loans may be offered to assist with indirect costs or offset calculated family contribution. The total amount of Rhodes-funded scholarships, including Day Scholarship, Rhodes Fellowships and Rhodes grants may not exceed direct charges of tuition, fees, room, and board. Students receiving institutional aid in excess of tuition will be subject to a reduction if they live off campus.
    • The Presbyterian Partnership: Because Rhodes shares an important relationship with the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.), a special scholarship program, called the Presbyterian Partnership, has been established. Through this program Rhodes seeks to strengthen its ties with the Church and to help students obtain the distinctive and high quality education available at Rhodes. In the program, the Session of a Presbyterian church may nominate a student to receive a Partnership grant of $1,000, $2,000 or $4,000. The church contributes one-half of the Partnership grant to Rhodes, and the College supplies the other half and applies the total to the student’s account. Any institutional grant or scholarship previously awarded the recipient by Rhodes will be used to match the Church’s portion of the scholarship (i.e. no additional grant or scholarship aid will be awarded). Eligibility requirements for a Partnership Scholarship are:
      • Interested students should contact their pastor or Clerk of Session to see if their church is willing to enter into a Partnership agreement with Rhodes. If the church wishes to participate, the church should write a letter to the Rhodes College Office of Financial Aid specifying the annual amount of the Presbyterian Partnership it wishes to partner with Rhodes.
      • The recipient must meet all requirements for admission to Rhodes as a full-time student and maintain satisfactory academic progress at all times
      • Only first-year students and transfer students are eligible for an initial Partnership Scholarship.
      • The student must be nominated by the Session of a local Presbyterian Church (U.S.A).
      • For further information about the Presbyterian Partnership Program, contact the Financial Aid Office.
    • National Presbyterian College Scholarships: Rhodes participates in the National Presbyterian College Scholarship Program. Rhodes may co-sponsor one award each year to an entering first-year student. This award, based on financial need and ranging in value from $700 to $1,400, is renewable for up to three additional years provided the student meets the financial aid satisfactory academic progress standards. The National Presbyterian College Scholarship Selection Committee will determine the winner from those applicants who indicate on the application that Rhodes is their first choice among the participating Presbyterian Colleges. Application forms may be obtained from and must be returned by January 31 to:

                      National Presbyterian College Scholarships

                      Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) Financial Aid for Studies

                      100 Witherspoon Street Mezzanine

                      Louisville, KY 40202-1396

                      http://www.pcusa.org/financialaid

  •  
    • American Field Service Returnee Scholarships: Rhodes will provide up to five (5) AFS Returnee Scholarships valued at $500 per year and renewable for up to three additional years provided the student meets the financial aid satisfactory academic progress standards. The scholarships are available on a competitive basis to any AFS returnee who is offered admission to the College.
    • HOBY Scholarships: These scholarships are available on a competitive basis to any participant in a HOBY seminar who is offered admission to the College. The scholarship is valued at $500 per year and is renewable for three years provided the student meets the financial aid satisfactory academic progress standards. A maximum of five (5) HOBY Scholarships will be awarded each year.
    • Youth for Understanding Scholarships: Rhodes will provide up to five (5) YFU Scholarships per year valued at $500 and renewable for three additional years provided the student meets the financial aid satisfactory academic progress standards. The scholarships are available on a competitive basis to any YFU participant who is offered admission to the College.
    • Army ROTC Scholarships: Rhodes students may compete for Army ROTC scholarships providing college tuition and educational fees. Awardees also receive a book allowance of $600 per semester and a stipend varying from $350 - $500 per month from the Army (estimated). Students awarded an Army ROTC scholarship may receive a Rhodes Grant up to but not to exceed the equivalent of the cost of on-campus room and board based upon the 21 meal, standard multiple occupancy room rate. Rhodes College scholarship, fellowship or grant equal to or greater than the indicated grant amount will be adjusted to the equivalent of the cost of on-campus room and board based upon the 21 meal, standard multiple occupancy room rate. Grants are renewable for three years as long as the student retains his/her ROTC Scholarship and meets the satisfactory academic progress standards for financial aid. Information about Army ROTC Scholarships may be obtained by writing to or calling:

                    Army ROTC

                    The University of Memphis

                    Memphis, TN 38152

                    (901)678-2933

  •  
    • Air Force ROTC Scholarships: Through an agreement between Rhodes and the United States Air Force, Rhodes students may participate fully in the AFROTC program based at the University of Memphis and can compete for AFROTC scholarships. Incoming freshman can compete for four, and in certain cases, five-year scholarships by applying for an AFROTC College Scholarship (CSP) online at www.afrotc.com. Applicants must apply no later than December 1 of the year prior to entering college as a first-year student.  Scholarships awarded through the CSP program include: Applicants must apply no later than December 1 of the year prior to entering college as a first-year student. Scholarships awarded through the CSP program include:
      •  
        • Type 1 - full-tuition and fees
        • Type 2 up to $15,000 per year towards tuition and fees
        • Type 7 - up to $9,000 per year towards tuition and fees

                     Students not selected for a CSP scholarship, if eligible, can compete for scholarship through the In College Scholarship Program (ICSP) once they are enrolled at Rhodes and in AFROTC. These scholarships include:   

  • Type 2 - $15,000 per year towards tuition and fees
  • Type 3 - $9,000 towards tuition and fees
  • Type 6 - $3,000 towards tuition and fees

                    All AFROTC scholarship programs include a $900 per year book allowance. Students who receive the Type 2 scholarships through CSP or ISCP are eligible to compete for an upgrade to 80 percent of tuition and fees.

                  AFROTC and Rhodes Grant

  •  
    • Type 1 scholarship recipients are also eligible to receive a Rhodes grant up to but not to exceed the equivalent of the cost of on-campus room and board based upon the 21-meal, standard multiple-occupancy rate. In addition, if a Type I recipient chooses to live at home or with relatives, the amount of the Rhodes grant plus the Air Force Type I scholarship cannot be more than Rhodes’ cost of attendance for a commuter student living with relatives.
    • Type 2 scholarship recipients may receive a Rhodes grant equivalent to fifty percent (50%) of the on-campus cost of room and board based upon the 21 meal, standard multiple occupancy rate.
    • The Rhodes grant will be awarded unless the student has already received a Rhodes College scholarship, fellowship or grant equal to or greater than the indicated grant amount. Rhodes College scholarship, fellowship or grant equal to or greater than the indicated grant amount will be adjusted to the equivalent of the cost of on-campus room and board based upon the 21 meal, standard multiple occupancy room rate. Rhodes grants are renewable for up to three years as long as the student retains his/her ROTC Scholarship and meets the satisfactory academic progress standards for financial aid.
  •  
    • Navy ROTC Scholarships: Rhodes students may compete for Navy ROTC scholarships providing college tuition and educational fees. Students awarded a Navy ROTC scholarship may receive a Rhodes Grant up to but not to exceed the equivalent cost of on-campus room and board based upon the 21 meal, standard multiple occupancy room rate. Rhodes College scholarship, fellowship or grant equal to or greater than the indicated grant amount will be adjusted to the equivalent of the cost of on-campus room and board based upon the 21 meal, standard multiple occupancy room rate. Grants are renewable for three years as long as the student retains his/her ROTC Scholarship and meets the satisfactory academic progress standards for financial aid. Information about Navy ROTC Scholarships may be obtained by contacting:

                     Navy ROTC

                     The University of Memphis

                     120 Hayden Hall

                     Memphis, TN 38152

                     (901) 678-4353

                     nrotc@memphis.edu

  •  
    • Veteran Benefits:
      • Chapter 35 Benefits offer VA Survivors and Dependents Education assistance to spouses or children of veterans who have been found eligible by the Regional Processing Office (RPO) due to serviceman death, permanent disability, MIA, capture or detention in the line of duty.
      • Chapter 33 Benefits offer education assistance for those who served on active duty, received the Purple Heart, or were honorably discharged on or after September 11, 2011. This benefit extends to their dependents.   Qualifying veterans or designated dependents may be eligible to receive up to the full cost of pubic, in-state tuition and fees, books (up to approximately 23,600) and housing allowance.

                        To apply for either benefit:

  •  
    •  
      • Log in to your www.vets.gov account at www.va.gov/education/how-to-apply/
      • Go to the Forms drop down box
      • Select and Apply for “VA Form 22-5490, Dependents Application for VA Education Benefits
    • Post-9/11 Yellow Ribbon Benefits:  For the 2023-24 academic year, eligible students may receive up to $5000 in Yellow Ribbon. Rhodes contribution is considered matching if the student has already been awarded institutional scholarships and/or grants of the same or greater amount. Yellow Ribbon benefits are capped at the Cost of Attendance minus VA Benefits minus any other aid received excluding Federal student loans.
      • Awards will continue as long as the student has remaining VA/Yellow Ribbon eligibility, is enrolled full-time and in good standing, and maintains satisfactory academic progress. Participating students that withdraw from the College and are later readmitted will only be able to participate if space is available. Should a student lose his/her Yellow Ribbon Program eligibility and subsequently regain it, he/she must reapply for program participation.
      • To apply, students must submit their VA Certificate of Eligibility, which shows they are entitled to receive 100% of the benefits payable under the Post-9/11 GI Bill®  program to the Office of Financial Aid:

                                 Fax:  901-843-3435

                                 Email: Waltona@rhodes.edu

                                Deliver in person to Rhodes Express, Arlisha Walton

                                Mail: Rhodes College

                              Attn: Financial Aid

                              2000 North Parkway

                               Memphis, TN 38112

  In compliance with PL:115:407 Section 103:  Any covered individual will be able to attend or participate in the course of education during the period beginning on the date on which the individual provides to the educational institution a certificate of eligibility for entitlement to educational assistance under chapter 31 or 33 (a “certificate of eligibility” can also include a “Statement of Benefits” obtained from the Department of Veterans Affairs’ (VA) website – eBenefits, or a VAF 28-1905 form for chapter 31 authorization purposes) and ending on the earlier of the following dates:

  1.  The date on which payment from VA is made to the institution.

  2.  90 days after the date the institution certified tuition and fees following the receipt of the certificate of eligibility.

  Rhodes College will not impose any penalty, including the assessment of late fees, the denial of access to classes, libraries, or other institutional facilities, or the requirement that a covered individual borrow additional funds, on any covered individual because of the individual’s inability to meet his or her financial obligations to the institution due to the delayed disbursement funding from VA under chapter 31 or 33.

  Trademark Information

  ‘‘GI Bill® is a registered trademark of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA)”.

  More information about education benefits offered by VA is available at the official U.S. government website at http://www.benefits.va.gov/gibill."

  • Outside Scholarships: Scholarships from other organizations may also be available to students who attend Rhodes. Some of these awards are administered through high schools. However, in most cases, the student applies directly to a club or association. Interested students should work with their high school counselors to learn of those scholarships available in their area. Please note that outside scholarships become part of the financial aid package and assist in meeting demonstrated financial need. Students must notify the Rhodes Financial Aid Office of any outside funding that they receive. A student may not receive more aid than the published cost of attendance at Rhodes. Federal, state or institutional aid may be reduced in instances when aid from all resources exceeds cost of attendance.

  Tuition Exchange and Remission Programs

  • Rhodes Tuition Remission Program for full-time employees: After one year of service, full-time employees of Rhodes may be eligible for up to 2 tuition free courses each semester at Rhodes. The employee is responsible for registration and application fees, and must meet Rhodes’ admission criteria as established by the Committee on Admission. The spouse and children of full-time employees are also eligible for tuition remission. Eligible students must meet Rhodes’ admission requirements to be considered. The full time employee must apply for this benefit through Human Resources. Tuition remission is limited 8 semesters (including summer) for a spouse and each natural child. The total amount of Rhodes merit scholarships, including Rhodes Tuition Remission and Rhodes Fellowships and may not exceed direct charges of tuition, fees, room, and board.  Rhodes Grants cannot be combined with this benefit unless the student has unmet financial need after all other aid has been applied. Students receiving institutional aid in excess of tuition will be subject to a reduction if they live off campus. Tuition will be remitted on behalf of spouse and/or natural child subject to the following qualifications:
    • After 1 year of employment   - one-third tuition will be remitted
    • After 2 years of employment - two-thirds tuition will be remitted
    • After 3 years of employment - full tuition will be remitted
  • Rhodes Tuition Remission Program for part-time employees: After one year of service, part-time employees who work at least 20 hours or more per week are eligible for fractional remission on a pro-rata basis, under the same provisions as full-time employees. The spouse and children of part-time employees are not eligible for tuition remission. Employees who work fewer than 20 hours per week are not eligible for tuition remission.
  • Associated Colleges of the South (ACS): Children of employees of ACS participating institutions are eligible to be considered for the ACS Tuition Exchange.
    • Rhodes’ agreement with ACS indicates that for any given academic year, ACS “imports” (students attending Rhodes as an ACS Tuition Exchange student) will not exceed “exports” (children of Rhodes employees attending another ACS college under the agreement) by more than three students.
    • Applicants must submit the FAFSA and the CSS PROFILE or Supplemental Financial Aid Questions to be considered for the ACS Scholarship.
    • Only first-time, first year students will be considered for the ACS Scholarship.
    • Each ACS Tuition Exchange recipient pays a participation fee of $2,000 per academic year.
    • The ACS Tuition Exchange benefit is equivalent to full tuition at Rhodes and is renewable for three years provided the student meets the financial aid satisfactory academic progress standards and meets the eligibility requirements indicated above.
    • ACS Tuition Exchange benefits may be only used for one of the following Rhodes study abroad programs: European Studies,  Affiliated Programs or Rhodes Exchange. Interested students must specify that admission is being sought under the ACS Tuition Exchange program, apply for all state and/or federal aid for which he or she may be eligible, and have submitted an ACS Tuition Exchange certification form completed by the appropriate official at their home institution certifying their eligibility for the exchange.
    • Eligible students must meet Rhodes’ admission requirements.
    • The total amount of Rhodes-funded scholarships, Rhodes Fellowships, Rhodes grants and exchange programs may not exceed tuition and fees.
    • Recipients may be required to live in a residence hall at the College’s discretion.
    • Preference may be given to students who apply Early Decision to Rhodes. 
  • Tuition Exchange: Students who are dependent children of eligible employees can participate in the Tuition Exchange program of over 600 schools nationally.
    • The Tuition Exchange scholarships are competitive awards and are not guaranteed by Rhodes or other participating institutions.
  •  
    • Applicants must submit the FAFSA and CSS PROFILE or Supplemental Financial Aid Questions to be considered for the award.
    • Only first-time, first year students will be considered for the TE program.
    • Although The Tuition Exchange promotes and maintains the exchange, scholarships are granted by member institutions, not by The Tuition Exchange. 
    • The 2024-25 benefit is $42,000. 
    • Tuition Exchange cannot be combined with Rhodes Institutional Scholarships.
    • Students with exceptional unmet need may be considered for a Rhodes Grant.
    • Preference may be given to students who apply Early Decision to Rhodes.
    • Recipients may be required to live in a residence hall at the College’s discretion.
    • For more information on this program visit tuitionexchange.org

  Reduced Course Load

  Students who, due to the impact of a disability, are unable to meet the minimum credit hour per semester standard set by the college (12 hours for undergraduate students), may request an accommodation for a reduced course load with full-time status through Student Accessibility Services.  Students approved for this accommodation will be entitled to the same rights and privileges as other full-time students, including consideration for financial aid. The amount of aid awarded, however, will be reduced to the proportionate amount that corresponds with the student’s course load. For example, a minimum of twelve (12) credits per semester is required to receive Rhodes-funded student aid as a full-time student. If a student has received approval from Student Accessibility Services to be considered a full-time student for a course load of eight (8) credits in a given semester, the Rhodes-funded aid will be reduced to 2/3 of the amount it would have been if the student were taking twelve (12) or more credits. A course load of six (6) credits will always be considered to be half-time. No Rhodes-funded aid will be available to any student who is enrolled less than half- time. Additionally, approved students will be eligible to receive Rhodes- funded aid for a maximum of twelve (12) semesters or 150% of the standard time required for completion of a Bachelor’s degree; the total Rhodes-funded aid will be limited to the amount the student would have received for eight (8) semesters taking standard course loads.

  Renewal of Financial Aid

  Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP) Requirements: Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP) must be maintained for renewal of federal (TITLE IV), state, and institutional aid, including Federal Direct PLUS (Parent Loan for Undergraduate Students). Per federal guidelines, all students must obtain:

  • a total cumulative grade point average of at least *1.50 and has completed 67% of their classes by the end of their freshman year
  • a total cumulative grade point average of at least *2.00 and has completed 67% of their classes by the end of their sophomore year

  *Certain scholarships and fellowships require a higher GPA for renewal. For individual requirements, see below under Scholarships and Fellowships. 

  Students must also be aware of their pace toward graduation. The following schedule outlines the pace needed to graduate in eight (8) semesters:

  • student has earned at least 28 credits of course work by the beginning of his/her third semester of study at Rhodes
  • student has earned at least 60 credits of course work by the beginning of his/her fifth semester of study at Rhodes
  • student has earned at least 92 credits of course work by the beginning of his/her seventh semester of study at Rhodes

  NOTE: These standards apply to satisfactory academic progress for financial aid only and do not establish class standing. 

  Additional Requirements: In addition to SAP requirements, students must meet the following requirement to renew federal (Title IV), state, and institutional aid, including Federal PLUS:

  • Students must be enrolled at least half-time (6 credits) in order to be eligible for any Title IV (except Pell Grant) or state assistance. Rhodes Grants require full-time enrollment (at least 12 credits).

  Duration of Financial Aid: If students meet the above requirements, the duration of their aid will be renewed as follows:

  • Federal and State aid: the maximum time frame in which a student can complete a degree is six (6) years, and the minimum number of credits to be completed at  the end of  any one of  the six years is one sixth of the total number of credits required for a degree (see Graduation  Requirements).
  • Rhodes-funded aid: the maximum time frame is four (4) years or eight (8) semesters.
  • Tennessee Lottery Scholarships: the maximum time frame for receipt of these funds is eight (8) semesters

  Review of Financial Aid: Grades and cumulative earned credits are reviewed at the end of each academic year for all students, unless stated otherwise by the Director of Financial Aid. Enrollment status is based on the recorded enrollment at the end of the “extended drop period” each term.

  Variance to Reinstate Financial Aid: Should a student become ineligible to receive financial aid due to not meeting the above minimum standards, the student may appeal for a variance from the satisfactory academic progress requirements for one term. The appeal should be submitted to the Director of Financial Aid in writing by email or by letter. If the variance request is approved, the student’s aid will be reinstated based on the conditions and length of the approval as stated by the Director of Financial Aid. This decision is communicated via Rhodes email to the student.

  Definitions and regulations concerning full-time student status, course schedule changes, unauthorized withdrawal from class, and removal of conditional grades are stated in other sections of the College Catalogue.

  9th Semester Awards (Scholarship/Grant)

  Rhodes provides eligible students with institutional merit scholarship and grants for up to eight semesters or the completion of their Rhodes degree, whichever comes first.  Students wishing to continue their education for a 9th semester may apply for an exception to this policy by submitting a letter to the Director of Financial Aid outlining a proposal for continuing their education at Rhodes.  While institutional priority will be to fund students seeking their primary undergraduate degree.  Rhodes may, depending on available resources and demonstrated need, provide institutional funding proportional of previous semesters awards not to exceed 50% tuition for the enrolled semester. Students seeking grant funding for the 9th semester must complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) in the senior year.  Students must provide parental income when completing the FAFSA as an undergraduate student.

  Students approved for a 9th semester award may enroll less than full-time for the 9th semester of aid; in such case they will receive a prorated disbursement of the 9th semester award.  Rhodes will not provide institutional funding to replace state or federal assistance that has been exhausted by prior enrollment. 

  The awarding of the exception applies to 9th semester and does not extend to semesters beyond that period. Students in their 9th semester may only receive federal PELL Grant, State Grants and/or SEOG for classes required to complete their major. Regardless of enrollment Pell Grant will adjusted to either Three quarter, Half or Less Than Half-time to match the hours required for the major. SEOG will be cancelled if hours needed is less than 12 hours. Students may request an award by completing the form attached to this link. https://stuinfo.rhodes.edu/register/ninthsemesteraid 

  Scholarships

  • Morse Scholarships may be renewed for three years as long as the student maintains a grade point average of 2.75 or better and meets the minimum satisfactory academic progress standards for renewal of financial aid described previously.
  • Cambridge Scholarships may be renewed for three years as long as the recipient maintains a grade point average of 2.75 or better and meets the minimum satisfactory academic progress standards for renewal of financial aid described previously.
  • Dean’s Scholarships, Presidential Scholarships, Hon, Diehl, and Day Scholarships may be renewed for three years as long as the recipient maintains a grade point average of 2.50 or better and meets the minimum satisfactory academic progress standards for renewal of financial aid described previously.
  • Rhodes Awards and Rhodes Grants may be renewed for three years as long as the recipient maintains a grade point average of 2.00 or better and meets the minimum satisfactory academic progress standards for renewal of financial aid described previously.

  Fellowships

  • Fine Arts Fellowships may be renewed for three years as long as the student has declared, or is making satisfactory progress toward, a major or minor in one of the fine arts. The student must also maintain a grade point average of 2.75 or better and meet the minimum satisfactory academic progress standards for renewal of financial aid previously described.
  • Spencer Fellowships in Ancient Mediterranean Studies (formerly Greek and Roman Studies) may be renewed for three years as long as the recipient maintains a grade point average of 2.75 or better, meets the minimum satisfactory academic progress standards for renewal of financial aid described previously, and has declared, or is making satisfactory progress toward, a major or minor in Greek and Roman Studies.
  • Taylor Fellowships may be renewed for three years as long as the student maintains   a grade point average of 3.00 or better, meets the minimum satisfactory academic progress (SAP) standards for financial aid as described previously, is making satisfactory progress toward a major or minor in physics (as determined by the Physics Department), and provides five hours per week of service to the Physics Department.
  • Bonner Scholarships may be renewed for three years as long as the recipient meets  the minimum satisfactory academic progress standards for renewal of financial aid described previously, maintains a  2.50 grade point average, is involved in  community service and leadership programs for an average of ten hours per week, completes two summers of full-time community service for a total of 280 hours over  at least a seven-week period, participates in the College’s Leadership Program, and participates in the Bonner Scholars service trip at the end of the student’s first year at Rhodes.

  Revision of Financial Aid Awards

  Financial aid is dynamic and may change as new information becomes available to the Rhodes Financial Aid Office. Any financial aid package is subject to revision (even during the academic year) for any of the following reasons:

  • In the process of verifying the information the student/parent reported on the need analysis form(s) (FAFSA and/or CSS PROFILE), an error is discovered which, when corrected, changes the student’s eligibility.
  • A change in regulations governing federal or state programs occurs and requires an adjustment to be made.
  • Funding levels in federal or state programs are reduced.
  • The student receives additional financial assistance, including, but not limited to, outside scholarships, from a source not listed on the most recent award notification or on LynxPartner.
  • The student fails to meet satisfactory academic progress standards for renewal of financial aid.
  • The Financial Aid Office discovers any error, clerical or other, on an award.
  • The student fails to complete required financial aid applications for need-based federal, state and institutional aid, including any documents required for verification of FAFSA information.

  Please note that any aid reduced based on the above will not be replaced by Rhodes- funded grant.

  Financial Aid for Study Abroad

  Rhodes students enrolled in study abroad programs administered (sponsored) by Rhodes (European Studies, Rhodes Exchange programs and Rhodes Affiliated Programs) are eligible for competitive-based, need-based financial aid from Rhodes, federal and /or state aid for one semester- or year-long program.    In addition to the included program costs, students participating in a study abroad program should budget for additional expenses such as airfare, books, supplies, incidental expenses and ground transportation.  Meals may or may not be included depending on the program.

  All forms of financial aid for which the student would normally qualify will be applicable, including Rhodes grants and scholarships, Tennessee state grants /scholarships, campus-based Title IV and other Title IV funds, as well as any outside loans or scholarships the student might have. However, the sum of Rhodes need-based grant and competitive-based scholarship awarded for the term of the program may not exceed the tuition charge at Rhodes for one semester (or, for an academic year for programs of that duration). Student employment income will be replaced by additional loan, if requested, and need in excess of the cost of attending Rhodes will be met by loan or by the student’s family.

  Rhodes students receiving financial assistance from the College who choose to participate in one of Rhodes’ exchange programs are considered to be Rhodes students. The financial aid awarded to the student to meet the costs of the exchange program are considered expended for that term. In other words, a student who elects to participate in an exchange program is considered to have used one of the 8 total semesters of institutional eligibility of aid.

  Students will not be eligible for either Rhodes need-based financial aid or for Rhodes competitive scholarship/fellowship aid for more than one study abroad program during their time at Rhodes.

  The above policies apply to study abroad programs that occur during the fall and spring semesters of the academic year. Summer study abroad programs are excluded, as no Rhodes need-based aid or competitive scholarships/fellowships are available for summer study abroad.

  Rhodes students enrolled in study abroad programs administered (sponsored) by Rhodes (European Studies, Rhodes exchange and Rhodes Affiliate Partner programs) are eligible for merit based and need-based financial aid from Rhodes. These funds are only available for one program during a student’s time of study at Rhodes. Students in Study Abroad Programs may only receive federal PELL Grant, SEOG and/or State funding for classes required to complete their major. Regardless of enrollment Pell Grant will adjusted to either Three quarter, Half or Less Than Half-time to match the hours required for the major. SEOG will be cancelled if hours needed is less than 12 hours.

  Post-Baccalaureate Aid

  • Graduate Accounting Scholarship

  Students admitted to the Masters of Science in Accounting Program are automatically considered for a departmental scholarship with no additional forms required to be filed. Departmental scholarships for students in the M.S. in Accounting Program are merit based; financial need is not a consideration. Selection for a scholarship is based upon the candidate’s academic record, personal achievements, and promise of success in accounting.  Rhodes does permit traditional students that complete their undergraduate degree in less than eight consecutive semesters to apply their undergraduate institutional awards toward the Masters in Accounting Program up to a total of 8 terms.   Students who did not use a semester of aid while pursuing a non-Rhodes or non- exchange study abroad program are not included in this provision.  Students may not receive a departmental scholarship while eligible to receive a remaining portion of undergraduate institutional scholarships and/or grants.

  • Graduate Accounting Grant

    Students who demonstrate need may apply for a Graduate of Accounting Grant. Students must submit a Free Application for Federal Aid their senior year as an undergraduate which includes their parents financial information. Students must have a family EFC less than $65000 to be considered.

  • Teacher Education Certification Scholarship

• Students enrolled in the Post Baccalaureate Teacher Education Program may apply for a need based award proportional to institutional aid/tuition received as an undergraduate up to the maximum of the ED Licensure Program tuition charge of $7500.   Students must have completed a FAFSA in their last year as an undergraduate student attending Rhodes to be considered.  Non-Citizens are exempt from completing the FAFSA however the school may require a CSS PROFILE on file to determine need.

  Students whose proportional aid exceeds 100% may apply for a Rhodes Campus Housing Grant to reside on campus.

  • Noyce STEM Teach Scholarship

  The Noyce Program at Rhodes College will offer 18 STEM students scholarships of $37,500 to be paid out in their Junior and Senior years as well as their student teaching semester ($15,000 Junior year; $15,000 Senior year; $7500 for 9th semester student teaching) from 2019-2024.  The Noyce Professional Scholarship is a forgivable loan, if complete terms are not met the scholarship converts to an interest bearing loan from the date of disbursement.   Noyce Scholars must teach for 2 years per year of funding received: which means in accepting the scholarship they are agreeing to teaching in a high needs school for 5 years within a total of 8 years after completing the program. 

  Noyce Scholars must also complete an exit interview and participate in specified education events and activities and other requirements outlined in the promissory note.

  Alternative Financing

  For families who prefer to pay college costs in interest-free monthly installments, Rhodes suggests Tuition Management Systems, 171 Service Avenue, Warick, RI 02886 or by phone at (800)722-4867 or online at www.afford.com/rhodes. Arrangements must be made with this agency prior to the due date of the first tuition payment. The Bursar’s Office is the primary on-campus contact for this program. There are a number of alternative (private) loan programs available for interested students and their families. Please refer to the financial aid website at www.rhodes.edu/finaid for more information.

  Special Circumstances and Appeals

  If a family’s financial circumstances change during enrollment at Rhodes, a written appeal may be made to the Director of Financial Aid. A letter of appeal should explain new significant family circumstances, outline any financial changes the family has experienced, and request a specific amount of assistance. The family may be required to submit a new CSS Profile and/or a new FAFSA. The form to complete for an appeal based on special circumstances can be found at https://stuinfo.rhodes.edu/registrar/specialcircumstances 

  Withdrawal from Rhodes and Return of Funds

  • Return of Federal Title IV Student Aid: When a student who has Federal Title IV student aid withdraws from the College or does not return from an approved leave of absence, within the same academic term, the unearned portion of those funds must be returned to the federal student aid programs. Federal Title IV funds that may have to be returned include:
    • Unsubsidized Federal Direct Loans
    • Subsidized Federal Direct Loans
    • Federal Parent Loan for Undergraduate Students (PLUS)
    • Federal Pell Grants
    • Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grants (SEOG).

  Federal regulations require funds be returned to federal programs in the order listed above.

  The unearned portion of Federal Title IV funds is determined by dividing the number of days in the term that have passed as of the date of withdrawal (last date of class attendance) by the total number of days in the term. If the withdrawal occurs after 60% of the term has elapsed, no return of Title IV funds is required. The Bursar’s Office calculates the Return of Title IV funds amount and informs the Financial Aid Office and the student of the results of the calculation.

• Return of State and Institutional Student Aid: When a student who has state and/or institutional student aid withdraws from the College or does not return from an approved leave of absence, the College returns the unearned portion of those funds to the state and/or the College in accordance with the withdrawal policy outlined in the “Expense” Section of this catalogue.
• Student Financial Responsibility: Students and parents should be aware that the requirement to return Federal Title IV assistance and the policy to return state and institutional aid might result in a balance due to Rhodes College; the student and/or student’s family is responsible for paying any balance resulting from the return of Title IV aid and state and institutional funds.

Student Organizations

Rhodes is home to almost 150 student organizations that fall into a wide range of categories:

• Academic and Honorary
• Advocacy
• Club Sports and Recreation
• Cultural
• Governing
• Fraternity & Sorority Life
• Interfaith
• Media and Performance
• Service
• Special Interest

You can see a full listing of active organizations on Presence and search them by any of the categories listed above.

Student Government

The main purpose of the Rhodes Student Government (RSG) is to provide an organization to represent the needs and concerns of the student body to the faculty and administration. RSG is the primary vehicle for student participation in the governance process of Rhodes. The members of RSG seek to keep the group effectively involved in many areas of campus life. All meetings are open to the entire campus, and students are strongly encouraged to attend.

The Rhodes Student Government oversees the allocation of the Student Activity Fund; nominates students for appointment to serve on faculty and administrative committees; directs the Student Government Committees; and generally entertains any matters of student interest or concern at meetings and campus-wide forums. Elections are held in the Spring for all positions except the First-Year Representatives, which are elected in the Fall.

Honor Societies

The Rhodes College Chapter of Phi Beta Kappa, Gamma Chapter of Tennessee, was established at the College in 1949. For over two hundred years, election to Phi Beta Kappa has been a recognition of exceptional academic achievement in the liberal arts and sciences. Rhodes students are elected to Phi Beta Kappa by the members of the chapter chiefly on the basis of outstanding academic achievement in the study of liberal subjects.

Omicron Delta Kappa, Phi Circle, was established at the College in 1927. The purpose of this national organization is to recognize leadership in college activities and to undertake various activities for the good of the College. Student members are chosen from the junior and senior classes, and not more than three per cent of the student body may be elected to membership. Members must have distinguished themselves in such activities as scholarship, athletics, and publications.

Sigma Tau Delta, national English honor society, was established at Rhodes in 1984. The purpose of this society is to promote the study of literature in English and to recognize outstanding achievement in this area.

Mortar Board, a national honor society for seniors, was established at Rhodes April 17, 1964, for the purpose of recognizing excellence in scholarship, leadership, and service.

The Pi Kappa Lambda honorary academic music fraternity was established in the spring of 1949. It recognizes outstanding achievement in music and may elect not over twenty per cent of those members of the senior class majoring in music.

Eta Sigma Phi, honorary society for students of classical language, was established at Rhodes in 1952. The purpose of this society is to promote interest in all aspects of ancient Greek and Roman culture. Those who have at least a B average in advanced courses in either Greek or Latin are eligible for membership.

The Rhodes chapter of Sigma Pi Sigma, the national physics honor society, was established May 27, 1963. The chapter receives into membership physics students and a limited number from closely related fields when such students attain high standards of scholarship, professional merit, and academic distinction.

Omicron Delta Epsilon is one of the world's largest academic honor societies. The objectives of Omicron Delta Epsilon are recognition of scholastic attainment and the honoring of outstanding achievements in economics; the establishment of closer ties between students and faculty in economics within colleges and universities, and among colleges and universities; the publication of its official journal, The American Economist, and sponsoring of panels at professional meetings as well as the Irving Fisher and Frank W. Taussig competitions. The minimum requirements for admission for undergraduates are completion of 12 semester hours economics courses and attainment of at least a 3.50 in economics courses and an overall 3.50 in all classes. Students do not have to be economics majors, but must have a genuine interest in economics in addition to meeting the above requirements.

Theta Chapter of Sigma Iota Rho, a national honor society in International Studies, is a charter chapter that was founded at Rhodes in 1986. The purpose of Sigma Iota Rho is to recognize academic excellence and to promote information about and study of contemporary international issues. Students are eligible for membership beginning in their junior year, and must have a 3.2 cumulative grade point average and a 3.3 within the major.

Psi Chi, the national honorary society in Psychology, was reactivated at Rhodes in 1987 for the purpose of encouraging, stimulating, and maintaining excellence in scholarship and advancing the science of Psychology as a profession. Membership in this society, which is affiliated with the American Psychological Association and which is a member of the Association of College Honor Societies, is by invitation and limited to Psychology majors.

Theta Nu chapter of the National Order of Omega was chartered in the spring of 1987. It serves to recognize outstanding members of the fraternities and sororities on the basis of scholarship and leadership. A grade point average equal to or above the all-Greek average is required for consideration for membership. Applications for members are extended each year to eligible rising juniors and seniors.

The Alpha Epsilon Delta Chapter of Phi Alpha Theta, international honor society in History, was established at Rhodes in 1990. Phi Alpha Theta brings students, teachers, and writers of history together both intellectually and socially, and it encourages and assists historical research and publication by its members. Students who have completed the required number of history hours at the 3.3 level and maintain at least a 3.2 overall grade point average are eligible for membership. Student members host informational gatherings for first-year students, hold career workshops, sponsor speakers, and publish an annual journal of exemplary student papers.

Beta Beta Beta is an honorary and professional society for students of the biological sciences. The Mu Rho Chapter of this national society was founded at Rhodes College in 1992. It seeks to encourage scholarly attainment in this field of learning by reserving its regular membership for those who achieve superior academic records and who indicate special aptitude for and major interest in the life sciences.

Pi Delta Phi is an honorary society for students of French language, literature, and culture. The Nu Nu chapter of this national society was founded at Rhodes in 2004. The purpose of the society is to recognize outstanding scholarship in the French language and its literatures, increase the knowledge and appreciation of Americans for the cultural contributions of the French-speaking world, and to stimulate and encourage French and francophone cultural activities.

Iota Iota Iota is a national honor society that recognizes academic excellence in the field of women’s studies while striving to maintain the feminist values central to women’s studies: egalitarianism, inclusiveness, and a celebration of the diversity of women’s experiences. Iota Iota Iota works to promote an interest in women’ s studies and research in social problems affecting all women. The Chi Chapter of Iota Iota Iota was chartered at Rhodes College in 2004.

Delta Phi Alpha, the National German Honor Society seeks to recognize excellence in the study of German and to provide an incentive for higher scholarship. The Society aims to promote the study of the German language, literature and civilization and endeavors to emphasize those aspects of German life and culture which are of universal value and which contribute to man’s eternal search for peace and truth.

Dobro Slovo, the National Slavic Honor Society, is an honorary organization for talented undergraduate and graduate students in the Slavic languages. It serves as a means for the recognition of academic excellence in the study of Slavic languages, literature, and history, and provides incentive for scholarly interest in Slavic life and culture. The Rhodes Chapter of the society was established in 2003.

Sigma Delta Pi is the national collegiate honorary society for students who distinguish themselves in the study of Hispanic language, literature and culture. The society was founded in 1919 at The University of California, and the Phi Epsilon chapter was established at Rhodes in 2005.

Theta Alpha Kappa is the only national honor society serving the needs of those involved in the study of religion and/or theology at both the baccalaureate and post-baccalaureate levels of higher education. Honoring excellence in these academic fields is its primary purpose, and it currently hosts over 140 local chapters throughout the United States at institutions both large and small, public and private. The Rhodes chapter, Alpha Epsilon Iota, was created in 2000 and serves approximately 40 members. Candidates for admission to Theta Alpha Kappa must have an overall GPA of at least 3.0, at least 12 credit hours in Religious Studies (including Humanities “Search” courses) and at least a 3.5 GPA in those classes.

Nu Rho Psi, national Neuroscience honor society, was established at Rhodes in 2014.  The Rhodes chapter will be the first for Tennessee.  The objectives of Nu Rho Psi are to encourage professional interest and excellence in scholarship in neuroscience, award recognition to students who have achieved such excellence, promote intellectual and social interaction between students, faculty, and professionals in the field, and encourage service to the community.

Kappa Alpha Omicron is the honor society of the Interdisciplinary Environmental Association, honoring academic excellence in the studies of environmental science or environmental studies. The society recognizes academic achievement and outreach. The Rho Chapter at Rhodes College was established in 2021.

Academic Advising

The mission of academic advising at Rhodes is to promote student learning. Each entering student is assigned an academic advisor, who will function in that capacity until the student formally declares a major. Major declaration must be done prior to the registration period of the student's spring semester of their sophomore year. At that point, a faculty advisor from the major department is either selected by or assigned to the student.

Assisted by the academic advisor, the student learns:

• To understand the nature of a liberal arts education.
• To assess their strengths, challenges, and areas for growth.
• To formulate educational and career goals.
• To plan a course of action to achieve those goals.

Student Success Resources 

The Student Success staff's mission is to support a student's personal growth and academic development and serve as a resource to all members of the Rhodes community. Staff members on the Student Success Team meet with students who need academic encouragement, mentoring, and individualized support.

• The Office of Academic and Learning Resources provides individual assistance, workshops, and peer programs focused on learning and time management to help students develop personal and academic strategies. Peer Academic Coaching helps students set goals, create schedules, and develop academic habits. Supplemental Instruction facilitates regular, weekly group study sessions to integrate how-to-learn with what-to-learn for typically challenging classes. Peer Tutoring helps students to better understand course content.
• ADHD/Executive Function Coaching is available to all students, with no diagnosis required. Laser Coaching consists of free group coaching sessions focused on planning and prioritizing each week. Private one-on-one weekly coaching is also available for an additional fee. Students and families can schedule a free consultation to learn how ADHD Coaching may fit their student's individual needs.
• The Office of Student Accessibility Services provides reasonable accommodations, academic adjustments, and/or auxiliary aids on a case-by-case basis for qualified students who have a demonstrated need for these services under the provisions of Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 and Title III of the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990, as amended. Accommodations are designed to meet student needs without fundamentally altering the nature of the College’s instructional programs. All accommodation requests are the responsibility of the student. Prospective students with disability access concerns should contact the Office of Admission. Enrolled students with disabilities should contact Student Accessibility Services to request accommodations and to discuss specific barriers to inclusion.
• The Office of Student Outreach & Support supports students as they face personal or medical challenges impacting their ability to be successful students. Support is tailored to the individual student’s needs. Support may include help determining and evaluating options and decisions, connecting to referral resources, and navigating college processes and policies.

Career Advising

The Career Services staff assists students in evaluating majors, exploring career fields, and preparing for post-graduation plans. Students are encouraged to schedule a meeting with a Career Services staff member as early as their first year to take advantage of career advising, internships, and programs that will lead to future success.  

Each year, approximately 66% of graduates will go into full-time careers (including full-time volunteer programs such as the Peace Corps) and approximately 29% will seek an additional degree. Career Services offers opportunities to engage with employers and graduate school representatives through programs including Meet the Firms, Graduate School Expo, Fall and Spring Career Fairs, and other networking opportunities. 
 

Preparation for Graduate Study

Approximately 29% of Rhodes students will enroll in a graduate or professional degree program within a year of graduation. Students can increase their marketability for graduate school by prioritizing academic study, participating in academic research, completing internships, and/or engaging in leadership and service positions. 

The Rhodes liberal arts curriculum provides students with a solid foundation for future study. As students begin to enter their sophomore or junior year, they should identify faculty members who can assist with course selection and other academic opportunities to ensure that students have the background needed to pursue an advanced degree. It is important to note that some graduate degrees will require specific courses to be considered for admission while other graduate programs will consider a wide breadth of upper-level coursework to be more appealing. Students should consult with their faculty advisor for guidance on the type of courses that would be most relevant for an advanced degree in their chosen field of study. In addition to faculty advisors, the Career Services staff also serves as a resource for students by aiding with graduate school essays and interviews. 

In addition to the programs and services offered by Career Services, students can seek pre-professional advisement from designated faculty advisors. In some cases, very specific recommendations for pre-professional courses have been developed: Medicine and the Health Sciences, Business, and Law. The advisors named below have this information and should be consulted early in one’s undergraduate work. 
 

Pre-Professional Advisors

• Accounting: Professor Wendy Bailey
• Architecture: Professor David McCarthy
• Business:
  • Accounting: Professor Wendy Bailey
  • Finance: Professor Jade Planchon
  • Management: Professor Dee Birnbaum
  • Marketing: Professor Sujan Dan
• Civil Service: Professor Stephen Ceccoli
• Clinical Psychology: Professor Katie White
• Education: Professor Zachary Casey
• Engineering: Professor Ann Viano
• Foreign Service: Professor Stephen Ceccoli
• Health Care Management: Professor Dee Birnbaum
• Health Professions: Director Jessica Kelso
• Law: Professor Anna Eldridge
• Ministry and Church-Related Professions: Professor Stephen Haynes and Chaplain Beatrix Weil
• Museum Curation: Professor Victor Coonin and Professor David McCarthy
• Music: Professor Courtenay Harter
• Theatre: Professor Joy Fairfield
• Veterinary Medicine: Director Jessica Kelso

The academic year consists of two semesters, each containing fourteen weeks of instruction and a fifteenth week devoted to examinations. The first semester begins in late August and ends in mid-December; the second semester begins in January and ends in early May. Summer course offerings consist of two 5 week sessions as well as various academic study programs offered across the curriculum. A detailed calendar including dates of recesses and special academic days is included in the catalogue, and may be found elsewhere on the website. 

Student Expectations

The College expects all students to behave responsibly as citizens of this community. Therefore, all students must abide by the Rhodes Honor System—the Honor Code, the Standards of Conduct, and the Rhodes Commitment to Diversity. With the Honor System, everyone in the Rhodes College community maintains the values and expectations by which they live and learn together.   

Persistent or extreme departures from this standard may lead to restrictions, removal from campus, suspension, or expulsion from the college. Rhodes reserves the right to exclude persons whose conduct is undesirable at any time. In such cases, no tuition, fees, or room and board refunds are made, and the College, its students, faculty, administrators, councils, committees, and officers do not bear any liability. 

The Dean of Students, Office of Community Standards, administrative designees, the Honor Council, and the Community Standards Council are responsible for administering rules for student behavior. 

This section of the College Catalogue provides a broad overview. The Student Handbook, available on the College website, contains all student policies. 

The Honor Council and Community Standards Council

The students of Rhodes assume responsibility for honorable conduct in campus life. They elect an Honor Council and a Community Standards Council. Each Council is composed of elected representatives from each of the four classes. The Council investigates alleged infractions of the Honor Code and Standards of Conduct and enforces regulations with outcomes up to and including expulsion. The decision may be appealed to the designated Committee. These committees may return cases to the appropriate Council for reconsideration; in that case, the Council’s decision is final. Every entering student is expected at matriculation to sign a pledge promising to uphold the College Commitment to Diversity Statement, the Honor Code, and the Standards of Conduct.

Alcohol Use

A complete description of the Rhodes College Alcohol Policy can be found in the Student Handbook on the College website. As a community, we embrace the vision of a healthy and balanced social environment grounded in trust and open communication among faculty, staff, and students. Such an environment fosters personal and community growth and embodies a sense of responsibility and accountability to self and others. This vision depends upon each member's commitment to achieve and maintain inclusiveness, consistency, continual education, and the growth of shared traditions. It is our duty to one another. Rhodes College supports legal, responsible, and healthy behaviors and reflects our community values. 

Rhodes is committed to providing its community members with information about alcohol and confidential referrals for professional assistance if needed. Awareness of the positive and negative effects of alcohol consumption may assist in efforts to make safe and responsible choices about alcohol. Educational programs are organized and conducted annually to promote continued awareness and encourage an attitude of genuine concern and care for others.  

Drug Use

The possession, use, sale, or distribution of illegal drugs, the misuse or abuse of medications or other legal drugs on the Rhodes campus is prohibited. Such conduct: 

• Violates the law; 
• Violates one’s physical and mental health; and, 
• Violates the fabric of the community with serious security risks resulting from dealing with individuals operating outside the law. 

As citizens, the Rhodes students, faculty, and staff are responsible for knowing and complying with all applicable state and local laws that make it a crime to possess, sell, deliver, or manufacture those drugs considered controlled substances by the state of Tennessee. Any member of the Rhodes community who violates the law is subject to prosecution and punishment by civil authorities and to disciplinary proceedings by the College. 

Sexual Misconduct Policy

Rhodes College is committed to ensuring a safe learning environment that supports the dignity of all members of the Rhodes community. Rhodes does not discriminate on the basis of sex in any of its education or employment programs and activities. Rhodes will not tolerate any form of sexual harassment, including sexual assault, dating violence, domestic violence, or stalking.   

This Title IX Policy (the “Policy”) is intended to ensure that all members of the Rhodes community involved in a Title IX case receive appropriate support and fair treatment and that allegations of sexual harassment are handled promptly, thoroughly, and equitable. 

All Rhodes students and employees are expected to comply with this policy. Rhodes strongly encourages students to report instances of sexual harassment immediately. In addition, according to Rhodes’ Employee Handbook and Rhodes’ Mandatory Reporter Policy, employees are required to report such instances. 

Rhodes will review, evaluate, and make any revisions or amendments to this Policy on an ongoing and as-needed basis. 
 

General inquiries about the application of this Policy should be directed to the College’s Title IX Coordinator: 
Inez Warner, J.D. 
Director of Institutional Equity/Title IX Coordinator 
Rhodes College 
Southwestern Hall, Ste. 200 
2000 North Parkway 
Memphis, TN 38112 
901-843-3354 
warneri@rhodes.edu   
  

The complete sexual misconduct policy is in the Student Handbook and on the Title IX and Sexual Misconduct page. 

College Initiated Administrative Withdrawal (CIAW)

The College occasionally faces the problem of students who pose a threat to themselves or others, who are unable to cope, or who create a pattern of extreme disruption. If such behavior violates College rules and regulations, the case will be referred to the Dean of Students or the Dean’s designee for action. 

The College may administratively withdraw a student from classes, remove a student from residence halls, and/or require conditions for continued enrollment when one of the following transpires: 

• The student significantly disrupts the activities of the college community; 
• The student poses a direct risk to the health or safety of others or  
• The student demonstrates evidence of significant impairment such that they are unable to participate safely and successfully in the college's academic and/or residential life and cannot independently determine that a voluntary leave is needed.  

In the circumstance described above, the Dean of Students (DOS) or the Dean’s designee, in consultation with the appropriate medical, psychological, and academic resources, may administratively withdraw a student from their classes, remove the student from the residence halls, and/or place conditions on the student’s continued enrollment. The decision must be based on assessing 1) the probability, nature, duration, and severity of the disruption, risk, and/or impairment and 2) whether reasonable accommodations can mitigate the risk, allowing the student to remain enrolled. Under certain circumstances, either before or after deciding to withdraw the student administratively, DOS or the Dean’s designee may mandate that the student undergo a psychological or medical assessment to evaluate the student’s ability to participate successfully in the college community.   

The DOS’s determination regarding CIAW and the reasons supporting the decision are shared in written form with the student. The written determination includes the length of separation from the college and describes the conditions the student may seek to return.  

A student may appeal the CIAW determination in writing and provide supporting documentation within forty-eight (48) hours, the Vice President for Student Life, whose decision is the college's final decision. 

Campus Modes of Communication

The two official means of communication at Rhodes are campus mail and Rhodes email. All students, staff, and faculty have a personal Rhodes e-mail address, and students are expected to check this account regularly during the semester, breaks, and recesses. 

Official notices to individuals and the campus community are sent via e-mail; such correspondence is considered official. In addition to email, some official notices, communication, and information are sent via campus mail. For this reason, all students must maintain a P.O. Box in the mailroom in Burrow Hall. 

Residency Requirement 

Residential living is an integral part of the mission of Rhodes College and the student experience; all unmarried, full-time undergraduate students are required to live on campus and participate in one of the college meal plans during the academic year for three years (six fall and spring semesters).  Exchange students must live on campus and participate in one of the college meal plans for the duration of their enrollment. 

Residency requirement exemptions may be made for students who meet any of the following criteria and provide supporting documentation:

• Students who are married.
• Students who are legal guardians of minors who reside with them permanently.  
• Students who are at least 24 years old.  
• Students with a documented medical disability that cannot be accommodated in on-campus living.  
• A limited number of junior-level students may apply for exemptions to live off-campus based on projected space availability. The availability of this option varies from year to year, depending on enrollment numbers and housing availability. The Office of Residence Life will notify students if this option is available. Exemptions granted, if any, will be made at the sole discretion of the Office of Residence Life.  

Students who reside off-campus without meeting one or more criteria and do not get appropriate approval will be held responsible for all room and board costs for all semesters they are enrolled and residing off-campus without such approval.

By accepting a room assignment, a student is contractually obligated to occupy that room for the entire academic year unless the student withdraws from the College, is approved for a mid-semester withdrawal, is approved for a leave of absence, graduates, or participates in a study abroad program. Vacant spaces are subject to assignment by the Office of the Residence Life.

Financial hardship: If a student or their family/caretakers face financial hardship or experiences a significant life change that has impacted income and may be challenging to pay for housing, please contact Financial Aid for assistance.  

Residency Exemption Request Process

Students who are married:

Complete the Residency Exemption Request form and provide a copy of your marriage certificate. It must be submitted before approval. This exemption, if granted, remains in effect for the remainder of your time at Rhodes.  

Students who are 24 or older:

Complete the Residency Exemption Request form, and a copy of your birth certificate, driver’s license, or passport must be submitted before approval. This exemption, if granted, remains in effect for the remainder of your time at Rhodes.

Students with a medical condition:

A student has a medical condition that warrants the necessity to live off-campus.  The student needs to go through the  SAS accommodation request process. There must be an attestation of the medical condition from a qualified professional who has treated the student in the last six (6) months. Student Accessibility Services and the Office of Residence Life will review all required documentation.  

Most medical and mental health conditions can be accommodated in on-campus housing. We are anticipating not approving many exceptions for medical/mental health reasons. Please keep this in mind as you plan for the upcoming academic year.