The Chevening Scholarships are one of the most prestigious international scholarship programs funded by the UK Government through the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) and partner organizations. They aim to develop global leaders by providing outstanding individuals with the opportunity to pursue a fully funded one-year master’s degree at any UK university.
Chevening is more than just a scholarship—it is a global network of future influencers, decision-makers, and changemakers. Since its inception in 1983, Chevening has supported more than 50,000 professionals from around the world. The program selects individuals who demonstrate strong academic backgrounds, leadership potential, and a commitment to making a positive impact in their home countries.
Scholarship Benefits
The Chevening Scholarship is fully funded, which means recipients do not have to worry about tuition fees or living expenses. The award covers:
- Full tuition fees for a one-year master’s program at any UK university.
- Monthly living stipend to cover accommodation, food, and other expenses.
- Travel costs to and from the UK at the beginning and end of the program.
- Arrival allowance and homeward departure allowance.
- Visa application fee reimbursement.
- Access to exclusive networking events with UK leaders, academics, and diplomats.
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for the Chevening Scholarship, applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Citizenship
- Be a citizen of a Chevening-eligible country or territory.
- Educational Background
- Hold an undergraduate degree that qualifies you for entry into a UK postgraduate program. This is typically equivalent to an upper second-class 2:1 honors degree in the UK system.
- Work Experience
- Have at least two years of work experience (equivalent to 2,800 hours). This can include paid work, unpaid internships, and volunteer work.
- Return Requirement
- Return to your home country for a minimum of two years after your scholarship ends.
- Course Selection
- Apply to three different eligible UK master’s courses and receive an unconditional offer from at least one of them by the specified deadline.
Application Timeline (2025–2026)
While dates may vary slightly each year, the Chevening application cycle generally follows this schedule:
- Early August 2025 – Applications open.
- Early November 2025 – Applications close.
- November–December 2025 – Applications are sifted and reviewed.
- February 2026 – Shortlisted candidates invited for interviews.
- March–April 2026 – Interviews conducted.
- June 2026 – Conditional offers issued.
- July 2026 – Deadline to submit unconditional university offer and meet English language requirements.
- September–October 2026 – Scholars arrive in the UK for studies.
Selection Process
Chevening’s selection process is rigorous and competitive. The key stages include:
- Online Application
- Applications are submitted via the official Chevening website. Candidates must provide personal information, academic records, work history, and four short essays.
- Shortlisting
- Independent reading committees evaluate applications based on academic merit, leadership potential, networking ability, and career plan alignment.
- Interview
- Shortlisted candidates are invited for an interview at the British embassy or high commission in their home country. The interview is conducted in English and focuses on career plans, leadership experience, and reasons for choosing the UK.
- Final Offer
- Successful candidates receive conditional offers, pending proof of meeting all requirements, including an unconditional offer from a UK university.
Essay Requirements
Applicants must submit four compelling essays (500–600 words each) covering:
- Leadership and Influence – Provide examples of leadership roles, initiatives, or actions that demonstrate your potential to influence and inspire others.
- Networking Skills – Show how you have built and maintained professional relationships and how you will use these networks after Chevening.
- Career Plan – Outline your short-term and long-term career goals and how Chevening will help you achieve them.
- Study in the UK – Explain why you chose the UK for your studies, why your chosen courses fit your career plans, and how they will benefit your home country.
Choosing the Right Courses
Chevening allows you to apply to any one-year, full-time taught master’s program at any UK university. When selecting your three course options, consider:
- Reputation of the university in your field of interest.
- Course content and alignment with your career goals.
- Location and living costs.
- Opportunities for networking and professional growth.
Tips for a Strong Application
- Start early—Chevening applications require significant time to prepare.
- Use concrete examples to illustrate leadership and networking skills.
- Be specific about how your studies will benefit your home country.
- Research universities and courses thoroughly before applying.
- Proofread your essays multiple times or have a mentor review them.
Life as a Chevening Scholar
Chevening Scholars are part of a vibrant community with opportunities beyond academics. You will:
- Attend exclusive networking events with industry leaders and diplomats.
- Participate in cultural experiences across the UK.
- Join the Chevening Alumni Network, a global community of over 55,000 members.
Conclusion
The Chevening Scholarship is more than financial support—it’s a platform for transformation. By providing world-class education, professional networking, and cultural immersion, Chevening empowers scholars to return home with the skills, knowledge, and global perspective needed to create positive change.
If you aspire to be a leader in your field and contribute to your country’s development, Chevening could be the opportunity that changes your life.