Chevening Scholarships

The Chevening Scholarships are the UK government's prestigious global scholarship programme, funded by the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) and partner organizations. Established in 1983 as the Foreign and Commonwealth Office Awards Scheme (FCOAS) and renamed Chevening in 1994, the programme aims to develop global leaders by offering future leaders the opportunity to study a one-year Master's degree at any eligible UK university. The overarching purpose is to foster a global network of professionals committed to positive change and to build lasting relationships with the UK.

Chevening is renowned for its prestige and is highly competitive, with a global selection rate typically ranging from 1% to 3%. Since its inception, the programme has awarded scholarships to over 60,000 professionals from more than 160 countries, creating an influential alumni network of leaders across various sectors worldwide. Being selected for a Chevening award signifies a high mark of potential and recognition, providing not just financial support but also access to exclusive networking events and lifelong membership in a vibrant global community.

To be eligible for a Chevening Scholarship, applicants must meet several core criteria:

• Nationalities: Applicants must be citizens of a Chevening-eligible country or territory, with over 160 countries currently participating. British or dual British citizens (unless from a British Overseas Territory or holding BN(O) status and applying from Hong Kong), EU/EEA nationals, and US citizens (who can apply for Marshall Scholarships) are generally not eligible. Applicants must commit to returning to their home country for at least two years after the scholarship ends. Residency in the UK at the time of application (excluding British Overseas Territories) also disqualifies applicants.
• Academic Level: Candidates must hold an undergraduate degree that qualifies them for a postgraduate programme at a UK university, typically equivalent to a UK upper second-class (2:1) honours degree. This degree must have been completed at least two years before the application deadline.
• GPA: While no minimum GPA is explicitly specified, strong academic credentials are considered beneficial for a competitive application.
• Age Limits: There is no upper age limit for the Chevening Scholarship, although some specific university courses might have their own age restrictions.
• Language Requirements: Applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency that meets the requirements of their chosen UK university. Most programmes typically require an IELTS Academic score of at least 6.5 overall, with no sub-score below 5.5 or 6.0, or an equivalent qualification. Proof of English language proficiency is usually required by the unconditional offer deadline, around February to March.
• Field Restrictions: The scholarship supports a one-year, full-time taught Master's degree in any subject area at any eligible UK university. The chosen course must not be part-time, distance learning, or longer than 12 months, and it cannot be a research degree such as an MPhil or PhD.
• Work Experience: A crucial requirement is having at least two years (equivalent to a minimum of 2,800 hours) of professional work experience, which must have been acquired after completing the undergraduate degree. This can include full-time employment, part-time roles, voluntary work, or paid internships.

The Chevening Scholarship is a fully funded programme, offering a comprehensive package that covers the majority of costs associated with studying in the UK. The total value of an award typically ranges from £30,000 to £50,000+.

• Tuition: Full university tuition fees are covered and paid directly to the UK university. There is no publicly stated cap for standard Master's programmes. However, for MBA programmes, a cap of £22,000 applies, and scholars are responsible for any balance exceeding this amount. Additionally, UK universities are expected to contribute at least 20% towards the tuition fees.
• Monthly Stipend: Scholars receive a monthly personal living allowance (stipend) to cover accommodation and general living expenses. The amount varies based on location: approximately £1,516 per month for students in London (inside the M25) and approximately £1,215 per month for those studying outside London. These rates are subject to annual review.
• Housing: Accommodation costs are covered as part of the monthly living stipend.
• Flights: Economy-class return flights to and from the scholar's country of residence are covered. These flights are booked through an approved agent and are for the scholar only.
• Insurance: The scholarship covers the full cost of the UK student visa application and the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS), which grants access to the National Health Service (NHS).
• Books: Costs for required course resources and books are expected to be covered by the monthly stipend.
• Other Perks:
  • Visa Fees: The full cost of the entry clearance (visa) application is covered.
  • Allowances: An arrival allowance (typically £200-£300) is provided upon arrival to help with initial expenses like transport and setting up. A homeward departure allowance is also provided at the end of the scholarship.
  • Thesis/Dissertation Grant: A grant of approximately £500 is provided to assist with thesis or dissertation costs.
  • TB Testing Contribution: A contribution of up to £75 is provided for TB testing, if required for the visa application.
  • Travel Top-up Allowance: Scholars outside London receive an additional travel top-up allowance to attend mandatory Chevening events.
  • Networking and Development: Scholars gain access to exclusive Chevening events, workshops, talks, internships, and volunteering opportunities, as well as becoming part of a prestigious global alumni network.

The application process for Chevening Scholarships is conducted online through a dedicated system. A step-by-step guide is provided to ensure a thorough application:

1. Select Your Country and Award: Begin by selecting your country/territory and the Chevening award type on the official Chevening website (chevening.org/apply) to view available opportunities.
2. Register and Pass Eligibility Check: Complete the online registration form, consenting to the terms and conditions and privacy notice. You will then undergo an immediate eligibility check. If you pass, an access code and a link to continue your application will be sent via email.
3. Choose UK University Courses: Identify and apply to three different eligible one-year, full-time Master's courses at UK universities that align with your career goals. It is crucial to have received at least one unconditional offer from one of these chosen courses by the specified July deadline to remain eligible. It's recommended to apply to your chosen universities as soon as possible after submitting your Chevening application.
4. Complete Application Form: Fill out all sections of the online application form, providing personal details, citizenship information, travel documents, and details of your work experience.
5. Write and Submit Essays: Prepare and submit four compulsory essays, each addressing specific criteria: Leadership and Influence, Networking, Study in the UK, and Career Plan. Ensure your answers are within the word limits and are written in English. It is advisable to draft these essays in a separate document before pasting them into the online system.
6. Provide References: You will need to provide the names and contact details of two referees. If you are shortlisted for an interview, these referees will be contacted to submit their references via an online form.
7. Submit Application: Ensure your complete application is submitted through the online portal before the deadline.

Required Documents (for interview stage): If you are invited for an interview, you will need to upload specific documents to the online application system at least seven working days before your interview. These typically include:

• A valid photo ID (passport or national ID).
• Your undergraduate degree certificate (an official document proving your degree and grade; transcripts may be required by the university itself).
• Two reference letters from professional or academic referees.
• Proof of work experience (e.g., employment letters, contracts, pay slips) demonstrating at least 2,800 hours.
• At least one unconditional offer letter from one of your three chosen UK universities by the offer deadline.
• Proof of English language proficiency (e.g., IELTS, TOEFL scores), if not already submitted, by the specific deadline, typically around February-March.

The Chevening Scholarships operate on a strict annual timeline. For the 2027/2028 academic year, the typical application cycle is as follows:

• Applications Open: Applications typically open in early August. For example, applications opened on 4 August 2026 for the 2027/28 cycle and 5 August 2025 for the 2026/27 cycle.
• Applications Close: The deadline for applications is usually in early October. For the 2027/28 cycle, the deadline is 6 October 2026 at 11:00 UTC. The 2026/27 cycle closed on 7 October 2025.
• Reading Committee Assessments: Independent reading committees assess all eligible applications from mid-October to January.
• Shortlisting for Interviews: Applicants are typically shortlisted for interviews around mid-February.
• Interviews Take Place: Interviews with panels at British embassies and high commissions are conducted globally from March to April.
• Results Announced: Successful candidates are notified with interview results from mid-June onwards.
• University Offer Deadline: The deadline to receive and submit at least one unconditional offer from a UK university is typically in early July (e.g., 8 July 2027 for the 2027/28 cycle, or 9 July 2026 for the 2026/27 cycle).
• Studies Begin in the UK: Chevening Scholars commence their Master's studies in the UK in September/October.

Chevening aims to identify and invest in "high-calibre graduates with the personal, intellectual and interpersonal qualities necessary for leadership." The selection process is rigorous and highly competitive, seeking individuals who are early in their careers but already demonstrate the potential to influence policy, build institutions, drive social change, or lead industry.

Reviewers assess applications based on four key criteria:

1. Leadership and Influence: Applicants must demonstrate strong examples of their leadership potential and ability to influence others.
2. Networking Ability: Candidates should show how they intend to build and utilise a global network of contacts, fostering relationships for future collaboration.
3. Clear Study Plan: A well-articulated plan outlining the chosen Master's courses, their relevance to the applicant's goals, and how studying in the UK will contribute to their development.
4. Strong Career Plans: Applicants need to present clear, realistic short-term and long-term career goals, demonstrating how the UK degree will help them make a positive impact and contribute to their home country upon their return.

Selection Process: All eligible applications are initially assessed by independent reading committees. Following this, a shortlist of candidates is generated by British embassies and high commissions. Shortlisted applicants are then invited to an interview, which can be conducted either in-person at the British embassy/high commission or virtually. The interview panel will ask questions about academic interests, leadership experience, course choices, and the applicant's plans to contribute to their home country after their studies.

Number of Awards per Year: Approximately 700 to 1,800 Chevening Scholarships are awarded globally each year, depending on the cycle. For instance, around 700 awards were on offer for the 2027/2028 academic year, while other years have seen up to 1,800 scholarships.