Applications are now open for the Chevening UK Government Scholarships Programme 2026, offering outstanding emerging leaders across the globe a unique opportunity to pursue fully funded one-year master’s degree programmes in the United Kingdom.
Chevening Scholarships represent the UK government’s flagship international awards scheme, designed to develop global leaders by supporting the academic and professional growth of individuals who demonstrate strong leadership potential and a commitment to driving change in their communities. Funded by the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) and partner organisations, these scholarships enable successful applicants to immerse themselves in a high-quality UK education, gain access to extensive professional and academic networks, and build long-lasting ties with the UK.
Overview
Chevening Scholars join a prestigious global network of over 55,000 alumni. While in the UK, scholars participate in a comprehensive engagement programme that includes thematic conferences, networking events, volunteering opportunities, and academic workshops. Chevening is not just about receiving financial support for a year of study; it is a platform for transformational leadership development that continues well beyond the duration of the scholarship.
Scholarship Value
Chevening Scholarships are fully funded, covering all essential academic and travel-related costs for a one-year master’s programme at any eligible UK university. The award includes:
- Full payment of tuition fees for the chosen master’s course (no cap on fees, but exceptions may apply for MBA programmes).
- Economy class return travel to and from the UK via an approved route.
- Arrival allowance to support settling-in costs.
- Departure allowance to assist with final travel-related expenses after the scholarship ends.
- Visa application reimbursement for the UK entry clearance application (for scholars only).
- TB testing costs (where applicable), up to a contribution of £75.
- Travel top-up allowance for additional travel within the UK related to your studies or engagement programme.
- Monthly personal living stipend, adjusted based on location:
- Scholars studying in London receive a higher monthly allowance than those studying outside of London.
- This stipend is intended to cover accommodation, meals, utilities, and day-to-day expenses.
- Rates are reviewed annually and may be adjusted for the academic year 2026.
Key Benefits of the Programme
- Academic Excellence: Study at world-renowned UK universities known for their innovation, research, and quality teaching.
- Leadership Development: Gain practical leadership skills through extracurricular engagements and training.
- Global Networking: Access a diverse network of Chevening alumni, UK government officials, and international organisations.
- Cultural Exposure: Live and study in a vibrant multicultural environment, experiencing life in different UK cities.
- Career Advancement: Enhance employability and international career prospects through UK qualifications and global experience.
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must meet the following minimum requirements to be considered for a 2026 Chevening Scholarship:
- Citizenship: Must be a citizen of a Chevening-eligible country or territory. A full list of eligible countries is available on the Chevening website.
- Return Commitment: Must commit to returning to their home country for a minimum of two years after the completion of the award.
- Work Experience: Must have a minimum of two years’ work experience, which is equivalent to 2,800 hours. Work experience can be full-time, part-time, voluntary, paid, or unpaid, and can be accumulated before, during, or after graduating from undergraduate studies.
- Academic Qualifications: Must hold an undergraduate degree that enables the applicant to gain admission into a UK postgraduate programme. The UK equivalent is typically an upper second-class 2:1 honours degree, but requirements may vary by university.
- University Applications: Must apply to three different eligible UK master’s courses, and secure at least one unconditional offer by the deadline for submission of references and education documents.
Eligible Programmes and Universities
Chevening allows scholars to choose any master’s programme at any UK university, provided the course:
- Is a full-time, taught master’s degree (not research-based).
- Starts in the autumn term (typically September or October 2026).
- Runs for one year only.
- Is based in the UK.
- Does not involve distance learning, part-time study, or less than nine months of study.
Applicants are encouraged to research and select programmes that align closely with their career goals and leadership aspirations. Applications must include course details and preferred universities to be considered valid.
Application and Selection Process
The Chevening application and selection process is rigorous and competitive. It consists of multiple stages:
- Online Application: Applications are submitted through the Chevening online portal. All sections must be completed in English, including personal information, academic background, work experience, and the four required essay responses covering:
- Leadership and influence
- Networking
- Study in the UK
- Career plan
- Initial Screening: Applications are reviewed for eligibility and completeness. Only eligible candidates proceed to the next stage.
- Independent Reading Committee Assessment: Eligible applications are assessed and scored by independent readers against a global Chevening marking framework.
- Shortlisting and Interviews: Shortlisted applicants are invited for a panel interview at the British embassy or high commission in their home country. The interview will explore motivations, leadership skills, academic preparedness, and future plans.
- Conditional Awards: Selected candidates receive a conditional offer, pending submission of all required documents, including:
- Unconditional university offer
- English language proficiency (if required)
- Two reference letters
- Final Selection and Visa Application: Once conditions are met, scholars are issued official award letters and can proceed to apply for the UK student visa.
Timeline for 2026 Chevening Scholarships
- Applications Open: August 6, 2025
- Deadline for Applications: October 7, 2025 (11:59 BST)
- Reading Committee Assessments: November 2025 – January 2026
- Shortlisting Notification: February 2026
- Interviews Conducted: March – April 2026
- Final Award Announcements: June 2026
- Course Starts: September/October 2026
Applicants are encouraged to begin preparations early, including researching eligible courses, contacting referees, and assembling academic documents.
Application Tips
- Ensure that each essay is concise, well-structured, and directly answers the question.
- Use real-life examples to demonstrate leadership, networking, and career impact.
- Choose course options that align closely with national development priorities and your personal goals.
- Seek feedback from mentors or former Chevening Scholars to improve your application.
- Apply to universities as early as possible to secure at least one unconditional offer before the deadline.
Ineligible Applications
Applications will be rejected if:
- The applicant does not meet the minimum eligibility requirements.
- The applicant holds British citizenship or dual citizenship (except those applying from Hong Kong or for a Chevening Fellowship).
- The applicant has previously studied in the UK with funding from a UK Government-funded scholarship.
- The application is incomplete or contains plagiarised content.
- University choices are not eligible or the applicant fails to receive an unconditional offer by the specified deadline.
Contact and Further Information
For enquiries or support with the application process, applicants can reach out through the following:
- Email: [email protected]
- Phone: +2349098044444
Additional guidance, FAQs, and application tutorials are available on the official Chevening website (www.chevening.org).
Deadline
All applications must be submitted by October 7, 2025, at 11:59 PM BST. Late submissions will not be accepted.
Applicants are strongly advised not to wait until the final day to apply, as technical issues and high traffic may cause delays.
