The Chevening UK Government Scholarships Program is one of the most prestigious international scholarship schemes, designed to develop global leaders by offering future decision-makers the opportunity to pursue a one-year master’s degree in any subject at any UK university. Established in 1983 by the UK government, Chevening is funded by the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) and partner organizations. It aims to build lasting positive relationships between the UK and countries around the world by equipping emerging leaders with the education and skills needed to address global challenges.
Chevening Scholarships are awarded to individuals who demonstrate outstanding academic ability, leadership potential, and a commitment to driving change in their home countries. The selection process is highly competitive, with thousands of applicants from over 160 countries vying for a limited number of spots each year. Scholars are chosen based on their academic achievements, professional experience, leadership qualities, and a clear vision for their future.
In addition to covering full tuition fees, the Chevening Scholarship includes a monthly living allowance, travel costs to and from the UK, an arrival allowance, and other financial support to help scholars settle in and focus on their studies. Beyond the financial support, Chevening provides a rich network of professionals and alumni who engage in global discussions and collaborations, making it not just an academic opportunity but a gateway to a broader community of influencers and change-makers.
The Chevening experience goes beyond academics; it includes a variety of cultural events, networking opportunities, and leadership training, all designed to help scholars develop a deep understanding of British culture and global issues. Upon completing their studies, Chevening Scholars join a global network of over 50,000 alumni, many of whom have gone on to hold influential positions in government, business, and non-profit sectors worldwide.
The Chevening UK Government Scholarships Program is more than just a scholarship; it is a platform for nurturing future leaders who are dedicated to making a significant impact in their communities and on the global stage.
Eligibility Requirements For The Chevening UK Government Scholarships Program
To be eligible for a Chevening Scholarship you must:
- Be a citizen of a Chevening-eligible country or territory.
- Commit to returning to your home country for at least two years after your scholarship ends.
- Have at least two years of work experience (2,800 hours).
- Hold an undergraduate degree that qualifies you for a UK master’s programme.
- Apply to three different and eligible UK university courses. You must have received an unconditional offer from at least one of these course choices by the references and education documents deadline listed on the application timeline.
You are not eligible for a Chevening Scholarship if you:
- Hold British or dual British citizenship (unless you are a citizen of a British Overseas Territory or hold BN(O) and are applying from Hong Kong).
- Hold refugee status in a country not eligible for Chevening. However, if you are a citizen of an eligible country and hold refugee status in another eligible country, you are eligible for a scholarship.
- Are an employee, former employee, or relative of an employee of the UK government, British Embassies/High Commissions, the British Council, the Association of Commonwealth Universities, or sponsoring UK universities. Employees, former employees, or relatives* of an employee of Chevening Partner organisations are eligible to apply, but if the employment took place within the last two years, you cannot receive a Chevening Partner Award from the organisation from which you work, previously worked, or are affiliated with through relatives.
- Have previously studied in the UK on a UK government-funded scholarship.
Please note that having a master’s degree does not prevent you from applying for a second master’s degree in the UK, providing you can articulate how it aligns with your career goals and will help you to drive positive change in your home country.
Benefits
The Chevening Programme includes a tailored engagement programme creating opportunities for scholars to network with each other as well as alumni, the FCDO, high profile speakers and partner organisations. Award recipients receive:
- Payment of tuition fees
- Economy travel to and from your country of residence by an approved route for you only
- An arrival allowance
- The cost of an entry clearance (visa) application for you only
- A departure allowance
- A contribution of up to £75 for TB testing, where this is required
- A travel top up allowance
- A monthly personal living allowance (stipend) to cover accommodation and living expenses. The monthly stipend will depend on whether you are studying inside or outside London. These rates are subject to annual review.
Application Timeline
- 6 August 2024: Applications open at 12:00 BST
- 5 November 2024: Applications close at 11:59 UTC/ GMT
- From 6 November 2024: Applications are sifted against eligibility criteria.
- Mid-November 2024 to January 2025
- Reading committee assessments: Independent reading committees assess all eligible applications. Their scores and rankings are then passed back to local British embassies/high commissions.
- Mid-February 2025″ Applicants shortlisted for interviews
Once the embassy/high commission has reviewed the applications that were passed on to them, they produce a shortlist of those who they will invite to interview. Notifications will then follow. Congratulations if you make it this far. To prepare for your interview, please read the interview guidance.
- 19 February 2025: References and education documents deadline
Shortlisted candidates will be requested to submit two references and their education documents prior to their interview date.
- 26 February to 25 April 2025: Interviews take place
Candidates from all over the world are interviewed by panels at British embassies and high commissions.
- From June 2025: Results
After months of preparation and trepidation, successful candidates will experience jubilation when interview results are announced from June onwards
- 11 July 2025: Offer deadline
The deadline to receive and submit at least one unconditional UK university offer is 17:00 BST (UK time) on 11 July 2025.
- September/October 2025: Studies begin in the UK
2025/2026 Chevening Scholars commence their studies in the UK, and enter into an international network that they’ll be a part of for the rest of their lives!
Application Deadline: 5 November 2024.
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