Are you an aspiring leader with dreams of studying in the UK? Good news: The UK Chevening Scholarship 2025/2026 application is officially open! This prestigious, fully funded opportunity allows international students from over 160 countries to pursue a one-year master’s degree at top universities in the United Kingdom – with all expenses covered.
Whether you’re aiming to study international relations at Oxford, data science at Edinburgh, or pursue a Chevening MBA scholarship at a leading UK business school, this opportunity could change your life.
On this page, you’ll get a complete breakdown of what the Chevening Scholarship offers, who is eligible, how to apply, and insider tips to make your application stand out.
What Is the Chevening Scholarship?
The Chevening Scholarship is the UK government’s global scholarship programme, funded by the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) and partner organizations. It’s designed to support future leaders, influencers, and decision-makers from around the world to pursue a one-year fully funded master’s degree at any UK university.
Each year, over 1,500 international students are selected for this prestigious award, building a global network of Chevening alumni who are driving change in their home countries.
The Chevening Scholarships differ from the Chevening Fellowships, which are short-term professional development programmes. The scholarships are focused solely on full-time master’s degrees.
What the Chevening Scholarship Covers
One of the biggest advantages of the Chevening programme is that it is truly fully funded. Here’s what you’ll get:
- Full payment of UK university tuition fees
- Monthly living stipend (based on UK location)
- Travel costs to and from your country
- Arrival and departure allowances
- Visa application fees
- Travel grants for attending Chevening events in the UK
Whether you’re applying for a standard MSc or a specialized Chevening MBA scholarship, all costs are covered.
Chevening Scholarship Eligibility Requirements
To qualify for the 2025/2026 Chevening Scholarship, you must meet the following eligibility criteria:
- Be a citizen of a Chevening-eligible country or territory
- Return to your country of citizenship for at least two years after your award ends
- Hold an undergraduate degree that qualifies you for a UK master’s program (typically equivalent to a 2:1 in the UK)
- Have at least two years (2,800 hours) of work experience — this can include internships, voluntary work, or paid employment
- Apply to three eligible UK master’s courses and receive an unconditional offer from one by the set deadline
- Not have previously studied in the UK with a UK Government-funded scholarship
✍️ Note: The Chevening Scholarship is for master’s programs only. There is no Chevening scholarship undergraduate programme currently available.
How to Apply for the Chevening Scholarship (Step-by-Step)
Applying for Chevening is a rigorous but rewarding process. Here’s a simplified step-by-step guide:
- Visit the Official Chevening Website: Go to www.chevening.org and create your application profile.
- Select Three Master’s Courses: Use the Chevening course finder to select eligible Chevening scholarship courses at UK universities.
- Complete the Online Application: Fill out your personal information, academic background, work experience, and course choices.
- Write Four Personal Statements: These essays should highlight your leadership, networking skills, career plan, and how Chevening will help you achieve your goals.
- Upload Required Documents: Academic transcripts, references, and proof of identity.
- Submit Application: Before the official deadline in November.
You can apply for Chevening even if you haven’t received a university offer yet, just be sure to apply separately to the universities as well.
Choosing the Right Courses and Universities
Not all master’s degrees are eligible for Chevening, so choosing your courses wisely is crucial.
Here’s what to keep in mind:
Your selected courses must be full-time, start in September/October 2026, and lead to a taught master’s qualification.
- You must choose from courses offered by a Chevening university that is recognized by the programme.
- You must receive an unconditional offer from one by the specified deadline (usually around July).
Popular Chevening destinations include:
- University of Oxford
- University of Cambridge
- London School of Economics (LSE)
- University College London (UCL)
- University of Edinburgh
- Imperial College London
If you’re aiming for a Chevening MBA scholarship, focus on business schools like Oxford’s Saïd, Cambridge Judge, or Warwick Business School.
Top Mistakes to Avoid When Applying
Many excellent candidates lose out because of simple mistakes. Avoid these:
- Submitting generic or AI-generated essays
- Choosing ineligible courses or universities
- Not showcasing leadership potential
- Missing key deadlines
- Not reading the Chevening scholarship requirements carefully
How to Make Your Chevening Application Stand Out
- Tell your story honestly and passionately
- Connect your goals to Chevening’s values (leadership, global collaboration, public service)
- Demonstrate how your master’s degree will contribute to change in your home country
- Ask mentors or alumni to review your application
- Use clear, impactful language in your essays
Remember, you’re not just applying for a scholarship, but rather you’re applying to be part of a legacy of global leaders.
Start Applying Today
The Chevening Scholarship is more than just funding. It’s an open door to personal transformation, world-class education, and lifelong networks.
If you’re driven, visionary, and committed to making an impact in your country and beyond, the UK wants you.
Ready to take the leap? Apply for Chevening Now
Don’t wait. Applications are open.
