Chevening Clore Leadership Fellowship 2026 in the UK (Fully Funded)

The Chevening Clore Leadership Fellowship 2026 in the UK is a fully funded, world-class program designed for mid-career leaders who are committed to driving change in their home countries. Sponsored by the UK Foreign, Commonwealth, and Development Office (FCDO) in collaboration with Clore Leadership, this prestigious fellowship provides emerging leaders with the skills, exposure, and resources needed to tackle pressing global challenges and make a lasting impact in their professional fields.

Participants will spend several months in the United Kingdom engaging in leadership development, networking with senior professionals, and gaining practical experience through secondments and project-based work. Fellows will also take part in residential courses, workshops, and mentoring sessions, ensuring they return home equipped with transformative leadership skills and global perspectives.

This fellowship represents one of the most sought-after opportunities for professionals aiming to strengthen their leadership profile while building international networks.

Program Overview

The Chevening Clore Leadership Fellowship 2026 is specifically tailored to enhance leadership capabilities through a variety of structured learning activities. The program blends academic learning, cultural immersion, and professional practice, allowing fellows to gain deep insights into leadership in the UK context while strengthening their ability to influence positive change at home.

Throughout the fellowship, participants will:

• Take part in an intensive residential leadership course to build core leadership competencies.
• Engage in non-residential workshops on practical skills such as strategy, communication, and negotiation.
• Attend sector-based events, conferences, and visits across the UK.
• Undertake a 4–6 week secondment in a cultural or creative organization in the UK, working on live projects.
• Receive personalized mentoring and coaching from experienced professionals.
• Develop thought leadership by contributing a written provocation paper on a topic of global significance.
• Complete a final residential course that reflects on lessons learned and prepares fellows for applying their knowledge in practice.

By the end of the fellowship, participants will have built strong international connections, gained hands-on experience in leadership, and positioned themselves as global change-makers.

Benefits of the Chevening Clore Leadership Fellowship 2026

This fully funded fellowship covers all major expenses, ensuring that fellows can focus entirely on learning, leadership development, and networking without financial concerns. Key benefits include:

• Up to two return economy flights from the fellow’s home country to the UK.
• Full coverage of accommodation expenses in the UK.
• Living costs and a stipend to support day-to-day needs during the program.
• A funded secondment in a UK-based cultural or creative institution, offering unique hands-on experience.
• Access to conferences, workshops, and tailored learning opportunities across the UK.
• Payment of all course and training fees related to fellowship activities.
• Travel support within the UK for program-related engagements.
• Guidance and coaching from mentors and professional experts in the field of leadership.

These benefits ensure that fellows not only develop professionally but also gain personal enrichment from living and working in a vibrant international environment.

Eligibility Criteria

To apply for the Chevening Clore Leadership Fellowship 2026, applicants must meet the following requirements:

• Be a citizen of one of the following eligible countries: Brazil, China, Egypt, India, Jordan, Lebanon, Mexico, or South Africa.
• Demonstrate the intention to return to their home country at the end of the fellowship.
• Hold at least a second-class honors degree from the UK (or an equivalent qualification) OR have equivalent professional experience.
• Possess at least five years of work experience in a relevant field.
• Show a high level of leadership potential and professional achievement.
• Have strong English language proficiency (minimum level C1).
• Not hold British citizenship or dual nationality with the UK.
• Not be an employee, former employee, or relative of an employee of His Majesty’s Government or its affiliated organizations within the last two years.

Applicants should have a proven track record of leadership in their sector and the capacity to influence change.

Application Timeline and Deadline

• Applications Open: Mid-2025
• Deadline for Applications: 7 October 2025
• Shortlisting and Interviews: Early 2026
• Fellowship Begins: Later in 2026

Applicants are strongly encouraged to prepare all documents, references, and personal statements in advance to ensure timely submission.

How to Apply for the Chevening Clore Leadership Fellowship 2026

The application process is competitive, and candidates are assessed based on their leadership potential, academic qualifications, and professional achievements. To apply:

1. Check Eligibility: Confirm that you meet all requirements, including nationality, education, and work experience.
2. Prepare Documents: Gather academic transcripts, proof of work experience, passport information, and evidence of English proficiency if applicable.
3. Complete Online Application: Access the Chevening website and fill out the fellowship application form, detailing your leadership journey, career goals, and motivation for applying.
4. Provide References: Secure professional references who can speak to your leadership qualities and achievements.
5. Submit Application: Review your application carefully before submission to avoid errors.
6. Selection Process: Shortlisted candidates will be invited to an interview, after which final selections will be announced.

Applicants should focus on clearly articulating how the fellowship aligns with their long-term vision and how they plan to use the opportunity to make an impact in their home country. Apply Now