UK Government Chevening Scholarship 2026 (Fully Funded)

The UK Government has announced the official application timeline for the Chevening Scholarship 2026–2027, offering fully funded opportunities for exceptional individuals from over 160 countries and territories—including Nigeria, Kenya, India, Ghana, and Pakistan—to pursue a master’s degree at any UK university.

Funded by the UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO), Chevening is one of the world’s most prestigious international scholarship programs. It empowers future leaders, influencers, and changemakers through academic excellence and global networking.

Why Choose Chevening?

Chevening is more than just a scholarship—it’s an international leadership programme. With over 55,000 global alumni, including ministers, business leaders, journalists, researchers, and social impact pioneers, the Chevening community is a lifelong platform for collaboration and global impact.

Degree Level

Chevening Scholarships support full-time one-year master’s degrees at any accredited UK university.

Eligible Fields of Study

Applicants can choose from any field of study. You must apply to three different eligible UK university courses that align with your personal, academic, and professional goals.

Scholarship Benefits

Full coverage of tuition fees
Monthly living stipend
Economy-class return airfare to the UK
Additional allowances to cover visa fees, arrival, and departure costs

Eligibility Requirements

To be eligible for the Chevening Scholarship 2026, you must:

Be a citizen of a Chevening-eligible country or territory
Have completed an undergraduate degree equivalent to at least a UK upper second-class (2:1) honours
Have a minimum of two years (2,800 hours) of full-time work experience
Apply to three eligible UK university courses and receive at least one unconditional offer
Demonstrate leadership potential and a commitment to return to your home country for at least two years after completing your studies

Eligible Nationalities

Open to citizens of Chevening-eligible countries only. Find your country on the eligibility list at chevening.org/eligibility.

How to Apply

The Chevening application portal opens on 5 August 2025. To prepare:

Research eligible UK master’s programs
Prepare your professional references
Draft strong personal statements focused on leadership, networking, and career plans
Review the Chevening application guidance at chevening.org/apply

Application Timeline for Chevening 2026

5 August 2025: Applications open (12:00 UTC)
7 October 2025: Applications close (12:00 UTC)
October 2025 – January 2026: Applications reviewed by independent reading committees
February 2026: Shortlisted candidates notified and invited for interviews
March – April 2026: Interviews held at British embassies and high commissions
June 2026: Final scholarship offers made
9 July 2026: Deadline to submit one unconditional UK university offer
September/October 2026: Scholars begin studies in the UK

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I apply while still completing my undergraduate degree?
No. You must have completed your bachelor’s degree before submitting your application.

Can I apply if I’ve studied in the UK before?
Yes, if your previous study was self-funded. Applicants who previously received UK government scholarships are not eligible.

Is there an age limit for applying?
No age restrictions. As long as you meet the academic and professional experience criteria, you are eligible to apply.

Can citizens of non-eligible countries apply?
No. Only citizens of Chevening-eligible countries may apply.

Final Tips

Chevening is highly competitive, with over 60,000 applicants each year. To stand out:

Start your application early
Showcase a clear vision for how your studies will benefit your country
Demonstrate leadership, networking ability, and a commitment to making a difference

This could be your path to world-class education, global opportunities, and a powerful international network.

For official application information, visit: https://www.chevening.org