SFScholar Fahad Follow on Facebook
United Kingdom · Fully funded

Chevening Scholarships (UK)

Updated 6 October 2026

Chevening is the UK government's international scholarship programme, funded by the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office and partner organisations. It pays for a one-year taught master's degree at a UK university for people with clear leadership potential.

What it covers

Chevening is fully funded. The award generally includes university tuition fees, a monthly living allowance, a return economy flight to the UK, and the cost of your visa application. Scholars also join a global network of Chevening alumni and take part in events throughout the year.

Who can apply

The main eligibility rules have stayed fairly stable over the years. You usually need to:

  • Be a citizen of a Chevening-eligible country or territory
  • Have an undergraduate degree that allows entry to a UK postgraduate course
  • Have at least two years of work experience (counted in hours, so part-time and volunteer work can count)
  • Apply to three eligible UK master's courses
  • Agree to return to your home country for at least two years after the award ends

Check the official eligibility page for the full and current list, including rules for people who hold UK citizenship or have previously received UK government funding.

Documents you'll need

  • Passport or national ID
  • Degree certificate and transcripts
  • Two references, submitted after the application deadline if you are shortlisted
  • An unconditional offer from one of your three chosen courses, by the summer before you start

The essays matter most

The online application includes short essays on leadership, networking, why you want to study in the UK, and your career plan. Selectors look for specific examples, not general statements. Show what you did, what changed because of it, and how a UK master's connects to a clear plan back home.

Tip: Write each essay around one or two concrete stories. "I led a team" is weak. "I organised 40 volunteers to run a free exam-prep programme for 300 students" is strong.

How to apply

Apply directly on the Chevening website during the application window. It is free to apply. If you're shortlisted, you'll be invited to an interview at the British Embassy or High Commission in your country.

Ready to apply?

Applications are submitted on the official website, and they are free. Check the current deadline and eligibility there before you start.

Never miss a scholarship deadline

Get new fully funded scholarships in your inbox every week. Free, and you can unsubscribe anytime.