Chevening

Chevening is the UK Government's flagship international scholarship, funded by the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office and partner organisations. It pays for one year of Master's study at any UK university and is aimed at people with a few years of work experience and a clear leadership trajectory, not the highest grades in the room.

Programmes

• Chevening Scholarships: one-year fully funded UK Master's
• Chevening Fellowships: shorter tailored programmes run with partners

When it usually opens

The application window normally opens in early August and closes in early October for study starting the following September. Confirm the exact date each cycle on the official timeline.

Who usually qualifies

Citizens of a Chevening-eligible country (most of the world outside the UK and EU/EEA), with typically at least two years of work experience, a bachelor's degree strong enough for a UK Master's, and a commitment to return home for at least two years after the award.

What it funds

Full tuition, a monthly living allowance, return flights, visa costs, and grants for Chevening events. It funds the scholar only, with no dependant allowances.

How the application works

You apply directly to Chevening online and, separately, to three eligible UK Master's courses. You must hold at least one unconditional offer by the stated offer deadline.

Common mistakes

• Treating the four essays as a formality rather than the core of selection
• A vague career plan instead of a concrete, specific one
• Choosing three unrelated courses that do not tell one story
• Leaving references or the English test to the last minute

Avoiding scams

Chevening never charges an application fee and only contacts you through chevening.org addresses and your national British embassy or high commission. Ignore anyone asking for payment to "process" or "guarantee" an award.