Chevening Scholarships UK 2026 – Complete Application Guide
By Status: this intake has closed — use this guide to prepare for the next cycle
Applications for 2026/2027 Chevening awards closed on 5 November 2026. Applications now go through review, with interview shortlists usually announced around February 2027.
What to do next: Chevening usually opens for the next cycle (2027/2028) in early August. Use this guide to prepare your essays and references now, and check chevening.org for the official opening date.
Status last checked November 8, 2026
The Chevening Scholarship, funded by the UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO), is one of the world's most prestigious international scholarship programs. Each year, approximately 1,500 outstanding individuals from over 160 countries are selected to pursue a fully funded one-year Master's degree at any UK university. The 2026/2027 application cycle represents another opportunity for emerging leaders, influencers, and decision-makers to access world-class British education. This comprehensive guide walks you through every step of the application process, from checking eligibility to writing winning essays and preparing for the interview.
Overview
Chevening was established in 1983 and has since built a global network of over 55,000 alumni holding influential positions in government, business, media, civil society, and academia. The scholarship is fully funded, covering tuition, living expenses, flights, and additional allowances. Unlike many scholarships, Chevening does not prioritize specific academic disciplines — it is open to all fields of study at the Master's level. What sets Chevening apart is its emphasis on leadership, networking, and the potential to create positive change upon returning home.
Eligibility Requirements
- Citizen of a Chevening-eligible country (over 160 countries — check the Chevening website for your country)
- Return to your country of citizenship for a minimum of two years after the scholarship ends
- Have at least 2,800 hours (approximately 2 years) of work experience by the application deadline
- Hold an undergraduate degree that allows entry to a UK Master's program (equivalent to a UK 2:1 or above)
- Apply to three different eligible UK university courses through the Chevening online system
- Not hold UK citizenship or dual nationality with the UK
- Have not previously studied in the UK under a Chevening award
Benefits
- Full tuition fees paid directly to the university (for any eligible one-year Master's program)
- Monthly living allowance (currently £1,316/month, or £1,486 for London-based scholars)
- Economy class return flights to the UK
- Thesis or dissertation grant
- Study travel allowance for academic trips
- Excess baggage allowance
- Access to exclusive Chevening events, networking opportunities, and the global alumni network
- Arrival allowance for initial settling-in costs
Application Process
- 1Check your eligibility on www.chevening.org/scholarships/who-can-apply
- 2Research and select three eligible UK Master's programs (consider course content, university ranking, and career relevance)
- 3Begin your online application on the Chevening portal (typically opens August each year)
- 4Write four required essays: Leadership & Influence, Networking, Study in the UK, and Career Plan
- 5Provide two references (at least one professional, one academic is recommended)
- 6Submit your completed application before the deadline
- 7If shortlisted, attend an interview at the British Embassy or High Commission in your country
- 8Receive conditional or unconditional offer notification
- 9Obtain a formal unconditional offer from one of your three chosen universities
- 10Complete pre-departure preparation and travel to the UK
Required Documents
- Completed online application form with four essays
- Two reference letters (submitted through the online system by your referees)
- University transcripts and degree certificate
- English language test results (IELTS, TOEFL, PTE — required if you don't meet the automatic English waiver criteria)
- Valid passport
- Unconditional university offer (required after shortlisting, not at initial application)
Deadline
2026/2027 cycle closed 5 November 2026. The 2027/2028 cycle normally opens in early August 2027; check chevening.org for official dates.
Visit Official WebsiteFrequently Asked Questions
What makes a strong Chevening application?
Strong applications demonstrate clear and impactful leadership experience, a well-defined career plan that shows how the Master's degree will help you create change, and compelling reasons for choosing the UK and your specific universities. The four essays are the heart of your application — invest significant time in drafting, revising, and getting feedback.
Can I apply for a PhD with Chevening?
No. Chevening exclusively funds one-year taught Master's programs (including MA, MSc, MBA, LLM, MPA, etc.). For PhD funding in the UK, consider the Commonwealth Scholarship, Gates Cambridge, or university-specific doctoral awards.
Do I need IELTS to apply for Chevening?
An English language qualification is not required at the initial application stage. However, if shortlisted, you must meet the English requirements of your chosen universities. Citizens of certain English-speaking countries may be exempt.
How competitive is Chevening?
Chevening is highly competitive, with approximately 65,000 applications received globally for around 1,500 awards — an acceptance rate of roughly 2.3%. However, the competition varies by country, and well-prepared candidates with strong essays and interview performance have excellent chances.
Can I work while studying on Chevening?
Chevening scholars hold a Tier 4 (Student) visa which allows up to 20 hours of work per week during term time and full-time during vacations. However, the generous living allowance means most scholars choose to focus entirely on their studies and networking.
Conclusion
The Chevening Scholarship is a transformative opportunity for emerging leaders worldwide. With full funding, access to the UK's top universities, and a powerful global alumni network, Chevening opens doors that last a lifetime. Start preparing your application months in advance, seek feedback on your essays, and practice for the interview. Explore our guides to other fully funded scholarships like the DAAD Scholarship and Fulbright Program to keep your options open. Your leadership journey begins here.