Chevening Scholarships for International Students

By

The Chevening Scholarship, funded by the UK government’s Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) and partner organizations, is one of the most prestigious awards for international students. It aims to empower future leaders, influencers, and decision-makers from across the globe by providing them with the opportunity to pursue a fully funded one-year master’s degree at any UK university.

Launched in 1983, Chevening has supported more than 50,000 scholars worldwide, making it one of the most globally recognized scholarships for outstanding talent.

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must meet the following requirements:

  1. Citizenship:
    • Be a citizen of a Chevening-eligible country (over 160 countries and territories, including all African countries).
  2. Education:
    • Hold an undergraduate degree equivalent to at least an upper second-class honours (2:1) in the UK.
  3. Work Experience:
    • Minimum of 2 years’ work experience (equivalent to 2,800 hours). This may include professional jobs, internships, or voluntary work.
  4. Residency Obligation:
    • Return to your home country for at least two years after the scholarship ends.
  5. University Applications:
    • Apply to at least three different eligible UK master’s courses and receive an unconditional offer from at least one by the required date.

Scholarship Benefits

The Chevening Scholarship is fully funded, covering:

  • Full tuition fees for a one-year UK master’s program.
  • Living allowance (monthly stipend).
  • Travel costs to and from the UK.
  • Visa application fee.
  • A contribution to travel costs for attending Chevening events in the UK.
  • Exclusive access to a wide network of professionals, leaders, and alumni.

Required Documents

Applicants will typically need:

  • Completed Chevening online application.
  • Valid passport/national ID.
  • Academic transcripts and degree certificates.
  • Conditional/unconditional offer letters from UK universities.
  • Two references (academic or professional).
  • English language proficiency evidence (IELTS/TOEFL/PTE or exemptions).
  • Work experience records.

How to Apply

  1. Check eligibility: Confirm you are from a Chevening-eligible country.
  2. Select courses: Apply for three eligible master’s courses at UK universities.
  3. Submit online application: Through the official Chevening application portal.
  4. Provide documents: Upload transcripts, references, and essays.
  5. Essay Questions: Prepare strong essays addressing:
    • Leadership and influence
    • Networking skills
    • Career plans
    • Why you want to study in the UK
  6. Interview stage: Shortlisted candidates are invited for interviews at the British Embassy/High Commission in their country.
  7. Final selection: Successful candidates receive an offer by mid-year, ready to begin studies in September/October.

Relatable Example

  • Example 1: David from Kenya
    David, an environmental policy researcher, applied for Chevening to pursue a Master’s in Climate Change and Development at the University of Sussex. In his application, he highlighted his community projects on renewable energy and his long-term plan to advise the Kenyan government on sustainable policies. His clear vision, leadership record, and alignment with Chevening’s values secured him a place as a Chevening Scholar.
  • Example 2: Kwame from Ghana – Renewable Energy Engineer
    Kwame had three years of experience as an electrical engineer. He applied for a Master’s in Renewable Energy Systems at the University of Leeds. In his statement, he showed how Ghana could transition from over-reliance on fossil fuels to sustainable energy. He emphasized his community project of installing affordable solar panels in schools. His leadership in innovation and strong technical background aligned perfectly with Chevening’s focus on future leaders.

    Example 3: Leila from Kenya – Education Policy Specialist
    Leila worked with an NGO focused on improving access to quality education in rural Kenya. She applied for a Master’s in Education Policy at the University of Cambridge. In her essays, she described how she designed mentorship programs for girls in underprivileged communities. Her future plan was to return and work with the Ministry of Education to create inclusive policies. Her track record of community impact made her a strong candidate.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Generic essays: Submitting vague responses without demonstrating personal leadership, community impact, or future goals.
  • Poor choice of courses: Selecting unrelated or less impactful master’s courses.
  • Incomplete applications: Missing references or not uploading documents correctly.
  • Ignoring the two-year residency rule: Not planning to return home after studies.
  • Late submissions: Chevening applications close sharply at the deadline; late entries are not accepted.

Application Deadline

  • Applications usually open in early August and close in early November each year.
  • Shortlisting and interviews take place between February and April.
  • Final results are typically announced in June/July.
  • Successful scholars begin their UK studies in September/October.

Final Thought

The Chevening Scholarship is more than just financial aid—it is a leadership incubator. It equips talented individuals with the knowledge, networks, and global exposure needed to create change in their home countries.

If you are ambitious, driven, and committed to building a better future for your community, Chevening could be your life-changing gateway to the UK. But remember—success depends on clarity of vision, leadership potential, and a well-prepared application.

Similar Posts