2026 Chevening Scholarships | Fully Funded UK Master’s Program – Dates, Eligibility & Tips
Are you an aspiring leader or professional looking to pursue a fully funded postgraduate degree in the United Kingdom? The 2026 Chevening Scholarship Awards present a golden opportunity for future changemakers around the world. Sponsored by the UK Government through the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO), the Chevening Scholarship offers international students the chance to pursue a one-year fully funded Master’s degree at any UK university.
Whether you’re focused on governance, innovation, climate change, law, or any professional field, Chevening supports individuals committed to driving change in their home countries and beyond.
2026 Chevening Scholarship Application Dates
- Applications Open: August 6, 2025
- Applications Close: October 7, 2025
Applicants have two months to prepare and submit all materials. Don’t wait till the last minute—start early and craft a competitive application.
What is the Chevening Scholarship?
The Chevening Scholarship is a UK government initiative that provides fully funded Master’s degree opportunities for emerging leaders from over 160 countries and territories. Since its launch, over 60,000 scholars have benefited from this prestigious program.
Selected applicants pursue one-year taught Master’s programs at top UK universities while building global networks, developing leadership skills, and gaining world-class education.
What Does the Chevening Scholarship Cover?
As a fully funded opportunity, the Chevening Scholarship covers all major study expenses, including:
- Full Tuition Fees at any UK university
- Monthly Living Allowance (varies by location: ~£1,378 outside London; ~£1,690 in London)
- Round-trip Economy Airfare from your home country to the UK
- Visa Application Fee
- Arrival and Departure Allowances
- Travel Grants for attending exclusive Chevening events
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Eligibility Criteria for the 2026 Chevening Award
To be considered for the Chevening Scholarship, applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Be a citizen of a Chevening-eligible country
- Hold a Bachelor’s degree from a recognized institution
- Possess a minimum of two years (2,800 hours) of work experience, which may include full-time or part-time employment, internships, or volunteer work
- Apply to three eligible UK Master’s programs
- Obtain unconditional admission from at least one of the chosen courses
- Be committed to returning to your home country for a minimum of two years after the scholarship ends
Note: No IELTS or TOEFL is required by Chevening itself, but your selected universities may require proof of English proficiency.
Which Courses Are Eligible for Chevening?
To qualify for Chevening funding, your course must:
- Be a full-time, taught Master’s program
- Begin in the autumn term (September/October 2026)
- Be based in the UK
- Lead to a Master’s degree qualification
You may choose up to three different eligible courses in your application. Check with individual universities for specific course offerings.
Tips for a Strong Chevening Application
Success with Chevening comes down to strategic planning and authentic storytelling. Here are some expert tips:
- Start Early: Begin writing your essays well before the deadline.
- Craft Impactful Essays: Showcase your leadership, networking, and career plans. Use real-life examples to back up your claims.
- Demonstrate Career Vision: Explain how your UK education will help you create impact in your country.
- Highlight Extracurriculars: Volunteer work, leadership roles, and personal projects help show your well-roundedness.
- Practice for Interviews: If shortlisted, display confidence, clear goals, and knowledge about Chevening’s mission during the interview.
According to past scholar Simin Ibnat Dharitree, “Personal examples always help make your writing genuine and real.”
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- When will applications open? August 6, 2025
- When will applications close? October 7, 2025
- Is IELTS required? Not by Chevening directly, but it may be required by the UK university you choose
- How much is the stipend? Approximately £1,378/month (outside London), £1,690/month (London)
- Is work experience mandatory? Yes, a minimum of 2 years (2,800 hours) is required
Ready to Apply?
The Chevening Scholarship is one of the most competitive and prestigious scholarships globally. If you meet the eligibility criteria, now is the time to prepare. Draft your essays, choose your courses, reach out to referees, and be ready to submit your application when the portal opens in August 2025.
