Introduction
Securing a fully funded Chevening Scholarship can be a complex and overwhelming process, especially when accurate guidance is lacking.
The Chevening Scholarship, funded by the UK government, remains one of the most competitive and prestigious global awards available to postgraduate students.
This article presents a detailed overview of the 2026 Chevening Scholarship program, including eligibility criteria, financial coverage, application procedures, and key deadlines.
It aims to provide international applicants with the clarity and direction needed to navigate the application process successfully.
Overview of the Chevening Scholarship
The Chevening Scholarship is a prestigious, fully funded international award offered by the UK government to outstanding students from around the world who wish to pursue a one-year master’s degree at any UK university.
Funded by the UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) and partner organizations, it aims to support future global leaders, influencers, and decision-makers.
The scholarship is open to applicants from over 160 countries and territories, and it covers full tuition fees, travel costs, visa fees, a monthly living allowance, and additional allowances for books, thesis, and more. Chevening goes beyond financial support.
It also offers networking opportunities, leadership training, and access to a global community of over 55,000 alumni making an impact worldwide.
Chevening Scholarship Requirements
To be eligible for the Chevening Scholarship, applicants must:
- Be a citizen of a Chevening-eligible country or territory.
- Return to their home country for at least two years after the scholarship ends.
- Have completed an undergraduate degree that enables entry into a UK postgraduate program.
- Possess at least two years (2,800 hours) of work experience.
- Apply to three different eligible UK university courses and receive an unconditional offer from at least one by the specified deadline.
Required Documents for Chevening Scholarship
Applicants need to submit the following documents:
- Valid passport or national ID.
- University transcripts and degree certificates.
- Two reference letters.
- Unconditional offer letter from a UK university.
- English language test results (if applicable).
Chevening Scholarship Benefits
The scholarship covers:
- Full tuition fees.
- Monthly living allowance.
- Travel costs to and from the UK.
- Arrival and departure allowances.
- Visa application fees.
- Access to exclusive networking events and opportunities.
How to apply for the Chevening Scholarship
Follow these steps to apply:
- Visit the Chevening application portal and select your country.
- Create an account and complete the online application form.
- Upload the required documents.
- Apply to three eligible UK university courses.
- Submit your application before the deadline.
Chevening Scholarship Deadline
The application period for the Chevening Scholarship 2025/2026 has closed. Applications opened on 6 August 2024 and closed on 5 November 2024 at 12:00 GMT.
Based on previous application cycles, it’s anticipated that applications for the 2026/2027 Chevening Scholarship will open in August 2025 and close in November 2025.
While the exact dates haven’t been officially announced, they are likely to follow a similar timeline to previous years.
Chevening Scholarship Summary
Host Country: United Kingdom
Category: Postgraduate (Master’s)
Eligible Countries: Citizens of Chevening-eligible countries
Reward: Fully funded scholarship covering tuition, living expenses, travel, and more
IELTS Requirement: Not mandatory; however, applicants must meet the English language requirements of their chosen UK universities
Deadline: November 5, 2025
Final Thoughts
The Chevening Scholarship is a life-changing opportunity to grow, learn, and connect with a global network of future leaders.
While you wait for the next cycle to open soon, prepare your documents, sharpen your skills, and plan your future study path.
Remember, success comes to those who are ready and determined. With dedication and the right preparation, you could be the next Chevening scholar making a global impact.
Stay focused, believe in yourself, and get ready to take the first step toward an incredible journey in the UK
FAQs
Is the Chevening Scholarship fully funded?
Yes, the Chevening Scholarship is fully funded. It covers full tuition fees, living expenses, travel costs, visa fees, and other allowances.
Can you stay in the UK after a Chevening Scholarship?
The scholarship requires you to return to your home country for at least two years after finishing your studies in the UK.
Can I get a scholarship to the UK from Nigeria?
Yes, Nigerian students are eligible to apply for the Chevening Scholarship and other UK scholarships.
Does Chevening pay for a visa?
Yes, the scholarship includes the cost of your UK student visa application.
How much money does Chevening give?
Chevening provides a monthly living allowance, full tuition fees, travel costs, and extra allowances to cover arrival, departure, and other expenses.
Read more about other scholarships here