UK Government Chevening Scholarship 2025–2026 (Fully Funded) Deadline: 7 October, 2025

 

The Chevening Scholarship is one of the UK government’s most competitive and fully funded scholarship programs. It offers future global leaders the chance to pursue a one-year master’s degree at any UK university completely free. If you’re someone with strong leadership potential, a desire to make a positive impact in your country, and at least two years of work experience, then this could be your life-changing opportunity. Applications for the 2025–2026 cycle open on 5 August 2025 and close on 7 October 2025.

UK Government Chevening Scholarship 2025–2026 Summary

• Host Country: United Kingdom (UK)
• Study Abroad: Study in UK
• Category: Postgraduate Scholarships | Master’s Scholarships
• Eligible Countries: All Countries
• Reward: Full ride scholarship | Monthly Stipends | Accommodation | Airfare Tickets | Free Visa and more
• Application Open: August 5, 2025
• Deadline: October 7, 2025

UK Government Chevening Scholarship 2025–2026 Details

The Chevening Scholarship is funded by the UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) and UK partner organisations. It is designed to support outstanding professionals from around the world who want to develop their skills, grow their networks, and return home to create positive change.

Chevening Scholars can choose from any master’s program at any UK university, but must select three course options when applying. The scholarship is awarded based on leadership potential, academic excellence, and a strong post-study career plan.

You don’t need to have already applied or been accepted to your UK universities when applying for Chevening, but you must secure at least one unconditional offer by the final deadline if selected.

Chevening Scholarship 2025–2026 Eligibility Requirements

To qualify for the Chevening Scholarship 2026, you must:

• Be a citizen of a Chevening-eligible country.
• Hold a bachelor’s degree that qualifies you for a UK master’s program.
• Have at least two years (2,800 hours) of work experience. This can include full-time, part-time, volunteering, or internships.
• Be able to show examples of leadership and influencing skills.
• Be committed to returning to your country for at least two years after the scholarship ends.
• Apply to three eligible UK master’s degree courses.
• Not have previously studied in the UK with UK government funding.

You are not eligible if you:

• Hold British or dual British citizenship (exceptions apply).
• Previously studied in the UK on a UK government-funded scholarship.
• Are employed by the UK government or a Chevening partner within the last two years (exceptions apply).

Please note: Having a master’s degree already does not stop you from applying for another one in the UK, as long as you can clearly explain how the new degree fits into your career plans and how it will help you make a meaningful impact in your home country

UK Government Chevening Scholarship 2025–2026 Benefits

Chevening Scholarship 2026 is a fully funded scholarship. It covers:

• Full tuition fees for your master’s degree.
• Monthly living allowance (stipend) for your accommodation and living costs.
• Travel costs to and from the UK.
• Arrival allowance.
• Visa application fees.
• Access to exclusive Chevening events, training, and networking opportunities.

Required Documents for the Chevening Scholarship 2025–2026

You’ll need the following documents during the application process for the Chevening Scholarship 2025–2026:

1. Valid passport or ID
2. Undergraduate degree certificate (original copy, no need to translate to English)
3. Two references (names and contact details during application; letters will be needed if selected for interview)
4. Unconditional offer letter from at least one UK university (due later in the process)
5. Scholarship essays and motivational letters

Note: Reference letters must be in English or come with a notarised English translation.

How to Apply for the UK Government Chevening Scholarship 2025–2026

Follow this clear guide to complete your Chevening Scholarship 2026 application successfully:

Step 1: Check your eligibility

Visit the Chevening website to confirm that you meet all eligibility criteria.

Step 2: Choose three UK master’s degree programs

• Use the Chevening Course Finder
• Select courses related to your career goals.
• You can apply to these universities separately after submitting your Chevening application.

Step 3: Prepare your references and education documents

• List two referees during the online application.
• Gather your degree certificate.
• If shortlisted, your referees will need to submit signed letters.

Step 4: Start and complete your online application

• Register and pass the eligibility checker.
• Complete each section of the application form, including:
  • Personal and academic info
  • Work experience
  • Three chosen UK courses
  • Two referees
  • Four short essay questions (500 words each) covering:
    • Leadership & influence
    • Building relationships
    • Career plan
    • Why you chose the three UK courses

Step 5: Submit your application

Review and ensure all sections are complete, then submit.

Step 6: Attend the interview (if shortlisted)

If selected, you’ll be invited to an interview at your local British embassy or high commission.

• Prepare well and bring all supporting documents.

Step 7: Secure your UK university offer

You must submit at least one unconditional offer by the final deadline to be awarded the scholarship.

Deadline and Timelines

• Applications open: 5 August 2025 (12:00 UTC)
• Applications close: 7 October 2025 (12:00 UTC)
• Interview invitations: February 2026
• Interviews: March – April 2026
• Final university offer deadline: 9 July 2026
• Courses begin in the UK: September/October 2026