If you dream of studying in the United Kingdom but worry about the costs, the Chevening Scholarship UK 2026 is your golden ticket. Funded by the UK Government, this prestigious and fully funded scholarship allows outstanding students from over 160 countries to pursue a one-year master’s degree at top UK universities — completely free of charge.
Each year, the program selects emerging leaders, innovators, and visionaries who not only excel academically but also have the potential to create lasting positive change in their home countries. With financial support, world-class education, and the chance to join a global alumni network, the Chevening Scholarship is one of the most competitive and rewarding opportunities for international students.
Not sure if you’re ready to apply? Try our free Scholarship Competitiveness Checker
Why Choose the Chevening Scholarship UK?
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A fully funded scholarship for international students covering tuition fees, living costs, airfare, and more.
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Freedom to choose from 1,200+ master’s courses at 150+ UK universities.
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Networking opportunities with scholars, professionals, and leaders worldwide.
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A chance to experience UK culture, develop leadership skills, and return home with new knowledge and global connections.
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A life-changing opportunity to study at world-class UK universities without financial stress.
Also check : King AbdulAziz University Graduate Scholarship Programs 2025
Key Details About the Chevening Scholarship 2026
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Host Country: United Kingdom
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Duration: 1 year (Master’s degree program)
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Financial Coverage: Fully Funded
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Eligible Regions: Applicants from 160+ Chevening member countries
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Chevening Scholarship UK Deadline: 7 October 2025
Eligibility Criteria for Chevening Scholarship UK
Before applying, ensure you meet the eligibility criteria for Chevening Scholarship UK:
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Must be a citizen of a Chevening-eligible country (check your country on the official list).
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Must apply for a full-time, 12-month master’s degree program at a UK university.
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Hold an undergraduate degree equivalent to a UK upper second-class 2:1 honors degree.
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Minimum of two years (2,800 hours) of work experience. This includes paid jobs, unpaid internships, or volunteer work.
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Apply to at least three eligible UK university courses and secure an unconditional offer from one.
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Commit to returning to your home country for a minimum of two years after completing the scholarship.
You are not eligible if:
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You hold dual British citizenship (exceptions apply).
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You are an employee, former employee, or close relative of His Majesty’s Government or Chevening Partner organizations (see official rules).
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You have previously studied in the UK under a UK Government-funded scholarship.
Benefits of the Chevening Scholarship UK 2026
Selected scholars will receive a comprehensive funding package, including:
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Full university tuition fee coverage.
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Monthly living stipend (varies depending on whether you study inside or outside London).
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Airfare from your home country to the UK.
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Arrival allowance & departure allowance.
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Visa application fee coverage.
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Costs for TB testing (if required).
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Funding to attend exclusive Chevening events in the UK.
This fully funded scholarship for international students ensures you can focus on your studies, leadership development, and cultural experiences without financial worries.
Required Documents for Application
Applicants should prepare the following documents in advance to meet the Chevening Scholarship UK fully funded requirements:
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Valid passport
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Updated CV
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Bachelor’s degree certificate and transcripts
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Two reference letters
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Proof of English language proficiency (IELTS/TOEFL/PTE Academic/C1 Advanced) – can be submitted later
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Choices of master’s courses
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Unconditional offer letter from a UK university (can be submitted after application)
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Motivation letter and personal statement
How to Apply for Chevening Scholarship 2026
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Research eligible courses and universities in the UK.
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Prepare your documents (CV, transcripts, references, etc.).
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Apply online via the official Chevening application portal before the deadline.
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If shortlisted, you may be invited for an interview.
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Secure admission to one of your chosen UK universities.
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Receive your Chevening award and prepare to begin your journey!
👉 Application Deadline: 7 October 2025
Tips for a Successful Application
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Start early — the application is detailed and time-consuming.
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Showcase your leadership qualities and career vision in your essays.
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Highlight how you will contribute to your home country after returning.
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Choose master’s programs aligned with your career goals.
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Get strong, professional reference letters.
FAQs About Chevening Scholarship UK
1. What is the Chevening Scholarship UK?
It is a fully funded UK Government scholarship that allows international students from over 160 countries to pursue a one-year master’s degree at leading UK universities.
2. Who can apply for the Chevening Scholarship 2026?
Applicants from Chevening-eligible countries with at least two years of work experience, a bachelor’s degree, and a commitment to return home for two years after graduation.
3. What expenses does the Chevening Scholarship cover?
It covers tuition fees, living stipend, airfare, visa costs, and more, making it a fully funded scholarship for international students.
4. When is the Chevening Scholarship UK deadline?
The deadline for Chevening Scholarship 2026 applications is 7 October 2025.
Final Thoughts
The Chevening Scholarship UK 2026 is more than just financial support — it’s an opportunity to transform your academic, professional, and personal journey. If you are passionate about leadership, community development, and global networking, this scholarship is the gateway to your dreams.
Don’t wait until the last moment. Start preparing your application now, gather strong references, and take a step closer to studying in the UK for free.
Chevening Scholarship UK Application Process 2026
Applying for the Chevening Scholarship UK can feel overwhelming, but with the right preparation and planning, you can submit a strong application. Below is a step-by-step guide to help you through the process, along with tips to make your application stand out.
How to Apply for Chevening Scholarship UK
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Create Your Account
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Applications are submitted through the official Online Application System (OAS).
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Register with a valid email address and remember your username and password for future logins.
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Select Your Country and Award Type
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Choose your home country and select “Chevening Scholarship” as the award type.
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Confirm that your country is among the Chevening-eligible regions.
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Choose Your Courses and Universities
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Research carefully and select up to three eligible master’s courses at UK universities.
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Pick programs related to your academic background and career goals.
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Applying to multiple universities in the same field increases your chances of admission.
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Apply to Universities
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Submit applications directly to your chosen universities as well.
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You must secure an unconditional offer letter from at least one of them to be eligible.
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Complete the Online Chevening Application
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Fill out the form carefully, following all instructions.
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Upload documents in the required format (passport, transcripts, references, etc.).
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Ensure all details are accurate and consistent.
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Remember: the application must be submitted in English only.
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Preparing a Strong Chevening Application Form
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Check Eligibility First – Review the eligibility criteria for Chevening Scholarship UK before applying.
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Gather Documents Early – Keep transcripts, references, and proof of work experience ready.
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Answer Thoughtfully – Essays should reflect your leadership potential, career goals, and commitment to your home country.
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Provide Accurate Work Experience – Mention correct hours, weeks, and roles.
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Choose Aligned Courses – Select programs in the same or related field across different universities.
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Write in Your Own Words – Plagiarism is not tolerated; copied content leads to rejection.
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Follow Word Count – Keep essays within the required limits.
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Select Strong Referees – Choose people who can clearly describe your skills, achievements, and leadership qualities.
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English Proficiency – Although Chevening itself doesn’t require a language test at the time of application, many universities do. Submitting IELTS/TOEFL/PTE can strengthen your profile.
Chevening Scholarship UK Timeline 2026
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Application Deadline: 7 October 2025, 12:00 GMT (midday UK time)
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Shortlisting: February 2026
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Submission of References & Documents: February 2026
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Interviews: March – April 2026
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Final Results: June 2026
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Classes Begin in the UK: September – October 2026
Preparing for the Chevening Scholarship Interview
If shortlisted, you will attend an interview at the British embassy or high commission in your country. Here’s how to prepare:
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Be Goal-Oriented – Clearly explain your future plans and how they relate to your chosen field.
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Show Confidence – Highlight leadership experiences, even small projects where you made an impact.
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Know Your Essays – Review your application essays and be ready to discuss them.
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Understand Your Course – Be able to justify why you selected your program and university.
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Practice Beforehand – Mock interviews help improve confidence and fluency.
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Be Authentic – Use a natural tone; avoid memorized or monotonous answers.
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Stay Prepared for Any Question – Expect both relevant and unexpected questions to test your personality.
Preparing Chevening Scholarship Reference Letters
Reference letters are an important part of your application. They must include:
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Referee’s full contact details (name, address, email, phone number)
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The nature of your relationship (how long they’ve known you and in what capacity)
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The last time they interacted with you
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A clear recommendation highlighting your skills, achievements, leadership qualities, and potential