2026 UK Chevening Scholarships: Application date, eligibility, and benefits
Chevening Scholarships
The prestigious Chevening Scholarships, funded by the UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO), offer fully funded one-year master’s degrees at UK universities for international emerging leaders. With over 60,000 alumni across 160+ countries, these awards represent more than tuition, they unlock global networks, leadership development, and lifelong impact.
Application Timeline
The 2026 scholarship cycle opens on 5 August 2025 at 12:00 UTC and closes 7 October 2025 at 12:00 UTC. Here’s a breakdown of the key dates:
- August–October 2025: Online applications accepted
- Mid‑February 2026: Interview invitations sent
- March–April 2026: Embassy and High Commission interviews
- Mid‑June 2026: Successful candidate results announced
- 9 July 2026 (17:00 BST): Deadline to submit at least one unconditional university offer
- September/October 2026: Scholars begin UK studies
Applicants must plan ahead and secure university offers well before July 2026 to meet eligibility requirements.
Chevening Scholarships Eligibility Criteria
To apply for 2026 scholarships you must meet the following conditions:
- Undergraduate degree equivalent to a UK 2:1 (upper-second class)
- Minimum 2 years (2,800 hours) of work experience, including paid, voluntary, or internship roles
- Apply to three eligible UK master’s programs and secure at least one unconditional offer by July 2026
- Return to your home country at least two years post-graduation
Candidates must also demonstrate leadership potential, strong career vision, and a commitment to positive change
Do you meet the criteria listed above? Take the eligibility test for the Chevening Scholarship and know where you stand!
How Do I Calculate my Work Hours?
As said earlier, at least two years of work experience is required to be eligible for a Chevening Scholarships Award, equivalent to about 2800 hours.
Work experience may be from full-time or part-time employment, voluntary services, or even internships. See details HERE.
Your two years of work experience do not have to be from one employer; you are able to include work hours gathered from up to 15 employers or work history.
Which Courses are Eligible for a Chevening Award?
An eligible Chevening program should;
- be a full-time program,
- begin in September/October (autumn) term
- be a postgraduate-taught master’s program
- be offered by an institution based in the UK
All applicants are able to apply to a maximum of three (3) courses for the Chevening Scholarship Award. To view the list of eligible courses, CLICK HERE
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Chevening Scholarship Benefits
Chevening covers nearly all essential costs, including:
- Full tuition fees for a UK master’s degree
- Monthly stipend: around £1,378 outside London, £1,690 in London
- Travel airfare, visa costs, and arrival/departure allowances
- Travel grants to attend official Chevening events hosted in the UK
These comprehensive benefits mean scholars can focus on academic and leadership development, not financial strain.
Tips to Stand a Chance
To strengthen your application:
- Start early: Prepare documents, references, and essays well before August
- Show leadership: Use personal examples to highlight community impact
- Clarify career goals: Explain how a UK degree will drive your local change
- Apply strategically: Research UK universities and tailor your program choices
- Prepare for interviews: Honest reflection, clear vision, and communication skills are key
Success takes more than qualifications, it requires storytelling, vision, and self-awareness.
The 2026 Chevening Scholarships are more than awards, they are gateways to becoming part of a global community of change-makers. If you have ambitious career goals, proven leadership, and a vision for impact, start preparing today.
Bookmark your calendar for 5 August 2025, and make your Chevening application a launchpad to UK study and global leadership.