Chevening Scholarship application closes in November: Here’s how to apply
2020/2021 Chevening scholars Image credit: @UKinNigeria Image Source: Premium Times
Are you seeking a study abroad scholarship? Then think Chevening! The application for 2024/2025 is open and closes in November. Don’t fret! There’s no age limit, racial, or social status requirement.
Here’s what to know
The Chevening Scholarship is a prestigious global scholarship program funded by the UK government, aimed at developing global leaders and influencers.
Chevening offers outstanding emerging leaders from around the world the opportunity to pursue a one-year master’s degree in any subject at any UK university. Here’s what you need to know about the Chevening Scholarship, including its benefits, eligibility criteria, and application process.
Benefits of the Chevening Scholarship
The Chevening Scholarship is highly coveted, and for good reason. It covers all the essential costs of studying in the UK, including:
1. Full tuition fees: Chevening covers the full cost of your tuition at any UK university.
2. Monthly stipend: This covers your living expenses while in the UK. The amount varies depending on your location in the UK.
3. Travel costs: Chevening pays for your flights to and from the UK.
4. Arrival and departure allowances: Additional allowances to help with costs associated with settling in the UK and returning home.
5. Costs of attending Chevening events: These include networking events and a range of activities designed to help scholars make the most of their time in the UK.
Eligibility Requirements
To be eligible for the Chevening Scholarship, applicants must meet several requirements:
1. Citizenship: You must be a citizen of a Chevening-eligible country. You will return to your country of citizenship for at least two years after your scholarship ends.
2. Education: You should hold an undergraduate degree that will enable you to gain entry to a postgraduate program at a UK university. This typically means an upper second-class 2:1 honors degree, but this can vary depending on the university and course.
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3. Work Experience: Chevening requires applicants to have at least two years (2,800 hours) of work experience. This can include full-time, part-time, voluntary work, or internships.
4. English Language Requirement: Though some universities may waive this, you may need to prove your English language proficiency through tests like IELTS, TOEFL, or PTE Academic.
5. University Applications: You must apply to three different eligible UK university courses and have an unconditional offer from one of these choices by a specified deadline.
Application Process
The Chevening application process is thorough and competitive. Here’s an overview of the steps involved:
1. Online Application: The application must be submitted through the Chevening online application system, via your country portal. The application for this year began on the 6th August. From 6 November 2024 applications will be sifted against eligibility criteria.
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2. Essays: Applicants are required to write four essays addressing leadership and influence, networking skills, career plans, and why they have chosen their particular courses and universities. From mid-November 2024 to January 2025 independent reading committees will assess all eligible applications.
3. Interview Shortlisting: Mid-February 2025 applicants will be shortlisted for interviews. Shortlisted candidates will be invited for an interview at the British embassy or high commission in their home country. The interview focuses on the content of your application, including your essays, career plans, and how you plan to use your Chevening experience to benefit your home country.
4. References: 19 February 2025 is slated as the deadline for submission of references and education documents. You must provide two references who can comment on your character and suitability for the scholarship.
5. Interview proper: From 26th February to 25 April 2025, candidates from all over the will be interviewed by panels at British embassies and high commissions.
6. Final Selection: Successful candidates will be informed in June, with studies starting in the UK in September or October 2025. However, the deadline to receive and submit at least one unconditional UK university offer is 17:00 BST (UK time) on 11 July 2025.
Tips for a Strong Application
Be Genuine: Reflect on your true aspirations and how Chevening will help you achieve them. Avoid clichés and be specific about your goals.
Show Impact: Highlight your leadership experience and how you’ve made a difference in your community or workplace.
Research: Make sure you thoroughly research your chosen courses and universities. Be clear about why each is a good fit for your academic and career goals.
Prepare Early: Start preparing your application well in advance. This includes gathering all necessary documents, obtaining references, and carefully drafting your essays.
Application deadline: 5th November, 2024. Apply here
