To get a Chevening Scholarship, meet the eligibility criteria by being from an eligible country, having 2,800+ hours of postgraduate work experience, and holding an undergraduate degree. You must apply to three UK master’s courses, secure at least one unconditional offer, and commit to returning to your home country for two years after graduation.
Many talented students dream of studying in the UK, but the high tuition and living expenses often hold them back.
Without financial support, these bright minds miss out on world-class education, valuable global networks, and career-changing opportunities.
The Chevening Scholarship removes these barriers by fully funding your master’s degree in the UK, empowering future leaders to gain knowledge, build connections, and create lasting impact.
Also Read: Popular UK Scholarships for International Students
What is the Chevening Scholarship?
The Chevening Scholarship is a fully funded UK government program, supported by the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) and partner organisations.
It is awarded to individuals with strong academic backgrounds and demonstrable leadership potential, providing full financial support to pursue any eligible master’s degree at a UK university. In addition to funding, Chevening scholars gain access to exclusive academic, professional, and cultural opportunities.
Since its creation in 1983, nearly 60,000 professionals have benefited from the program, with over 1,000 scholarships each year, reflecting the UK’s commitment to developing the leaders of tomorrow.
The scholarship is typically for a one-year master’s program, with an annual intake. The online application portal generally opens in early August. It closes in early November each year, but the dates vary slightly, as shown by the 2026–2027 cycle opening in August and closing on October 7th, 2025.
How Does the Chevening Scholarship Work?
The Chevening Scholarship works through a competitive, multi-stage selection process, where applicants are rigorously assessed and British embassies and high commissions worldwide choose the most suitable candidates. As a fully funded program, it covers tuition fees, living expenses, and return flights to the UK.
Beyond financial support, Chevening scholars gain access to exclusive networking events, workshops, talks, internships, and volunteering opportunities, providing a comprehensive introduction to academic, professional, and cultural life in a global environment.
Who Can Apply for the Chevening Scholarship?
The Chevening Scholarship is open to ambitious individuals with strong leadership potential who plan to impact their communities positively.
Designed to support the UK’s global public diplomacy, the program selects candidates who demonstrate academic excellence, professional achievements, and the motivation to create meaningful change.
Suppose you are a future leader seeking a fully funded postgraduate experience in the UK that provides world-class education, global connections, and opportunities to develop your skills. In that case, you are eligible to apply for a Chevening Scholarship.
Benefits of the Chevening Scholarship
The Chevening Scholarship offers extensive academic, financial, professional, and personal benefits. Scholars receive full financial support, covering tuition, a monthly living stipend, airfare, visa costs, and travel grants for official events, allowing them to focus entirely on their studies.
They can pursue almost any one-year master’s program at a UK university, gaining world-class education and career-enhancing opportunities. Beyond academics, Chevening fosters professional growth through leadership development, exclusive networking events, and access to a global alum network of over 50,000 influential professionals.
Scholars also enjoy cultural immersion, international friendships, and volunteering opportunities. Long-term, the program enhances career prospects and encourages alums to return home and make a meaningful impact in their communities.
Also Read: Top 10 Reasons to Study in the UK
Chevening Eligible Countries
The Chevening Scholarship is open to students from over 160 countries and territories. Key eligible countries include:
- Asia: Bangladesh, China, India, Indonesia, Japan, Malaysia, Nepal, Pakistan, Thailand.
- Americas: Brazil, Canada, Mexico.
- Africa: Egypt, Kenya.
- Oceania: Australia.
- Europe: Russia, Ukraine.
- Middle East: Syria.
To Confirm if Your Country is Eligible
- Visit the official Chevening website.
- Go to the “Find a Scholarship” or “Apply” section.
- Select your country of citizenship to check eligibility and country-specific requirements.
Chevening Scholarship Acceptance Rate
It is highly competitive. The Chevening Scholarship acceptance rate for international students is around 2%. Only 2 out of every 100 applicants are selected, highlighting the importance of strong academics, leadership experience, and an engaging essay.
Chevening Scholarship Selection Process
Shortlisting Criteria
Applicants are shortlisted based on academic excellence, professional experience, leadership potential, and alignment with Chevening values.
Interview Format
- Conducted as a panel interview in English.
- Questions focus on your essays, motivation, leadership experiences, and career goals.
Tips to Prepare for the Interview
- Review your application and essays thoroughly.
- Practice clear, confident answers about your leadership and impact.
- Research the UK course and university choices you selected.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Giving vague or generic answers.
- Failing to demonstrate real leadership examples.
- Being unprepared for your career plans or UK study motivation.
Participating Universities & Courses
Chevening Scholarship recipients can study at a wide range of partner universities in the UK, including Northumbria University Newcastle, Ulster University, University of South Wales, Solent University, Oxford Brookes University, Coventry University, Bangor University, and many more.
Chevening Scholarship recipients commonly choose master’s programs in business, law, public policy, international relations, engineering, and other fields. Applicants can select up to three course choices at UK universities, aligning with their career goals and leadership aspirations.
For a complete list of eligible courses and universities, visit the Chevening official website.
How to Choose Your Courses for Chevening
To select the right Chevening courses, follow these steps:
Check Eligibility
Use the official Chevening course finder to confirm your chosen programs qualify.
Research Thoroughly
Explore courses.aimseducation.co.uk and UK university websites for details on course content, entry requirements, and deadlines.
Keep Backup Options
Choose three similar courses at different universities for flexibility, or select varied courses at one university (ensure content is closely aligned even if titles differ).
Chevening Course Requirements
To qualify for Chevening, your chosen course must be:
- Full-time and starts in the autumn term (September/October).
- A taught master’s program (not research-focused like an MRes).
- Based in the UK and leading to a master’s degree qualification.
Courses Are Not Eligible if They Are
- Part-time or distance learning.
- Shorter than 9 months or longer than 12 months.
- A PhD/DPhil program.
- Taught for more than one month outside the UK.
Chevening Scholarship Requirements
Applicants must meet academic, work experience, and other requirements to qualify for the Chevening Scholarship.
Academic Eligibility
- Hold a bachelor’s degree equivalent to a UK 2:1 honours.
- Meet minimum GPA or grades, based on country-specific standards.
Work Experience Requirement
- At least 2 years (2,800 hours) of professional experience.
- Accepted experience includes full-time, part-time, or voluntary work or internships.
Others’ Chevening Requirements
- Must be a citizen of a Chevening-eligible country.
- Commit to returning home for a minimum of 2 years after completing studies.
- Demonstrate English proficiency (IELTS, TOEFL, or MOI-accepted alternatives).
- Have no previous restrictions on studying in the UK.
Chevening Application Timeline 2026-27
- Applications open: August 6th, 12:00 BST
- Application deadline: November 5th, 12:00 GMT
- Eligibility screening: November 6th
- Reading Committee assessment: Mid-November to January
- Shortlisting for interviews: Mid-February
- Deadline for references & education documents: 19th February
- Interviews: 26th February to 25th April
- Results announced: From June
- Offer acceptance deadline: July 11th
- Studies begin in the UK: September/October
Step-by-Step Application Process for Chevening Scholarship
Check eligibility to ensure you meet academic, work, and other criteria:
- Research courses and universities, and choose up to 3 options.
- Prepare required documents, including transcripts, references, and proof of English proficiency.
- Submit your online application before the deadline.
- Shortlisting and interview stage for selected candidates.
- Final selection and acceptance of scholarship awardees.
Application Essays (Key Questions):
- Demonstrate leadership and influence.
- Highlight networking skills.
- Explain your career plan.
- Justify why you want to study in the UK.
Chevening Visa Requirements
You must apply for a UK Student visa if awarded a Chevening Scholarship. Below are the key visa requirements and exemptions for Chevening scholars:
Required Documents
- Final Award Letter – official confirmation of your Chevening scholarship.
- CAS number – issued by your UK university after accepting an unconditional offer.
- Valid Passport – must cover your stay in the UK.
- Travel Itinerary – details of your planned travel.
Visa Application Process
- Complete the online Student visa application on GOV.UK, including your CAS number.
- Book an appointment at a visa application centre to provide biometrics.
- Submit documents, including your CAS and Chevening Award Letter.
Special Exemptions for Chevening Scholars
- No visa application fee.
- No Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) – free access to the NHS.
Restrictions to Note
- No dependents allowed – Chevening does not fund spouses or children.
- No extra public funding – you cannot hold another government-funded award.
- Limited outside work – part-time jobs or internships require approval.
Chevening Alumni Network & Career Opportunities
Alumni Achievements Globally
Chevening alums are recognised leaders, holding key positions in government, business, academia, media, and international organisations. Their global influence highlights the long-term impact of the Chevening community.
Networking Events
Through conferences, workshops, and exclusive networking events, scholars and alums connect, exchange ideas, and collaborate on projects that create positive change worldwide.
Career Support After Graduation
Chevening provides ongoing career development, mentoring, and professional guidance, helping alumni expand opportunities and accelerate their leadership journey after completing their studies.
Long-Term Leadership Opportunities
The alum network fosters leadership growth, collaboration, and international partnerships, empowering graduates to drive meaningful change in their home countries and globally.
Success Tips for Chevening Applicants
Start Early and Research Thoroughly
Begin your preparation well in advance to fully understand eligibility requirements, eligible courses, and UK universities. Early research helps you make confident, well-informed choices.
Demonstrate Leadership and Networking Skills
Your essays should reflect leadership qualities and networking ability, showing how you’ve influenced others and built valuable professional connections.
Align Career Goals with Chevening’s Mission
Ensure your career plans align with Chevening’s vision of leadership, impact, and global collaboration, highlighting how the scholarship supports your long-term journey.
Choose Impactful References
Select referees who can credibly showcase your achievements, leadership potential, and personal growth, strengthening your application.
Showcase Commitment to Home Country’s Development
Demonstrate a clear commitment to contributing to your home country’s progress after your studies, emphasising the long-term impact you aim to create.
Get a Chevening Scholarship and Study in the UK from Bangladesh
Securing a Chevening Scholarship opens the door to world-class UK education, invaluable professional experience, and a global network of leaders. By meeting the eligibility criteria, preparing a strong application, and adhering to the application timeline, you can maximise your chances of success and take a transformative step toward advancing your career and making an impact in your home country.
Need help or guidance? Contact Bangladesh’s most trusted and free educational consultation service, AIMS Education, for expert support with your Chevening application.
FAQ
Is it hard to get a Chevening Scholarship?
All Chevening Applications go through a careful review and selection process. First, the Chevening Secretariat in London checks the applications to make sure they meet the basic eligibility requirements.
How much does Chevening pay?
It covers things like rent, food, personal items, phone bills, daily travel, and any course materials you need.
Does Chevening require IELTS?
Yes, you can apply for Chevening without IELTS. However, you might need to show your English skills to the university you applied to. Not all Chevening partner universities require IELTS; many accept the PTE (Pearson Test of English) or TOEFL instead.
When is the Chevening Scholarship opening?
From mid-November 2024 to January 2025, independent reading committees will assess all eligible applications.
Can you stay in the UK after a chevening scholarship?
All scholarship recipients must return to their home country or territory for two years right after finishing their programme.
Is there an age limit for Chevening Scholarships?
No. Chevening Scholarships have no upper age limit. Applicants of all ages are encouraged to apply if they meet the academic, work experience, and eligibility requirements.
Do Chevening Scholarships cover tuition or accommodation deposits?
No. Chevening does not pay university tuition or accommodation deposits. Scholars are responsible for these payments. Some universities may require a deposit to secure your admission or housing. Still, you can contact them directly to request a waiver or delayed payment once you confirm your Chevening funding.
What kind of questions are asked in a Chevening interview?
Chevening interviews usually include questions on leadership, networking, career goals, and motivation to study in the UK. You may be asked about your professional experience, reasons for choosing your course and university, and how you plan to use your skills to contribute to your home country after graduation.
Can I apply for Chevening without IELTS?
Yes. You can apply without IELTS if your chosen UK university accepts other forms of English proficiency, such as a medium of instruction (MOI) certificate or alternative accepted tests. Always check your university’s requirements before applying.
Is the Chevening Scholarship for Undergraduate Studies?
No. Chevening Scholarships are only for one-year, full-time master’s programs in the UK. They are not available for undergraduate degrees.
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