UK Government Chevening Scholarship 2026 (Fully Funded)
Description
The UK Government has officially announced the Chevening Scholarship 2026-2027 application timeline, offering a golden opportunity for talented individuals from over 160 countries and territories—including Pakistan, India, Nigeria, Kenya, Ghana, and beyond—to apply for a fully funded Master's degree in the United Kingdom.
Every year, the prestigious Chevening Scholarships open doors for future leaders, influencers, and changemakers to study at top UK universities, completely funded by the UK’s Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO). With the 2026 intake fast approaching, here’s everything you need to know.
Why Apply for Chevening?
The Chevening UK Scholarship is more than just a degree—it's an opportunity to join a lifelong international community of over 55,000 alumni who are shaping the future of politics, media, development, tech, and business in their countries.
The programme focuses not just on academic success, but on building a strong network of next-generation leaders, with thousands of alumni going on to become ministers, CEOs, authors, and award-winning scientists.
Degree Level
UK Government Chevening Scholarship 2026 (Fully Funded) is available to undertake Masters level programs at UK Universities.
Available Subjects
Following subjects are available to study under this scholarship program.
- All Subjects
Benefits
Who Can Apply?
Chevening Scholarships are open to citizens of Chevening-eligible countries and territories. You must:
- Hold a bachelor’s degree (equivalent to a UK 2:1 honours degree)
- Have at least two years (2,800 hours) of work experience
- Demonstrate leadership potential and a strong academic record
- Apply to three different UK university courses
- Return to your home country for at least two years after the award
Whether you're a Pakistani civil servant, a Ghanaian entrepreneur, an Indian researcher, or a Nigerian NGO worker, if you meet the criteria, Chevening could be your launchpad to global impact.
Eligible Nationalities
Open to applicants of all nationalities.
Eligibility Criteria
Chevening Scholarships are open to citizens of Chevening-eligible countries and territories. You must:
- Hold a bachelor’s degree (equivalent to a UK 2:1 honours degree)
- Have at least two years (2,800 hours) of work experience
- Demonstrate leadership potential and a strong academic record
- Apply to three different UK university courses
- Return to your home country for at least two years after the award
Whether you're a Pakistani civil servant, a Ghanaian entrepreneur, an Indian researcher, or a Nigerian NGO worker, if you meet the criteria, Chevening could be your launchpad to global impact.
Application Procedure
The application portal will open on 5 August 2025 via chevening.org/apply. Applicants are encouraged to start researching UK universities and preparing their statements of purpose, letters of recommendation, and work experience records now.
Chevening 2026: What to Do Now
If you're aiming for the Chevening Scholarship 2026-2027 intake, here are your next steps:
- Check your country’s eligibility on chevening.org/eligibility
- Research UK university programs aligned with your career goals
- Prepare professional references from supervisors, managers, or mentors
- Write compelling personal statements that show leadership, influence, and commitment to positive change
- Mark key deadlines to avoid disqualification
Chevening Scholarship 2026–2027 Application Timeline
- 5 August 2025: Applications open at 12:00 UTC
- 7 October 2025: Applications close at 12:00 UTC/GMT
- October 2025: Initial eligibility screening and sifting begins
- Mid-Oct 2025 – Jan 2026: Independent reading committees assess all eligible applications
- Mid-February 2026: Shortlisted applicants are notified and invited for interviews
- March – April 2026: Interview period at UK embassies and high commissions
- Mid-June 2026: Final selection results are announced
- 9 July 2026: Deadline to submit at least one unconditional UK university offer
- September/October 2026: Scholars begin their studies in the UK
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. Can I apply for the Chevening Scholarship while still studying my bachelor's degree?
- No. You must have completed your undergraduate degree before applying. Only candidates with a completed bachelor’s qualification are eligible.
Q2. Can I apply if I already studied in the UK before?
Yes, but you must not have received UK Government funding previously. Applicants who studied self-funded are welcome.
Q3. Are there age restrictions for Chevening?
There is no age limit to apply. As long as you meet the academic and experience requirements, you're eligible.
Q4. Can I apply for the Chevening Scholarship if I am from a non-eligible country?
Unfortunately, only nationals of Chevening-eligible countries can apply. Citizens of non-eligible countries are not considered under this program.
Final Reminder
With over 60,000+ applicants annually, competition for the Chevening Scholarship is intense. However, with a strong personal story, clear career goals, and dedication to your home country’s development, your application can stand out.
- Start preparing early, focus on impact, and let your story inspire. This is your path to the UK—and beyond.
- For official application details, visit: https://www.chevening.org
