The Chevening Clore Leadership Fellowship in the United Kingdom stands as a top-tier, fully funded opportunity for mid-career professionals to develop world-class leadership skills and expand their impact in the vibrant fields of arts, culture, heritage, and media. Whether you’re a visionary seeking growth or an innovator aiming to create lasting change, this fellowship is dedicated to nurturing your journey as a cultural leader.

Basic Information About the Chevening Clore Leadership Fellowship

• Title: Chevening Clore Leadership Fellowship 2026
• Host Institution: Clore Leadership, in partnership with the UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO)
• Duration: Approximately 8–9 months (September 2026 – May 2027)
• Location: United Kingdom
• Application Deadline: October 7, 2025, at 12:00 UTC
• Number of International Fellowships: Up to five per year

University/Institution Details

This fellowship is jointly managed by Clore Leadership, a leading body in UK cultural leadership training, and the British government’s FCDO. Fellows join a cohort alongside UK professionals, gaining accelerated access to influential cultural organizations like museums, libraries, performing arts centers, heritage bodies, and cutting-edge digital media institutions.

Study Areas & Professional Focus

The Chevening Clore Leadership Fellowship welcomes candidates from several specialties, including:

• Performing and Visual Arts
• Museums, Archives, and Heritage
• Libraries
• Film and Digital Media
• Cultural Policy and Practice
• Media and Broadcasting

This multidisciplinary approach means the programme is perfect for those working at the crossroads of creativity and culture, aiming to drive strategic transformation within their home regions.

Chevening Clore Leadership Fellowship Benefits: What’s Included

As a Chevening Clore Fellow, you enjoy unparalleled benefits, all fully funded:

• Two return economy flights: Covers travel from your home country to the UK and back
• Accommodation in the UK
• Monthly living expenses: Designed to support day-to-day costs while in the UK
• Training and development: Fees for courses, workshops, and conferences included
• UK travel costs
• Customised Learning Plan: Tailored professional growth and research activities, often including access to exclusive sector events and networking
• 4–6 week secondment: Work on live projects in a UK cultural institution—expanding your skills beyond your usual work environment
• Mentorship or coaching: Individualised career support
• 360° Leadership Assessment: Professional evaluation and growth mapping
• Written leadership paper: An original research piece to advance dialogue in your field

These elements shape a transformative, immersive experience that brings together theory, practice, and networking to set leaders apart globally.

Benefits NOT Included

While the fellowship is comprehensive, certain expenses are not covered:

• Dependent costs: Family or children accompanying you will not be funded
• Personal travel outside UK programme activities
• Visa fees outside those specified by the fellowship
• Non-programme related expenses (e.g., holidays, entertainment, personal shopping)

Make sure to budget for these potential out-of-pocket items before you travel.

Eligibility Criteria for the Chevening Clore Leadership Fellowship

To secure your spot as a Chevening Clore Fellow, you must:

• Be a citizen and resident of one of the eligible countries: Brazil, China, Egypt, India, Jordan, Lebanon, Mexico, or South Africa
• Hold an undergraduate degree equivalent to at least a UK 2:2, or exhibit substantial professional knowledge by experience (minimum 5 years)
• Prove leadership potential through a solid professional track record
• Possess a good working knowledge of English (assessed through your application and interviews)
• Be willing to return to your country after the fellowship ends
• Not hold British or dual-British citizenship
• Not be employed (nor a relative of employees) by the UK government, FCDO, British Council, or UK sponsoring universities within the last two years
• Wait five years before reapplying if previously awarded another UK government fellowship, demonstrating clear career progression since

Chevening Gurukul Fellowship 2026 in the UK: Your Gateway to Leadership Excellence

Required Documents for the Application

Prepare the following documents to ensure your application is complete:

• Online application form: Leadership, vision, networking, and impact essays
• CV/Resume
• Degree certificate or equivalent professional proof
• Evidence of English proficiency (if required)
• Two references (professional or academic)
• Valid passport or national ID
• Proof of residency in an eligible country

Internship Application Process: Step-by-Step Guide

1. Register on the Chevening portal: Visit the official Chevening website to begin
2. Create an account: Fill out basic details and verify your email
3. Complete the online application: Respond to essay prompts about leadership, career vision, and impact—demonstrate your fit for the programme
4. Upload supporting documents: Submit CV, references, academic documents, English proficiency, and proof of citizenship
5. Review and submit: Make sure you fill out every section accurately before you send off your application.
6. Selection and interview: The fellowship team will contact shortlisted candidates for an interview.
7. Final results: The fellowship administrators will inform successful applicants.

Tips for a Successful Application

• Start early: Applications close October 7, 2025, so give yourself ample time
• Be strategic in your essays: Use concrete examples to showcase your leadership, vision, and impact
• Network with alumni: Their insights can help strengthen your application
• Tailor your application: Address how the fellowship will propel your unique goals
• Stay authentic: Let your personality and passion shine
• Proofread thoroughly: Errors undermine professionalism
• Prepare references: Choose referees who know your work and leadership abilities well

Monthly Living Expenses for International Students (UK Average)

Living costs in the UK for international students, including Chevening Clore Fellows, typically range from £1,100–£1,400 per month. This covers accommodation, basic utilities, food, local transport, and personal needs. Major cities like London may require a higher budget, while smaller towns can be more affordable.

• Accommodation: £500–£800
• Food & utilities: £150–£250
• Local transport: £80–£150
• Miscellaneous/personal: £200–£250

Your fellowship stipend is designed to sufficiently cover these core expenses.

Why Choose the Chevening Clore Leadership Fellowship?

• World-class networking: Connect with influential leaders in arts and culture
• Tailored professional route: Each fellow embarks on a path customized to their strengths and ambitions
• Prestige: Chevening and Clore Leadership are recognized globally for excellence
• Transformative learning: Go far beyond classroom teaching—gain real-world experience and sector insight
• International exposure: Immerse yourself in the UK creative community
• Fully funded: No major financial barriers for those selected!

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Is the Clore Leadership Fellowship a degree course?
No, it’s a non-accredited professional development programme—designed for personal and sectoral leadership growth.

Q2: Do I need to have worked in the cultural sector only?
While most fellows come from arts, culture, heritage, or media fields, individuals with transferable leadership skills may apply if their experience aligns with the sectors listed.

Q3: Can I bring my family?
The fellowship does not cover costs for spouses or children. You must arrange independent funding if you wish for family members to join you.

Q4: Is English language testing mandatory?
You must demonstrate a strong working knowledge of English (typically via existing proficiency or assessed in your application/interview).

Q5: What happens after the fellowship ends?
You are expected to return home and apply your newly refined leadership skills to benefit your country and the broader cultural sector.

Q6: What are the chances of selection?
Selection is competitive, with only five international spots awarded annually. Prior leadership achievement and clear future vision are key factors.

Official Link:

Boost Your Career with Global Leadership Expertise

The Chevening Clore Leadership Fellowship in UK 2026 is more than just a professional opportunity—it is a career-defining, life-changing step for cultural leaders passionate about impact, innovation, and collaboration. If you fulfill the eligibility criteria and are prepared to lead with purpose, apply before October 7, 2025, and set your sights on a uniquely rewarding journey.