The Chevening South Asia Journalism Fellowship (SAJP) Program 2026 in the UK is a prestigious, fully funded opportunity designed for mid-career journalists from South Asian countries who want to expand their professional horizons, deepen leadership skills, and engage meaningfully with media’s role in democracy and governance. Hosted by the University of Westminster in London, this eight-week fellowship offers an immersive experience featuring specialized training, exposure to UK media practices, networking with influential peers, and a platform for enhancing media freedom and ethical journalism across South Asia.

Basic Information About the Internship

The Chevening SAJP Fellowship Program focuses on political and economic journalism across South Asia, targeting journalists mainly from Afghanistan, Bangladesh, India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, and the Maldives. The program duration is eight weeks and it takes place in London at the prestigious University of Westminster.

Application Deadline:
The last date to apply for the 2026-2027 fellowship cycle is 7 October 2025 at 12:00 UTC, making it crucial for applicants to prepare well in advance.

University/Institution Details

Host University: University of Westminster, London
The University of Westminster is renowned for its vibrant academic community and strong media and communication departments. Fellows will benefit from high-level workshops, seminars, and exclusive visits to leading UK media institutions and government offices. The university provides an inspiring environment for deepening journalistic expertise and leadership skills.

Study Areas

The fellowship program titled “Good Governance in a Changing World: The Media, Politics and Society” covers a range of vital topics including:

Media’s role in promoting democratic accountability and good governance in South Asia.
Challenges related to misinformation, media freedom, and press independence.
The impact of digital transformation on journalism, ethical reporting, social media influence, and audience engagement.
UK and South Asian comparative media practices and policies.
Engagement with political, civil service, and security sectors through interactive sessions.

Chevening SAJP Fellowship Program Benefits

The Chevening SAJP Fellowship is fully funded with comprehensive benefits, including:

Full program fees: All tuition and seminar-related expenses are covered.
Living expenses: A stipend provided monthly to cover accommodation, meals, personal expenses, travel, and other essentials.
Return economy airfare: Flights to and from the UK from the fellow’s country of residence.
Exclusive networking: Opportunities to build enduring connections with UK media professionals and journalists from South Asia.
Leadership training: Specialized modules to foster leadership skills essential for addressing the complex challenges in journalism today.
Workshops and visits: Access to UK’s top media organizations, policymakers, and academics.
Symposium participation: Fellows will run a symposium on an important media-related topic of their choice during the final week.

Benefits Not Included

While the fellowship is generous, some benefits are not included, such as:

Accommodation arrangements are typically the fellow’s responsibility or arranged through guidance provided but may not be fully funded.
Visa application fees and related immigration costs (candidates are advised to check specific guidelines).
Any personal travel expenses outside the official program or emergency medical costs beyond standard health coverage.

Eligibility Criteria for the Chevening SAJP Fellowship Program

To apply for the SAJP Fellowship, candidates must meet the following eligibility requirements:

Be a citizen of Afghanistan, Bangladesh, India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, or the Maldives.
Have a postgraduate qualification or equivalent professional experience in a relevant field at the time of application.
Possess at least seven years of professional work experience.
Be a mid-career journalist actively working in political or economic journalism within one of the eligible South Asian countries.
Have a proficient command of English (assessment may be part of the selection).
Must not hold British or dual British citizenship.
Commitment to returning to their home country after completing the fellowship for at least two years.

Required Documents for the Application

Applicants need to prepare and submit the following documents:

Valid passport.
Official transcripts and postgraduate degree certificates or proof of equivalent professional qualifications.
Curriculum Vitae (CV).
Two professional reference letters.
Supporting statements or essays as required in the online application.
Any additional documents proving eligibility or professional experience relevant to the fellowship.

Chevening SAJP Fellowship Program Application Process: Step-by-Step Guide

Check Eligibility: Confirm you meet all fellowship requirements.
Select Your Country: Begin your application on the Chevening website and select your country of citizenship.
Create an Account: Register on the official Chevening application portal.
Email Verification: Verify your email by clicking the link sent to your inbox.
Eligibility Questionnaire: Complete the eligibility questionnaire.
Personal and Academic Details: Fill in your personal information, education history, and professional experience.
Referees: Provide details for two professional referees.
Supporting Statements: Write and complete all required essays addressing leadership skills, career plans, and motivation.
Equal Opportunity Questions: Complete the equality and diversity section.
Submit Application: Review and submit by the deadline (7 October 2025 at 12:00 UTC).
Interviews: Shortlisted applicants are invited for interviews conducted by British embassies or high commissions.
Offer and Confirmation: Successful candidates receive offers and must provide unconditional UK university offers by July 2026.
Fellowship Start: Attend pre-departure briefings and begin the fellowship in London for 8 weeks.

Tips for a Successful Application

Start Early: Prepare your documents and essays well ahead of the deadline.
Demonstrate Leadership: Provide concrete examples of leadership and impact in your supporting statements.
Research Thoroughly: Understand how this fellowship aligns with your career goals and how studying in the UK will help.
Get Strong References: Obtain recommendation letters from credible and relevant professionals.
Clear and Concise Writing: Use simple, engaging language showing your passion for journalism and change.
Tailor Your Answer: Address how you will contribute to media freedom and democratic accountability in South Asia.
Proofread: Ensure your application is error-free and professional.

Monthly Living Expenses for International Students in the UK

While the fellowship covers living costs, budgeting wisely is important. Approximate monthly living expenses in London include:

Accommodation: £800–£1,200 (varies by type and location)
Food and groceries: £200–£300
Public transport: £100–£150
Communication (phone & internet): £30–£50
Personal expenses: £100–£200
Miscellaneous: £50–100

The stipend reflects higher costs in London and aims to cover these basic expenses during the fellowship.

Why Choose This Internship?

Fully Funded Experience: No financial burden with full coverage of fees, living expenses, and travel.
Prestigious UK Exposure: Learn and network at the University of Westminster, a hub for media studies.
Tailored Program: Focused curriculum addressing media’s critical role in democratic accountability and governance in South Asia and the UK.
Leadership Development: Gain critical skills to be a change-maker in the media industry.
Career Advancement: Open doors for future opportunities with global and regional media leaders.
Cultural Exchange: Meet diverse journalists, gaining insight into global media challenges and solutions.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Who can apply for the SAJP Fellowship?
A: Mid-career journalists from Afghanistan, Bangladesh, India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, and the Maldives with at least seven years’ work experience and postgraduate-level qualifications.

Q: What is the duration of the fellowship?
A: Eight weeks, held at the University of Westminster in London.

Q: What does the fellowship cover?
A: Full program fees, monthly living stipend, return airfare, and access to UK media institutions.

Q: Is English proficiency required?
A: Yes, applicants must demonstrate strong English skills.

Q: What is the application deadline?
A: 7 October 2025 at 12:00 UTC.

Q: Can I apply if I hold dual British citizenship?
A: No, applicants must not have British or dual British citizenship.

Q: Are accommodation costs included?
A: Accommodation is generally covered by the stipend, but not separately funded.

Official Link:

This comprehensive Chevening South Asia Journalism Fellowship (SAJP) provides a transformative platform for emerging media leaders dedicated to nurturing democracy and good governance in a rapidly changing South Asia. The fellowship’s holistic approach to learning, networking, and leadership development makes it a unique career accelerator for South Asian journalists ready to make a lasting impact. Applying ahead of the October deadline is crucial to embark on this remarkable journey in 2026.

Chevening SAJP Fellowship Program 2026 in the UK