The Chevening Scholarship 2026 is a prestigious, fully funded opportunity for international students who aspire to pursue a master’s degree in the United Kingdom. Renowned for developing future leaders and influencers globally, Chevening is highly competitive and offers not only financial support, but unparalleled access to the UK’s academic, cultural, and professional networks.
Basic Information about Chevening Scholarships 2026
- What is Chevening?
- 2026 Application Timeline:
University/Institution Details
- Eligibility: Chevening Scholarships are valid at any UK university that offers full-time, taught master’s programs that begin in autumn.
- Course Finder: Applicants must list and apply to three eligible master’s programs via the Chevening Course Finder tool on the official website.
- Partner Institutions: Chevening partners with flagship universities like University of Kent, University of Bristol, as well as over 100 others across the UK.
Study Areas (Available Program Names)
- Eligible Courses: Any one-year, full-time, taught master’s program at a participating UK university, with the exception of distance learning, part-time courses, and postgraduate research programs.
- Fields: Ranges widely to include Science, Engineering, Law, Social Sciences, Arts and Humanities, Business, Environment, Health, Policy, and more.
- How to Search: Use the Chevening Course Finder to locate eligible programs matching your goals.
Scholarship Benefits
What’s Included:
- Full university tuition fees.
- Monthly living stipend, adjusted for London or outside London.
- Economy-class travel to and from your country.
- Arrival and departure allowances to help with transition costs.
- UK entry clearance (visa) fees.
- Travel top-up allowance and, where required, up to £75 for TB testing.
- Travel grant for attending exclusive Chevening events in the UK.
What’s Not Included
- Accommodation costs: Not paid directly, but the monthly stipend is designed to help cover your rent and living costs.
- Family or dependent support: You must budget separately if bringing dependents; Chevening does not support family members.
- Personal expenses: Insurance, additional travel, or entertainment are not covered.
- Graduate Route Visa: Chevening scholars cannot apply for the post-study Graduate Route Visa and must return home for at least two years after completing the scholarship.
Eligibility Criteria for the Chevening Scholarship
- Citizenship of a Chevening-eligible country.
- Commitment to return to your home country for a minimum of two years after the scholarship ends.
- Completed undergraduate degree (equivalent to UK 2:1 honors or university-specific requirement).
- At least two years (2,800 hours) of full-time work experience.
- Application to three different eligible UK master’s programs.
- Receipt of an unconditional offer from at least one course by July 9, 2026.
- Not previously funded by a UK government scholarship unless eligible.
- Not an employee, relative of employees, or past employee (within last 2 years) of UK government, Chevening Secretariat, or certain partner organizations (with minimal exceptions).
Required Documents for Application
- Valid passport or ID
- Academic transcripts and degree certificates
- Curriculum Vitae (CV) or résumé
- Two reference letters (can be submitted later in the process)
- English language proficiency evidence (if required by the university)
- Conditional and unconditional offers from chosen UK master’s programs
- Professional/work experience documentation
Scholarship Application Process: Step-by-Step Guide
- Prepare: Ensure you meet all eligibility criteria and build a strong profile with leadership experience and a clear career plan.
- Choose Courses: Research and select three eligible UK master’s degrees.
- Create an Account: Go to the Chevening Application website and complete personal details, including academic and work history.
- Answer Eligibility Quiz: Complete the Chevening eligibility check.
- Fill the Application: Write compelling essays about your leadership, networking, and career plans, and upload all required documents.
- Submit Application: Review thoroughly for completeness and submit before the October 7 deadline.
- Shortlisting & Interviews: If selected, attend an interview at your local UK Embassy/High Commission between March–April 2026.
- Upload References: Submit reference letters by the required deadline if invited to interview.
- Secure Admission: Receive and upload at least one unconditional offer by July 9, 2026.
- Confirmation: Receive scholarship results in mid-June 2026 and proceed with visa and pre-departure arrangements.
Tips for a Successful Application
- Start Early: Research courses and prepare documentation well ahead of deadlines.
- Personal Statement: Write a focused, authentic statement that highlights leadership, achievements, and career goals.
- Demonstrate Impact: Use specific examples to showcase how you have influenced your field or community.
- Tailor Each Answer: Address essay prompts directly and keep your narrative consistent.
- Choose Strong References: Select recommenders with direct knowledge of your accomplishments and potential.
- Proofread: Eliminate errors, and seek feedback from mentors or former Chevening scholars.
- Show Cultural Sensitivity: Demonstrate an understanding of the UK and your home country’s context.
- Plan Post-Return: Clearly outline how the scholarship will benefit your country after you return.
Monthly Living Expenses for International Students in the UK (in USD)
| Location | Monthly Living Expenses (£) | Equivalent in USD (Aug 2025) |
|---|---|---|
| London | £1,300–£1,800 | $1,650–$2,285 |
| Outside London | £900–£1,100 | $1,145–$1,400 |
| UK-wide average | £1,100–£1,400 | $1,400–$1,780 |
- Exchange Rate Used: 1 GBP ≈ 1.27 USD (Aug 2025 estimate)
- Major expenses: Rent, groceries, utilities, transportation, personal items.
Why Choose the Chevening Scholarship? (5 Top Reasons)
- Full financial support for tuition, living costs, and travel—removing major financial barriers.
- Unrivaled access to UK’s world-class universities, research, and cultural life.
- Exclusive networking opportunities with fellow scholars, alumni, and UK experts and leaders.
- Leadership and career growth—Chevening alumni are global influencers, policymakers, and industry leaders.
- Flexible choice of master’s programs and universities, giving you control over your academic development.
- Powerful global alumni network—more than 60,000 Chevening graduates leading change worldwide.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Chevening Scholarship
1. Does Chevening cover full tuition fees?
Yes, it covers full tuition for a one-year master’s program.
2. Does the stipend cover all my costs, including accommodation?
The monthly stipend is intended to cover major living expenses, including rent. However, budgeting is important, especially for students studying in London, where costs are higher.
3. Can I bring my family with me?
No, Chevening does not cover dependent or family costs.
4. Can I apply for more than one course?
Yes, you must list three eligible programs with your application and ensure at least one unconditional offer by the deadline.
5. Do I need to return to my country after my studies?
Yes, you must commit to return to your home country for at least two years after completing your degree, as part of the scholarship agreement.
6. Can I work in the UK after my studies?
No, Chevening scholars are not eligible for the UK’s Graduate Route Visa and are expected to return home.
7. How competitive is the scholarship?
Very. Over 1,000 scholarships are awarded yearly from many thousands of applicants globally.
8. What if my country’s deadline is different?
Double-check your country/territory’s application page for specific variations or updates.
Bottom Line: If you’re a motivated, ambitious leader with a clear vision for positive change in your country, the Chevening Scholarship 2026 provides a comprehensive pathway to a world-class UK education, invaluable networking, and lasting professional growth. Prepare your application early, align your goals, and take the next step toward becoming a global changemaker!