The Chevening Scholarships 2027/28 are still open for applications, giving ambitious professionals from eligible countries and territories the opportunity to pursue a one-year taught master’s degree in the United Kingdom on a fully funded scholarship. It is a fully Funded UK Government Master’s Scholarship. All the eligibility requirements, benefits of successful applicants and how to Apply for admission is explained as we progress.
This scholarships is funded by the UK Government through the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO). Chevening is designed for emerging leaders who can demonstrate leadership potential, professional experience and a clear vision for creating positive change in their home countries.
For the 2027/28 academic year, applications opened on 4 August 2026 at 11:00 UTC and close on 6 October 2026 at 11:00 UTC. Successful candidates will begin their studies in the UK in September/October 2027.
Chevening is highly competitive. Applicants are assessed not only on academic qualifications but also on leadership, networking, career planning and their ability to demonstrate meaningful future impact. The application itself is free, and Chevening strongly advises applicants to submit original answers written in their own words.
Facts & Quick Verification Tracker for Chevening Scholarships 2027
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Scholarship | Chevening Scholarships |
| Academic year | 2027/28 |
| Host country | United Kingdom |
| Degree level | Master’s |
| Study format | One-year taught master’s |
| Funding | Fully funded |
| Provider | UK Government / Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office |
| Applications opened | 4 August 2026 |
| Application deadline | 6 October 2026, 11:00 UTC |
| Interview period | March–April 2027 |
| Results | From mid-June 2027 |
| Offer deadline | 8 July 2027, 17:00 BST |
| Studies begin | September/October 2027 |
| Work experience | Minimum 2,800 hours |
| Age limit | No upper age limit |
| Number of courses | Three eligible UK master’s courses |
| Application fee | Free |
| Application platform | Official Chevening online application system |
The dates above are taken from the official Chevening 2027/28 application timeline.
Scholarship or Fellowship Coverage & Requirements Matrix
| Requirement/Benefit | Chevening 2027/28 |
|---|---|
| Tuition fees | Covered |
| Monthly living allowance | Included |
| Return economy airfare | Included |
| Arrival allowance | Included |
| Departure allowance | Included for eligible scholars |
| Visa application cost | Covered |
| Travel to/from the UK | Covered under the award terms |
| One-year master’s | Yes |
| Undergraduate degree | Required |
| Work experience | Minimum 2,800 hours |
| Leadership potential | Required |
| Networking ability | Required |
| Career plan | Required |
| Return home | Required after the award |
| University admission | Required |
| English language | No separate Chevening English requirement, but universities set their own requirements |
Chevening describes its scholarships as fully funded and designed to allow scholars to concentrate on their studies and professional development.
Official Source & Portal Verification
The safest way to apply is through the official Chevening website.
- Official Chevening website: Chevening Scholarships
- Official application page: Chevening Apply – Select Your Country/Territory
- Official application timeline: Chevening 2027/28 Application Timeline
Chevening states that applications must be completed through its online application system. Applicants should begin by selecting their country or territory on the official application page.
For Nigerian applicants, the official country page is: Chevening Scholarships – Nigeria
The Step-by-Step Roadmap to Apply for Chevening Scholarships 2027
Step 1: Check Your Eligibility
Before spending time on the application, make sure you satisfy all Chevening eligibility requirements.
Step 2: Research Eligible Master’s Courses
You need to select three eligible UK master’s courses. They should support your professional background and long-term career objectives.
Step 3: Develop Your Leadership Examples
Chevening wants evidence rather than simply claims. Think about situations where you:
- Led a project
- Solved a problem
- Influenced others
- Created an initiative
- Managed a team
- Volunteered
- Built partnerships
- Achieved measurable results
Step 4: Develop Your Networking Examples
Consider how you have built and maintained professional relationships and how those relationships produced positive outcomes.
Step 5: Prepare Your Career Plan
Explain what you want to accomplish after your master’s degree and how your proposed UK education will help you achieve those goals.
Step 6: Complete the Chevening Application
Complete the online application through the official system before 6 October 2026 at 11:00 UTC.
Step 7: Apply to Your Universities
You apply directly to your selected UK universities. Chevening does not submit university applications on your behalf.
Step 8: Submit References and Documents
If shortlisted, you will need to provide the required supporting documentation, including references and your undergraduate degree documentation.
Step 9: Attend the Interview
Shortlisted candidates are invited to interviews held at British embassies and high commissions between March and April 2027.
Step 10: Secure an Unconditional University Offer
Successful candidates must submit at least one unconditional offer from an eligible UK university course by 8 July 2027 at 17:00 BST.
Supporting Academic Collaboration
Chevening is more than a conventional tuition scholarship. Scholars join an international community of professionals and future leaders.
During their year in the UK, scholars have opportunities to develop academic relationships, interact with professionals from different countries and build networks that can continue after graduation.
The programme’s alumni community now numbers more than 60,000 people, creating a substantial international network of Chevening scholars and alumni.
Duration and Funding Opportunities of Chevening Scholarships 2027
Chevening Scholarships normally support a one-year taught master’s programme in the UK.
The award is designed to cover the major costs associated with studying in the UK, including tuition and living expenses.
The scholarship package can include:
- University tuition fees
- Monthly stipend
- Return economy-class airfare
- Arrival allowance
- Departure allowance where applicable
- Cost of an entry-clearance visa
- Travel-related allowances
- Other approved allowances under Chevening’s award terms
Because the exact award arrangements can change, applicants should consult their final award documentation for the benefits applicable to them.
Focus on Development Through Scientific Research
Chevening scholarships are not restricted to one academic discipline. Eligible applicants can choose master’s programmes across a broad range of subjects, including science, technology, engineering, health, economics, development studies, public policy, environmental studies, law, education, business, arts and humanities.
However, Chevening scholarships are specifically for one-year taught master’s courses, rather than PhD programmes or undergraduate degrees.
Applicants pursuing scientific or technical subjects should clearly connect their proposed study to their career plans and the challenges they intend to address after returning home.
For example, a prospective scholar might use a UK master’s programme to develop expertise in:
- Renewable energy
- Climate change
- Public health
- Artificial intelligence
- Data science
- Engineering
- Environmental management
- Agricultural technology
- Biotechnology
- Digital transformation
The strongest application is not necessarily the one with the most impressive academic subject. It is the one where the applicant can clearly explain why the course matters and how it fits into a credible career trajectory.
Growing Importance of International Research Partnerships
International education creates opportunities for scholars to connect with professionals, researchers, policymakers and other students from different countries.
For Chevening scholars, these relationships can become valuable professional networks after graduation.
A strong applicant should therefore consider:
- What relationships do I need to build in the UK?
- How will those relationships contribute to my career?
- What can I contribute to the Chevening community?
Chevening places significant emphasis on networking and influence, making this an important part of the application rather than an optional extra.
Fellowship Mission of Chevening Scholarships 2027
Although commonly described as a scholarship, Chevening is also designed as a leadership-development programme.
Its broader purpose is to equip exceptional professionals with UK education, international networks and experiences that can help them contribute to positive change in their countries and globally.
The programme therefore looks beyond academic grades.
Applicants should demonstrate:
- Leadership potential
- Professional ambition
- Networking skills
- A clear career direction
- Commitment to positive change
- The ability to explain how UK study fits into their future
Research Expectations and Academic Responsibilities
Chevening scholars are expected to perform successfully on an intensive master’s programme.
Before applying, applicants should ensure that their chosen course is academically appropriate and that they understand its entry requirements.
The scholarship does not remove the normal academic requirements of the university.
You will still need to:
- Complete assignments
- Attend classes
- Meet academic deadlines
- Satisfy university progression requirements
- Complete the master’s programme
- Comply with university and Chevening rules
Scholarship or Fellowship Overview and Academic Purpose
The Chevening Scholarship provides emerging leaders with the opportunity to undertake a one-year master’s degree in the UK.
The programme is particularly suitable for professionals who have already gained meaningful experience and now require advanced education to move to the next stage of their careers.
Chevening does not require applicants to have a specific undergraduate major. What matters is that the degree qualifies you for postgraduate study and that your proposed master’s course supports your career objectives.
What This Fellowship Offers (The Advantage)
The major advantage of Chevening is the combination of full financial support, a UK master’s education and access to a global leadership network.
Instead of focusing only on tuition assistance, the programme gives scholars the opportunity to:
- Study at a UK university
- Develop advanced professional expertise
- Build international relationships
- Experience British academic and cultural life
- Connect with other future leaders
- Join the global Chevening alumni community
- Return home with new knowledge and networks
Chevening describes its scholars as people equipped to use their knowledge and networks to bring their ideas to life after completing their studies.
Features of the Fellowship
Fully Funded Master’s Study
Chevening provides financial support for eligible scholars undertaking a qualifying master’s degree.
One-Year Programme
The scholarship is designed for one-year taught master’s courses.
No Upper Age Limit
There is no upper age limit for Chevening Scholarship applicants.
Global Network
Scholars join a large international alumni community.
Leadership Focus
Applicants must demonstrate leadership potential and influence.
Professional Experience
Applicants must have at least 2,800 hours of work experience gained after completing their undergraduate degree.
Three Course Choices
Applicants select three eligible master’s courses, providing flexibility if their preferred option does not work out.
Eligible Academic Fields / Courses
Chevening does not limit its scholarships to one particular academic discipline.
Eligible courses can span areas such as:
- Business and management
- Economics
- Finance
- Engineering
- Computer science
- Artificial intelligence
- Data science
- Public health
- Medicine-related master’s programmes where eligible
- Environmental science
- Climate studies
- Development studies
- International relations
- Public policy
- Law
- Education
- Agriculture
- Energy
- Architecture
- Social sciences
- Arts and humanities
However, not every master’s course is eligible. Applicants must use Chevening’s course guidance and ensure that their selected programmes satisfy the scholarship’s course requirements.
Chevening’s official course guidance also confirms that applicants apply directly to their chosen universities.
Who can Apply
Chevening Scholarships are aimed at emerging leaders from eligible countries and territories.
A successful applicant generally needs to demonstrate:
- Citizenship of an eligible country or territory
- An eligible undergraduate degree
- At least 2,800 hours of post-undergraduate work experience
- Leadership potential
- Networking ability
- A clear career plan
- Commitment to returning to their country after the scholarship
For applicants from Nigeria, Chevening has a dedicated Nigeria programme page and application information.
Key Eligibility Requirements
1. Citizenship
You must be a citizen of a Chevening-eligible country or territory.
2. Undergraduate Degree
You must have completed an undergraduate degree that enables you to gain admission to a UK postgraduate programme. This is typically comparable to a UK upper second-class (2:1) degree, although universities determine their own admission requirements.
3. Work Experience
You need at least 2,800 hours of work experience after completing your undergraduate degree.
Accepted forms can include:
- Full-time employment
- Part-time employment
- Voluntary work
- Paid internships
- Unpaid internships
You can use up to 15 separate employment periods to reach the required total.
4. Choose Eligible Courses
You must apply for three eligible UK master’s courses.
5. Return to Your Home Country
You must agree to return to your country of citizenship for at least two years after your award ends, under the applicable Chevening terms.
6. Previous UK Government Scholarship
Applicants must not have previously studied in the UK through a UK Government-funded scholarship.
7. British Citizenship
Applicants with British or dual British citizenship are generally not eligible for Chevening.
8. English Language
Chevening itself no longer has a separate English-language test requirement. However, your chosen university may require proof of English proficiency.
Study Period and funding of Chevening Scholarships 2027
Chevening scholars begin their master’s studies in the UK during September/October 2027.
The scholarship supports a one-year taught master’s programme.
The award is designed to provide financial support for tuition, living expenses and travel, allowing scholars to concentrate on their academic and professional development.
Applicants should nevertheless read the terms attached to their individual award because specific allowances and payment arrangements may vary.
What Past Winners & Student Forums Say about Chevening Scholarships 2027
Chevening alumni and applicants frequently discuss the scholarship experience in online communities and professional networks.
These discussions can be useful for understanding issues such as:
- Writing application essays
- Selecting universities
- Preparing for interviews
- Choosing courses
- Preparing for life in the UK
- Building professional networks
However, applicants should distinguish personal experiences from official requirements. Chevening’s official guidance should always take priority over advice from social media groups, forums or consultants.
One especially important point is that Chevening explicitly prohibits applicants from using AI software to generate their application answers. Chevening states that applications should be original and warns that it uses tools to identify fraud, plagiarism and AI-generated answers.
Applicants should therefore use this article for understanding the process but write their actual Chevening application answers themselves.
About the University offering this Scholarship or Fellowship
Does Chevening belong to one UK university?
No.
Chevening is not a scholarship offered by one specific university. It is a UK Government scholarship programme that allows successful scholars to study eligible master’s courses at participating UK universities.
Applicants choose their own eligible courses and apply directly to the universities. This means prospective applicants can consider universities across the UK, including institutions in:
- England
- Scotland
- Wales
- Northern Ireland
The best university for an applicant depends on the selected field, course content, career objectives, entry requirements and personal preferences.
Applicants should not select a university simply because it is prestigious. The course itself should be closely connected to their career plan and Chevening application.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Chevening fully funded?
Yes. Chevening describes its standard scholarships as fully funded awards for one-year master’s study in the UK.
Can I apply if I already have a master’s degree?
Yes. Chevening confirms that applicants who already hold a master’s degree may still apply, provided they meet the other requirements and gain admission to their chosen course.
Is there an age limit?
There is no upper age limit for Chevening Scholarship applicants.
How much work experience do I need?
You need at least 2,800 hours of eligible work experience gained after completing your undergraduate degree.
Can I apply without a job?
Yes, you can still apply if your qualifying 2,800 hours of experience have been accumulated through eligible employment, voluntary work or internships. You do not have to be employed at the time of application.
Can I choose any master’s course?
No. You must select courses that meet Chevening’s eligibility requirements. You can select three courses.
Do I need IELTS for Chevening?
Chevening does not impose its own English-language requirement, but your chosen university may require IELTS, TOEFL or another accepted qualification.
Can I apply for a PhD?
No. Standard Chevening Scholarships are for one-year taught master’s degrees, not PhD programmes.
Do I need admission before applying for Chevening?
You do not need to have a university offer before submitting the initial Chevening application. However, if successful, you must secure and submit at least one unconditional offer by the specified deadline.
Is the Chevening application free?
Yes. Chevening states that applying for the scholarship is free and warns applicants against paying third parties to submit an application.
Current Application Deadlines for Chevening Scholarships 2027:
For the Chevening Scholarships 2027/28:
- Applications opened: 4 August 2026 at 11:00 UTC
- Applications close: 6 October 2026 at 11:00 UTC
- Eligibility screening: From October 2026
- Reading committee assessment: Mid-October 2026 to January 2027
- Interview shortlist: Mid-February 2027
- Interviews: March–April 2027
- Results: From mid-June 2027
- Unconditional university offer deadline: 8 July 2027 at 17:00 BST
- Studies begin: September/October 2027
For applicants in Nigeria, the official Chevening Nigeria page should also be monitored for country-specific updates.
Contact Information for Applicants
Chevening directs applicants to its online resources for most application questions.
For technical problems involving access to the online application system, applicants can use the Chevening applicant contact information provided on the official website. Chevening notes that its applicant inbox is specifically monitored for queries related to accessing the online application system.
The Official Contact Page: Chevening Contact
Applicants should check the official FAQs, application guidance and country page before contacting Chevening, as many common questions are already addressed online.
How To Apply
Step 1: Visit the Official Chevening Website
Go to the official Chevening application page: Apply for a Chevening Award
Step 2: Select Your Country
Select the country of which you are a citizen. Chevening explains that applicants should apply from their country of citizenship, subject to the programme’s applicable residence rules.
Step 3: Complete the Eligibility Check
Confirm that you meet the citizenship, academic, work-experience and other requirements.
Step 4: Research Your Three Courses
Choose three eligible one-year master’s courses that support your career goals.
Do not select courses simply because they are highly ranked. Your choices should tell a coherent story about your professional development.
Step 5: Complete the Online Application
Provide your:
- Personal information
- Academic background
- Work experience
- Leadership examples
- Networking examples
- Course choices
- Career plans
- References and other required information
Step 6: Write Your Essays Yourself
This is extremely important. Chevening states that AI software must not be used to generate answers for the application. Your essays should be original and based on your own experiences.
Step 7: Submit Before the Deadline
Submit the application before:
6 October 2026 at 11:00 UTC
Do not wait until the final hours to submit.
Step 8: Apply to Your Universities
Submit separate applications to your selected UK universities. University deadlines differ, so check each institution’s website.
Step 9: Prepare for the Interview
If shortlisted, prepare examples demonstrating your leadership, networking, career plans and motivation for studying in the UK.
Step 10: Secure Your Unconditional Offer
If selected, submit at least one unconditional offer from an eligible UK university by 8 July 2027 at 17:00 BST.
Step 11: Begin Your UK Master’s
Successful scholars will begin their studies in September/October 2027 and become part of the international Chevening network
Concluding Remarks
The Chevening Scholarships 2027/28 represent one of the UK’s major international scholarship opportunities for professionals who want to combine postgraduate education with leadership development and international networking.
The scholarship provides funding for a one-year taught master’s degree in the UK, with the award designed to cover major study and living costs. But Chevening is about more than financial support. The programme seeks applicants who can demonstrate leadership potential, professional experience, strong networks and a realistic plan for creating positive change after their studies.
For the 2027/28 intake, applications opened on 4 August 2026 and close on 6 October 2026 at 11:00 UTC. Candidates should therefore begin preparing their application well before the deadline.
The most important steps are to verify your eligibility, accumulate the required 2,800 hours of work experience, choose three suitable master’s courses, develop strong leadership and networking examples, create a convincing career plan and submit an original application.
Finally, applicants should be particularly careful about application assistance. Chevening says the application is free and explicitly prohibits the use of AI software to generate application answers. Your experiences, achievements and ambitions should therefore be presented in your own authentic voice.
- Official application: Chevening Apply for all Countries
- Official 2027/28 timeline: Chevening Application Timeline
- For Nigerian applicants: Chevening Nigeria – Apply Now
- For Kenyans: Chevening Scholarship Kenya Constituency
- South African: Application Open for Chevening Scholarship in South Africa