Chevening Scholarship 2025/2026: How to Apply, Eligibility, Deadline, and Selection Process [Updated Guide]

Chevening Scholarship 2025/2026

Are you an ambitious student dreaming of a fully funded Master’s degree in the UK? The Chevening Scholarship 2025/2026 offers you a life-changing opportunity to study in world-class universities, network with global leaders, and build skills to impact your home country. This guide provides the latest information on how to apply for Chevening Scholarship, eligibility, deadlines, and selection process.

What is the Chevening Scholarship?

The Chevening Scholarship is a UK government international scholarship program, funded by the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) and partner organizations. It offers fully funded one-year Master’s degree programs at any UK university for exceptional leaders from over 160 countries, including Nigeria, Ghana, India, and more.

The scholarship covers:

Full tuition fees
Monthly living allowance
Travel costs to and from the UK
Visa fees
A travel grant to attend Chevening events

Latest Update for Chevening 2025/2026

As of August 2025, the Chevening Scholarship application portal will open on 12 August 2025 and close on 7 November 2025.

👉 Apply via the official portal: https://www.chevening.org/apply

Applicants are encouraged to start gathering their documents and preparing their Chevening essays ahead of time.

Chevening Scholarship 2025 Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible for the Chevening Scholarship 2025/2026, you must:

Be a citizen of a Chevening-eligible country
Return to your country of citizenship for a minimum of two years after the award ends
Hold a bachelor’s degree (equivalent to at least a 2:1 in the UK)
Have at least two years (2,800 hours) of work experience
Apply to three eligible UK university courses and have an unconditional offer from one by 11 July 2026
Meet the Chevening English language requirements (IELTS is no longer mandatory, but proof of proficiency may be required by the university)

How to Apply for Chevening Scholarship in Nigeria and Other Countries

Create an account on the Chevening online application system: https://chevening.smartsimpleuk.com
Submit your application with:
- Academic certificates
- References
- Four required essays:
  - Leadership and influence
  - Networking
  - Study in the UK
  - Career plan
Choose three eligible UK master’s courses
Submit before the deadline: 7 November 2025

Chevening Timeline 2025/2026

Applications open: 12 August 2025
Deadline to apply: 7 November 2025
Shortlisting for interviews: February 2026
Interviews conducted: March – April 2026
Results released: June 2026
UK departure & university start: September 2026

Tips for a Successful Application

Be authentic and clear in your essays.
Focus on your leadership experience and future plans to impact your home country.
Ensure your selected UK courses align with your professional goals.
Begin early—request references and prepare documents in advance.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is IELTS required for the Chevening Scholarship?
A: No. Chevening removed the English language requirement in 2020, but your selected UK universities may still require it.

Q: Can I apply if I already have a master’s degree?
A: Yes, provided you meet the eligibility criteria.

Q: What work experience is accepted?
A: Full-time employment, part-time jobs, voluntary work, internships (paid or unpaid).

Final Thoughts

The Chevening Scholarship 2025/2026 is more than just funding—it's a platform to grow, connect, and lead. Thousands of scholars have transformed their careers through this opportunity. If you're ready to take a bold step toward international education and leadership, start your Chevening journey today.