Chevening Scholarships
The UK government's global scholarship for one-year masters degrees, covering tuition, a monthly stipend, flights and visa costs. It asks for two years of work experience and a return home for two years; the 2027/28 round closes on 6 October 2026.
Scholarship
Career Growth
UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office
Yearly cycle
All
Free
What it is
Chevening is the UK government's international scholarship programme, funded by the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office and partner organisations. It funds one-year masters degrees at UK universities for people with leadership potential from eligible countries.
What it covers
As of 2026-09 the official site lists university tuition fees, a monthly stipend at London or outside-London rates, economy return flights with a travel top-up, the visa application cost, a small allowance for tuberculosis testing, and arrival and departure allowances.
Eligibility (as of 2026-09)
- At least two years of work experience, equivalent to 2,800 hours.
- An undergraduate degree completed at least two years before the application deadline.
- Applications to three different eligible UK university courses, with an unconditional offer from one of them by the offer deadline.
- A commitment to return to your home country for at least two years after the award.
- Citizenship of a Chevening-eligible country.
Read the full eligibility page, since there are further details.
Timeline for 2027/28
The official timeline says applications opened on 4 August 2026 and close on 6 October 2026 at 11:00 UTC, interviews take place from March to April 2027, results come from mid-June 2027, and the deadline for meeting the unconditional offer condition is 8 July 2027.
How to write a strong application
The essays focus on leadership, networking, studying in the UK and career plans. Answer each question with specific examples: what you did, the result, what you learned. Link your course choices to a clear plan for your career back home. Apply to your three courses early, because offers take time.
Is it worth it?
For eligible candidates, yes: it covers almost everything and comes with a strong global network. It is highly competitive, and the return requirement is binding, so it does not suit someone who wants to stay in the UK straight after graduating.
Free or paid
Applying is free. Chevening does not use agents.
Common questions
Can I apply straight after my bachelor degree? No; the work experience and degree date rules exclude that.
Does internship experience count? Read the official guidance on work experience types; it lists what counts.
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