Chevening Scholarship 2027 in United Kingdom | Fully Funded — UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office
Every year, thousands of ambitious professionals from around the world apply for a single chance to study in the United Kingdom without paying a cent of their own money. The Chevening Scholarship is that chance, and it remains one of the most recognized names in international education funding.
About the Scholarship
Chevening is funded by the UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) and partner organizations. It was created to build lasting relationships between future leaders worldwide and the United Kingdom, and since its founding the programme has supported tens of thousands of scholars across more than 160 countries and territories. Recipients spend one academic year completing a full-time master’s degree at any UK university that offers them a place, in virtually any subject area.
Chevening is not tied to a single university or discipline. A successful applicant could end up studying public policy at the University of Edinburgh, journalism at City St George’s, or engineering at the University of Manchester. The flexibility is part of what makes the award so widely sought after among professionals who already have clear career goals.
Scholarship Benefits
- Full tuition fees for a one-year master’s programme at a UK university
- A monthly stipend to cover living expenses
- Economy class return airfare to and from the UK
- An arrival allowance and a thesis grant where applicable
- A travel grant to attend Chevening-approved events during the year
- Access to the Chevening Alumni Network, spanning over 170 countries
Eligibility Criteria
- Be a citizen of a Chevening-eligible country or territory
- Have at least two years of work experience (equivalent to 2,800 hours)
- Hold an undergraduate degree that will allow entry onto a UK master’s course
- Return to your home country for at least two years after the award ends
- Not currently be studying on another UK government-funded scholarship
- Meet the English language requirement of the UK university you plan to attend
Fields of Study Covered
Chevening does not restrict applicants to any particular subject. Past scholars have studied law, public health, climate policy, economics, creative industries, international relations, and more. The only requirement is that the chosen course leads to a full master’s degree at a recognized UK institution.
Required Documents
- Completed online Chevening application form
- Personal and professional references
- Proof of citizenship or nationality
- Evidence of work experience
- Degree certificates and academic transcripts
- Unconditional offer from a UK university (submitted later in the process)
How to Apply (Step-by-Step)
- Check your country’s eligibility and specific requirements on the Chevening website
- Register and complete the online application during the open application window
- Write four essays covering leadership, networking, career plans, and course choice
- Submit two references through the online portal before the deadline
- If shortlisted, attend an interview, usually held at the British High Commission or Embassy
- If selected, apply to up to three eligible UK university courses and secure an unconditional offer
Selection Process
Applications are first screened for eligibility, then scored against four essay questions assessing leadership potential, networking ability, career plans, and the applicant’s reasoning for their chosen course. Shortlisted candidates are invited to an in-person or virtual interview conducted by a panel, often including British Embassy or High Commission staff. Final award decisions typically follow a few months after interviews conclude.
Tips to Improve Your Chances
- Start drafting your essays months before the deadline so you have time to revise them properly
- Use specific, measurable examples of leadership rather than general statements
- Research your intended UK universities early, since you will need an unconditional offer after being awarded
- Ask former Chevening scholars from your country to review your application
- Practice interview questions out loud with a mentor or colleague
- Many applicants also strengthen their master’s plans by researching options like the Commonwealth Scholarship alongside Chevening, since both cover similar UK study paths
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I apply for Chevening more than once?
Yes. Many successful scholars applied two or three times before being accepted, often strengthening their essays and work experience between attempts.
Does Chevening cover PhD study?
No. Chevening funds one-year, full-time master’s degrees only, not doctoral research.
Can I choose any UK university?
Yes, as long as the university and course meet Chevening’s criteria and you receive an unconditional offer.
Is work experience really required?
Yes, a minimum of two years of work experience is mandatory and cannot be waived.
What happens if I already have a master’s degree?
You can still apply, though Chevening prefers to fund scholars pursuing a master’s in a different field or at a more advanced level than previous study.
Are family members supported during the scholarship?
Chevening does not provide additional funding for dependents, so scholars typically travel to the UK alone for the academic year.
How competitive is Chevening?
It is highly competitive, with acceptance rates often below ten percent depending on the country and year.
Do I need to return home after the scholarship?
Yes. Chevening requires scholars to return to their home country for a minimum of two years after completing the award.