Chevening is the UK Government's flagship international scholarship, funded by the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) and partner organisations. It offers a fully funded, one-year taught master's degree at any UK university, in almost any subject. Here is what you need to know for the 2027-28 cycle.
What Chevening covers
A Chevening Scholarship is fully funded. It includes:
- Full university tuition fees for a one-year taught master's
- A monthly living allowance (stipend)
- Economy-class return airfare to the UK
- An arrival allowance and a homeward departure allowance
- The cost of one visa application
- A travel grant to attend Chevening events in the UK
Key dates for the 2027-28 cycle
Applications for the 2027-28 intake opened on 4 August 2026 and close on 6 October 2026 at 11:00 (UK time). Successful candidates must then secure and submit at least one unconditional UK university offer by 8 July 2027. These windows repeat on a similar annual schedule, so if you miss this year, plan for the next.
Who is eligible
To apply for Chevening you must generally:
- Be a citizen of a Chevening-eligible country or territory
- Hold an undergraduate degree that qualifies you for a UK postgraduate (master's) programme
- Have at least two years (equivalent to 2,800 hours) of work experience — this can include paid work, voluntary work, internships, or paid or unpaid roles
- Apply to three eligible UK master's courses and, if selected, secure an unconditional offer from one
- Commit to returning to your home country for a minimum of two years after your scholarship ends
Chevening is aimed at emerging leaders, so your application should show leadership potential and a clear plan to make an impact when you return home.
The four Chevening essays
Applications are judged largely on four essays: leadership and influence, networking, your study plan (why this course and these universities), and your career plan. Strong essays use specific, real examples from your own life — not generic statements. Give yourself weeks, not days, to draft and revise them.
How to strengthen your application
- Start early and research your three course choices thoroughly.
- Use concrete examples with measurable outcomes in your essays.
- Line up two referees who know your work well.
- Prepare for a possible interview at the UK mission in your country.
Do you need a consultancy for Chevening?
You do not need to pay an agent to apply for Chevening — the application is free and made directly on the official Chevening website. Be very cautious of anyone charging large fees or "guaranteeing" a Chevening award; no one can guarantee a government scholarship. A reputable education consultancy can help you choose and apply to UK universities, but the scholarship application itself is yours to submit. Compare consultancies with verified reviews on ConsultancyCheck before paying for any UK admissions support.
Related guides
Explore other funding routes in our scholarships hub, read about Commonwealth Scholarships for another fully funded UK option, and see how to get a UK student visa once you have your place. To budget your studies, use our cost of studying abroad calculator.
*Dates, eligibility, and benefits are set by the UK Government and change each cycle. Always confirm the latest details on the official Chevening website before applying.*
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Chevening Scholarship fully funded?
Yes. Chevening covers full tuition for a one-year taught master's, a monthly living stipend, return economy airfare, arrival and departure allowances, one visa application, and a travel grant for Chevening events.
How much work experience do I need for Chevening?
You generally need at least two years of work experience, equivalent to about 2,800 hours. This can include paid work, voluntary work, internships, and paid or unpaid positions.
When do Chevening 2027-28 applications close?
Applications for the 2027-28 cycle opened on 4 August 2026 and close on 6 October 2026 at 11:00 UK time. Selected scholars must submit an unconditional UK offer by 8 July 2027.
Do I need to pay an agent to apply for Chevening?
No. The Chevening application is free and submitted directly on the official Chevening website. Be wary of anyone charging fees or guaranteeing a Chevening award.
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