How To Apply For Chevening Scholarships To Study In UK Universities

The United Kingdom has announced that applications for the 2026 Chevening Scholarship are now open.

This gives Nigerians and other eligible applicants the chance to study for a fully funded one-year master’s degree at universities across the UK.

The scholarship programme, funded by the UK Government and its partners, will accept applications from August 4 to October 6, 2026.

It is designed for professionals who have shown leadership ability and are committed to making a positive impact in their communities.

The Chevening Scholarship pays for tuition, living expenses, travel to and from the UK, and provides access to a worldwide network of professionals and former scholars.

About the Chevening Scholarship

Chevening is the UK Government’s main international scholarship programme. Since its launch in 1983, it has supported talented professionals from more than 140 countries and territories to complete a one-year taught master’s degree at approved universities across the UK.

Over 60,000 people have received the scholarship, with many graduates later taking leadership roles in government, business, education, and non-profit organisations.

What the scholarship covers

Successful applicants will receive:

• Full tuition fees for an eligible master’s programme
• A monthly allowance for living expenses
• Return economy flights to and from the UK
• Arrival and departure allowances
• Travel support for approved Chevening events
• Leadership development and networking opportunities
• Membership of the global Chevening alumni community

Who is eligible?

The scholarship is open to professionals who:

• Have strong leadership and communication skills
• Can influence others and build professional relationships
• Want to contribute to the development of their country
• Are committed to creating positive change
• Meet the programme’s academic and eligibility requirements

The UK Government also welcomes applications from underrepresented groups as part of its commitment to diversity and inclusion.

How to apply for Chevening Scholarship

Applicants should follow these steps:

• Visit the Chevening application portal from August 4
• Create an account through the Nigeria application page
• Complete the eligibility check
• Save the application access code
• Fill in personal, educational, and work details
• Choose three eligible UK master’s degree courses
• Provide the details of two referees
• Answer the required essay questions on leadership, networking, study plans, and career goals
• Submit the completed application before the October 6, 2026 deadline

Applicants are advised to write their essays in a separate document before entering them into the online form. They should also save their work regularly because inactive sessions may expire automatically.

Selection process

The application process will follow this schedule:

• Applications open: August 4, 2026
• Applications close: October 6, 2026
• Initial review: From October 2026
• Interviews: March to April 2027
• Successful applicants announced: Mid-June 2027
• Studies begin: September or October 2027

What selectors are looking for

Applications will be judged based on:

• Leadership potential
• Academic achievement
• Professional experience
• Networking ability
• Commitment to making a lasting difference in local and global communities

The programme aims to support future leaders who will use the knowledge, skills, and international experience gained in the UK to help solve challenges and contribute to development in their home countries.

Prospective applicants are encouraged to prepare early and carefully review all eligibility requirements before submitting their applications.

Those interested can apply through the Chevening website here: https://www.chevening.org/

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