Chevening Scholarship 2027/28 (UK) – Applications Open (Closes 6 October 2026)

The Chevening Scholarship is the UK government’s flagship global scholarship, funded by the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO). Since 1983 it has funded over 60,000 professionals from more than 160 countries and territories, building an influential alumni network of leaders and decision-makers across the world — including a large and active alumni base across Sub-Saharan Africa.

What it covers: Full tuition for a one-year taught Master’s degree at any UK university, plus a monthly stipend of roughly £1,347, travel costs to and from the UK, and an arrival allowance.

Deadline: The 2027/28 cycle opened 4 August 2026 and closes 6 October 2026 at 11:00 UTC. About 1,800 scholarships are awarded globally each cycle.

Detailed Eligibility Checklist

• Citizen of a Chevening-eligible country or territory (check the official list, as it can change year to year)
• At least 2,800 hours of work experience (roughly two years full-time) completed after your undergraduate degree — hours from up to 15 different employers can be combined
• Undergraduate degree equivalent to a UK upper-second-class (2:1) honours degree, completed at least two years before the deadline
• Meet the English language requirement of your chosen UK course — most require IELTS 6.5 overall with no band below 6.0
• Willing to commit to returning to your home country for at least two years after the scholarship ends

Why Work Experience Matters More Than Grades Here

Chevening is not a traditional academic scholarship — there is no official minimum GPA. It specifically targets emerging leaders who already have real-world professional experience and demonstrated leadership potential, not simply the strongest graduates. A candidate with solid (not exceptional) grades but a clear track record of leadership and impact in their career is often more competitive than a top-of-class graduate with no work history.

Step-by-Step Application Process

1. Confirm your country’s eligibility and that you meet the 2,800-hour work experience threshold.
2. Select up to three eligible UK university courses to apply for through Chevening.
3. Complete your online application with essays on leadership, networking, career plans, and your chosen course of study.
4. If shortlisted (typically February–March), attend an interview at your local British Embassy or High Commission.
5. Secure at least one unconditional offer from a UK university by the July deadline that follows a successful interview.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does my work experience need to be with one employer? No — hours from multiple employers or roles can be combined to reach the 2,800-hour threshold.

Is a minimum GPA required? No official minimum exists, but strong academic credentials still strengthen your application significantly.

What happens in the interview? Panel members probe your leadership experience, career vision, and planned impact back home — prepare specific, structured examples rather than general statements.