Chevening Scholarship 2025/2026

The Chevening Scholarship is the UK Government’s flagship global scholarship programme, funded by the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) and partner organisations. It is designed to support future leaders and decision-makers from around the world, offering them a chance to pursue a one-year master’s degree in the United Kingdom.

In the 2025/2026 cycle, the scholarship will welcome applications from eligible countries, including Nigeria, giving outstanding candidates access to world-class education, leadership training, and a global network of Chevening alumni.Chevening+2PDF Made Easy Scholarships+2

Chevening recipients benefit from not only financial support but also a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in UK society, policy, and innovation — equipping them to drive positive change when they return home.

Eligibility Criteria

To qualify for the Chevening Scholarship, applicants must meet several key criteria:

Country of Citizenship: Must be a citizen of a Chevening-eligible country (Nigeria is included).Chevening+1
Undergraduate Degree: Hold a bachelor’s degree that qualifies them for a UK master’s programme.Chevening
Work Experience: Applicants are required to have at least 2,800 hours (approx. 2 years) of work experience.Chevening
University Applications: Candidates must apply for three different eligible UK master’s courses and have received an offer (conditional or unconditional) by the references and education documents deadline.Chevening
Return Commitment: Scholars must commit to returning to their home country (like Nigeria) for at least two years after their scholarship ends.Chevening

Scholarship Benefits

The Chevening Scholarship is fully funded, covering several critical costs:

Tuition Fees: Full coverage for the master’s programme in the UK.Chevening
Monthly Stipend: A living allowance to cover accommodation and day-to-day expenses.Chevening
Travel Costs: Economy return flights to and from the UK.Chevening
Visa & Travel Allowance: Includes visa cost, arrival allowance, and a departure grant.Chevening+1
Chevening Events Grant: A travel grant to attend Chevening events in the UK.Scholarship Air

Required Documents

When applying, make sure to have these documents ready:

Academic transcripts and bachelor’s degree certificate.
CV (resume), highlighting professional and leadership experience.
Three to four essays (Chevening requires personal statements covering leadership, networking, UK study plans, and career goals).
Two (or more) reference letters (academic or professional).
Offer letter or evidence of application to three eligible UK master’s courses (if available).
Proof of work experience (job letters, contracts).

How to Apply

Visit the Official Chevening Website: Go to their Nigeria-specific page or global portal for application instructions.Chevening+1
Check the Application Timeline:
- Opens: 5 August 2025 Chevening
- Closes: 7 October 2025 at 12:00 UTC.PDF Made Easy Scholarships
Prepare & Submit Your Application: Fill out the online form, upload required documents, and write your essays.
Interview Stage: Shortlisted candidates will be invited for interviews (likely between March and April 2026).PDF Made Easy Scholarships
Receive Chevening Offer: If selected, you must submit an unconditional UK university offer by 9 July 2026.Chevening

Application Timeline

Application Opens: 5 August 2025 Chevening
Application Closes: 7 October 2025 (12:00 UTC) Chevening+1
Interviews: March – April 2026 Chevening
Results Announced: Mid-June 2026 Chevening
UK University Offer Deadline: 9 July 2026 Chevening
Start of Studies: September / October 2026 Chevening

Why Apply for Chevening?

Prestigious Network: Become part of a global Chevening alumni network with lifelong professional connections.
Leadership Development: Chevening seeks future leaders. The application and selection process emphasises leadership, networking, and influence.
Career Impact: Graduates often return to their home countries (e.g., Nigeria) and take on influential roles in government, business, civil society, or academia.
Fully Funded: The financial package removes major barriers to studying in the UK.
Cultural Exchange: It’s not just about academics — Chevening scholars participate in events, meet changemakers, and contribute to the UK’s soft diplomacy.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: Can I apply if I have more than 2 years of work experience?
Yes, as long as you have at least 2,800 hours of professional experience since graduation.Chevening

Q2: Do I need to apply to three universities?
Yes — it’s mandatory to apply to three different eligible UK master’s courses for Chevening.Chevening

Q3: Is English test required?
While Chevening itself doesn’t set a fixed test, individual universities will require English proficiency (e.g., IELTS or TOEFL).

Q4: Do I have to return to Nigeria after my studies?
Yes, you must commit to return home for at least two years after your scholarship ends.Chevening

Q5: Can Chevening pay for a second master’s?
Yes. If you meet eligibility and have not previously held a UK government-funded scholarship, you can apply for a second master’s.Chevening

Application Tips

Craft your essays carefully: Show your leadership experience, future goals, and why the UK + Chevening are right for you.
Get strong referees: Choose people who know your work ethic, leadership potential, and academic ability.
Prepare early: Because the application portal opens in August, start gathering your documents months in advance.
Be strategic with your course choices: Pick three programmes that align with your career goals and are eligible for Chevening.
Practice for the interview: If shortlisted, you’ll need to prepare to speak about your vision, professional impact, and goals.

Chevening Scholarship 2025/2026 (UK – Fully Funded Master’s)