Fabrizio LeonardoHave you been thinking of studying in the UK, but school fees and cost of living have been holding you back? Don’t think too much, you’re not alone. Many bright and talented students around the world have the same dream but are limited by financial constraints. That’s where the Chevening Scholarship steps in. It’s one of the most prestigious and generous scholarships available to international students who want to study in the UK.
Now, if you’re someone who’s passionate about making a difference in your country and you’ve got solid leadership potential, Chevening might just be your ticket to achieving big things. It’s not just about the money (though that helps a lot); it’s about becoming part of a global community of future leaders. And the good thing? You don’t need to be from a wealthy background to get it.
In this guide, I’ll walk you through what the Chevening Scholarship is all about, the requirements, how to apply step by step, and answer some common questions — especially if you’re applying from Nigeria, India or any other developing country. So, if you’re serious about studying in the UK for free, keep reading.
An Overview of Chevening Scholarships in the UK
Chevening Scholarships are funded by the UK government’s Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) and other partner organizations. This scholarship is meant for outstanding professionals from around the world to pursue a one-year master’s degree in any field at any UK university.
The best part? It’s a fully-funded scholarship. That means it covers your:
- Full tuition fees
- Monthly living allowance (stipend)
- Travel costs to and from the UK
- Arrival allowance
- Visa application fees
- A travel grant to attend Chevening events in the UK
As for how much you’ll get per month, the monthly stipend usually ranges from £1,133 to £1,390. However, this is contingent on where in the UK your university is located. This amount looks pretty cool, right?
Application Deadline
Chevening applications typically open in August every year and close by early November. So if you’re reading this and it’s within that period, now is the best time to get started.
Chevening Scholarships Requirements
Before you get too excited, let’s talk about what you need to be eligible. Here’s what they expect from you:
- Citizenship: You must be a citizen of a Chevening-eligible country (yes, countries like Nigeria is eligible).
- Education: You must have completed an undergraduate degree that enables you to gain admission to a UK master’s program. Usually, that means a 2:1 (second class upper) or equivalent.
- Work Experience: You must have at least two years of work experience (can be full-time, part-time, voluntary, or paid internships).
- University Choices: You must apply to three different UK master’s programs (they don’t have to be at three different universities, but they can be).
- Return Requirement: You must return to your home country for at least two years after your scholarship ends.
Also, you can’t apply if you’ve previously studied in the UK on a UK government-funded scholarship.
How to Apply for Chevening Scholarships in the UK
Applying for Chevening is a bit of a process, but don’t let that scare you. Just follow these steps carefully.
Step 1: Check Your Eligibility
First things first, go to the Chevening website and check if your country is eligible. If you’re from Nigeria, good news is you are.
Make sure you also meet all the academic and work experience requirements mentioned earlier.
Step 2: Research UK Universities and Courses
Secondly, you have to pick three UK master’s courses that you’re interested in. They must be full-time, start in the fall (September/October), and be taught master’s courses. Not research or part-time. You don’t need to apply to these courses before the Chevening deadline, but make sure they’re open and that you’re eligible.
Use the Chevening course finder to choose courses that meet the criteria.
Step 3: Register and Fill Out the Application Online
Once the application portal opens (usually in August), create an account and start filling in your details. You’ll need to provide:
- Personal info
- Education background
- Work experience
- Your three university choices
- Four essay questions (more on that below)
Take your time with this part. Save your progress and come back to it if needed. Don’t rush!
Step 4: Write the Chevening Essays
You’ll be asked to write four short essays (around 500 words each). The topics are: leadership and influence, networking, studying in the UK, and career plan.
I will personally advise you to be honest and personal in your essays. Share real stories that show who you are and what you want to do. This is where most people shine—or flop.
Step 5: Submit Your References
You’ll need to provide the names and contact details of two referees. They don’t need to send letters at the beginning, but they will be asked to later, usually if you’re shortlisted for an interview.
Choose people who know your work or academic background well—not your relatives.
Step 6: Submit the Application
After you’ve completed all sections and double-checked your essays, go ahead and submit. Don’t wait until the last day; the system gets crazy busy and could crash.
After submission, you just need to wait. If you’re shortlisted, you’ll be invited for an interview between February and April the following year.
Frequently Asked Questions
Let’s tackle a few of the questions people ask all the time about the Chevening Scholarship. Especially if you’re applying from Nigeria, these will come in handy.
Can Nigerians apply for a Chevening Scholarship?
Yes, absolutely. Nigeria is one of the top countries sending Chevening scholars to the UK. You just need to meet the basic eligibility and application requirements.
How do I increase my chances of getting the Chevening Scholarship?
Tell a powerful personal story. Be clear about your goals. Show that you’re a leader and that you’re passionate about helping your community or country. Also, pick the right master’s programs and tailor your essays to show why you chose them.
What is the minimum GPA for Chevening?
There’s no fixed GPA stated, but a minimum of a 2:1 (second class upper) is expected. If your GPA is lower, your essays and work experience will have to be very strong to make up for it.
What are the four Chevening questions?
These are the essay prompts that questions do come from. They are: leadership and influence, networking, studying in the UK, and career plan. We already said about that earlier.
However, each essay should be about 500 words and clearly show who you are, what you’ve done, and what you plan to do.
Do I need IELTS to apply for Chevening?
No, you don’t need IELTS or any English test to apply for Chevening. But the universities you apply to might ask for it. Some UK universities accept other proof of English too, so check with them directly.
Can I stay in UK after Chevening?
Technically, no. You’re expected to return to your home country for at least two years after your studies. That’s part of the scholarship agreement. However, after two years, you can apply to return for work or further study if you want.
How much is the Chevening monthly stipend?
It varies depending on where in the UK you live. On average, it’s £1,133 per month for students outside London and £1,390 per month for those in London. It covers your basic living expenses comfortably.
Conclusion
There you have it! Everything you need to know to start your journey to studying in the UK through the Chevening Scholarship. It’s a life-changing opportunity that opens doors you never imagined. Sure, the application can be tough and competitive, but thousands of people from international countries have done it and so can you.
I will advise you just start early, do your research, write from the heart, and don’t give up. Even if you don’t get it on your first try, the process itself will teach you a lot. And who knows? This time next year, you might be boarding a flight to London with a full scholarship in your hand.
Good luck, future Chevener!
Fabrizio Leonardo
