UK Opens Applications for Chevening Scholarships in 2026

The UK Government has announced that applications for the 2026 Chevening Scholarship will start on August 4, 2026. This is a chance for Nigerians and other qualified candidates to get a fully funded one-year master’s degree at universities in the UK.

The UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office said applications will close on October 6, 2026. This programme targets professionals who show leadership qualities and a dedication to making positive changes in their communities.

The Chevening Scholarship is funded by the UK Government and partner organisations. It covers tuition fees, living expenses, travel costs and gives access to a global network of professionals.

What is the Chevening Scholarship?

The Chevening Scholarship is the UK Government’s main international scholarship programme. It started in 1983 and helps exceptional professionals from over 140 countries take a one-year taught master’s degree at eligible UK universities.

More than 60,000 people have benefited from this programme. Many of these alumni have gone on to hold leadership roles in government, business, academia, and civil society.

Scholarship Benefits

Successful applicants will get:

• Full tuition fees for an eligible master’s programme
• Monthly living allowance
• Return economy airfare to the UK
• Arrival and departure allowances
• Travel grants for approved Chevening events
• Access to exclusive networking and leadership opportunities
• Membership in the global Chevening alumni network

Who Can Apply?

This programme is open to professionals who:

• Show strong leadership and influencing skills
• Have the potential to contribute to sustainable development
• Possess excellent networking and relationship-building skills
• Are committed to making positive changes in their communities and countries
• Meet the academic and general eligibility requirements

The UK Government encourages applications from under-represented groups as part of its commitment to diversity and inclusion.

How Nigerians Can Apply

Interested candidates should:

• Visit the official Chevening application portal starting August 4
• Register on the online application system through the Nigeria country page
• Complete the eligibility checker
• Save their unique application access code
• Fill in personal information, education history, and work experience
• Choose three eligible UK master’s degree courses
• Provide details of two referees
• Complete essay questions covering leadership, networking, study plans, and career goals
• Submit the application before the October 6, 2026 deadline

Candidates are advised to write their essays in a separate document before filling the online form and to save their progress often, as inactive sessions will time out automatically.

Selection Timeline

According to the UK Government:

• Applications open: August 4, 2026
• Applications close: October 6, 2026
• Application review: October 2026 onwards
• Interviews: March, April 2027
• Successful candidates notified: Mid-June 2027
• Studies begin: September/October 2027

What Chevening is Looking For

Candidates will be judged on:

• Leadership potential
• Academic excellence
• Professional experience
• Ability to build strong professional networks
• Commitment to creating lasting impact locally and globally

The programme seeks individuals who can use the knowledge, skills, and international connections gained in the UK to contribute to development and tackle global challenges.

Applicants are encouraged to prepare early and carefully check the eligibility criteria before sending in their applications.