U.K. Opens Applications For 2026 Chevening Scholarships
The United Kingdom Government has announced that applications for the 2026 Chevening Scholarship will open on August 4, 2026, offering Nigerians and other eligible candidates the opportunity to pursue a fully funded one-year master’s degree at universities across the UK.
According to the UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office, applications will run until October 6, 2026, with the programme aimed at professionals who have demonstrated leadership potential and a commitment to creating positive change in their communities.
Funded by the UK Government and partner organisations, the Chevening Scholarship covers tuition fees, living expenses, travel costs and access to a global network of professionals.
What is the Chevening Scholarship?
The Chevening Scholarship is the UK Government’s flagship international scholarship programme. Established in 1983, it supports outstanding professionals from more than 140 countries and territories to undertake a one-year taught master’s degree at eligible UK universities.
More than 60,000 people have benefited from the programme, with many alumni going on to hold leadership positions in government, business, academia and civil society.
Scholarship benefits
Successful applicants will receive:
- 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 of the global Chevening alumni network
Who can apply?
The programme is open to professionals who:
- Demonstrate strong leadership and influencing skills
• Show potential to contribute to sustainable development
• Possess excellent networking and relationship-building abilities
• Are committed to creating positive change in their communities and countries
• Meet the academic and general eligibility requirements
The UK Government also encourages applications from under-represented groups as part of its diversity and inclusion commitment.
How Nigerians can apply
Interested applicants should:
- Visit the official Chevening application portal from 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
• Select three eligible UK master’s degree courses
• Provide details of two referees
• Complete the required essay questions covering leadership, networking, study plans and career goals
• Submit the application before the October 6, 2026 deadline
Applicants are advised to draft their essays in a separate document before completing the online form and save their progress regularly, as inactive sessions automatically time out.
Selection timeline
According to the UK Government:
- Applications open: August 4, 2026
• Applications close: October 6, 2026
• Application sift: 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 assessed based 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 address global challenges.
Applicants are encouraged to begin preparations early and carefully review the eligibility requirements before submitting their applications.
