The UK’s Chevening Scholarships for 2025-26 are now open, offering full funding for international students pursuing master’s degrees. The scholarships cover tuition, travel, visa fees, and monthly living expenses. Recipients can focus entirely on academic and professional growth. The programme also includes short-term fellowships for mid-to-senior-level professionals, providing networking opportunities with UK policymakers and industry experts.
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What Are Chevening Scholarships
Chevening Scholarships provide full financial support for a one-year master’s degree at any UK university. Applicants must be Indian citizens with an undergraduate degree and at least two years of work experience. The programme selects individuals with strong leadership potential and a commitment to returning to India to make a positive impact in their careers and communities.
Short-Term Fellowships for Professionals
Alongside scholarships, Chevening offers 8–12 week fellowships for professionals. These programmes include lectures, workshops, and site visits to develop leadership skills and provide exposure to UK policy and industry. Fellowship opportunities for Indian applicants include:
- Cyber Security Fellowship at Cranfield University
- Gurukul Fellowship for Leadership and Excellence at the University of Oxford
- Science and Innovation Leadership Fellowship at the University of Oxford
- South Asia Journalism Fellowship at the University of Westminster
Why Chevening Is Popular in India
Chevening enjoys strong support in India from government and corporate partners. State partners include Jharkhand, Nagaland, Karnataka, and Uttarakhand. Corporate supporters such as the Adani Group and TVS Motors provide additional scholarships. More than 60 percent of the 2025 intake came from smaller towns, increasing access for candidates from marginalised communities and Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities.
Distinguished Alumni Network
Chevening’s Indian alumni demonstrate the programme’s lasting impact. Notable figures include Amitabh Kant, former G20 Sherpa and CEO of NITI Aayog, Anupriya Patel, Union Minister of State, Supriya Sule, Parliamentarian, and TV Narendran, Managing Director of Tata Steel. These alumni show how Chevening equips scholars with skills to make meaningful contributions across government, business, media, and civil society in India.
How To Apply for Chevening
Applicants should carefully review eligibility requirements, prepare strong essays, and gather references. The online application portal is available at chevening.org. Candidates are encouraged to start early to ensure all documents and recommendations are submitted on time.
Application Timeline
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Applications Open | 5 August 2025 |
| Deadline | 7 October 2025 |
| Shortlisting & Interviews | Early 2026 |
| Final Results | Mid-2026 |
| Course Start in the UK | Autumn 2026 |
Why Chevening Scholarships Are Important
Chevening scholarships provide global exposure, professional development, and financial security for master’s students. They allow recipients to focus on learning, research, and leadership without worrying about costs. The fellowship options also give mid-career professionals opportunities to gain practical insights from UK institutions.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Who can apply for Chevening Scholarships in 2025?
Indian citizens with an undergraduate degree and a minimum of two years’ work experience. - What expenses are covered by the scholarship?
Tuition, visa fees, travel costs, and a monthly stipend for living expenses. - Are there fellowship opportunities as well?
Yes, Chevening offers short-term 8-12 week fellowships for mid-to-senior-level professionals. - When is the application deadline?
7 October 2025. - When do courses start in the UK for successful applicants?
Autumn 2026.
