Chevening Scholarship — eligibility & deadline
Chevening is the UK government's flagship scholarship for future leaders. India is one of its largest cohorts, and it funds a full one-year master's at any UK university.
Last updated: . Deadlines and amounts are reviewed each cycle — always confirm on the official website.
Award amount
Fully funded — tuition, monthly stipend, flights, arrival allowance
Deadline
Applications open early August and close in the first week of November each year.
Study level
One-year master's · United Kingdom
Eligibility criteria
- Indian citizenship and intent to return to India for two years after the course
- An undergraduate degree that qualifies you for a UK postgraduate programme
- At least 2,800 hours (about two years) of work experience
- Three different eligible UK master's course choices
- Meet the English language requirement by the stated deadline
What the scholarship covers
- Full tuition fee for a one-year master's
- Monthly living stipend
- Return economy airfare
- Arrival and departure allowances
- Visa application cost and travel to Chevening events
Application tips from our counsellors
The four essays — leadership, networking, career plan, course choice — carry most of the weight. Write them around specific, verifiable stories, not adjectives.
Your career plan must connect clearly to India's development. Vague ambition is the most common rejection reason.
Choose three genuinely different courses; identical choices look unconsidered.
Start references early — they are only requested after shortlisting but delays cost offers.
Frequently asked questions
What is the deadline for the Chevening Scholarship?
Chevening opens in early August and closes in the first week of November each year. There are no extensions and late applications are not reviewed.
How much work experience do I need for Chevening?
You need at least 2,800 hours — roughly two years of full-time work. Internships, paid part-time roles and voluntary work can count.
Does Chevening cover tuition fully?
Yes, Chevening covers full tuition for an eligible one-year master's, plus a monthly stipend, return flights and allowances.
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