What is the Chevening Scholarship Programme?
Chevening is the UK Government’s prestigious international scholarship programme. Funded by the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) in collaboration with partner organisations like the World Bank, Africa Enterprise Challenge Fund (AECF), Play Action International, and many more. It supports exceptional future leaders from around the world to pursue a one-year master’s degree in the UK. Through Chevening, you gain not only a world‐class education but also access to a vast alumni network, unforgettable cultural experiences, and the chance to make a real impact.
See Also: Fully Funded Czech Government Scholarships Now Open: Be The Early Bird!
Key Details at a Glance
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Who can apply? | Nigerian citizens. Applicants must hold an undergraduate degree that qualifies them for a UK master’s programme. You also need to have at least 2 years (≈ 2,800 hours) of work experience after your bachelor’s degree (counts full-time, part-time, voluntary, internships, etc.). |
| What the scholarship covers | It’s fully funded. This includes tuition fees, a monthly stipend (living allowance), travel to/from the UK, an arrival allowance, a homeward departure allowance, visa application costs, and a travel grant to attend Chevening events. All will be covered for you |
| Course type | One-year taught master’s programmes in the UK. Must apply to three different eligible master’s courses. You must also have an unconditional offer from at least one of your chosen courses. |
| Application deadlines | For the 2026-2027 cycle, applications are open now and close on 7 October 2025 at 12:00 UTC. |
| Other requirements | • Must be a citizen of a Chevening-eligible country (Nigeria qualifies) • Commitment to return to Nigeria for at least two years after completing studies • Cannot hold British or dual British citizenship (unless under certain exceptions) • Your essays and university/course choices should clearly connect to your leadership potential, capacity to influence change, and how your studies will contribute back home. |
Why This is a Golden Opportunity
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No financial burden: All core costs are covered, so you can focus on learning & growth.
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Leadership & network: You’ll join a global community of influential alumni, which opens doors for collaboration and professional growth.
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High-impact study: UK universities have good reputations. Studying there can multiply your ability to contribute meaningful change back in Nigeria.
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Holistic selection: It’s not just about grades. Chevening looks at what you do, how you lead, your vision, and how your chosen course will help you and your community. If you can tell a strong story, you have a chance.
What to Prepare (so you don’t wait until the last minute)
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Academic transcripts & degree certificate — make sure your bachelor’s degree is eligible.
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Work experience documentation — proof of hours, roles, responsibilities. Voluntary work and internships also count if done after graduation.
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Research your three UK universities & master’s programmes — know their requirements, course content, and how they align with your goals.
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Essays/motivation statements — typically about leadership, networking, why the UK, and career plan. Be specific and sincere.
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References — academic or professional referees who know your work. Choose people who can speak meaningfully about your abilities and character.
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Plan ahead for the unconditional offer — since one of your three programme choices must result in an unconditional offer by a set deadline.
See Also:No IELTS, No Worries: 6 Fully-Funded Scholarships That Don’t Require an English Test
Timeline & Process
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Applications open: August 2025 for the 2026-27 cycle.
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Applications close: 7 October 2025 at 12:00 UTC.
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Post-deadline: applications are reviewed against eligibility; there are committees to assess.
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Interviews: shortlisted candidates will be called for interviews (dates vary; often early the following year).
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Final selection: announced mid-year, so plan for the academic year starting in autumn.
Common Mistakes & How to Stand Out
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Leaving essays generic — tell your story, with impact and vision.
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Waiting until the last days to apply — technical issues, documents’ translation or verification can delay.
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Insufficient proof of work experience. Be clear about hours, roles, and contributions.
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Lack of clarity on why your chosen course/university matters to you and Nigeria.
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Weak or vague references — choose people who genuinely know your work.
Want to Apply? Here’s What You Should Do Now
If you’re ready, here are immediate steps to take:
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Visit the official Chevening Nigeria page (link provided below) and read all the guidance (eligibility, frequently asked questions).
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Choose your three suitable master’s programmes in the UK, and check their admission requirements.
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Gather all your required documents (degree certificates, transcripts, identity documents, CV, work experience proof).
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Draft your essays: leadership & influence, networking, why the UK & your course, and your post-study career plan.
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Reach out to referees early so they have time to write strong letters.
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Fill and submit the online application before 7 October 2025, 12:00 UTC. Don’t wait until the last minute.
To apply now, visit the Chevening Scholarship for Nigerians
Your Moment Is Here — Take Action!
This could be the turning point of your academic & professional journey. Studying in the UK under Chevening isn’t just about the degree — it’s about the connections, the perspectives, the opportunity to build something meaningful when you return home.
Don’t miss out. Go right now and get ready for your journey. Prepare your documents, and submit your application. Share this with friends who might qualify. Let’s get you started on the path to becoming a Chevening Scholar.
