The British Government has officially opened applications for its 2026 Chevening Scholarship scheme, offering eligible candidates from Nigeria and across the globe the opportunity to undertake a fully funded, one-year master’s degree at universities across the United Kingdom.
Established in 1983 as the UK Government’s flagship international awards scheme, the programme is funded by the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office alongside partner organisations. Over 60,000 professionals from more than 140 countries and territories have benefited from the initiative since its inception, with many alumni advancing into high-profile leadership roles in civil society, business, academia, and government.
Beyond covering full university tuition fees for an eligible taught master’s programme, successful scholars receive a monthly living stipend alongside return economy flights to the UK. The award also includes dedicated arrival and departure allowances, travel grants for official Chevening events, access to bespoke leadership and networking initiatives, and lifelong entry into the global Chevening alumni network.
The programme targets professionals who demonstrate strong leadership and influencing capabilities, exceptional networking skills, and a clear track record of academic excellence and professional experience.
Candidates must display a commitment to driving sustainable development and local community impact, alongside the capability to leverage their UK education to address broader global challenges. In line with its diversity and inclusion commitments, the UK Government particularly encourages applications from under-represented groups.
Interested candidates in Nigeria can apply online via the dedicated country portal on the official Chevening website between 4 August and 6 October 2026. The submission process involves completing an online eligibility checker, securing a unique access code, and providing personal, academic, and professional details. Applicants must select three eligible UK master’s degree courses, provide details for two referees, and answer four comprehensive essay questions covering leadership, networking abilities, academic plans, and career goals.
To prevent data loss from system time-outs during inactive sessions, applicants are advised to compose their essay responses in a separate document before pasting them into the online form and saving progress regularly.
Following the application deadline on 6 October 2026, the selection committee will sift through submissions from October onwards. Shortlisted candidates will be invited for interviews between March and April 2027, with final results announced in mid-June 2027 ahead of academic programmes commencing in September or October 2027.
Prospective scholars are urged to review eligibility requirements early and can submit applications directly via www.chevening.org.