UK Government Opens Chevening Scholarships for Indian Students

Chevening scholarships are sponsored by the United Kingdom government and is a global program that aims at nurturing future world leaders, influencers, and decision-makers. The initiative offers fully-funded scholarships to successful students from all over the globe who want to specialize in one discipline of their choice for one year at any UK university. 

The international scholarship scheme has been churning out potential global leaders since 1983, with an alumni group of over 50,000. One of the largest scholarship schemes globally, Chevening India offers up to 65 fully paid scholarships and 65 fully paid fellowships each year. Applicants from India can choose any course of study, including foreign policy, climate change, defence, security, urban development, research, innovation, trade and investment, and economic reforms.

This blog provides detailed information for Indian students aspiring to apply for the Chevening Scholarships in 2024, covering eligibility criteria, the application process, financial coverage, deadlines, available universities, required documents, and eligible courses and programs.

British Chevening Scholarship eligibility criteria

In order to be eligible for a Chevening Scholarship you must:

• Be a citizen of any country eligible for Chevening Scholarships. India is one such nation eligible for the same.
• Spend two or more years after scholarship termination in your home country.
• Undergraduate degree capable of getting admission into any UK university postgraduate program which is equivalent to upper second-class 2:1 honors in the UK.
• Have no less than two years (equal to 2800 hours) of work experience which can include either full-time or part-time paid/unpaid internships or voluntary work.
• Apply to at least three British universities and study programs that come under the scholarship requirements and get an acceptance letter as per the Chevening Scholarship deadline.

How to apply for the Chevening Scholarship?

Applying for a Chevening Scholarship involves several steps:

• Online application: To apply, one must go to the Chevening website and process the application via its online application system.
• Select courses: Applicants must select three different master’s programs at UK universities which have to be ranked in the order of preference on the application.
• Submit documents: Necessary documents include educational certificates, letters of recommendation, and unconditional offers to at least one of the favored courses.
• Work experience: Applicants should specify their working history including job profiles and hours spent.

Documents required for the Chevening Scholarship selection process

Indian students must submit the following documents to complete their application:

1. Passport/ID: A passport that is current or a national ID card.
2. Degree certificates and transcripts: From all relevant degrees. These should be in English or accompanied by a certified translation.
3. Unconditional offer letter: Secure an unconditional letter from at least one of the three UK university courses. This shows that you satisfy the entry criteria for your course of choice.
4. Two references: Written in English. Referees ought to provide information on your capabilities at work and in school.
5. Work experience documents: Evidence of the employment history indicated in your application. This could involve letters from employers or detailed job descriptions.

How much cost does the Chevening Scholarship cover?

Chevening scholarships are aimed at providing comprehensive financial aid in respect of studying and living in the UK. The following is a summary of all the financial aspects that have been incorporated into the scholarship.

Stipend or living/maintenance allowance

A stipend is a monthly allowance for subsistence, such as housing, dining, individual expenses, phone bills, daily travel, and required course materials. It varies from place to place where your university is located:

Additional allowances

In addition to the stipend, Chevening provides various other allowances:

Events travel top-up allowance

This allowance is provided for travel to and from mandatory Chevening events, based on the location of your university:

Payment schedule

• Stipend payments: Paid at the end of each month and cover costs for next month’s expenses. For example, a stipend paid on 31st March will cover expenses from 1st to 30th April.
• First stipend payment: Stipends for September and October plus arrival allowance will be credited to a cash card. Other payments however will be made through your UK bank account.
• Final stipend payment: It is prorated based on either the date of departure or the course end date.

Conditions and suspension

• Suspension of stipend: If you break any clauses in the scholarship agreement if you are not present in the UK for more than 30 days or if you decide to come back home earlier than you were expected that time may result in suspension of stipend payment amounting to your studentship.
• Approval of fees: Chevening caters to tuition fees, examination fees, and laboratory fees only. Accommodation fees including clubs and maintenance charges are not catered for within this program.

Additional income or scholarships

The FCDO (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office) reserves the right to reduce or withdraw the Chevening funding if scholars receive other substantial rewards, prizes, or earned cash. The rules for additional income are as follows:

How to receive Chevening Scholarship stipend payments?

• UK bank account: Scholars should register a UK bank account as soon as possible to ensure that their stipend payments are received securely.
• Cash card: The first stipend payment is credited to a cash card issued in your home country, which can be used for cash withdrawals and chip-and-pin transactions in the UK.

What is the Chevening Scholarship deadline?

It is quite important to know the deadline or timeline window if you want to apply successfully for the Chevening scholarship.  Here is an example of a usual timeline for the 2024 Chevening Scholarships:

• Application submission: The application window usually opens around August and closes in November. It is recommended that you start your application as soon as the window opens to enable sufficient time.
• Shortlisting for interviews: Shortlisting will be done between early and mid-February. This stage involves intense evaluation to identify individuals with excellent leadership abilities.
• Submission of references and education documents: In February – April, these are due from shortlisted candidates. Make sure your referees have been contacted in advance and that all your documents are ready.
• Interviews: They run from February to April. These interviews give you a chance to demonstrate your passion, accomplishments, and what you plan for the future.
• Results announcement: Results are declared in June so that successful candidates can prepare for studying in UK.

Top Universities in the UK under Chevening Scholarship

Chevening Scholars can study at any UK university that accepts Chevening funding. Some of the renowned institutions include:

• University of Oxford
• University of Cambridge
• London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE)
• Imperial College London
• University College London (UCL)
• University of Edinburgh
• University of Manchester
• King’s College London
• University of Bristol
• University of Warwick

In conclusion, the Chevening Scholarships provide complete financial support, a diverse variety of eligible courses, and access to world-renowned universities, paving the path for future leaders and changemakers. MSM Unify can assist you with the Chevening Scholarship application process. Our platform offers personalized coaching, assists you in selecting appropriate courses, ensures your application paperwork are in order, and prepares you for the interview process. Apply now to begin an enriching academic experience in the UK.

FAQs

What is Chevening Scholarship?

The Chevening Scholarship is a prestigious global program funded by the UK government, offering fully-funded scholarships to outstanding professionals from around the world to pursue a one-year master’s degree in the UK.

How to Apply for Chevening Scholarship?

To apply for the Chevening Scholarship, submit an online application via the Chevening website, select three eligible UK master’s courses, provide required documents, and meet the work experience and eligibility criteria.

How to Get Chevening Scholarship?

To secure a Chevening Scholarship, demonstrate exceptional academic and professional achievements, leadership potential, and a commitment to returning to your home country to implement your knowledge and skills.

When is the Chevening Scholarship Deadline?

The application window for the Chevening Scholarship typically opens in early August and closes in early November each year. Check the official Chevening website for specific deadlines for the current year.

Is Chevening Scholarship for PhD?

No, the Chevening Scholarship is not available for PhD programs. It is exclusively for one-year master’s degree programs at any UK university.

Does Chevening Scholarship Cover MBA?

Yes, the Chevening Scholarship can cover MBA programs, provided the candidate meets all eligibility requirements and is accepted into a qualifying UK university’s MBA program.