Chevening Scholarship 2026-27: Complete Guide for Indian Students
Fully funded by the UK government. One of the most prestigious scholarships in the world. Here is everything you need to apply from India.
📋 Quick Facts
Funded by
UK Foreign Commonwealth & Development Office
Value
Full tuition + living allowance + flights + visa
Duration
1-year Masters degree at any UK university
Intake
Applications open August–November each year
Eligibility
2+ years work experience, leadership potential
Nationality
Open to Indian citizens
What Does Chevening Cover?
Full tuition fees at any UK university
Monthly living allowance (approx £1,100/month)
Return economy class airfare India–UK
UK student visa fees covered
Thesis/dissertation grant
Travel grants for Chevening events
Chevening Eligibility Criteria for Indian Students
Citizenship
Must be an Indian citizen (not a permanent resident of the UK).
Work Experience
Minimum 2 years of full-time work experience by the time you start your scholarship (part-time counted at half).
Academic Qualification
An undergraduate degree equivalent to a UK 2:1 (roughly 60%+) from a recognised institution.
English Language
IELTS 6.5 overall with no band below 5.5, or equivalent test scores.
University Applications
Must have applied to at least 3 different eligible UK universities and courses before receiving the award.
Return to India
Must commit to returning to India for at least 2 years after completing your scholarship.
Application Timeline 2026-27
Applications open on the Chevening portal
Application deadline (typically first Tuesday of November)
Shortlisted candidates notified
Interviews conducted at British High Commission, New Delhi
Final award offers made
Scholarship begins at UK university
How to Write a Winning Chevening Essay
The Chevening application has 4 essays (500 words each): Leadership, Networking, Studying in the UK, and Career Plan. These are the make-or-break element of your application.
Be specific about your leadership experiences — quantify impact wherever possible (led a team of 12, raised ₹50 lakh, increased efficiency by 30%).
For networking, show you understand the value of the Chevening alumni network specifically — not generic networking.
For "Why UK", name specific professors, research groups, or programs at your chosen universities — not just "UK has good universities".
Career plan should show a clear, credible path of how the scholarship will create impact in India after you return.
Start drafting essays 3–4 months before the deadline. Get feedback from multiple readers.
Need Help With Your Chevening Application?
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