The Chevening Scholarship is one of the most competitive and life-changing opportunities for international students to study a fully funded master’s degree in the UK. Each year, thousands apply, but only a select few are chosen. So, how do successful candidates stand out?
This guide walks you through the Chevening application process, step by step, woven with real stories from scholars who were once in your shoes, confused, uncertain, but determined to succeed.
Step 1: Understand the Chevening Mission
Before you even begin, know what Chevening stands for, leadership, networking, global impact, and returning to contribute to your home country.
Lanre Gideon, a Chevening Scholar from Nigeria, says:
If you don’t fully understand Chevening’s mission, it’s hard to show how you fit into it. Your essays should reflect that you’re purpose-driven.
Step 2: Craft Compelling Essays
This is where most applicants either shine or fail. You’ll be asked to write four essays:
- Leadership & Influence
- Networking
- Career Plan
- Why Study in the UK
Each should be honest, impactful, and personal.
Jennifer Emelife, who got the award on her second try, shared:
I simply made up my mind not to apply anymore… but I submitted anyway, just before the deadline. I rewrote my essays with more intentionality — and I got in.
Tips:
- Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result)
- Add numbers: e.g., “Trained 50 youth leaders across 3 states”
- Show how your past connects to your future and how the UK degree fits in
Step 3: Choose the Right Courses & Universities
You must apply to three UK master’s courses, ideally aligned with your goals.
Chevening alumni suggest:
- Choose courses that align with your career vision
- Select well-ranked universities that support your field
- Explain why these courses matter to your country
Oyinye, a 2019 scholar, recalls:
I picked universities that had strong development programs. I tied each choice to specific national issues I want to help solve.
Step 4: Build a Strong Profile & Work Experience
You need at least two years of work experience (2,800 hours), this includes internships and volunteer work.
Don’t underestimate your impact. For example:
- Volunteer teaching for 6 months = valuable leadership
- Organizing youth conferences = proof of networking
Lanre adds:
I made sure my essays didn’t just list what I did, but the impact it created. That’s what they care about.
Step 5: Prepare for the Interview
If shortlisted, you’ll be invited to an in-person or virtual Chevening interview.
Common Questions:
- Why do you want to study in the UK?
- Tell us about a time you influenced a group.
- How will you contribute to your country after your studies?
Gideon shared:
I rehearsed in front of a mirror, joined mock interview groups, and watched YouTube videos. By the time I entered that room, I knew my story inside out.
Tips to Ace It:
- Be consistent with your essays
- Practice the STAR method for answering questions
- Show enthusiasm, clarity, and a strong return plan
Step 6: Stay Patient & Hopeful
After interviews (usually March–April), final decisions are announced around June. Even if you’re on the reserve list, don’t lose hope.
Jennifer, who applied twice, said:
The process is long, but Chevening doesn’t want perfection, they want people who are purpose-driven and genuine.
Final Thoughts
The Chevening journey is tough, but many ordinary people with clear goals and honest stories have made it through. Let their journeys inspire yours.
Are you ready to apply? CLICK HERE TO APPLY NOW
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