Chevening Scholarship 2027 in the UK | Fully Funded Master’s Program (Closed)

Note: The application cycle for the Chevening Scholarship 2027 closed on 6 October 2026 at 11:00 UTC. The next application period is expected to open in August 2027. This article provides useful background on the scholarship, eligibility, benefits, and how to prepare for the upcoming cycle, as well as alternative fully funded UK master’s scholarships available now.

About the Chevening Scholarship 2027 in the UK

The Chevening Scholarship, funded by the UK Government, is a prestigious fully funded award for outstanding professionals and future leaders from over 160 eligible countries. It supports one-year master’s degree studies at any eligible UK university and aims to develop global changemakers who will contribute to their home countries after graduation.

Key Details of the 2027 Cycle

• Host Country: United Kingdom
• Degree Level: Master’s Degree
• Program Duration: One Year
• Funding: Fully Funded (tuition, living allowance, airfare, and more)
• Application Deadline: 6 October 2026 at 11:00 UTC (Closed)
• Interview Period: March to April 2027
• University Offer Deadline: 8 July 2027 at 17:00 BST
• Study Start: September/October 2027

Financial Benefits of the Chevening Scholarship

• Full coverage of tuition fees at the chosen UK university
• Monthly living allowance of approximately A31,023 to cover accommodation and daily expenses
• Return airfare to and from the UK
• Visa application fee reimbursement
• Arrival and departure allowances to assist with initial and final costs
• TB testing allowance if required
• Travel top-up allowance for additional journeys

Eligibility Criteria

• Citizens of Chevening-eligible countries or territories (over 160 countries worldwide)
• At least two years (2,800 hours) of work experience, including full-time, part-time, voluntary, or internships after graduation
• Undergraduate degree that qualifies for a master’s program in the UK
• Commitment to return to your home country for at least two years after completing the scholarship
• Application to three different eligible UK university courses and an unconditional offer from at least one by the deadline

How to Prepare for the Next Cycle (Opening August 2027)

While the 2027 application cycle is closed, prospective applicants can start preparing by:

• Researching eligible UK universities and master’s programs that align with your career goals
• Building and documenting your work experience and leadership achievements
• Improving your English proficiency to meet university requirements
• Planning your university applications to meet offer deadlines
• Reviewing the official Chevening application timeline for updates

Tuition Fees for International Students in the UK

Tuition fees for master’s programs in the UK vary widely depending on the university and course. Typically, international students pay higher fees than domestic students. For example, tuition fees can range from approximately A310,000 to A340,000 per year for master’s degrees, including MBA programs.

Check university websites for precise tuition fees for your chosen course.

True Total Cost of Study in the UK

Beyond tuition, international students should budget for living costs, insurance, application fees, and test fees.

• Living Costs: Approximately A31,023 per month to cover accommodation, food, transport, and personal expenses.
• Health Insurance: The UK’s Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) costs around A390 per year for student visas.
• Application Fees: University application fees vary; some courses may charge A350 or more.
• English Language Tests: Tests like IELTS or TOEFL may cost between A315 and A320.

Funding Options to Cover the Gap

Besides the Chevening Scholarship, international students can explore other funding sources:

• Education Loans: Many banks and financial institutions offer loans to international students studying in the UK, sometimes requiring a UK-based guarantor.
• Assistantships and Part-time Work: Some universities offer teaching or research assistantships; students can also work part-time up to 20 hours per week during term time.
• Employer Sponsorship: Some employers sponsor employees for further education, especially for career advancement.
• Other Scholarships: Look for university-specific scholarships, government scholarships from your home country, or international organizations.

Open Alternatives to the Chevening Scholarship

If you missed the Chevening 2027 cycle, consider these other prestigious scholarships for studying in the UK:

• Commonwealth Scholarships: For students from Commonwealth countries, offering fully funded master’s and PhD studies.
• Rhodes Scholarship: For exceptional students from selected countries to study at the University of Oxford.
• Gates Cambridge Scholarship: For outstanding applicants to the University of Cambridge.
• University-specific scholarships: Many UK universities offer their own scholarships for international students.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

• Q: When will the next Chevening Scholarship application open?
  A: The next cycle is expected to open in August 2027.
• Q: What does the Chevening Scholarship cover?
  A: It covers full tuition fees, a monthly living allowance, return airfare, visa fees, and other allowances.
• Q: Can I apply if I don’t have two years of work experience?
  A: No, applicants must have at least two years (2,800 hours) of work experience.
• Q: How do I fund my UK studies if I don’t get Chevening?
  A: Consider education loans, university scholarships, employer sponsorship, or part-time work.
• Q: What is the difference between an MBA and a master’s degree?
  A: An MBA focuses on business management and leadership, usually lasting one year; other master’s degrees cover a wide range of academic disciplines.
• Q: Do I need to submit English test scores with my Chevening application?
  A: No, but most UK universities require proof of English proficiency before admission.