The UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) has officially opened applications for the Chevening Scholarship 2026–27. Indian nationals who meet the eligibility criteria have until 4 November 2025 (11:59 PM GMT) to submit their applications. Approximately 65–75 Chevening scholarships are awarded to Indian nationals each year.
Chevening 2026–27 Key Details
- Application open: Now open
- Application deadline: 4 November 2025
- Course start: September/October 2026
- Value: Full tuition + £1,400/month living stipend + return flights + UK visa fee
- Duration: 1-year master's degree at any UK university
- Apply at: chevening.org
Eligibility for Indian Nationals
- Indian citizen currently residing in India
- Bachelor's degree equivalent to UK upper second-class honours (2:1) or above
- Minimum 2 years of full-time work experience by the scholarship start date
- Apply to 3 different UK universities (and receive at least 1 unconditional offer by July)
- Commit to returning to India for at least 2 years after scholarship completion
Important: Chevening is explicitly NOT an academic scholarship — it selects future leaders. Strong work experience, leadership impact, and clear career goals outweigh academic grades.
Top Tips for This Cycle
- Start your 4 essays (each 500 words) immediately — the portal can be slow as the deadline approaches
- Choose 3 UK universities whose programs directly align with your stated career goals
- Your networking essay is the most distinctive — avoid generic answers about "attending conferences"
- Brief your references early — Chevening referees must submit their references by the same 4 November deadline
GS Study Abroad provides dedicated Chevening application support including essay strategy and university selection. Book a Chevening consultation today.