Applications For Chevening Scholarships Open

By Bukar Bolori

Applications for Chevening Scholarships to study in the United Kingdom has opened.

The application opened on Tuesday, 12 September and would expectedly closed on 7 November 2023. Applications are to be submitted via the online application form at chevening.org/apply.

A statement on Tuesday by the Senior Communications & Public Diplomacy Officer, Foreign Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO), British High Commission, Atinuke Akande-Alegbe read: “The call for new applicants follows the selection of 44 scholars from Nigeria, who won an award to study at a UK university this year. Successful applicants have been sharing their stories through the #ChosenForChevening hashtag on Twitter and Instagram.”

Head of Scholarships at the UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO), Emma Hennessey, said:“Chevening Scholars, Fellows, and Alumni use the skills and knowledge they gain while studying in the UK to drive change, promoting better lives and safer places for people around the world to live, work, and thrive.

“Chevening represents the very best of the UK and the world, and our scholars become part of the global Chevening network of over 55,000 alumni. I am always inspired by the passion and commitment of those in the Chevening community and I look forward to receiving applications from the next generation.”

On his part, the British High Commissioner to Nigeria, Dr. Richard Montgomery, said:“If you are someone who is passionate about driving change, whether on a local or global scale, if you want to be the best at what you do and if you have the imagination to inspire others, then a Chevening Scholarship could be the perfect opportunity for you.

“There is no such thing as a ‘typical’ scholar. Your age, race, gender, religion, and cultural background do not matter to us. We want to see that you have energy, curiosity, compassion a clear vision for your future and the ability to achieve your goals.

“Our alumni network is full of dynamic influencers who have shared the same experience that you will. They can offer encouragement, mentorship, advice, and contacts. When you return home after your studies you should feel well-equipped to start making a real difference in Nigeria.”

2023 Nigerian Chevening Scholar, Joseph Ugwu said: “The Chevening scholarship offers numerous incredible benefits, including many that money can’t buy and can’t be found elsewhere – such as the opportunity to be a part of an exclusive, genuine, and global community of influential leaders impacting lives and creating sustainable change for good. What else can I ever ask for? I’m so honoured and proud to be a Chevener.”

Chevening Scholarships are the UK Government’s global scholarship programme, funded by the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) and partner organisations.

The scholarships support one-year taught master’s degrees at UK universities for individuals with demonstrable potential to become future leaders, decision-makers, and opinion formers.

Chevening Scholarships are awarded to individuals from all backgrounds who can demonstrate that they have the commitment and skills required to become future leaders, and can show how a UK master’s degree will help them to create positive change in their country.

The scholarship offers full financial support for scholars to study for any eligible master’s degree at over 150 UK universities whilst also gaining access to a wide range of exclusive academic, professional, and cultural experiences.

Since the programme was created in 1983, over 55,000 professionals have had the opportunity to take their career to the next level through Chevening.

There are approximately 1,500 awards on offer globally for the 2024/2025 academic year from 160 countries, demonstrating the UK’s ongoing commitment towards developing the leaders of tomorrow as Chevening celebrates its 40th anniversary year.

Over the past five years, Chevening has awarded almost 8,000 scholarships.

There are over 55,000 Chevening Alumni around the world who comprise an influential and highly regarded global network.

The name ‘Chevening’ comes from Chevening House in Sevenoaks, Kent – currently the joint official residence of the UK’s Foreign Secretary.