The United Kingdom (UK)-government sponsored scholarship program Chevening has opened applications for Kenyans and other eligible youth around the world.

The UK Embassy in Kenya announced that the applications of the program which are set to run up to November 5, 2024, are now open. 

“Applications for #CheveningScholarships are now open! Study at a top university, embark on a tailored scholarship experience, and join a global leadership network for life!” the Embassy announced.

Launched in 1983, the Chevening is a renowned global program funded by the UK government and known for its commitment towards nurturing minds around the world.

It targets scholars with a desire to inspire and offers learning opportunities in a range of fields before releasing them to return to their home countries after one year.

Successful applicants earn a chance of enrolling in the various universities and courses offered in the United Kingdom.

To be eligible for the scholarships, one should be a citizen of a Chevening-eligible country like Kenya. Additionally, the applicant should be willing to return to his or her country of citizenship for a minimum of two years once the scholarship period ends.

Eligibility for scholarship

The program specifies that applicants should have an undergraduate degree that qualifies them for a UK master’s program.

However, the level of the degree could vary according to the institution or course applied for.

Applicants must also prove proficiency in the English language and have at least two years of work experience (2,800 hours).  

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Scholars will also have the privilege of experiencing the vast culture of the UK including sports activities.

Applicants are also expected to apply to three different and eligible UK university courses.

“You must have received an unconditional offer from at least one of these course choices by the references and education documents deadline listed on the application timeline,” notes Chevening.

Benefits of Chevening scholarship

Besides education, Chevening offers successful applicants a chance to network and interact with learners from diverse backgrounds around the world.

According to official information by the program, cohorts enjoy several benefits including fully paid university tuition fees, a monthly stipend, and an arrival allowance.

In addition, the program cover travel costs to and from the UK, cost of one visa application, a travel grant to attend Chevening events in the UK and a homeward departure allowance. 

How to apply for Chevening scholarship

According to the program, the process of selecting scholars takes a minimum of eight months starting from the deadline of application.

Chevening underscores the need to prepare adequately as a way of boosting selection chances.

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To apply, interested candidates will submit their credentials through the online application system (OPS), which according to Chevening will be used throughout the process.

In its guidance tips, Chevening advises applicants to use Chrome browser and preferably use a desktop for a better experience.

The applicant, upon signing in, will fill information on the provided spaces including contact information in English.

While filling in the details, the program notes that one should be saving regularly as the system does not automatically save.

Candidates are reminded that all uploaded files should not exceed 5mb in size. 

Upon filling in all the details, click submit. Notably, the system only allows one application from a person. As such, the instructions state that applicants should be careful not to submit incomplete applications.

All Chevening applicants must submit their education documents, references, and one unconditional UK university offer. The deadlines for these required documents are in the Chevening application timeline.

Assessment

Consequently, the applications are subjected to scrutiny in an exercise conducted by independent reading committees in the UK.

According to Chevening, shortlisted candidates are invited for an interview in their home country after successful applications.

In Kenya’s case, the interviews will take place at the British High Commission. The invitation, according to Chevening, will be sent via email.

Results from the interviews are expected to be out in the region of June when candidates get notifications. If successful, candidates get an opportunity to choose one unconditional university by September/October 2025.

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