The United Kingdom has officially opened applications for its highly prestigious Chevening Scholarships and Fellowships for the 2025–26 academic cycle. Starting from 5 August 2025 and closing on 7 October 2025, this initiative offers fully funded opportunities for aspiring leaders from India to study or pursue professional development in the UK. For decades, Chevening has been a springboard for talented individuals, shaping them into leaders who drive change not just in their communities but also on global platforms.
Two Core Pathways: Scholarships and Fellowships
The Chevening programme offers two main routes for participants:
- Chevening Scholarships – Aimed at early to mid-career professionals, these scholarships cover a full one-year master’s degree in any UK university. They include tuition fees, travel costs, monthly stipends, and allowances.
- Chevening Fellowships – Designed for mid-to-senior-level professionals, these intensive 8–12 week programmes focus on specialised training and exposure. Fellows receive course fees, accommodation, travel, and living expenses to help them engage deeply in their professional learning.
Both pathways build leadership, innovation, and cross-cultural collaboration, ensuring participants bring back valuable skills to their home country.
Eligibility for Indian Applicants
Indian citizens aspiring to apply for Chevening must meet a set of academic and professional standards:
- Must hold Indian citizenship with a valid passport.
- Completed an undergraduate degree equivalent to a UK upper second-class honours.
- Have two years of work experience (2,800 hours minimum), which can include full-time, part-time, internships, or volunteer work.
- A commitment to returning to India for at least two years post-award.
This eligibility framework ensures that only the most committed and capable candidates are selected, with a strong focus on leadership and future contributions.
Chevening Fellowships: India 2025 Opportunities
For the 2025 intake, Indian professionals can apply for multiple specialised fellowships hosted by leading UK institutions:
- Cyber Security Fellowship – Hosted by Cranfield University, focusing on cyber governance and policy.
- Gurukul Fellowship for Leadership and Excellence – At the University of Oxford, concentrating on public policy and leadership.
- Science and Innovation Leadership Fellowship – At the University of Oxford, covering technology and innovation policy.
- South Asia Journalism Fellowship – At the University of Westminster, dedicated to journalism in political, business, and economic fields.
These fellowships offer a blend of lectures, workshops, site visits, and networking, giving participants both academic insights and real-world exposure.
Strategic Partnerships Expanding Reach in India
Chevening’s impact in India is magnified through state government collaborations and corporate sponsorships. Partnerships with states like Jharkhand, Nagaland, Karnataka, and Uttarakhand, along with corporations such as Adani Group and TVS Motors, have widened access to applicants from tier-2 and tier-3 cities, as well as marginalised communities.
This strategy has resulted in remarkable inclusivity. In the 2025 cohort, more than 60% of scholars come from smaller towns, with gender parity maintained across awards—marking a true milestone in diversity.
Application Process: How to Apply
Aspiring scholars must prepare thoroughly for this competitive process. Here’s how to apply:
- Visit chevening.org and review the eligibility criteria.
- Read application guidance and tips at chevening.org/apply.
- Collect required documents – degree certificates, transcripts, references, and work experience proofs.
- Submit the online application form between 5 August and 7 October 2025.
Applicants must clearly express their leadership experience, achievements, and vision for using a UK education to drive future goals.
Chevening 2025–26 Timeline
- Applications Open: 5 August 2025
- Applications Close: 7 October 2025
- Shortlisting for Interviews: Early 2026
- Course Start Date in the UK: September–October 2026
This structured timeline allows candidates to plan ahead for documents, interviews, and eventual relocation to the UK.
Notable Indian Alumni: Leaders Who Made a Mark
Over the years, Chevening has produced 3,900+ Indian scholars and fellows, many of whom are influential figures in governance, business, and public life:
- Amitabh Kant – Former G20 Sherpa and ex-CEO of NITI Aayog.
- Anupriya Patel – Union Minister of State.
- Supriya Sule – Member of Parliament.
- TV Narendran – Managing Director, Tata Steel.
These examples highlight how Chevening alumni go on to shape national policy, lead industries, and drive innovation, underscoring the transformative power of the programme.
Global Significance of Chevening
Chevening is more than an education fund—it is a diplomatic and cultural bridge. With alumni networks across 160+ countries, it fosters global cooperation in policy-making, trade, innovation, and cultural exchange.
By returning home after their UK experiences, alumni create a cycle of knowledge sharing, leadership, and growth, ensuring long-term impact beyond individual success.
5 SEO FAQs
Q1. When do applications for UK Chevening Scholarships 2025–26 open and close?
Applications open on 5 August 2025 and close on 7 October 2025.
Q2. What costs are covered under Chevening Scholarships?
They cover tuition fees, living expenses, travel costs, and allowances for the duration of the programme.
Q3. Who is eligible to apply for Chevening from India?
Indian citizens with a graduate degree, at least two years of work experience, and a commitment to return to India for two years are eligible.
Q4. What types of fellowships are available for Indians in 2025?
Options include Cyber Security, Gurukul for Leadership, Science and Innovation, and South Asia Journalism Fellowships.
Q5. How many Indian alumni have benefitted from Chevening so far?
More than 3,900 Indian scholars and fellows have joined the programme since its inception.
