Chevening Scholarship 2025/2026: My Honest Guide for Nigerians (Application, Requirements & Deadlines)
If you’ve ever wished you could study in the UK without hustling for school fees, worrying about pounds, or begging uncles and aunties for help, you’re not alone.
I remember when I first heard about the Chevening Scholarship it sounded too good to be true. But I know real people (even from my street in Surulere!) who made it, and I’ve seen how life-changing this opportunity is.
So, let’s break it down, Naija style no jargon, just real talk.
What Exactly is the Chevening Scholarship?
In simple terms, Chevening is a UK government scholarship for future leaders.
It pays your school fees, gives you money for living (yes, actual pounds), covers your visa, flights, and even lets you choose any course at any UK university for your master’s.
When I say “fully funded,” I mean you literally just need to pack your bags and go if you win.
Why do Nigerians love Chevening?
- No need to show big bank statement or sell land for tuition
- You join a global network of achievers
- No “bond” or payback, just come back and contribute to Nigeria
Chevening Scholarship 2025/2026: What You Should Know
- For who? Any Nigerian graduate with ambition (and from over 160 countries)
- Level: One-year Master’s (any field, any UK university)
- Application: All online, no need to travel to Abuja or bribe anyone
- Next intake: Chevening Scholarship 2025/2026
Chevening Scholarship Requirements (For Nigerians, 2025/2026)
Here’s what Chevening really looks for (no sugarcoating):
- Nigerian passport (or any eligible Chevening country)
- Bachelor’s degree (preferably Second Class Upper, but strong 2:2 can try be confident!)
- At least two years’ work experience
This can be NYSC, internships, volunteering, even side hustles! You just need to calculate your hours (2,800+). - Offer letter from a UK university
(You can apply to Chevening even if you’re still applying for admission.) - Promise to return to Nigeria for at least two years after your studies
- Never had a UK government-funded scholarship before
My Tip: If you’re still doing NYSC or just left school, don’t let “work experience” scare you. Think about everything you’ve done, corper work, NGOs, church, freelance, even family business!
How to Apply for Chevening Scholarship (No Panic)
Here’s the step-by-step, as if I’m talking to my younger self:
1. Register or Login on the Chevening Portal
👉 chevening.org/apply
2. Fill Out Your Application
- Bio data (don’t rush, review for typos!)
- Work and education history
- List up to 3 UK master’s courses you like
3. Write Your Essays
(This is the heart! Be real, not robotic.)
- How have you shown leadership?
- How do you build connections?
- Why UK? Why these courses?
- What’s your plan for Nigeria after the UK?
4. Gather Your Documents
- Degree certificate
- Transcripts
- National ID or international passport
- Reference letters (choose someone who knows you “for real”, not just big title)
5. Submit and Relax (But Not Too Much!)
- Track your status by logging in
- If you get to the interview stage, shout for joy and start prepping
When Is the Chevening Scholarship Deadline?
For Chevening Scholarship 2025, applications usually open in August 2024 and close in November 2024.
My Advice: Don’t wait for “last day internet wahala.” Draft your essays in a Google Doc, review with friends, and apply early. Even NEPA and mobile data can disappoint!
What Courses Can You Apply For?
Literally almost any full-time, one-year taught master’s at a UK university.
Popular among Nigerians:
- Public Health
- Engineering
- Law
- Business
- Media
- Development Studies
- Data Science
Choose what fits your future vision, not just what’s trending.
My Friend’s Story: How Seyi Got Chevening
Seyi was a regular guy from Ibadan, finished NYSC, and was working in a small NGO. He heard about Chevening on Twitter, joined a Telegram group, and started his application early. Instead of copying anyone’s essays, he wrote about how he trained kids in his area on coding, simple, honest, and unique.
Seyi got shortlisted, did his interview with simple English (no “big grammar”), and now he’s in Manchester, UK, studying Data Science. He always says, “Chevening wants your story, not your CV.”
FAQs: Chevening Scholarship for Nigerians
Q1: Can I apply with a 2:2?
Yes, as long as your work experience and essays are strong.
Q2: What exactly counts as “work experience”?
NYSC, internships, part-time jobs, volunteering, even serious side hustles.
Q3: Is it true you must return to Nigeria after your studies?
Yes! Chevening wants you to use your new knowledge to help Nigeria.
Q4: Which email or login do I use for the portal?
Go to chevening.org/apply and use a professional email not your old “[email protected]”!
Q5: What’s the Chevening deadline for 2025/2026?
Most likely November 2024 for 2025 entry. But always check the official website for updates.
Real Tips for Nigerian Applicants
- Don’t copy anyone’s essay: Your story is enough!
- Network: Talk to past scholars on LinkedIn or Facebook (they’re friendly)
- Get your references early: Don’t disturb your referee last minute
- Proofread: Typos can kill your chances
- Pray and plan: Faith + work = results
Have you tried applying for Chevening before, or are you planning for 2025/2026? Share your questions, struggles, or tips in the comments! If you found this useful, send it to your group chat or post on your WhatsApp status let’s help more Nigerians win this life-changing opportunity!