Are you a South African student with a passion for making a positive impact on the world?

If so, the Chevening Scholarship might be just the opportunity you’ve been waiting for.

This prestigious scholarship program offers fully funded master’s degrees at top UK universities to exceptional individuals from around the globe.

About the Scholarship

Chevening is the UK Government’s flagship international scholarship programme funded by the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office. 

It offers exceptional individuals the opportunity to pursue a one-year master’s degree in the UK and join a global network of future leaders.

Benefits for Recipients

Chevening Scholarships are fully funded and typically include:

  1. University tuition fees
  2. A monthly stipend
  3. Travel costs to and from the UK
  4. Arrival and departure allowances
  5. Visa application fees
  6. Funding for Chevening events in the UK

Eligibility Criteria

You must meet all of the following requirements to apply:

  1. Be a citizen of a Chevening-eligible country—such as South Africa
  2. Commit to returning home for at least two years after completing your studies
  3. Hold an undergraduate degree that qualifies you for a UK master’s programme
  4. Have at least 2,800 hours (approximately two years) of full-time-equivalent work experience after graduation
  5. Apply to three eligible UK master’s courses and secure at least one unconditional offer by the relevant deadline

Application Timeline

  1. Applications open: 5 August 2025 at 12:00 UTC
  2. Applications close: 7 October 2025 at 12:00 UTC—no entries accepted after this
  3. Shortlisted candidates informed: Mid-February 2026
  4. Interviews: March to April 2026
  5. Results announced: Mid-June 2026
  6. Offer deadline: Unconditional UK university offer must be submitted by 9 July 2026 at 17:00 BST.

How to Apply

  1. Visit the official Chevening website and complete the online application form via your country’s page.
  2. Prepare and submit supporting documents as required.
  3. Track your progress and respond promptly if shortlisted.

Required Documents

You will need to prepare and upload the following:

  1. Proof of academic qualifications (degree certificate and transcripts)
  2. Records of work experience (to demonstrate a minimum of 2,800 hours)
  3. Two reference letters
  4. Details of your three chosen UK master’s courses and at least one unconditional offer before the offer deadline

Contact & Support

For guidance and additional details:

  • Consult the Chevening information pages, timeline, and FAQs on the official site.
  • You may receive limited direct support via your local British Embassy or High Commission

🎓 Download Our Bursary Application Checklist

Download our free Application Checklist to make sure you do not miss any required documents. Submitting a complete application is key to being shortlisted.

📥 Download Checklist (PDF)