What you’ll learn
- The exact steps a refugee must take to qualify for a Chevening Master’s scholarship in the UK.
- How to prepare a competitive application, from research to the final online submission.
- Common pitfalls and how to avoid them, so you can focus on building a strong candidacy.
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Quick Facts
| Field | Detail |
|-------|--------|
| Programme or guide name | Chevening Scholarships for refugees |
| Country | United Kingdom |
| Study level | Master’s degree |
| Funding information | Full tuition, living allowance, travel costs, and other allowances – check the official website for exact figures. |
| Eligibility overview | Must be a citizen of a Chevening‑eligible country, hold a valid passport, have a good academic record, and demonstrate leadership potential. Refugees must meet the same criteria; additional documentation may be required. |
| Application deadline | Varies by country and programme; check the official website for current dates. |
| Official website | https://www.chevening.org/ |
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Who This Guide Is For
This guide is written for refugees, asylum seekers, and international students who:
- Are interested in pursuing a Master’s degree in the UK.
- Are looking for a fully funded scholarship that covers tuition, living costs, and travel.
- Need a clear, step‑by‑step roadmap to navigate the Chevening application process.
Limitations
- The information presented is based on the official Chevening website and publicly available guidance.
- Eligibility rules, deadlines, and funding details can change; always verify the latest information on the official site.
- This guide does not provide legal or immigration advice. For visa questions, consult the UK Home Office or a qualified immigration adviser.
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Eligibility and Important Requirements
Chevening Scholarships are awarded to individuals who meet a set of criteria that reflect the programme’s goals: academic excellence, leadership potential, and a strong commitment to contributing to their home country after graduation. While the core eligibility criteria apply to all applicants, refugees may need to address a few additional points:
| Requirement | What it means for refugees |
|-------------|---------------------------|
| Citizenship | You must be a citizen of a Chevening‑eligible country. Refugees who hold a passport from their country of origin are eligible; if you have a different nationality, check whether that country is on the Chevening list. |
| Passport | A valid passport is required. If you are a refugee, you may need to provide a travel document or a passport issued by the country that granted you asylum. |
| Academic record | A good undergraduate degree (usually a 2:1 or equivalent). Some programmes may accept a 2:2 if you have significant work experience. |
| Leadership potential | Evidence of past leadership roles, community involvement, or future plans to lead change in your home country. |
| English proficiency | IELTS, TOEFL, or equivalent scores that meet the university’s requirements. |
| Refugee status | While not a formal requirement, you may need to provide proof of your refugee status or asylum grant when applying for a UK visa. |
Key point – Refugees must still satisfy all the standard Chevening eligibility criteria. If you are unsure whether your specific situation meets the requirements, consult the official Chevening FAQ or contact the Chevening office in your country.
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What Funding or Support May Be Available
Chevening Scholarships are designed to be fully funded. The package typically includes:
- Tuition fees paid directly to the university.
- Monthly living allowance to cover accommodation, food, and other living expenses.
- Return airfare to and from the UK.
- Travel allowance for local travel within the UK.
- Health insurance for the duration of the scholarship.
The exact amounts vary by country and by the cost of living in the city where you study. For the most accurate figures, visit the official Chevening website or the specific university’s scholarship page.
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How to Prepare an Application
Below is a practical, step‑by‑step guide that separates general preparation from the official application process. Follow these stages to build a strong candidacy.
1. Start Early – Map the Timeline
| Stage | Typical Timeframe | What to Do |
|-------|-------------------|------------|
| Research | 12–18 months before the deadline | Identify UK universities offering the Master’s programme you want. Check each university’s Chevening page for eligibility and deadlines. |
| Shortlist | 10–12 months before the deadline | Narrow down to 3–5 universities that align with your career goals and Chevening eligibility. |
| Contact Universities | 9–10 months before the deadline | Reach out to admissions officers to confirm programme details and any additional requirements for refugees. |
| Prepare Documents | 6–8 months before the deadline | Gather academic transcripts, reference letters, English test scores, and any refugee status documentation. |
| Write Personal Statement | 5–6 months before the deadline | Draft a compelling narrative that links your background, leadership experience, and future plans. |
| Submit Application | 4–5 months before the deadline | Complete the online Chevening application form and upload all required documents. |
| Interview | 2–3 months before the deadline | If shortlisted, prepare for a virtual interview with a Chevening officer. |
2. Research and Shortlist Universities
- Use the Chevening website’s “Find a Chevening‑eligible university” tool.
- Check each university’s course page for entry requirements, tuition costs, and whether they accept Chevening applicants.
- Look for universities that have a strong support system for refugees or international students.
3. Confirm Eligibility with the Chevening Office
- Contact the Chevening office in your country (or the nearest one) to confirm that refugees are eligible for the scholarship.
- Ask whether you need to provide additional documentation, such as proof of refugee status or a travel document.
4. Build a Strong Personal Statement
Your personal statement is the heart of the Chevening application. It should:
- Showcase your leadership: Provide concrete examples of how you have led projects, initiatives, or community efforts.
- Explain your motivation: Why do you want to study this Master’s? How will it help you contribute to your community or country?
- Highlight your future plans: Outline a clear career path and how the scholarship will enable you to achieve it.
- Reflect on your refugee experience: If relevant, discuss how your journey has shaped your aspirations and resilience.
5. Secure Strong References
- Obtain at least two reference letters from academic supervisors or employers who can attest to your academic ability and leadership.
- If you have a mentor or community leader who can speak to your character, include them.
- Provide referees with a brief guide on what Chevening looks for in a reference.
6. Prepare Academic and English Proof
- Academic transcripts: Ensure they are official, translated into English if necessary, and include a degree classification.
- English proficiency: Take IELTS, TOEFL, or another accepted test. Aim for scores that exceed the university’s minimum requirement.
7. Compile Refugee‑Specific Documents
- Refugee status proof: This could be a refugee certificate, asylum grant letter, or a travel document issued by the host country.
- Passport: A valid passport is mandatory. If you lack a passport, check whether a travel document can substitute.
- Visa application: While the Chevening scholarship covers the visa fee, you still need to apply for a Tier 4 (General) student visa. Prepare the required documents accordingly.
8. Submit the Online Application
- Create a Chevening account and fill out the application form carefully.
- Upload all documents in the required format (PDF, JPG, etc.).
- Double‑check that every field is completed before submission.
- Keep a copy of the submitted application for your records.
9. Prepare for the Interview
- If shortlisted, you will be invited to a virtual interview with a Chevening officer.
- Practice answering questions about your leadership, motivation, and how you will use the scholarship.
- Be ready to discuss how your refugee experience has shaped your goals.
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Documents Applicants May Need
| Document | Why it’s needed | Tips for refugees |
|----------|-----------------|-------------------|
| Passport or travel document | Proof of identity and eligibility to travel. | If you lack a passport, ask the Chevening office if a travel document is acceptable. |
| Academic transcripts | Demonstrates academic merit. | Have them translated into English if not already. |
| Degree certificate | Confirms completion of undergraduate studies. | Ensure it shows your classification (e.g., 2:1). |
| English test scores | Meets university entry requirements. | Take the test well in advance to avoid last‑minute delays. |
| Reference letters | Provides external validation of your abilities. | Give referees clear guidance on what Chevening values. |
| Personal statement | Core of your application narrative. | Keep it concise, focused, and tailored to Chevening’s criteria. |
| Proof of refugee status | Confirms your status for visa and scholarship eligibility. | Keep official documents handy; some may need notarization. |
| Visa application documents | Required for UK entry. | The Chevening scholarship covers the visa fee, but you still need to meet UK Home Office requirements. |
Exact document requirements can vary by country and university. Always check the Chevening website and your chosen university’s scholarship page for the most up‑to‑date list.
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Common Mistakes to Avoid
| Mistake | Why it’s a problem | How to fix it |
|---------|--------------------|---------------|
| Submitting incomplete applications | Chevening reviews every detail; missing documents can lead to automatic rejection. | Use a checklist and double‑check every upload before hitting submit. |
| Failing to tailor the personal statement | Generic statements don’t demonstrate your unique fit for Chevening. | Highlight specific leadership moments and how the scholarship aligns with your goals. |
| Ignoring the refugee‑specific requirements | Some refugees may need extra documentation (e.g., proof of status). | Confirm with the Chevening office whether additional documents are required. |
| Underestimating the interview | The interview is a critical assessment of your motivation and leadership. | Practice with mock interviews and prepare concise, honest answers. |
| Not researching university specifics | Some universities have unique entry requirements or deadlines. | Verify each university’s Chevening page for precise details. |
| Overlooking visa preparation | Even with a scholarship, you must still meet UK visa criteria. | Start the visa application early and keep all supporting documents ready. |
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Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can refugees apply for Chevening Scholarships?
Yes, refugees who hold a passport from a Chevening‑eligible country and meet the standard eligibility criteria can apply. Refugees may need to provide additional documentation, such as proof of refugee status, but the core requirements remain the same.
2. Do I need a UK visa to apply for Chevening?
You do not need a UK visa to submit a Chevening application. However, if you are awarded the scholarship, you will need to apply for a Tier 4 (General) student visa to study in the UK. The scholarship covers the visa fee, but you must still meet the UK Home Office requirements.
3. What happens if my refugee status changes during the application process?
If your status changes (e.g., you receive citizenship or a new travel document), inform the Chevening office immediately. They can advise whether any adjustments to your application are necessary.
4. How long does the Chevening application review take?
The review process can take several weeks to a few months, depending on the volume of applications and the country. It is advisable to apply well in advance of the programme start date.
5. Can I apply for Chevening if I already have a university offer?
Yes, you can apply for Chevening even if you have a conditional or unconditional offer from a UK university. The scholarship will cover tuition and living costs, but you must still meet the university’s entry requirements.
6. What if I am not selected for Chevening?
If you are not selected, consider applying for other UK scholarships such as the Commonwealth Scholarship, the GREAT Scholarships, or university‑specific funding. Also, keep an eye on the Chevening website for future opportunities or changes in eligibility.
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Official Sources
- Chevening Official Website: https://www.chevening.org/
- Chevening Eligibility FAQ: https://www.chevening.org/eligibility/
- Chevening Application Guide: https://www.chevening.org/how-to-apply/
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Related Guides
- Scholarships for refugees
- Fully funded scholarships
- United Kingdom scholarships
- Scholarship deadlines 2026
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Last Reviewed: 2026-09-21