FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
QUESTIONS ABOUT CHEVENING SCHOLARSHIPS
What are the British Chevening Scholarships?
The Chevening Scholarships is the UK government's scholarship scheme that offers exceptional Indian candidates the opportunity to undertake postgraduate study at leading universities. It also supports a unique 12-week advanced leadership programme in the UK. It is aimed at future leaders, opinion formers and decision-makers.
What does 'Chevening' mean?
'Chevening' is the name of the British Foreign Secretary's official country residence, Chevening House. In 1994 Douglas Hurd, the then Foreign Secretary, renamed the Foreign & Commonwealth Office's Scholarships and Awards Scheme.
Its new title is 'The British Chevening Scholarships Programme', after Chevening House.
For more information on the Chevening Scholarships please visit www.britishcouncil.org.in/chevening or your nearest
British Council office.
What do Chevening Scholarships cover financially?
Chevening Scholarships cover:
- tuition fees
- a maintenance allowance sufficient for a single student
-international travel (e.g. airfares).
- gratis student visa
Who is the Chevening Scholarship aimed at?
The programme is aimed at exceptional Indian graduates with strong leadership potential from all backgrounds, whether public or private sector, or from the NGO field.The programme covers a wide range of disciplines.ranging from Economic Governance, Finance and Public Administration to Sustainable Development and Science & Innovation.
Can I apply for Chevening in my final year of graduation?
Candidates in their final year of graduation cannot apply for the Chevening Programme. Chevening is for graduates (age group between 21-35 years) preferably with 2-3 years work experience in relevant field.
Can I apply for undergraduate courses or PhDs under the Chevening Scheme?
No. The Chevening programme is for taught master's courses for up to 12 month duration and short courses of up to 3 month duration.
Chevening does not cover doctoral level studies. For scholarships for PhDs, you can apply to the Commonwealth Scholarships and Fellowships Plan (CSFP)
Who is eligible to apply?
The applicant should:
- be an Indian citizen
- between age group of 21-35 years
- have excellent written and spoken English
- have a good first Graduate degree (high second class or first class) from a recognised Indian university
- be computer literate
- have 2-3 years work experience in relevant field
- (Note:Those who have received a UK Government funding for study in Britain before are not eligible to apply).
Besides the above general criteria, certain schemes have specific criteria. Please refer to
Scholarships pages for further details regarding specific criteria and eligibility.
What types of courses can I study on a Chevening Scholarship?
SCHEME A – Long term (Open) Scholarships
SCHEME B – Short-Term (Professional) Scholarships
How do I choose an appropriate UK university?
There are various parameters that you need to keep in mind when choosing a university:
- course content: does it suit your requirements?
- faculty teaching methodology
- facilities: library, computers, recreation, social welfare, accommodation etc.
- international links
- location
- size
- cost.
The strength of each department is assessed by its research rating, teaching quality assessment and student/teacher ratio. Feedback from previous scholars can also be helpful.
How can I find out about the ranking of a university?
You may wish to check on the
research ratings and
teaching quality of universities and colleges.
A handbook called World Study Guide also provides information on research ratings. This book is available at the Education desk at any of the British Council offices and libraries.
Can I study outside the United Kingdom?
No. Chevening Scholarships are only awarded for study in the UK. Short study visits outside the UK may sometimes be included within courses.
Can I bring my family to the United Kingdom during my scholarship?
Scholars are advised not to bring family members to the UK during their period of study. The courses are very intense and it is important that scholars give full attention to their study. There are no additional financial allowances available for the scholar's family members as the Chevening Scholarships are designed for individuals only.
Can I work during the term of the scholarship?
Scholarships are fully funded and due to the intense nature of the study scholars are advised not to take up any job. However, permission may be granted to work up to 20 hours a week during term-time with the agreement of the University Course Co-ordinator.
Can I work in the United Kingdom once my course is completed?
The Chevening scholars are adviced to return to India, bringing their new skills and knowledge that they've acquired in the UK back with them and contribute for the development of India.
How easy is it to obtain a visa for my period of study in the United Kingdom?
The British Council arranges gratis visas for all Chevening scholars for the length of their scholarship.
The scholars should have a valid passport and need to fill in the required visa form.
What is the IELTS test and how do I apply to take one?
IELTS is the International English Language Testing System. For more information on IELTS contact any of the British Council office(s) or British Library (s) in India.
