UK Government Chevening Scholarships is a fully funded opportunity for international students to study in the UK. Given its competitive nature, thorough preparation is crucial. This guide will help you with course selection, choosing references, and avoiding common errors in the application process.
Contents
Important Dates
- Applications Open: August 6, 2024
Course Selection for Chevening Scholarships
- Choose Wisely: Select three similar courses at different universities to increase your acceptance chances.
- Eligibility Requirements: Ensure your courses are:
- Full-time
- Starting in autumn (September/October)
- Taught master’s programs (not research-focused)
- Leading to a master’s degree
- Based in the UK
- Part-time or distance learning
- Less than nine months or more than 12 months in duration
- PhD or DPhil programs
- Taught with more than one month outside the UK
- Apply Early: Apply to each university separately to secure a place and ensure you obtain an unconditional offer for one of your choices.
Using the Online Application System (OAS)
- Browser Recommendation: Use Google Chrome for the best experience. Use a laptop or PC rather than a mobile device.
- Window Size: Work in a full-sized window to see the form clearly.
- Navigation Tips: Don’t use the browser’s ‘back’ and ‘forward’ buttons to avoid losing unsaved work.
- Save Login Details: Save your username and password for easy access.
- Accurate Information: Enter correct contact details and use a valid email address.
- Prepare Answers Offline: Prepare answers offline and paste them into the form.
- Adhere to Word Counts: Stick to the word counts for application questions.
- Save Regularly: There is no auto-save feature, and sessions close after 60 minutes.
- Multiple Sessions: You can complete the form over several sessions.
- Avoid Plagiarism: Do not plagiarize any part of your application.
- Submit in English: Submit your application in English.
- File Requirements: Ensure files are in JPG/PNG/PDF format, under 5MB, and file names are under 50 characters.
- Final Check: Only submit your application when fully satisfied.
References
- Choose Suitable Referees: Select two referees who know you in a professional or academic capacity. They should not be relatives or close friends.
- Your Responsibility: It is your responsibility to obtain and upload references.
Interview Process
- Invitation to Interview: Shortlisted candidates will be invited to an interview at the British embassy or high commission in their country.
- Competency-Based Interview: The interview will be conducted in English by a panel using global Chevening criteria.
- Preparation Requirements: Upload educational documents, reference letters, and a short biography before the interview.
- Identification: Bring your passport or national ID to the interview.
Common Errors to Avoid
- Pre-screen Errors: Answer all pre-screen eligibility questions correctly.
- Form Errors: Fill out all parts of the application form accurately.
- Personal Details: Dual UK citizens are ineligible.
- Work Experience: Ensure you have a minimum of 2,800 hours of work experience.
- Course Selection: Avoid selecting duplicate courses at the same university.
- Declarations: Answer all declaration statements correctly.
- Word Count: Meet the minimum word count for essay questions.
- Avoid Plagiarism: Acknowledge all quotations properly.
- English Language: Complete the form in English.
Applying for Chevening Scholarships
- Application Portal: Visit the official Chevening Scholarships website when the portal opens on August 6, 2024, to apply.
