Chevening & Commonwealth Scholarships: Everything you need to apply

Every year, two of the most prestigious fully funded UK scholarships—Chevening and the Commonwealth Scholarships—open their doors to ambitious students across the world. These programmes provide life-changing opportunities, enabling talented young people to pursue advanced education, develop new ideas and return home equipped to solve pressing problems.

This guide breaks down the application process, requirements and common pitfalls for both scholarships.

Applying for the Chevening Scholarship

Applications are submitted through the Chevening website. Applicants must choose three desired master’s degree programmes in the UK that align with their career goals.

The application window typically spans between August and November. Interviews for shortlisted candidates are held between February and April, with final awards released by June.

English Language Requirement

Since 2020, Chevening has waived IELTS or TOEFL as a compulsory condition. Applicants are considered proficient if their undergraduate studies were taught in English. More details can be found under the Chevening English Language Policy.

How many students are awarded each year?

Chevening funds around 1,500 students globally each year. Nigeria contributes about 40-60 scholars annually.

Documents Required

Applicants should have the following documents:

1. Valid international passport
2. Undergraduate degree certificate and transcripts
3. Two reference letters from credible referees
4. A well-structured Curriculum Vitae (CV)
5. Offer letters from chosen UK universities (these can be submitted later in the process)
6. Four essays on leadership, networking, career plans, and motivation for studying in the UK.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Writing essays that do not highlight personal impact or leadership.
2. Failing to connect your studies to Nigeria’s or Africa’s development.
3. Submitting weak reference letters from people who barely know you.
4. Missing deadlines or uploading incomplete applications.
5. Not demonstrating a real plan to return home after studies.

Tip: Applicants with first-class or 2:1 degrees are better placed, but strong essays can help a 2:2 candidate remain competitive. 

Applying for the Commonwealth Scholarship

The Commonwealth Scholarship application is made through the Commonwealth Scholarship Commission portal. Here, candidates are required to be nominated by a nominating body, like the Federal Scholarship Board in Nigeria.

Applications are usually open from October to December. Shortlisted applicants go through interviews by their nominating bodies.

English Language Requirement

English proficiency requirements depend on the chosen UK university. However, many universities accept a waiver if the applicant’s degree was taught in English. Otherwise, IELTS or TOEFL may be required.

How Many Students Are Awarded Each Year?

Each year, more than 700 postgraduate students from low- and middle-income countries benefit from the Commonwealth Scholarship. Nigeria consistently ranks among the top five awardee countries.

Documents Required

Applicants must prepare the following documents:

1. Valid passport
2. Degree certificates and transcripts
3. Statement of purpose focused on development impact
4. Two reference reports from home institution.
5. A professional CV
6. Admission offer from a UK university (sometimes optional during application but required later)

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Choosing a course unrelated to Nigeria’s development needs.
2. Selecting universities outside the Commonwealth Commission’s framework.
3. Providing weak or non-academic references.
4. Overlooking the return obligation. Commonwealth scholars are expected to return home after studies to contribute to domestic development.