Indian students can now apply for the UK Government’s flagship international scholarships programme. The application window opens today and will remain open until 6 October 2026.
Chevening Scholarships offer full financial support to pursue a one-year master’s degree at any UK university and are open to Indian citizens with a minimum of two years’ work experience, acquired after the completion of their undergraduate degree.
The Chevening programme in India is the largest in the world, benefiting 4,000 awardees since 1983, demonstrating the UK’s commitment to developing the leaders of tomorrow. Chevening alumni use their world-class education and global networks gained in the UK to create meaningful, lasting change when they return home, whether by tackling global challenges or making a tangible impact in their own communities.
Ben Mellor, Acting British High Commissioner to India, said, “Education is one of the key pillars of UK-India Vision 2035 and Chevening is our flagship programme. It develops future leaders and offers a unique opportunity for some of the best and brightest in India to study in the UK. Chevening awards are highly competitive and extremely rewarding.
Whether your ambition is shaping public policy, driving scientific discovery, growing businesses or changing the world for the better, Chevening offers the opportunity to gain an enriching experience in the UK while becoming part of a vibrant talented global network. India has millions of exceptionally talented young people and I encourage aspiring leaders from every corner of the country to apply.”
Chevening in India is supported by a wide range of government and industry partners, reflecting a shared commitment to nurturing future leaders. State government partners include Uttar Pradesh, Jharkhand, Nagaland and Karnataka. Additional scholarships are given with the support of TVS Motors.
These partnerships help ensure that Chevening continues to reach diverse talent across India, including increasing representation from marginalised communities, tier 2 and tier 3 cities, and maintaining equal representation of female and male scholars.
Chevening Scholarships are a vital part of the UK-India education and skills partnership and a practical expression of the two countries’ shared Vision 2035. By enabling talented Indian professionals to study at leading UK universities, build global networks and return with the skills and confidence to lead in their fields, Chevening helps nurture the next generation of global talent.
Chevening began in 1983 and has developed into a prestigious international awards scheme. Chevening awardees come from over 160 countries and territories worldwide. There are over 60,000 Chevening alumni around the world who comprise an influential and highly regarded global network.
Over 75% of scholars from the 2026 Chevening cohort hail from tier 2 and 3 cities, with many being first-generation learners. Successful scholars come from cities and towns that span the whole of India. Women comprise 68% of the cohort.
Chevening alumni continue to drive impact across India in areas ranging from public policy and climate resilience to artificial intelligence, journalism, education and gender equality.
(Inputs from Yasmin Kaye, Deputy Head of Communications, British High Commission)
