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Chevening is the UK government’s global scholarship programme. Chevening funds emerging leaders from more than 160 countries to complete a one-year master’s degree at any UK university, and the programme has supported South African postgraduate students for more than three decades.
- Registered name
- Chevening Scholarships (UK Government)
- Type
- UK government scholarship programme
- Fields funded
- One-year master’s degrees at UK universities
- Website
- chevening.org
- Phone
- 011 403 3316
How this page was researched
Chevening’s South Africa page timed out when BursariesAfrica tried to research this profile on 15 September 2026. This page draws on a provider record checked in August 2026 and on BursariesAfrica’s research into the 2027/28 round. Check every requirement on chevening.org before applying.
What a Chevening scholarship covers
Chevening covers far more than tuition. The scholarship pays university fees, travel to and from the UK and living costs for the year of study, which makes Chevening one of the most complete awards available to South African professionals.
The UK government funds Chevening to build relationships with future leaders, influencers and decision-makers. Chevening therefore looks for people who will return home and lead in their field, rather than only for academic high-flyers.
The 2027/28 deadline
The Chevening round for 2027/28 is open and closes on 6 October 2026 at 11:00 UTC, which is 13:00 in South Africa. The online system shuts at that moment, so applicants should submit early rather than in the final hour.
Researching a strong Chevening application
Chevening applications ask applicants to choose UK courses and write essays about leadership, networking, study plans and career goals. Before starting, research UK master’s programmes carefully and choose courses that clearly connect to your career plans in South Africa. Chevening has historically required applicants to apply to more than one eligible course and to have several years of work experience, so check the current rules on chevening.org.
Speak to past Chevening scholars if you can. Many South African alumni share their experiences through alumni networks and social media, and they can explain what the interview panels at the British High Commission look for.
Contact the Chevening team in South Africa by email with questions, and never pay an agent to prepare or submit your application.
Chevening scholars also join a global alumni network, which Chevening describes as one of the programme’s lasting benefits for scholars’ careers.
Graduates considering further study can compare Chevening with other funders on our Postgraduate Bursaries page.
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