Studying for a Master of Business Administration (MBA) in the United Kingdom can be life-changing — but also expensive. For many ambitious international students, the biggest obstacle isn’t admission, it’s funding.
This is where the Chevening Scholarship comes in. Known globally as one of the most prestigious UK government scholarships, Chevening can make your MBA dream a reality. But there’s a catch: while it does fund MBAs, there are specific rules, caps, and eligibility requirements you must understand before applying.
This in-depth guide explains whether you can study an MBA with Chevening, which MBA programs are eligible, what the funding covers, and how to apply successfully.
Can I choose an MBA longer than one year?
No. Chevening only funds full-time, one-year MBA programs starting in September or October.
What is the Chevening Scholarship?
The Chevening Scholarship is the UK Government’s flagship international award program, funded by the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) and partner organizations. Its goal is to develop future leaders, decision-makers, and influencers from around the world.
Every year, over 1,000 scholarships are awarded to talented professionals who demonstrate leadership potential and strong academic backgrounds.
Chevening covers tuition, travel, and living expenses for eligible master’s degree programs in the UK, while also offering networking events, cultural exchanges, and professional growth opportunities.
Does Chevening Fund All Courses?
No. Chevening Scholarships do not fund every type of academic program. They are strictly for:
- Full-time taught master’s degrees (including MBAs)
- Programs starting in September or October
- Courses that last exactly 9–12 months
- Programs conducted entirely in the United Kingdom
Chevening does not fund:
- Part-time or distance learning courses
- Research-based programs like MRes
- PhD or DPhil degrees
- Courses with more than one month of study outside the UK
Tip: When applying, you must select three eligible master’s courses. They can be from the same or different universities, but they should align in subject and career relevance.
Can I Study MBA With Chevening Scholarship?
Yes — absolutely! MBA programs are among the eligible courses for Chevening. However, you must be aware of one major funding condition:
Chevening covers MBA tuition fees up to £22,000.
Many top UK MBAs, such as Oxford’s Saïd Business School or London Business School, charge £50,000+ in tuition. In such cases, you would need to secure extra funding or personal savings to cover the gap.
Some universities, however, partner with Chevening to cap MBA tuition fees for scholars — meaning you won’t need to pay the difference. Examples include:
- Durham University Business School
- Cranfield School of Management
- University of Bath School of Management
Eligibility Criteria for an MBA With Chevening
To qualify for an MBA under Chevening, your program must:
- Be full-time and last exactly one academic year.
- Start in September or October of the academic year.
- Be offered by a UK university eligible for Chevening funding.
- Cost £22,000 or less in tuition, or you agree to pay the difference.
- Be teacher-based, not research-heavy.
Work Experience Requirement:
Chevening generally expects MBA applicants to have at least 2 years of work experience, though competitive MBA candidates often have more. This can be full-time employment, part-time work, voluntary service, or internships.
Why Study Your MBA With Chevening?
Choosing to study your MBA under the Chevening Scholarship offers benefits far beyond financial aid:
- Full (or Partial) Funding: With tuition, flights, visa costs, and living allowances covered, you can focus on your studies without financial stress.
- Global Networking Opportunities: Chevening Scholars join a global alumni network of over 55,000 leaders across politics, business, academia, and non-profits.
- Professional and Cultural Enrichment: The program includes exclusive events, seminars, and cultural visits — helping you grow both professionally and personally.
- Leadership Development: From application essays to networking events, Chevening emphasises leadership skills, ensuring you graduate ready to lead change.
Benefits of Chevening Scholarships for MBA Students
If awarded, you will receive:
- Full tuition fees (up to £22,000 for MBA programs)
- Round-trip airfare to and from the UK
- Visa application fees
- Monthly living stipend (amount varies by location)
- Travel allowance for Chevening-organised events in the UK
This funding structure ensures you can immerse yourself in your MBA without worrying about accommodation, food, or essential expenses.
How to Choose the Right MBA for Chevening
When selecting an MBA program under Chevening, consider:
- Tuition Cost: Ensure it’s within £22,000 or that you have a plan to cover the excess.
- University’s Chevening Status: Check if your chosen institution partners with Chevening.
- Course Duration: Must be exactly one year.
- Specializations Offered: Choose a specialisation aligned with your career goals.
- Location: Cost of living varies across the UK — this affects your monthly stipend.
Eligibility Requirements for Chevening MBA Applicants (2026 Entry)
To be eligible for the Chevening Scholarship 2026, you must:
- Be a citizen of a Chevening-eligible country.
- Hold an undergraduate degree equivalent to at least a UK 2:1 honours.
- Have a minimum of 2 years’ work experience.
- Secure an unconditional offer for your chosen MBA program before Chevening’s deadline.
- Intend to return to your home country for at least two years after completing the MBA.
Step-by-Step: How to Apply for an MBA With Chevening Scholarship
- Research Eligible MBA Programs: Identify UK universities offering MBAs that are within budget and meet Chevening’s criteria.
- Apply to at Least Three MBA Programs: Submit applications directly to the universities. Do this early to secure offers before the Chevening deadline.
- Prepare Your Chevening Application: Complete the online form at chevening.org, including personal statements focused on leadership, networking, and career goals.
- Gather Required Documents
- Academic transcripts
- Work experience records
- References
- Conditional or unconditional university offers
- Submit Before the Deadline: For the 2026 cycle, applications close 7 October 2025. Results will be announced in June 2026.
Tips for a Successful Chevening MBA Application
- Highlight Leadership: Show real examples of how you’ve influenced change in your workplace or community.
- Be Clear on Goals: Explain how the MBA will help you contribute to your home country.
- Plan Your Funding Gap: If your MBA costs over £22,000, show a realistic funding plan.
- Apply Early: Both for Chevening and your MBA programs.
FAQs
Can I study MBA with the Chevening Scholarship?
Yes. The Chevening Scholarship supports MBA programs, but it only covers tuition up to £22,000. If your chosen MBA costs more, you must cover the extra fees yourself.
Will Chevening cover all my MBA costs?
It covers tuition up to £22,000, flights, visa fees, and living allowances. You must personally fund any tuition cost above the cap.
Which MBA universities accept Chevening?
Universities such as Durham University, Cranfield School of Management, University of Bath, and several others offer Chevening-eligible MBA programs. Many also offer fee reductions for scholars.
Do I need work experience to apply for an MBA with Chevening?
Yes. You must have at least two years of work experience before applying, with preference for candidates showing strong leadership potential.
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