How to Apply for Chevening Scholarship from Nigeria (Step-by-Step)
Chevening Scholarship is not just a new scholarship but an existing scholarship that has been in existence for years now, and a lot of Nigerian students are aiming for studies overseas through the scholarship program in the United Kingdom.
Hundreds of Nigerians are selected every year to study in UK on full scholarships- which means tuition fees, flights and living cost are paid.
Have you ever dreamt of studying in the UK without paying a kobo? Then this guide will show you how to apply to the Chevening Scholarship from Nigeria step by step. I have made it simple so anyone can follow.
What is the Chevening Scholarship?
Chevening Scholarship is a scholarship scheme in the UK by the UK government for individuals with leadership qualities. The UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) and other organisations fund it.
Through the scholarship, you get to study one year master degree in any UK university. It covers:
- Full tuition fees
- Monthly living allowance
- Return flights to the UK
- Extra money for study materials and events
For Nigerians, it’s one of the best opportunities to study abroad without financial stress.
Who Can Apply from Nigeria?
Before you start applying, check if you meet the eligibility criteria.
You must:
Be a Nigerian.
- Have a bachelor degree that will enable you to pursue a master degree program in the UK.
- Minimum of two years of actual working experience (this can be paid or unpaid, an internship or a volunteer).
- Be ready to go back to Nigeria at least two years when the scholarship terminates.
- Apply to three UK based master degrees that you are qualified to study.
If you meet all these, you can proceed to the application process.
How to Apply for Chevening Scholarship from Nigeria
Step 1: Prepare Early
Applications to Chevening opens in August and closes in November. Start the process 3 months before the opening date.
Things to do in advance:
- Your international passport
- College/university transcript and degree certificate
- Comprehensive resume (Curriculum Vitae)
- Two referees’ contact information
- Evidence of work experience
Hint: Chevening loves stories of leadership. Start thinking of times you have been a project leader, a change driver or a problem solver.
Step 2: Choose Your Graduate Courses
You should apply to three eligible master courses of UK universities. They should be relevant to your professional goals.
How to choose wisely:
- Visit the list of universities in the UK on the Chevening website.
- Choose courses starting in the following year (September/October).
- Choose your courses that are well known in the field.
Example: If you want to work in public health, then choose the course on health policy, epidemiology or public administration.
Step 3: Register on the Chevening Website
Go to www.chevening.org and sign up. Choose Nigeria as your country.
You will see the on-line application form, which has several sections:
- Personal details
- Education
- Work experience
- Networking and leadership essays
- Career plans
- References
Step 4: Write the Four Chevening Essays
This is the main part of your application. There is a word limit (usually 1001500) to each essay.
These four essays are:
- Leadership and Influence – Show how you have been a team leader or made a difference.
- Networking – Talk about how you build relationships with people and how you use networks to get things done.
- Career Plan– State your career goals and why a study in the UK will help you.
- Why studying in UK– Why did you choose to study what you are studying and why UK.
Pro Tip:
- Don’t give general answers such as I want to study in UK because it has good schools. Be specific.* Be specific.
- Be specific.
Step 5: Submit
You can submit once you have filled all the sections and uploaded all the documents. Don’t wait till the last minute or the day of the exam as the site might be slow.
Step 6: Shortlisting and Interviews
Assuming you are shortlisted, interview will be held in February/ April. This interview takes place either at the British High Commission in Lagos or Abuja.
During the interview:
- You will also be asked about the essays, career and leadership experience.
- Speak clearly and confidently.
- Whenever you talk about your answers connect them to Nigeria and how you will benefit the country upon completion of your studies.
Step 7: Apply to Your Chosen Universities
To apply to Chevening, you must get an unconditional offer from at least one of your three universities. You should apply to the universities as early as you can even before you are shortlisted.
Step 8: Get Your References
You should have two references, people who know you professionally or academically. They must be able to talk about your abilities, achievements and temperament.
Step 9 Final Selection
If you pass your interview and meet all requirements, you will be offered a formal Chevening award, around June or July. After that, you will get ready with your visa and go to UK.
Important Tips for Nigerians Applying for Chevening
- Start Early: Applying under time constraint is a bad application.
- Show Leadership: As much leadership as possible.
- Be Specific: Don’t write general statements: give examples.
- Poor grammar: Grammar will deduct marks.
The network: Stay in touch with former Nigerian Chevening awardees; most of them will give you advice.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Not knowing the deadline.
- Copying essays from websites online.
- Being vague in writing their career objectives.
- Applying to courses that don’t relate to your career.
- Not adhering to word limits in the essay.
Why Chevening is Good for Nigerians
Many previous Nigerian Chevening scholars have become ministers, CEOs, leaders and community policymakers. It’s not just a scholarship, it’s a life changing net.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Is there an age limit for Chevening Scholarship?
No. There is no age limit but you must meet other requirements.
- Can I apply with a second-class lower degree?
Yes, with good work experience/leadership qualities.
- How many Nigerians receive the Chevening Scholarship every year?
Between 30 to 50 people but it varies.
- Do I need IELTS or TOEFL?
Most parts of the English language test have been removed by Chevening but the universities may still require it.
- Is the scholarship 100%?
Yes. It covers tuition, flights and living expenses.
- Can I use my programme in university?
No. You must have an undergraduate degree before applying.
Conclusion
Applying for Chevening Scholarship in Nigeria is time consuming, hard work and requires planning but it’s worth it. Just go through this guide and be sincere with your story and show how your studies abroad will benefit Nigeria.
Chevening is looking for future leaders which means people who will pay back and contribute to your country, yourself. If you have the vision and the drive, this scholarship may just help you carve your way to your dream job.
