Chevening Scholarship 2026 opens applications, adds many important changes

From August 5 to October 7, 2025, the UK Government 's Chevening scholarship program for the 2026-2027 academic year officially accepts applications.

This year, the application process has undergone significant changes, with a particular emphasis on links to global priority areas.

Chevening is the UK Government's fully funded scholarship programme, funding outstanding individuals from around the world to study any master's course at over 150 UK universities for up to one year.

Since 1993, approximately 550 Vietnamese students have received this scholarship, many of whom are now making positive impacts in their professional fields in Vietnam.

In 2026, the UK Government plans to award about 20 Chevening scholarships to Vietnam, continuing to demonstrate its commitment to promoting the development of the next generation of leaders in partner countries.

One of the big changes is that the required work period, at least 2 years or 2,800 hours, will only be counted after the candidate graduates from university. Work experience during study will not be accepted.

In addition, while the main content of the essays remains the same, the format has changed: new questions add sub-sections, encourage candidates to provide practical examples and make clear connections between their subject and UK priority areas.

At the same time, the maximum word count for each essay is limited to 300 words, instead of 500 words as before. This is to limit the use of artificial intelligence in writing and increase the personalization of answers.

Applicants must also choose a course that has a clear link to one of four areas: growth and prosperity, climate, security and stability, or inclusive development – global priorities that Chevening will focus on in the 2026-2027 academic year.

Another change is that applicants from countries receiving ODA support, including Vietnam, are required to be residing in that country. However, the country of residence does not necessarily have to be the applicant’s nationality.

Chevening Scholarships not only cover full tuition fees, airfares and living expenses, but also give candidates the opportunity to join a global network of scholars and access academic and cultural events in the UK.

According to British Ambassador to Vietnam, Mr. Iain Frew, “After completing the course and returning, you will be fully equipped with the knowledge, skills and experience to start contributing to the development of Vietnam”.

The Chevening selection process will consist of four stages: applications from August to October 2025; interviews from March to April 2026; announcement of results in June 2026; and departure to the UK in September 2026.

Applicants can visit the official website www.chevening.org/apply to apply and find out more about the criteria. Updates are also posted regularly on the British Embassy in Vietnam’s social media channels and the Chevening Vietnam community blog www.mindthegap.vn.