When is the Commonwealth Scholarship deadline for Nigeria?

The Commonwealth Scholarship Commission in the UK sets deadlines for nominated candidates in December each year, with Nigerian nominations processed through the Federal Scholarship Board. The Nigerian nomination deadline is typically earlier than the Commission's own deadline. Nigerian applicants should check the Federal Scholarship Board and cscuk.fcdo.gov.uk for current cycle dates.

What is the GREAT Scholarship and who can apply from Nigeria?

GREAT Scholarships are funded jointly by the UK government's GREAT Britain Campaign and participating UK universities. They are available to students from specific countries including Nigeria. Each participating university sets its own deadline and award amount. The scholarships are typically for one-year postgraduate taught programmes. Check the British Council Nigeria website and individual university pages for current GREAT Scholarship availability and deadlines.

Can I apply for multiple UK scholarships at the same time?

Yes. There is generally no rule preventing you from applying for Chevening, Commonwealth, and GREAT scholarships simultaneously. However, each requires significant preparation time, especially for personal statements and references. Managing multiple applications well is better than applying to many with insufficient preparation for each. Prioritise the scholarship that best matches your profile and timeline.

Do I need a university offer before applying for Chevening?

No. Chevening is unique in that you can apply without a university offer in hand. You choose three universities and three courses as preferences in the application. If shortlisted, you then secure an unconditional offer from one of the three before the scholarship can be confirmed. This means you can begin the application before applying to universities.

What does Chevening Scholarship cover?

Chevening covers full tuition fees, a monthly living allowance (stipend), return economy class flights, a thesis grant (if applicable), and a study materials allowance. It does not cover dependant costs, private health insurance beyond the IHS waiver, or optional trips. The exact monthly stipend amount varies slightly by location of study within the UK.

What are the chances of getting a Chevening Scholarship from Nigeria?

Nigeria is one of the largest Chevening-sending countries globally, with typically 20 to 40 scholars selected per year from Nigeria. The exact acceptance rate is not published, but competition is intense. Strong candidates typically have: 2 to 3 years of post-graduation work experience, clear leadership evidence, a well-articulated reason for choosing the UK and the specific course, and strong references from professional supervisors.

What is the Federal Scholarship Board deadline for Commonwealth Scholarship Nigeria?

The Federal Scholarship Board (FSB) in Nigeria typically sets a December deadline for Commonwealth Scholarship nominations, which is separate from and earlier than the Commonwealth Scholarship Commission's own portal deadline. Nigerian applicants must first be nominated through the FSB before the Commission considers their application. Check fsb.gov.ng for current cycle dates.

Does Chevening cover Masters only or also PhD?

The main Chevening Scholarship covers one-year postgraduate taught Masters degrees only. There are separate Chevening Fellowships for shorter programmes. The Commonwealth Scholarship covers both Masters and PhD programmes. If you are seeking a funded PhD, Commonwealth is generally more suitable than Chevening for Nigerian applicants.

Can I defer a UK scholarship to the following year?

Deferral policies vary by scholarship. Chevening generally does not allow deferral; if you cannot take up the scholarship in the cycle offered, you must reapply in a future cycle. Commonwealth Scholarship deferral requests are considered case-by-case. GREAT Scholarships are university-specific and deferral depends on the awarding institution. Never assume deferral is possible without confirming directly with the scholarship body.

Do I need IELTS for Chevening Scholarship from Nigeria?

Yes, most cases require an English language test. Chevening requires that you meet the English language requirements of your chosen UK university. For Nigerian applicants, most UK universities require IELTS Academic with an overall band of 6.5 to 7.0. Some universities accept PTE Academic or Cambridge C1 Advanced. You do not need IELTS before applying to Chevening but will need it before your university offer can be confirmed.

What is the Chevening scholarship monthly allowance in 2024?

The Chevening monthly stipend varies by location of study. For 2024 to 2025, the rates are approximately £1,452 per month for London, £1,191 per month for Oxford and Cambridge, and £1,172 per month for all other UK locations. These figures are published on the Chevening website and are reviewed annually. They are intended to cover basic living costs but students are advised to budget carefully given UK living costs.

How many university choices does Chevening require?

Chevening requires you to select three different UK universities and three different Master's degree courses (one at each university) in your application. You must be willing to attend any of the three if offered a place. You cannot apply with only one university choice. Selecting three strong, realistic choices that align with your stated reasons for choosing the UK is an important part of the application.

What work experience is required for Chevening?

Chevening requires a minimum of two years of work experience by the application deadline. The experience does not need to be in a specific field but should demonstrate leadership, influence, and networking ability, which are the core Chevening selection criteria. Volunteer work can contribute to this requirement in some cases. The two years must be cumulative, not necessarily continuous.

Can NYSC count as work experience for Chevening?

NYSC (National Youth Service Corps) can count toward the two-year work experience requirement for Chevening. Many successful Nigerian Chevening scholars have included NYSC service as part of their experience record. However, the work experience section should demonstrate leadership impact and professional contribution, not just time served. Describe your NYSC role in terms of specific responsibilities and outcomes achieved.

When does Chevening open for applications in 2025?

The Chevening application window for the 2026 to 2027 academic year cycle is expected to open in August 2025 and close in November 2025. Dates have not been officially confirmed for that cycle at the time of this content. Check chevening.org for official announcement of opening and closing dates. Set a reminder 8 weeks before the expected opening to begin drafting your application essays.

Is Chevening scholarship taxable in Nigeria or the UK?

Chevening scholarship stipends and awards are not taxable in the UK. Students on study visas are generally not subject to UK income tax on scholarship grants. For Nigerian tax purposes, income earned while studying abroad is generally outside Nigerian tax jurisdiction. Always check with a tax adviser for your specific situation as tax rules can change.

What is the Chevening scholarship return obligation?

Chevening scholars are expected to return to their home country after completing their scholarship. The condition requires scholars to return to Nigeria for at least two years after completing the scholarship. This is a condition of the award, not enforced legally, but violation could affect future applications or standing. Many scholars later apply for UK work visas after fulfilling the return period.

How to write a good Chevening personal statement as a Nigerian?

A strong Chevening personal statement for Nigerian applicants should: demonstrate a clear connection between your current work in Nigeria, the UK course you plan to take, and your stated ambition to make a specific, named impact when you return; show evidence of leadership through specific examples with named roles and measurable outcomes; explain your networking goals in the UK with reference to specific individuals or institutions; and avoid vague phrases. Chevening selects for future leaders, not just academic achievers. Your statement should read as a credible leadership narrative, not a list of achievements.

How many Chevening scholars are selected from Nigeria each year?

The exact number varies by year, but Nigeria typically produces between 20 and 40 Chevening scholars annually. Nigeria is consistently one of the largest Chevening-sending countries in Africa. The number can change based on the FCDO's annual country allocations, which are not publicly disclosed in advance. Competition is strong because Nigeria also has one of the largest applicant pools.

Do I need a first class degree to get Chevening?

No. Chevening does not require a first class degree. The minimum academic requirement is an undergraduate degree, but Chevening selection focuses more on leadership potential, networking ability, and the plausibility of your stated return impact than on grades alone. Many Nigerian Chevening scholars have second class upper degrees. However, your academic performance should be strong enough to meet the entry requirements of your chosen UK universities.

What is a Chevening Fellowship and how is it different from the Scholarship?

Chevening Fellowships are shorter programmes, typically 3 to 12 months, covering professional development, leadership, or thematic areas such as public policy, journalism, or climate. They are not full Master's scholarships. They are designed for mid-career professionals who cannot commit to a full year's Master's study. The main Chevening Scholarship is the one-year Master's award. Fellowships are a separate programme with separate applications and deadlines.

Can Nigerians apply for GREAT Scholarship without IELTS?

GREAT Scholarship eligibility and English language requirements are set by each participating UK university. Some universities may accept English language evidence other than IELTS, such as a degree taught in English from a Nigerian university, depending on their policy. Check the specific English language requirements of the GREAT Scholarship university you are targeting, not a general rule, as each institution decides independently.

What is the Commonwealth Shared Scholarship and who qualifies?

The Commonwealth Shared Scholarship is funded jointly by the UK government and UK universities. It is specifically for students from lower and middle income Commonwealth countries, which includes Nigeria. It covers tuition fees, living allowance, and flights, similar to the main Commonwealth Scholarship. Eligibility requires a first degree of at least upper second class (2:1) and Nigerian citizenship. Applications are processed through both the Federal Scholarship Board and the Commonwealth Scholarship Commission.

Is the Commonwealth Scholarship only for government employees in Nigeria?

No. The Commonwealth Scholarship is open to Nigerian citizens in all sectors, not just government employees. The Nigerian nomination process is managed by the Federal Scholarship Board, which accepts applications from both public and private sector workers. Academic staff, civil servants, private sector professionals, and recent graduates are all eligible to apply. Meeting the academic and eligibility criteria is the key requirement.

What is the GREAT Britain Scholarship amount for Nigeria?

GREAT Scholarships for Nigeria typically offer between £10,000 and £15,000 per award, applied against tuition fees for a one-year postgraduate course. The exact amount varies by participating university. They are partial awards, meaning they reduce but do not always fully cover tuition fees. The shortfall in tuition plus all living costs must be covered by the student. Check the specific award amount on the British Council Nigeria website for each participating university.

How long does a Chevening interview take and what format is it?

Chevening interviews typically last 25 to 45 minutes and are conducted by a panel of two to three interviewers, usually representatives from the British High Commission in Nigeria and/or external assessors. The interview is competency-based, focused on the four Chevening criteria: leadership, networking, studying in the UK, and your post-scholarship return plan. Interviews are conducted in Lagos and Abuja, and occasionally virtually. Preparation typically involves researching your course, articulating specific leadership examples, and practicing answers to questions about your ambitions.

Can I apply to Chevening after a gap year?

Yes. A gap year does not disqualify a Chevening application. The two-year work experience requirement is cumulative and a gap year does not automatically reset it, as long as you have two qualifying years of experience in total. The more important factor is whether you can articulate a clear and credible reason for choosing this specific time to study in the UK and how it fits your leadership journey. A well-explained gap year may even strengthen the narrative if it demonstrates purpose.

How many references do I need for Chevening?

Chevening requires two professional references. These must be from people who know your work professionally, not academic tutors (unless your work since graduating has been academic). The references are submitted online. Referees should ideally be able to speak to your leadership potential, professional impact, and readiness for graduate study. Avoid using family members, religious leaders without professional context, or personal friends as referees.

What are the Chevening selection criteria?

Chevening has four official selection criteria: leadership and influence; networking; studying in the UK (why this course, why now, why the UK); and post-scholarship plans and return impact. All four essay questions in the application map to these criteria. Shortlisting and interview assessments are based entirely on these four areas. Academic achievement is a threshold requirement, not a scoring factor in itself.

Do Chevening scholars get ILR or citizenship rights in the UK?

No. Chevening scholars are on a Student visa during their study year. A Student visa and the subsequent Graduate Route visa do not directly lead to ILR or British citizenship on their own. Scholars who later wish to remain in the UK must apply through eligible routes such as the Skilled Worker visa and accumulate the qualifying years separately. The two-year return obligation also means scholars should expect to return to Nigeria before pursuing any UK residency pathway.

Can I transfer my Chevening scholarship to a different university?

Chevening scholars are expected to attend one of the three universities listed in their application. Changes of university after award confirmation are not guaranteed and must be approved by the Chevening Secretariat. The new university must be a recognized UK institution and the course must be at the same level. Requests for transfers are considered on a case-by-case basis and are not routinely approved.

What happens if I am rejected by all three Chevening university choices?

If none of your three university choices offer you a place, your Chevening award cannot proceed for that cycle. This is why choosing realistic university options (not only the most competitive ones) is important. You should apply to universities where your academic profile is a strong match, not just name recognition. If this happens, you may reapply in a future Chevening cycle.

How early should I start preparing for Chevening from Nigeria?

Realistically, you should begin preparation 6 to 12 months before the application window opens. This means: drafting and revising your four essays, identifying and briefing your two referees, clarifying your career narrative, shortlisting your three university and course choices, and gathering any required academic certificates or transcripts. The application window is typically open for around 8 to 10 weeks. Using that window to write essays from scratch produces weaker applications than those prepared well in advance.

What is the Chevening scholarship contract and what does it require?

Chevening scholars sign a scholarship agreement (sometimes called a contract) before their award is confirmed. Key obligations include: maintaining good academic standing throughout the course; not taking up paid employment without prior permission; returning to Nigeria within a defined period after completing the scholarship (typically required to return home for two years); and representing Chevening positively as an alumnus. Breach of these conditions can result in withdrawal of the scholarship or repayment demands.

Is the Chevening scholarship bond-free or does it require repayment?

Chevening is a grant, not a loan. There is no financial bond or repayment obligation as long as you complete the programme and meet the return obligation. However, if a scholar abandons the programme mid-year or breaches scholarship conditions (such as the return obligation), the scholarship body may seek reimbursement. For scholars who complete the programme and return home as agreed, there is no financial repayment requirement.

What is the best UK university to apply to on Chevening from Nigeria?

There is no single best university for Chevening applicants. The right university is the one where your chosen course is strongest, your academic profile is competitive for admission, and the university's environment matches your career goals. Nigerian Chevening scholars have studied at a wide range of UK universities including London School of Economics, University of Manchester, University of Edinburgh, University of Birmingham, and many others. Avoid choosing universities purely by reputation if your profile does not match their typical entry standards.

What is the age limit for Chevening scholarship from Nigeria?

Chevening does not publish a formal upper age limit. The requirement is a minimum of two years work experience after graduating. There is no stated maximum age. In practice, successful scholars range from mid-20s to early 40s. The more relevant factor is whether you can articulate a credible and impactful post-scholarship plan, which tends to be more specific and achievable for candidates with more professional experience.

Can I apply for Chevening with an HND from Nigeria?

Chevening requires a minimum of an undergraduate degree. An HND (Higher National Diploma) from a Nigerian polytechnic is not always considered equivalent to a university degree for Chevening purposes. If your HND is your highest qualification, you may not meet the minimum academic requirement. However, ECCTIS (formerly UK NARIC) evaluation of your HND might be relevant. Check chevening.org and confirm directly with the Chevening Secretariat whether your specific qualification qualifies before investing time in the application.

Can a Nigerian apply for Chevening while working outside Nigeria?

Chevening applicants must apply to the Chevening programme in their country of citizenship or country of domicile (where they have lived for at least two years). Nigerians living outside Nigeria may apply through the Chevening programme in their country of residence rather than Nigeria, subject to that country's programme conditions. This can affect which programme they apply through and the specific requirements. Check chevening.org for guidance on applicants living outside their home country.

Can Nigerians apply for UK scholarships after age 40?

For Chevening there is no stated maximum age. For Commonwealth Scholarship, there is typically an age limit of 40 for Masters applicants in some categories, though this varies by scholarship type. GREAT Scholarships are open to any eligible postgraduate applicant regardless of age. The practical limitation tends to be the career disruption involved in a year abroad, not the age rules themselves. Check each scholarship's specific eligibility criteria for the current cycle as age rules can change.

What is a Chevening application reference number and where to find it?

A Chevening application reference number is generated when you submit your online application through the Chevening application portal at apply.chevening.org. It appears in your application confirmation email and within your application account. Keep this number safe as you may need it for correspondence with the Chevening Secretariat during the review process.

Does Chevening scholarship cover spouse and children?

The standard Chevening Scholarship does not cover the costs of spouses or children. The scholarship covers the scholar only (tuition, living allowance, flights). Dependants are permitted to accompany scholars to the UK if they can independently fund themselves, but the scholarship itself provides no financial support for them. Given UK living costs, bringing dependants on a Chevening year is a significant financial undertaking that should be budgeted for separately.

What documents are needed for Chevening scholarship application from Nigeria?

The Chevening application requires: a completed online application form including four essay responses; academic transcripts (at degree level or above); evidence of work experience (employment letters or certificates); a copy of your passport; and two professional references submitted online by your referees. You do not need university offers, IELTS results, or personal statements at the initial application stage. These come later in the process if you are shortlisted. Read the checklist on chevening.org carefully as requirements can change between cycles.

What is the Chevening scholarship essay word limit?

Each Chevening essay has a word limit of 500 words per question (typically). There are four essay questions covering the four Chevening criteria: leadership, networking, studying in the UK, and post-scholarship plans. In some cycles the word limits have varied slightly. Always check the current application portal for the exact word limits for the cycle you are applying to, as these can be updated. Essays that exceed the word limit may be cut off during review.

How competitive is Commonwealth Scholarship from Nigeria?

The Commonwealth Scholarship from Nigeria is highly competitive. Nigeria typically receives a limited number of nominations from the Federal Scholarship Board each year, and the nomination itself is a competitive selection process at the national level before the international stage. Requirements typically include a first degree with at least upper second class honours, a clear development focus in the proposed study, and evidence of professional contribution. The two-stage selection (Federal Scholarship Board nomination, then Commission selection) means competition happens at both national and international levels.

How to get Commonwealth Scholarship nomination letter from Nigeria?

To receive a Commonwealth Scholarship nomination from Nigeria, you must apply through the Federal Scholarship Board (FSB) during their advertised application window. The FSB assesses applications and selects candidates for nomination to the Commonwealth Scholarship Commission. The nomination letter from the FSB is the first gate. Once nominated, your application proceeds to the Commission for final selection. Check fsb.gov.ng for the current application window dates, as the FSB deadline is typically earlier than the Commission's own deadline.

How long is the Chevening application window open?

The Chevening application window is typically open for 8 to 10 weeks, usually from August to early November of each year for the following academic year. Once the window closes, no new applications are accepted for that cycle. Given the preparation time required (four essay questions, two references, document gathering), 8 weeks is not much time to start from scratch. Begin preparation several months before the window opens.

What is the difference between a Chevening Scholarship and a Chevening Fellowship?

A Chevening Scholarship is a full-funding award for a one-year UK Masters degree programme, covering tuition, living costs, and flights. A Chevening Fellowship is a shorter professional development programme, typically 3 to 6 months, focused on a specific thematic area. Fellowships do not lead to a full academic degree and are designed for mid-career professionals who want structured professional development rather than a Masters qualification. Each has separate applications, deadlines, and criteria.

Can Nigerian Chevening scholars work in the UK after graduation?

Chevening scholars complete their studies on a Student visa. After graduation, they can apply for the Graduate Route visa (Post-Study Work) which allows 2 years of work in the UK without employer sponsorship. The Chevening scholarship contract requires scholars to return to Nigeria after the scholarship, but this is an expectation, not a restriction on applying for further UK visas. Scholars who want to work in the UK after their scholarship need to plan this carefully given the return obligation in their scholarship agreement.

Does Chevening scholarship include laptop or equipment allowance?

The standard Chevening Scholarship includes a study materials grant (the exact amount is published on chevening.org and varies by cycle, but has been approximately £1,000 in recent years). This is intended to cover books, materials, and other academic costs including potentially a laptop. It is a one-time grant, not a recurring monthly allowance. Check chevening.org for the current study materials grant amount for the cycle you are applying to.

UK Scholarship Deadline Tracker: Chevening, Commonwealth, GREAT | 2025

DeyWithMe Scholarship guide ↓

UK Scholarship Deadline Tracker

Live countdown to Chevening, Commonwealth, and GREAT scholarship deadlines. See exactly where each scholarship is in the cycle, what stage you should be at, and your preparation checklist.

Deadlines are based on historical cycle patterns and British Council announcements. Always verify exact dates at chevening.org, cscuk.fcdo.gov.uk, and the British Council Nigeria website before acting.

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Mistakes That Cost Nigerians Their Scholarship

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Starting to write essays when the window opens

Chevening has four essay questions of 500 words each. Most people cannot write four strong, evidence-backed essays in under 8 weeks while working full time. Starting to draft essays in August when the window opens in August is already late. Begin drafts in May or June at the latest.

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Telling referees about the deadline one week before it closes

Chevening references are submitted online by the referees themselves through the Chevening portal. They need their own time to complete this. Referees given less than three weeks notice often submit late or generic references. Brief referees at least 6 to 8 weeks before the deadline and give them a copy of your essays so they can align their reference to your narrative.

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Choosing universities by ranking, not by course fit

Selecting Oxford, Cambridge, LSE, and Imperial because of their names is a common mistake. Your three university choices should be places where your profile matches their typical entry requirements. A strong application to three realistic universities is better than three reach applications that return no offers.

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Applying to Commonwealth via FSB after the FSB deadline

The Federal Scholarship Board (FSB) nomination deadline for Commonwealth Scholarship is typically in December, which is earlier than the Commission’s own deadline. Many Nigerians do not know there are two stages. If you miss the FSB nomination window, you cannot apply to Commonwealth that cycle even if the Commission’s window is still open.

The Three Main UK Scholarships for Nigerians

Three fully funded UK scholarship programmes consistently attract large numbers of Nigerian applicants: Chevening, the Commonwealth Scholarship, and GREAT. Each operates on a different model, targets a different applicant profile, and has a different deadline structure. Understanding which one fits your situation is the first step before investing serious preparation time.

Do Not Miss This Step: Student Visa Maintenance Funds

Scholarship	Funding level	Duration	Who applies	Application via
Chevening	Full (tuition, living, flights)	1-year Masters	Working professionals (2+ years exp)	chevening.org directly
Commonwealth	Full (tuition, living, flights)	Masters or PhD	Graduates, academic or public sector	Via Federal Scholarship Board Nigeria
GREAT	Partial (£10k to £15k fee reduction)	1-year Masters	Postgraduate applicants from Nigeria	Via British Council Nigeria

Chevening Scholarship: What Nigerians Need to Know

Chevening is a UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) programme that selects future leaders from around the world. Nigeria is one of the largest sending countries globally. The programme is explicitly designed for people who demonstrate leadership potential, professional influence, and a credible plan to return and make an impact in Nigeria.

Unlike most scholarships, Chevening does not require a university offer at the application stage. You choose three universities and three courses as preferences. If shortlisted, you then secure the offers. The application has four essay questions of 500 words each, covering leadership, networking, reasons for studying in the UK, and your post-scholarship plans.

The 2-year work experience requirement is cumulative. NYSC can count. Volunteer work in professional roles can count. The key is that you must have at least 2 qualifying years of experience by the application closing date. Candidates with significantly more experience (5 to 10 years) tend to write more compelling essays because their leadership examples are richer.

What Chevening Covers and What It Does Not

Full tuition fees paid directly to the university
Monthly living allowance (approximately £1,172 to £1,452 depending on study location)
Return economy airfare to and from Nigeria
Study materials grant (approximately £1,000)
Visa fee waiver for the main applicant
Does not cover: dependant costs, personal travel within the UK, private insurance top-ups

Commonwealth Scholarship: The Two-Stage Nigerian Process

Commonwealth Scholarships are funded by the UK government and cover both Masters and PhD programmes. What makes the Nigerian process unusual is the two-stage structure. Nigerian applicants must first apply to the Federal Scholarship Board (FSB) for nomination. The FSB then nominates selected candidates to the Commonwealth Scholarship Commission (CSC) in London, which makes the final decision.

Do Not Miss This Step: UK Student Visa Cost Calculator

This means there are two deadlines to track: the FSB nomination deadline in Nigeria (typically December) and the Commission’s own portal deadline. Missing the FSB deadline closes the door for that cycle entirely, even if the Commission’s own deadline has not passed. Check fsb.gov.ng and cscuk.fcdo.gov.uk for current cycle dates.

The FSB deadline comes first. Many Nigerians track only the Commonwealth Scholarship Commission’s deadline and miss the FSB nomination stage. The correct order is: FSB application in Nigeria (December), FSB nomination, then Commission application. If you were not nominated by the FSB, the Commission cannot consider your application.

GREAT Scholarship: Partial Funding, Multiple Universities

GREAT Scholarships are funded by a partnership between the UK government’s GREAT Britain Campaign and participating UK universities. They are partial awards, typically covering £10,000 to £15,000 of tuition fees for a one-year postgraduate programme. They do not cover living costs. Each participating university sets its own deadline, which means GREAT deadlines vary by institution and are usually between January and March for September start programmes.

GREAT Scholarships are a good option for students who have other funding for living costs but need help with the tuition fee gap. Check the British Council Nigeria website for the current list of participating UK universities offering GREAT Scholarships for Nigerian students, as the participating institutions change each cycle.

Application Timeline and What You Should Be Doing Now

Month	Chevening	Commonwealth	GREAT
May to July	Draft all 4 essays; identify referees; shortlist 3 universities	Research FSB process; prepare documents	Research participating universities; check deadlines
August	Application window opens; finalise essays; brief referees	FSB applications expected to open	Check each university deadline for next cycle
September to October	Submit; chase referees to submit their part	Submit FSB application	Apply to selected universities
November	Application window closes (first week)	FSB nomination deadline	Most university deadlines close by March
December to February	Waiting period; no action needed	Commission application period	Universities review GREAT applications
January to March	Shortlisting results communicated	Commission shortlisting	Award decisions from universities
April to May	Interviews at British High Commission	Final decisions communicated	Awardees notified
June to July	Final awards and university confirmation	Pre-departure briefing	Visa application begins
September	Course starts in UK	Course starts in UK	Course starts in UK

Do Not Miss This Step: CAS Number Guide and Student Visa Checklist

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the Chevening Scholarship deadline for Nigeria?

The Chevening application window typically opens in August and closes in early November each year. For the 2026 to 2027 academic cycle, the window is expected to open in August 2025. The exact closing date is usually announced on chevening.org at the start of the cycle. Set a reminder for August and begin essay drafts well before then.

Do I need a job offer or university offer to apply for Chevening?

No. Chevening does not require a university offer at the application stage. You choose three universities and three courses as preferences. If shortlisted for interview and then awarded the scholarship, you then apply to those universities and secure an unconditional offer before the award can be confirmed. This is one of Chevening’s most useful features for Nigerian applicants.

Can I apply for all three scholarships in the same year?

Yes, there is no rule against applying for Chevening, Commonwealth, and GREAT scholarships simultaneously. Each is a separate application through different bodies. However, each requires genuine preparation time, especially the essays. It is better to apply to two scholarships with strong, tailored applications than to apply to three with rushed ones.

How much is the Chevening living allowance in 2024?

For the 2024 to 2025 cycle, the monthly living allowance is approximately £1,452 for London, £1,191 for Oxford and Cambridge, and £1,172 for all other UK locations. These rates are reviewed annually. The allowance is designed to cover basic living costs, but London in particular runs expensive. Many scholars find careful monthly budgeting essential.

Is there an age limit for Chevening from Nigeria?

Chevening does not publish a formal maximum age. The key eligibility requirements are a minimum of two years work experience and an undergraduate degree. Successful Nigerian scholars range from mid-20s to early 40s. The application assesses leadership potential and impact, not age. If you can articulate a credible and specific post-scholarship plan for Nigeria, age is not a disqualifying factor.

Disclaimer: Deadline dates shown in this tracker are based on historical patterns and publicly available cycle information. Exact dates change every cycle. Always verify current deadlines at chevening.org, cscuk.fcdo.gov.uk, fsb.gov.ng, and the British Council Nigeria website before planning your application. DeyWithMe does not represent any scholarship body and provides planning tools only.

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UK Scholarship Deadline Tracker

UK Scholarship Deadline Tracker

The Three Main UK Scholarships for Nigerians

Chevening Scholarship: What Nigerians Need to Know

What Chevening Covers and What It Does Not

Commonwealth Scholarship: The Two-Stage Nigerian Process

GREAT Scholarship: Partial Funding, Multiple Universities

Application Timeline and What You Should Be Doing Now

Frequently Asked Questions

Student Visa Maintenance Funds

University Tuition ROI

Student to Skilled Worker Switch Checker

Graduate Route Eligibility Checker

UK Student Visa Cost Calculator

UK Student Part-Time Earnings

UK Scholarship Deadline Tracker

The Three Main UK Scholarships for Nigerians

Chevening Scholarship: What Nigerians Need to Know

What Chevening Covers and What It Does Not

Commonwealth Scholarship: The Two-Stage Nigerian Process

GREAT Scholarship: Partial Funding, Multiple Universities

Application Timeline and What You Should Be Doing Now

Frequently Asked Questions

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