Chevening Scholarships Afghanistan Application Open | Fully Funded UK Masters

Are you looking for Chevening Scholarships Afghanistan 2026? In a significant victory for academic advocacy, the prestigious Chevening Scholarship programme has officially reopened for applications from citizens of Afghanistan for the 2025/2026 academic year. This announcement, made by the UK’s Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) in November 2024, marks a crucial opportunity for Afghan future leaders to access world-class education in the United Kingdom.

This guide provides a comprehensive overview of everything you need to know to apply, including eligibility updates, the application process, and important travel information for successful applicants from Afghanistan.

What is the Chevening Scholarship?

Chevening is the UK government’s premier global scholarship programme. Funded by the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO), its mission is to empower exceptional future leaders from across the world by providing them with a fully-funded master’s degree in the UK. The network of over 60,000 alumni includes heads of state, ministers, and influential decision-makers driving positive change in fields like climate action, economic development, and governance.

Key Update: Chevening is Open to Applicants in Afghanistan

After an unexplained pause that sparked outcry from alumni and advocates, the application portal for Afghan students is now active. Crucially, this is the first time since the Taliban’s return to power in 2021 that students residing inside Afghanistan are eligible to apply.

This reversal is a testament to the tireless work of Chevening alumni, media pressure, and supportive UK parliamentarians. It reinstates a vital educational pathway, especially for Afghan women and girls who have been systematically excluded from higher education at home.

What Does the Chevening Scholarship Cover?

The Chevening Award is fully-funded, meaning it covers all essential costs, including:

• Full University Tuition Fees: Paid directly to your UK university.
• Monthly Stipend: To cover living expenses and accommodation.
• Travel Costs: Economy class flights to and from the UK.
• Arrival and Departure Allowances: Grants to help you settle in and return home.
• Visa Application Cost: The fee for your UK student visa.
• Travel Grants: Funding to attend exclusive Chevening events, networking sessions, and lectures across the UK.

Eligibility Criteria for Afghan Applicants in 2025

To be eligible for a Chevening Scholarships Afghanistan, you must meet the following core requirements. Please note two important changes for this application cycle:

1. Citizenship: Be a citizen of Afghanistan. Dual British citizens are not eligible.
2. Return Commitment: Return to Afghanistan for a minimum of two years after your scholarship ends.
3. Education: Hold an undergraduate degree that is equivalent to a UK bachelor’s degree. You must have completed this degree at least two years prior to the application deadline.
4. Work Experience: NEW RULE: You must have at least 2,800 hours of work experience. Crucially, only experience gained after the date of your undergraduate graduation will now count towards this total. This is roughly equivalent to two years of full-time work.
5. University Offers: Apply to three different eligible UK master’s courses and receive an unconditional offer from one of them by the specified deadline.

You are NOT eligible if you:

• Hold British or dual British citizenship.
• Are an employee (or relative of an employee) of the UK government, British Embassies, or the British Council (with specific restrictions).
• Have previously studied in the UK on a UK government-funded scholarship.

How to Apply for Chevening from Afghanistan

All applications must be submitted through the official online Chevening application system.

Steps to apply:

1. Review Eligibility: Carefully read all criteria on the official Chevening website.
2. Prepare Documents: Have your educational certificates, work experience records, and passport details ready.
3. Secure References: You will need two references to support your application.
4. Research Courses: Identify three eligible UK master’s courses that align with your career goals.
5. Submit Application: Complete the online form before the deadline. Bookmark the application timeline to track your progress.

Application Deadline for 2025/2026: 7 November 2025, at 12:00 (UTC). (Confirm this on the official portal, as some sources noted an earlier date).

Extremely Important: Travel Information for Afghan Scholars

Prospective applicants must understand a critical condition stated by the FCDO:

“Please note that while the FCDO will consider providing support if necessary, it is unable to assist with arranging or facilitating travel to the UK, including from Afghanistan. Successful applicants will need to arrange their own travel to the UK, potentially through third countries.”

This means that if you are selected, you will be responsible for securing your own visa to a third country and flight to the UK. The scholarship will cover the cost of your flight, but you must manage the logistics. Plan for this significant requirement early.

Why Apply for a Chevening Scholarship?

Beyond the full financial support, a Chevening Scholarships Afghanistan offers:

• World-Class Education: Study at a top UK university.
• Exclusive Networking: Join a global community of leaders, influencers, and change-makers.
• UK Cultural Immersion: Experience life in the UK and build lasting international connections.
• Leadership Development: Access unique workshops, events, and talks designed to enhance your skills.

Final Call to Action

The reopening of Chevening for Afghan students is a beacon of hope. If you are a future leader with a vision to contribute to Afghanistan’s recovery and development, this is your chance to gain the skills and network to make a lasting impact.

Don’t miss this opportunity. Applications are open now.

Apply for the Chevening Scholarships Afghanistan 2025 here: Official Chevening Application Portal