FAQs

Extensions are only granted in exceptional circumstances and subject to funding. They are not automatic, and should not be assumed.

Only if it is approved by both the Secretariat and your host institution in advance. In this event, the following entitlement applies: 3 month fellowship duration – up to 7 days travel outside of the UK 6 month fellowship duration – up to 14 days travel outside of the UK 9 months fellowship duration – up to […]

As a Chevening Scholar, the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) expects your priority to be your studies, but they do acknowledge that gaining some work experience in the UK can be beneficial for your career and overall experience. However you must ensure that any work you do is within the conditions of your visa, […]

If you are required to make a personal contribution to your tuition fees, it will be written in your final award letter. Your university will invoice you directly for your contribution and it is your responsibility to make the payment and meet any payment terms. If after receiving your invoice, you are unclear about how […]

Some universities require a tuition fee deposit either because you have deferred your place from the previous year or to secure your unconditional offer. Chevening will not pay this deposit. In some cases, the university may be able to postpone payment of the deposit if they are aware that you are waiting for your Chevening […]

Reference letters do not need to be written on official letterhead, but the British embassy or high commission may contact your referees for verification.

Your reference letters should cover the following: 1) How long have you known the applicant? 2) In what capacity do you know the applicant? (e.g. professional, educational, supervisory, voluntary, religious) 3) When you last had regular contact with the applicant 4) A brief overall endorsement of the applicant, including their: Skills in leadership and networking Personal, intellectual, and interpersonal qualities […]

Your referees do not need to still be employed by the company you worked for. The important thing is that they can comment on your skills in leadership and networking; personal, intellectual, and interpersonal qualities; and ability to complete a demanding academic programme in the UK.

No, you cannot write your own reference.

References not written in English must be translated and notarised by an official translator. Any unofficial translations will not be accepted.