The United Kingdom has announced the commencement of applications for the prestigious Chevening Scholarships, offering full financial support for scholars to pursue any eligible master’s degree at over 150 UK universities.

The application window runs from August 6 to November 5, 2024, through the online portal at chevening.org/apply.

The British High Commission in Abuja released a statement on Tuesday highlighting the significance of the opportunity for prospective scholars. The call for new applicants followed the selection of 32 scholars from Nigeria for the current academic year.

According to the statement, “Applications for Chevening Scholarships to study in the UK open today – from August 6 to November 5, 2024. Applications are to be submitted via the online application form at chevening.org/apply.

“The scholarship offers full financial support for scholars to pursue any eligible master’s degree at over 150 UK universities, along with access to a wide range of exclusive academic, professional, and cultural experiences.”

Emma Hennessey, Head of Scholarships at the UK Foreign, Commonwealth, and Development Office, emphasised the transformative impact of the program.

“Chevening Scholars, Fellows, and Alumni use the skills and knowledge they gain while studying in the UK to drive change, promoting better lives and safer places for people around the world to live, work, and thrive. Chevening represents the very best of the UK and the world, and our scholars become part of the global Chevening network of over 57,000 alumni. I am continually inspired by the passion and commitment of those in the Chevening community and I look forward to receiving applications from the next generation of leaders,” Hennessey added.

British High Commissioner to Nigeria, Richard Montgomery, highlighted the program’s inclusivity and potential for applicants to make a significant impact.

“If you are passionate about driving change, whether on a local or global scale, if you want to be the best at what you do and have the imagination to inspire others, then a Chevening Scholarship could be the perfect opportunity for you. There is no such thing as a ‘typical’ scholar. Your age, race, gender, religion, and cultural background do not matter to us. We want to see that you have energy, curiosity, compassion, a clear vision for your future, and the ability to achieve your goals.”

Montgomery added, “Our alumni network is full of dynamic influencers who have shared the same experience that you will. They can offer encouragement, mentorship, advice, and contacts. When you return home after your studies you should feel well-equipped to start making a real difference in Nigeria.”

Chevening Scholarships aim to identify individuals from diverse backgrounds who demonstrate the commitment and skills to become future leaders and create positive change in their home countries through their studies in the UK. Since its inception in 1983, the program has awarded scholarships to over 57,000 professionals worldwide, establishing a highly regarded global network of influential alumni.

Over the past five years, nearly 8,000 scholarships have been awarded, further expanding the Chevening community’s reach and impact.

Prospective applicants are encouraged to apply through the Chevening website by November 5, 2024, for a chance to join this distinguished network and further their academic and professional ambitions.