Chevening and GREAT both help international students pursue taught postgraduate study in the UK, but their funding and application routes differ. Chevening’s 2027/28 call is open; the GREAT country pages checked here describe 2026/27 awards. Keep those years separate when planning an application.
Chevening: a funded one-year master’s
Chevening lists scholarships for eligible countries including Nigeria and India. The award covers tuition, travel, visa costs and a monthly living allowance under its funding terms. For 2027/28, applications close 6 October 2026 at 11:00 UTC.
The eligibility guidance requires citizenship of an eligible country or territory, an undergraduate degree that qualifies you for a UK master’s, and at least two years of post-undergraduate work experience equivalent to 2,800 hours. Applicants commit to returning home for at least two years after the scholarship. They apply to three different eligible UK courses and must later hold an unconditional offer from at least one by Chevening’s stated timeline. Check all current rules before applying; there is no universal “2:1 required” rule on Chevening’s eligibility page.
GREAT: a contribution to tuition
The British Council’s Nigeria and India GREAT pages describe £10,000 toward tuition fees for selected one-year taught postgraduate courses in the 2026/27 academic year. This is not a full living-cost scholarship. Available universities, courses, additional criteria and deadlines vary by country and institution. Applications are made to the participating university under its own instructions.
Choose the right route
- Need tuition and living support for 2027 entry? Read Chevening’s current country page and apply on time if you meet its work and return requirements.
- Considering a listed 2026/27 UK course and able to cover the remaining costs? Check a participating GREAT university’s live deadline and total fee.
- Planning GREAT for 2027/28? Wait for a new official country and university announcement; do not assume the 2026/27 list carries over.
Status checked 24 September 2026.