The United Kingdom has reopened applications for the 2025-26 Chevening scholarships, allowing students from Afghanistan to apply for the prestigious program after a long suspension.
In a post on X, Chevening noted that eligibility criteria have changed since last year. Applicants must be both citizens and residents of Afghanistan and meet general Chevening eligibility requirements, according to the statement.
This announcement follows an August report by the BBC that the Chevening program had suspended scholarships for Afghan students. Chevening, funded by the U.K. Foreign, Commonwealth, and Development Office and various partner organizations, offers fully funded scholarships for one-year master’s degree programs in the U.K., aiming to foster future leaders and changemakers from around the world.
Chevening scholars receive fully funded tuition, access to world-class education, exclusive networking opportunities, and the chance to explore British culture, according to the program’s website.
The reopening of Chevening scholarships comes amid continued restrictions on Afghan students, particularly women. The Taliban have banned girls above sixth grade from attending school and have barred women from universities, blocking many from pursuing educational opportunities abroad.
