UK opens Chevening scholarships, Commonwealth Startup Fellowship for Pakistanis
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The United Kingdom (UK) opened applications for Chevening Scholarships and the Commonwealth Startup Fellowship programmes aimed at supporting emerging Pakistani leaders, researchers and entrepreneurs through fully funded educational and professional development opportunities, the British High Commission said on Tuesday.
According to a statement issued by the commission, applications are now open for Chevening Scholarships, the Chevening Oxford Centre for Islamic Studies (OCIS) Fellowship and the Commonwealth Startup Fellowship.
"The programmes are designed to help participants access world-class education, develop innovative ideas and build international professional networks”, it said further.
Outlining the details, the statement said Chevening Scholarships provide fully funded one-year master’s degree programmes at universities across the UK for individuals who can demonstrate leadership potential, influence and a clear vision for creating positive impact.
“The Chevening Oxford Centre for Islamic Studies Fellowship supports mid-career academics and professionals by enabling them to undertake independent research at the University of Oxford,” said the statement.
Applications for #Chevening Scholarships are now open!
— Chevening Awards🇬🇧 (@CheveningFCDO) August 4, 2026
If you’re a future leader who’s ready to influence positive change in areas of shared priority for your country and the UK, this could be the opportunity you’ve been waiting for.
With a Chevening Scholarship, you’ll gain:… pic.twitter.com/fk22BxD1lB
According to the statement, the Commonwealth Startup Fellowship was intended for high-potential entrepreneurs, offering them opportunities to strengthen their businesses, learn from UK experts and prepare their ventures for growth and expansion.
Speaking on the scholarship opportunities, British High Commissioner to Pakistan Jane Marriott said, “Pakistan has no shortage of talent, and these programmes help outstanding Pakistanis develop the skills, networks and ideas needed to lead institutions, grow businesses and tackle some of the world's biggest challenges.”
She urged applicants to base their submissions on their own experiences, ideas and ambitions, warning against AI-generated answers.
“Applicants found to have used AI-generated responses risk disqualification,” she added.
Detailing the three programmes, the high commissioner said these covered flight tickets, course fees, visa costs and stipend payments to meet participants’ living expenses.
The statement highlighted that “beyond academic and professional development”, participants would have the opportunity to build international networks, experience different cultures and perspectives, and establish lasting connections with the UK and fellow leaders from around the world.
It noted that more than 2,000 Chevening alumni in Pakistan were working across public service, business, academia, media and civil society, contributing to the long-standing partnership between the UK and Pakistan.
“Globally, the Chevening network includes more than 20 current or former heads of state or government among its alumni,” it said further.
The statement asserted that applications for Chevening Scholarships could be submitted via chevening.org/apply, while applications for the Chevening Oxford Centre for Islamic Studies Fellowship could be submitted via chevening.org/fellowship/ocis/.
According to the press release, applications for the Commonwealth Startup Fellowship opened on August 3 and would remain open until September 1.
It also said more information is available at cscuk.fcdo.gov.uk/apply.