AdminThe Chevening LSE Fellowship 2025/2026 is an exceptional program designed to support mid-career professionals from China in advancing their research and expertise at one of the world’s leading academic institutions, the London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE). Funded by the UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office, this fellowship provides a unique platform for fellows to immerse themselves in a rich academic environment, engage in meaningful research aligned with their professional interests and collaborate with distinguished advisors.
The program’s flexibility, offering three, six or nine-month durations, allows fellows to tailor their experience to their research needs and career goals. In addition to their research, fellows benefit from auditing LSE lectures, attending seminars and participating in cultural events organized by the Chevening Secretariat, thereby enhancing their academic and professional development.
Eligible candidates are those with a strong background in social sciences, particularly in fields such as international relations, public policy and development issues. Applicants must hold a postgraduate degree or have substantial professional experience and they need to demonstrate a clear intention to return to China after the fellowship.
The selection process is competitive, involving rigorous evaluations of research proposals and interviews with shortlisted candidates. The fellowship covers full program fees, living expenses, airfare and provides an allowance for research-related activities, making it a comprehensive support system for individuals aiming to make significant contributions to their fields and to global discourse.
Degree Level and Subjects for the Fellowship
The Chevening LSE Fellowship is designed for professionals seeking to undertake fellowship-level programs at the London School of Economics and Political Science.
Available Subjects
Candidates may explore research across various subjects relevant to their professional and academic interests.
Benefits Provided by the Fellowship
The fellowship covers several expenses to ensure a comprehensive experience:
- Full tuition fees for the program
- Living expenses throughout the fellowship period
- Round-trip economy airfare from China to the UK
- An allowance for research-related costs
- Access to a series of cultural events and activities organized by the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) and the Chevening Secretariat
Eligibility Criteria
Nationality and Residency
- Must be a Chinese citizen residing in China.
- Applicants need to demonstrate a clear intent to return to China after completing the fellowship.
Academic and Professional Requirements
- Possess a postgraduate degree or have equivalent professional experience in a relevant field.
- Have at least five years of significant and relevant work experience or be a current PhD candidate (excluding those from UK, EU and US universities).
Employment Restrictions
- Government Employees: Current or former employees or relatives of employees, of the UK government or affiliated organizations (including the British Council, UK universities and the Association of Commonwealth Universities) are not eligible.
- Previous Scholarship Holders: Individuals who have received a UK government-funded scholarship or fellowship before can apply after a five-year gap, provided they demonstrate career progression since the last award.
- Chevening Partner Organizations: Employees, former employees or relatives of Chevening Partner organizations can apply, but cannot receive an award from the same organization within two years of their employment.
Relatives include parents, siblings, children, spouse, civil partner or an unmarried partner in a relationship equivalent to marriage or civil partnership for at least two years.
Note
Applicants must agree to comply with all program guidelines and expectations.
Application Process
The application period is currently open and will close on November 5, 2024. The selection process is rigorous, starting with initial eligibility checks followed by a comprehensive evaluation of research proposals by independent reading committees. Shortlisted candidates will be invited for interviews and final decisions will be made and announced in May 2025.
The Impact of the Fellowship
The Chevening LSE Fellowship offers more than just an academic endeavor; it is a transformative experience designed to help individuals become leaders in their fields. By providing a platform for detailed research, ample networking opportunities and cultural exchange, the fellowship equips participants with the knowledge and skills necessary to tackle complex global challenges.
For those aiming to make a substantial impact in China and globally, the Chevening LSE Fellowship represents an unmatched opportunity.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Chevening LSE Fellowship?
The Chevening LSE Fellowship is a prestigious program that allows mid-career professionals from China to conduct in-depth research and enhance their expertise at the London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE). Funded by the UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office, it provides a platform for fellows to engage in academic research, network with professionals and participate in cultural events.
What are the key benefits of the fellowship?
The fellowship covers full tuition fees, living expenses, return economy airfare from China to the UK, a research allowance and access to cultural events organized by the FCDO and Chevening Secretariat.
Who is eligible to apply for the fellowship?
Applicants must be Chinese citizens residing in China, have a postgraduate degree or equivalent professional experience and a minimum of five years of relevant work experience. They must also demonstrate a clear intent to return to China after the fellowship.
What are the application deadlines?
The application window for the Chevening LSE Fellowship is open until November 5, 2024.
How long does the fellowship last?
The fellowship can be undertaken for three, six or nine months, depending on the research project and the fellow’s preferences.
What is the selection process for the fellowship?
The selection process includes an initial eligibility check, a thorough evaluation of research proposals by independent committees, interviews with shortlisted candidates and final decisions announced in May 2025.
Can individuals with dual British nationality apply?
No, individuals holding dual British nationality are generally not eligible to apply. Exceptions are outlined in the Chevening Guidance for Applicants.
Are there any restrictions on employment for applicants?
Current or former employees or relatives of employees, of the UK government or affiliated organizations are not eligible. Previous recipients of UK government-funded scholarships or fellowships may apply after a five-year gap.
What types of research projects are encouraged?
The fellowship encourages research in social sciences, including international relations, public policy, social, economic, environmental policy and development issues. A well-defined and relevant research proposal is essential.
What is expected of fellows during their time at LSE?
Fellows are expected to conduct their research projects under the guidance of an LSE advisor, produce a comprehensive research paper and actively participate in lectures, seminars and cultural events to enrich their academic experience.
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