The Alphagram – your guide to applying for Chevening – Issue #4

We are now halfway through the application period and we have received a number of queries about the application process. In this issue of the Alphagram, you will find information about our upcoming Facebook Q&A sessions, which will focus on various themes to help you with your application. These sessions are in addition to theguidance on the website, so please plan the questions you would like to ask during these sessions.

Scholarship applications must be submitted by 8 November 2016 at 12:00 GMT.

In addition to scholarships, some Chevening Fellowship programmes are now open for applications. Fellowships are short courses that aim to provide opportunities to mid-career professionals already in positions of leadership and influence, looking to further develop in their field of expertise. To find out which programmes are available in your country, please visit your country page on the website atwww.chevening.org/apply.

If you have any queries about the application process that cannot be answered by the guidance available, please contact us via the website.

UPCOMING Q&A SESSIONS

Throughout the application period, we will be holding five Facebook Q&A sessions to help clarify Chevening’s eligibility criteria and answer your questions about the application process. We will be covering university applications, English language tests, references, and general enquiries, so make sure you tune in at the following times:

UK university applications
Wednesday, 21 September – 14:00 to 15:00 BST

English language tests
Wednesday, 28 September – 12:00 to 13:00 BST

References
Wednesday, 5 October – 14:00 to 15:00 BST

General enquiries
Wednesday, 2 November – 14:00 to 15:00 GMT

Don’t worry if you can’t join us for these sessions, you can still send us your questions through our website.

While there are many common tips for making a successful application, it is also important to think of ways to make your application stand out to the Chevening selection committee. Incoming scholar Aimee Kit Ee Lee, who will soon begin her MSc in Public Health at the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, shares what made her application different from the rest, as well as her tips for current applicants.

What do you think made your application stand out to the Chevening selection committee?

In hindsight, I believe what made me stand out was my application essays. I took two weeks to write the four essays on leadership, networking, studying in the UK, and career plan. As every applicant would have outstanding academic accolades and achievements, it was crucial for me to make my personality stand out in the essays and make my application memorable.

I remember using my enthusiasm in competitive cheerleading as an ice-breaker for my first essay. The idea seemed too trivial at first, but it was a good introduction for me to talk about leadership and influence. It was a big gamble, but I’m glad I made an impression to be shortlisted for the interview.
What application and/or interview tips would you give to prospective applicants?

My advice to any prospective applicants would be to be prepared. Read up on Chevening, their vision and aims, and gauge what kind of applicant they are looking for. Try to convey your personality and career goals in your application essays and interview, and incorporate that with why you could be a good fit for Chevening and vice versa.

If you do get through to the interview round, you have shown that your application carries some weight. Elaborate further on what you have written in your essays. Keep abreast of issues that impact the UK and your home country, especially in your chosen field—interviewers love asking about that! Be professional but not too rehearsed, and most importantly just be yourself and good luck!

#MyCheveningJourney

We receive a lot of questions throughout the application period. Whilst we can’t respond to each query individually, we’ve collated some of the more frequently asked questions and answered them here for everyone’s benefit.

If I already have an unconditional offer for one university, do I still need to submit two more applications?

Yes, you still need to identify three university courses, although you can enter the unconditional offer as the first of your three options.

My internet access is limited. Can I submit a paper copy of the application form?

No. Applications must be submitted online through the Chevening Online Application System. This system will be used throughout the Chevening selection process and you will be required to log in to receive updates on your application. If your internet access is limited, we recommend you find alternative internet providers that are available locally.
I forgot my password. What can I do?

You will need to click on the ‘Forgotten your password’ link. This will send an email to the email address that you used to submit your application. Please check your junk/spam mail to ensure that the email has not been sent there.