By Asha Elmi - Reporter
Somalia, 4 August 2026 – The United Kingdom has opened applications for its fully funded Chevening Scholarships for Somali professionals seeking to pursue master's degrees at British universities, the British Embassy in Somalia said on Tuesday.
According to a statement from the embassy, applications will remain open from Aug. 4 to Oct. 6, with successful candidates receiving funding to study one-year master's degree programmes at universities across the United Kingdom.
The embassy said the scholarships are intended to equip emerging Somali leaders with the knowledge, skills and international networks needed to contribute to Somalia's development and address global challenges.
British Ambassador to Somalia Charles King encouraged qualified applicants from across the country to apply, describing Somalia's people as the country's greatest asset.
"Through Chevening, talented Somalis can access world-class education, expand their professional networks and return with new skills to help shape Somalia's future," King said in the statement.
Related articles
The programme is supported in Somalia by the Hormuud Salaam Foundation, which is funding two Somali Chevening scholars each year between the 2025/26 and 2027/28 academic years.
Emma Hennessey, head of the Scholarships Unit at the UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO), said the programme was seeking applicants with leadership potential and a commitment to creating lasting impact in their communities.
"Chevening is looking for exceptional individuals who are ready to collaborate with the UK to help build a more resilient, prosperous and sustainable future," Hennessey said.
The British Embassy said more than 100 Somalis have received Chevening Scholarships since the programme was introduced in Somalia, joining a global alumni network of more than 60,000 professionals. Candidates can apply through the Chevening website before the Oct. 6 deadline.