Hi!

I applied for Chevening Scholarship (UK) in 2018 and was longlisted/selected for it. However, I did not get an acceptance letter from the three universities I applied to, so I did not make it to the final list.
Either way, it was a huge accomplishment for me to be even considered for the scholarship and to get a positive reply from the board of selection.

When I was doing my research and observing the form, I thought that the direct applications to the universities would cost money
as universities usually charge an application fee. However, I was able to apply for free as they did not charge money at all. Only Kent University required a passport scan and number as obligatory otherwise Queen Mary and Southampton made no such demand.
I was able to apply to Chevening and to the three universities WITHOUT SPENDING ONE PENNY.

Now, on what basis was I longlisted for Chevening? I had work experience and good grades, but mostly because my essays were carefully crafted.
Here are some tips on how to write REALLY GOOD essays that will get the board to consider you for the scholarship:

A. Divide your essays into paragraphs and make it clear in your head what the purpose of each paragraph will be.
For example, you need to begin with your schooling background that should make it clear that you do not have the financial means to pursue a degree abroad which is why you need the scholarship.
B. Mention that you are from a developing country, and being a woman, it is ten times harder for you to pursue education given the circumstances in the country, and the social issues that mar our goals.
Make it very clear that you cannot pursue a degree abroad unless it is fully funded as it is not impossible for families living here to fund such expensive education even though YOU ARE EXTREMELY TALENTED and deserve to study and contribute to a top-notch university.
C. Speak passionately about why you want to study the subjects you have chosen and what PURPOSE you have with the research you want to do. Mention how that particular area of study will be beneficial to your country when you come back to contribute/give back.
All scholarships require you to come back and work for your country so NEVER SAY THAT YOU WANT TO LIVE ABROAD AND WORK THERE.

D. Make your claims logical. When you come back after your one year masters, think of the entry-level positions you will apply to.
Do not make claims about becoming an assistant professor or chairman of a university because that's impossible and very painful to even imagine :D Speak about some of the problems in the education sector, the hierarchy established,
and how you plan to work your way up with the added advantage of the scholarship that you will gain.

E. Talk about WHAT studying in a different country will contribute to your experience and personality.
You can say that you want to learn more about the world and meet people from different cultural and ethnic or religious backgrounds because you want to learn about them and share the experience together.
Mention that you are tolerant and creative and you believe that working with different kinds of people will teach you mindblowing teamwork skills.

F. It is okay to talk about the difficulties you've faced in the education sector here and say that you aim to make things better
when you return. If there are certain programs that are not available here, say that you want to pursue them as it is a dream, and you cannot do that back in your home country.

G. Mention your skills. Talk about creativity, art, singing, sports, anything.
Extracurricular skills are appreciated and highly rewarded.

H. Attach your Final Year Project or Research Paper or Dissertation and they will definitely look at your work. it shows your dedication and highlights your skills. Also attach your CV and make it look good!
I: Say you want to work as a TA or tutor students. Such hardworking students are appreciated and you will be able to get to experience teaching and have interaction with research supervisors.

That's all I can think of right now. If there's more. I'll add to it.
If any of you want me to see your essays, you can send me a DM and I will be happy to help :)
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