Uttar Pradesh government has launched the Atal Bihari Vajpayee-Chevening Scholarship Scheme in collaboration with the UK’s Foreign Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) for higher education in the United Kingdom. This new scheme, starting from the academic year 2025-26, is a big opportunity for talented students from Uttar Pradesh who dream of pursuing a master’s degree abroad. For the next three years, five meritorious students every year will get a full scholarship to study in any recognized UK university, with all major expenses covered.
This scholarship is part of the UP government’s strong focus on quality higher education and international exposure for its youth. It also highlights the state’s vision to help its students compete globally and bring back world-class knowledge and skills.
The MoU has been signed between UP Government and UK on 19th August 2025.
What is Atal Bihari Vajpayee-Chevening Scholarship?
This special scholarship scheme, named after former Prime Minister and Bharat Ratna Atal Bihari Vajpayee, has been started by the UP Government in partnership with the Chevening program of the UK. The main aim is to help outstanding students of Uttar Pradesh get the best international education without worrying about high costs. Selected students will get a chance to do a one-year Master’s degree at top UK universities with all important expenses paid.
Download Full PDF of the Cabinet Decision about this scheme.
Key Highlights
| Scheme Name | Atal Bihari Vajpayee-Chevening Scholarship Scheme |
| Started By | Uttar Pradesh Government in partnership with FCDO UK |
| For Academic Years | 2025-26, 2026-27, 2027-28 |
| Number of Scholarships per Year | 5 Students |
| Course Covered | One-year full-time Master’s degree in any subject at any recognized UK university |
| What is Covered? | Academic fees, examination & research fees, monthly living allowance, round-trip economy airfare |
| Total Value per Student | £38,000 – £42,000 (Approx. ₹44 – ₹48 lakh) |
| UP Govt Share | £19,800 (Approx. ₹23 lakh) |
| FCDO UK Share | Rest of the cost |
| Selection | Transparent process as per MoU between UP Govt & FCDO UK |
Coverage under the scheme
- Full academic fees, exam fees, and research costs for the Master’s program
- Monthly allowance for stay (single student) in the UK
- One-time economy class round-trip airfare
- Support for living expenses and accommodation
Eligibility
- Uttar Pradesh permanent residency is must.
- Should be a meritorious graduate.
- Must get selected for a one-year Master’s degree at any recognized UK university.
- Selection will be based on merit and a transparent process as per the agreement between UP Govt and FCDO UK
Scholarship Amount
Each selected student will receive a total scholarship covering between £38,000-£42,000 (about ₹44-₹48 lakh). The UP government will provide up to £19,800 (around ₹23 lakh), while the rest will be funded by the UK government through FCDO. All main academic and living expenses for one year will be fully covered, making it easy for students from all backgrounds to dream big.
How to Apply Online for Atal Bihari Vajpayee-Chevening Scholarship?
Online applications for the Atal Bihari Vajpayee-Chevening Scholarship scheme will be invited through the existing Chevening portal. The selection will be completely transparent and as per the MoU rules.
- The “Chevening Bharat Ratna Sri Atal Bihari Vajpayee Uttar Pradesh Rajya Sarkar Scholarships Yojana” will run for three academic years, from 2026-2029. Applications for the inaugural year are currently open from now until 7 October 2025. Five scholars will be selected every year.
- Government of Uttar Pradesh will contribute 50% of the total cost of the scholar that will be match-funded by the UK Government. A representative from the Government of Uttar Pradesh will be invited to join the interview panel for scholar selection.
- The Chevening programme in India is the largest in the world, benefiting over 3,900 scholars and fellows since 1983. Over 40% of Chevening scholars come from outside metro cities, are first generation learners and belong to lesser privileged groups.
FAQs
What is the Atal Bihari Vajpayee-Chevening Scholarship?
This is a new scholarship by the UP government for meritorious students to study a one-year Master’s degree at top UK universities, with full financial support.
How many students will get this scholarship each year?
Only five students will be selected each year for the next three academic years.
Which courses are covered under this scheme?
Any subject for a one-year Master’s degree at any recognized UK university.
What all expenses are covered?
Academic, exam, and research fees; monthly living allowance; and round-trip airfare.
How is the selection done?
Selection is based on merit and follows a fair and transparent process jointly managed by UP Govt and FCDO UK.
When will the application process start?
The application process has started from the 2025-26 academic year. Detailed guidelines can be checked on the official portal of higher education department of UP.
Where to apply?
Applications are being accepted online through the Chevening official website.