The London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE) is one of the world’s foremost social science universities, renowned for its academic excellence and its commitment to addressing complex global issues through rigorous research and intellectual inquiry. LSE has a storied history of shaping the fields of economics, politics, sociology, law, and other social sciences.

Located in the heart of London, LSE offers a dynamic environment where students and scholars from all over the world engage in high-level academic discourse, driven by a shared passion for understanding and improving the world. The university’s strong ties to global policy-making institutions, its influential alumni network, and its vibrant campus life make it a leading destination for those aspiring to make a significant impact in their chosen fields.

The Chevening LSE Fellowship 2025/2026 is a prestigious program designed to provide mid-career professionals from China with the opportunity to conduct advanced research and deepen their expertise in social sciences at LSE. Funded by the UK Foreign, Commonwealth, and Development Office (FCDO), this fellowship reflects the UK’s commitment to fostering global talent and promoting intellectual exchange between China and the UK.

Scholarship Description

• Host University: London School of Economics;
• Host Country: United Kingdom;
• Study Level: Fellowship;
• Scholarship Type: Full Funding;
• Scholarship Worth: Check the details below;
• Open to Applicants: Students from around the world, as well as those within the country, can apply.
• Subjects Available: All subjects;
• Application Deadline: November 05^th, 2024. 

The Chevening LSE Fellowship offers a unique and immersive academic experience tailored for mid-career professionals who are eager to advance their knowledge and research skills. The fellowship is flexible in duration, allowing participants to spend three, six, or nine months at LSE, depending on their research needs and professional commitments. During this period, fellows will engage deeply with the intellectual resources of LSE, working on a specific research project that aligns with their professional interests and expertise.

Each fellow is paired with a dedicated LSE advisor who provides mentorship and guidance throughout the research process. This close collaboration ensures that fellows can make the most of their time at LSE, producing high-quality research that contributes to their field. Fellows are expected to complete a comprehensive research paper by the end of their fellowship, which they will present in a formal setting, showcasing their findings to the academic community.

Scholarship Benefits

• Full Coverage of Program Fees: The fellowship covers all program-related fees, ensuring that fellows can access LSE’s world-class resources and facilities without financial barriers.
• Living Expenses: Fellows receive a stipend to cover living expenses during their stay in the UK. This allowance is designed to support a comfortable lifestyle in London, allowing fellows to fully immerse themselves in their academic work without financial stress.
• Return Airfare: The fellowship includes return economy airfare from China to the UK, ensuring that travel costs do not hinder participation.
• Research Allowance: Fellows are provided with an additional allowance specifically for research-related activities. This funding can be used for purchasing materials, accessing specialized databases, attending conferences, or conducting fieldwork essential to their research.
• Cultural and Networking Opportunities: As part of the Chevening community, fellows gain access to a range of cultural events and networking opportunities organized by the FCDO and the Chevening Secretariat. These events provide valuable opportunities for professional networking, cultural exchange, and personal development, enhancing the overall fellowship experience.

Eligibility Requirements

To be eligible for the Chevening LSE Fellowship, applicants must meet the following criteria:

Employment Restrictions: The fellowship is not open to current or former employees of the UK government or related organizations, including the British Council and UK universities, nor to their relatives. Additionally, previous recipients of UK government-funded scholarships are eligible to apply only after a five-year gap, and must demonstrate significant career progression since their previous award.

Nationality and Residency: Applicants must be citizens of China and currently residing in the country. This ensures that the fellowship benefits professionals who are directly contributing to the development of their home country.

Return Intent: Applicants must demonstrate a clear intention to return to China upon completing the fellowship. This commitment is crucial as it aligns with the fellowship’s goal of fostering professionals who will use their enhanced skills and knowledge to contribute to China’s development.

Academic Qualifications: Applicants should hold a postgraduate degree in a relevant field, or possess equivalent professional experience. This ensures that candidates have a solid academic foundation to build upon during the fellowship.

Application Process

• Application Window: The application period is currently open and will close on November 5th, 2024. It is essential that applicants submit all required materials before this deadline.
• Initial Screening: Applications undergo an initial eligibility check to ensure that candidates meet the basic criteria. This includes verification of nationality, residency, academic qualifications, and professional experience.
• Research Proposal Evaluation: Applications that pass the initial screening are then evaluated by independent reading committees. The committees assess the quality and relevance of the research proposal, the applicant’s academic and professional background, and their potential to contribute to their field.
• Interviews: Shortlisted candidates will be invited for an interview, which provides an opportunity to discuss their research proposal and career aspirations in more detail. The interview process is a critical step in the selection process.
• Final Selection: Final decisions are announced in May 2025. Selected fellows will receive detailed instructions on the next steps, including visa applications, travel arrangements, and preparations for their time at LSE.

Official website :

For more information, please visit the university’s official website : https://www.chevening.org/fellowship/lse/

Professional Experience: Applicants must have a minimum of five years of substantial and relevant work experience. Alternatively, current PhD candidates (excluding those enrolled in UK, EU, or US universities) may also apply, provided they have relevant professional experience.

Dual Nationality Restrictions: Applicants must not hold dual British nationality. Exceptions apply as outlined in the Chevening Guidance for Applicants.