The Chevening Scholarship Scheme was created by the British Government in 1994. It is the UK's most prestigious scholarship scheme for foreign students. Its aim is to enable current and future leaders, decision makers and opinion formers to come to the UK to study. Many former Chevening scholars have gone on to be leaders in their fields, and indeed leaders of their countries. In Sri Lanka and the Maldives the UK offers only a few scholarships a year.

Scholarships are awarded to young professionals at the early to mid career stage in any field, although applicants should be able to demonstrate that their studies will benefit their countries' Economic, Social, Political or Environmental development.

This scheme is opened to graduates in early to mid-stages of their professional or academic career in the government/private sector or non-governmental organisation. The emphasis is on study at the postgraduate and post experience level. Applicants can be considering study in any field relevant to one or more of the UK government’s strategic international priorities, which could be accessed through www.fco.gov.uk. But particular priority will be given to studies, which will promote good governance or benefit socio-economic or environmental development in Sri Lanka and the Maldives.

			should be aged between 25-35
			have at least three years' work or academic experience relating to their field of study
			should have an offer from a UK higher education institution for the academic year 2010/2011

Preference will be given to those who have attained, or have demonstrated the potential to attain, a position of responsibility and influence within their field in Sri Lanka or the Maldives and to those whose study in Britain is likely to enhance their potential for influence in their respective countries.

The awards may last from three months to one academic year, as appropriate for the study needs of the candidate. Candidates are encouraged to look for short courses of between 3 - 6 months. These can include Postgraduate Diplomas. More details of these are available at the Education Services at the British Council.

Candidates should be able to converse and write in English with a minimum IELTS score of 6.5. Proof of IELTS score may be required.

Candidates are expected to present a clear plan of what and where they wish to study. Plans must not include study at a series of institutions, and must concentrate on one programme of study. All study plans must come under the supervision of a recognised authority in the field at an appropriate centre of learning in the United Kingdom.

The selection committee will be appointed by the British High Commission, and will meet to interview short-listed candidates at the British Council in January each year. Awards will be announced shortly afterwards.

Process
Successful candidates will be asked to complete additional documentation and to undergo a medical examination at a later date.

Components of the award
The components of the award will consist of full or partial payment of:

			tuition, bench and examination fees
			maintenance allowance (for the award holder only)
			air passage to and from Britain
			arrival allowance
			thesis allowance (if applicable)

Administration of the award
The Administration of the Award is the responsibility of the British Council, and includes the following:

			checks on the linguistic attainment of candidates
			book travel tickets
			brief, assist with finding accommodation
			monitor progress and advise on welfare problems

Completed on-line application forms should be uploaded before Friday 20 November 2009.

Contact us
For general information on the Chevening, please visit the website: www.chevening.com

For further information, please contact:

			Sri Lanka Assistant Manager Education UK (Chevening) British Council 49 Alfred House Gardens Colombo 3 Sri Lanka Telephone:+94 11 4521521 (ext 575) Fax: +94 11 2508087 E-mail: info.lk@britishcouncil.org
			Republic of Maldives British Council The National Library Male’ Republic of Maldives Telephone:+960 3325321 E-mail: bc@dhivehinet.net.mv