Timeline

Explore the origins of Chevening, tracing its evolution from a fledgling scheme, supporting just 100 scholars a year, to the internationally-renowned programme that exists today, with an alumni network of more than 50,000 exceptional individuals around the world.

1979
UK government introduces tuition fees for international students

UK government introduces tuition fees for international students

The newly elected Conservative government announces that existing subsidies for international students are to be phased out. All overseas students starting at UK institutions from 1980 will have to pay full-cost fees.

1983

'Pym Package' introduced

Mr Francis Pym, then Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs, announced that the government had decided to increase its support for overseas students.

1984
First full year of the programme with 100 scholars

First full year of the programme with 100 scholars

Chevening was referred to as the 'FCO Scholarships and Awards Scheme' (FCO SAS) from the 1984/1985 academic year.

1986

Some Heads of Mission describe Chevening as the post's most important activity

Chevening quickly grows in importance to British embassies and high commissions around the world.

1994
Programme renamed Chevening

Programme renamed Chevening

Foreign Secretary Douglas Hurd renames the programme after Chevening House, the official residence of the Foreign Secretary in Sevenoaks, Kent.

1999
First alumnus becomes a head of state

First alumnus becomes a head of state

Rinchinnyamyn Amarjargal becomes prime minister of Mongolia.

2001
Chevening hits 25,000 alumni

Chevening hits 25,000 alumni

After 18 years of the programme, Chevening comes of age and celebrates reaching 25,000 alumni.

2004
Chevening Fellowships introduced

Chevening Fellowships introduced

Chevening Fellowships are founded with the aim of helping mid-career professionals to increase their knowledge, networks, and potential through tailored short courses at UK universities.

2014
Chevening Alumni Alliance officially launched

Chevening Alumni Alliance officially launched

The CAA is launched with the mission to keep alumni connected beyond the scholarship experience, contribute to the community, and lead and inspire future generations.

2018
Chevening hits 50,000 alumni

Chevening hits 50,000 alumni

Chevening marked a special moment in its history at the 2018 Farewell event, as the global network of Chevening Alumni reached 50,000.