The Chevening Gurukul Fellowship for Leadership and Excellence 2026 is one of the most prestigious fellowships in the UK, funded by the UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO). Hosted at the University of Oxford, this fully funded fellowship is designed for mid-career professionals from India who demonstrate exceptional leadership potential. Applications are now open until 7 October 2025 (12:00 UTC).
The fellowship provides an immersive 12-week residential programme at the Department of Politics and International Relations, University of Oxford. It is aimed at professionals who are ready to take on leadership roles and address global challenges through policy and practice.
Participants will explore themes such as globalization, technological change, international relations, economics, and security, with an emphasis on leadership in the Indian context.
Degree Level
This is a non-degree fellowship programme. It is not a master’s or PhD, but a high-level professional leadership training programme designed for mid-career professionals.
Available Subjects
The fellowship focuses on multidisciplinary subjects including:
- Globalization and economic integration
- Trade, regulation, and deregulation
- Climate change and sustainability
- Science, technology, and cybersecurity
- Politics of nationalism and internationalism
- Security, conflict, and diplomacy
- Public policy development and leadership
Benefits
Successful fellows will receive full financial and academic support, including:
- Full programme fees at the University of Oxford.
- Living expenses for the entire duration of the fellowship.
- Return economy airfare between India and the UK.
- Access to site visits across the UK and a rich cultural immersion programme.
- Networking opportunities with UK policymakers, industry leaders, and global experts.
- The chance to develop and present a public policy plan to shape real-world impact.
Eligible Nationalities
This fellowship is exclusively open to Indian citizens who are currently living in India.
Eligibility Criteria
To apply for the Chevening Gurukul Fellowship 2026, applicants must:
- Be a citizen of India and currently reside in the country.
- Hold a postgraduate qualification or have equivalent professional training or experience.
- Have at least 10 years of relevant work experience before applying.
- Be a mid-career professional with proven leadership potential.
- Work in sectors such as government (state or central), private industry, civil society, or media.
Application Procedure
- Online Application: Submit your application via the official Chevening website before 7 October 2025, 12:00 UTC.
- Prepare Documents: Include academic qualifications, professional work experience, leadership achievements, and references.
- Selection Process: Applications will be assessed on leadership potential, professional achievements, and the ability to contribute to India-UK relations.
- Final Decision: Selected fellows will be notified and invited to begin the fellowship in September 2026.
Final Thoughts
The Chevening Gurukul Fellowship for Leadership and Excellence 2025 at the University of Oxford offers a transformative opportunity for India’s future leaders. With its strong emphasis on leadership, global issues, and public policy, it empowers fellows to create impactful change at both national and international levels.
If you’re an ambitious Indian professional with leadership potential, don’t miss this chance. Apply before 7 October 2025!