Ministry of Religious Affairs and British Embassy Collaborate to Promote Chevening Scholarship Opportunities for Future Indonesian Leaders
Cirebon, 08 August 2025 – Students, lecturers, and administrative staff affiliated with the Ministry of Religious Affairs enthusiastically participated in an enriching information session organized in collaboration with the British Embassy Jakarta, centered around the prestigious Chevening Scholarship Program. The event, which was hosted with full support from the International Office of UIN Siber Syekh Nurjati Cirebon, served as a valuable platform to disseminate comprehensive knowledge about study opportunities in the United Kingdom. Attended by both online and offline participants from diverse academic backgrounds, the session was designed not only to promote the scholarship itself but also to inspire the next generation of Indonesian leaders to pursue world-class postgraduate education abroad. It reflected the International Office’s growing role in facilitating international collaboration and equipping students and educators with access to global academic advancement.
The Chevening Scholarship, established in 1983 and fully funded by the UK Government through the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO), offers highly competitive scholarships for individuals aspiring to pursue a one-year Master's degree in any subject at any recognized university in the UK. What distinguishes Chevening from many other international scholarship schemes is its openness to all academic disciplines and institutions across England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland. Scholars are given complete freedom to design their academic journey in alignment with their personal career goals and their vision for contributing to Indonesia upon their return. As one of the most sought-after global scholarships, Chevening stands on par with programs such as Indonesia's LPDP, the Fulbright Program from the United States, and the Australia Awards. It not only provides full financial coverage but also cultivates leadership, professional networks, and long-term international cooperation.
During the session, the British Embassy team offered a detailed walkthrough of the program’s unique features, eligibility criteria, and selection mechanisms. Special attention was given to Chevening’s strategic co-funding partnerships with Indonesian organizations such as Prudential Indonesia, the Ministry of Communication and Information Technology (Kominfo), BP Indonesia, and NAMA Foundation, a nonprofit based in Kuala Lumpur focused on educational development. These partnerships make it possible for Chevening to offer tailored scholarships in targeted areas such as Information and Communication Technology (ICT) and education. The presentation also opened the door to potential collaboration with the Ministry of Religious Affairs, particularly in supporting the advancement of Islamic education professionals and researchers, allowing them to benefit from this international platform. Such partnerships would not only expand funding access but also align with Indonesia’s broader vision for education and religious moderation.
A key highlight of the session was the emphasis on leadership, community impact, and long-term vision. One of the embassy’s representatives stated, “We are looking for individuals who are not only academically accomplished but also ready to lead and give back to their communities.” The scholarship selection committee looks beyond grades and test scores, placing strong weight on candidates’ potential to drive change. Applicants are required to hold at least a Bachelor’s degree (S1 or D4) and have a minimum of two years of full-time work experience after graduation. In a move that increases accessibility and inclusiveness, the program does not require IELTS, TOEFL, or a Letter of Acceptance (LOE) from a UK university at the initial stage of application. These documents will only be required after applicants pass the administrative selection and move on to the interview phase.
The application process for Chevening is known for its holistic and thoughtful approach. Applicants must complete an online application form, which includes four structured essays that reflect their leadership experiences, professional networks, academic motivations, and future career plans. Starting in 2024, candidates are also expected to demonstrate how their proposed study program connects to one or more of the UK’s priority international policy areas: inclusive development, global stability, economic growth, and climate resilience. These essays are evaluated for depth, clarity, and relevance, and they play a critical role in determining which applicants advance to the interview round. During the session, the International Office offered valuable tips and resources to help participants craft compelling essays that highlight their unique narratives and potential contributions.
Beyond tuition and academic fees, the Chevening Scholarship also covers living expenses, return airfare, visa application costs, health insurance, and even medical check-up expenses. For students pursuing an MBA, the scholarship provides funding up to £22,000, with the remainder often supported by the respective university through partial fee waivers or other financial schemes. Chevening is not just about academic success—it is an immersive international experience. Scholars gain access to over 60 events per year, including leadership workshops, networking sessions, cultural excursions, and high-level policy forums. Additionally, they may apply for supplementary grants to attend academic conferences outside the UK. After graduation, alumni can continue their journey through the Chevening Alumni Programme Fund (CAPF), which supports community-based initiatives and public service projects in their home countries.
The International Office of UIN Siber Syekh Nurjati Cirebon sees this initiative as a vital part of its long-term strategy to build international connectivity for the university and its wider academic network. By hosting events such as the Chevening Scholarship information session, the IO reinforces its position as a facilitator of global academic access, ensuring that students and faculty from diverse backgrounds are not left behind in the international arena. Moreover, these initiatives align with UIN Siber’s broader commitment to preparing scholars who are locally grounded but globally capable. The strong presence of staff and students from Islamic higher education institutions also highlights the university’s leadership in combining religious scholarship with global competitiveness.
Looking ahead, the International Office is committed to organizing more programs that connect the academic community with global networks, institutions, and opportunities. Events like the Chevening session not only inform but also empower participants to take bold steps toward personal and professional transformation. With the application deadline set for October 7, 2025, the IO encourages interested individuals—especially those affiliated with the Ministry of Religious Affairs—to begin their preparations early and seek guidance from previous scholars or mentors. Ultimately, the Chevening experience is more than just studying in the UK—it is a journey of leadership, collaboration, and impact. Through this effort, UIN Siber Syekh Nurjati Cirebon once again affirms its role as a bridge between Indonesia and the international education community, committed to nurturing future changemakers who are ready to serve the nation and the world.
Author: Bilqis Syifa Shoraya