Physical Address
Ikeja Lagos State Nigeria
Chevening OCIS Fellowship 2025/2026
The Chevening OCIS Fellowship is one of the most prestigious research opportunities in the world, designed for scholars who want to deepen their understanding of Islam, Muslim cultures, and contemporary Muslim societies. Hosted at the Oxford Centre for Islamic Studies (OCIS) in the United Kingdom, this fellowship offers scholars a chance to conduct independent, self-directed research in one of the most respected academic environments globally.
For the 2025/2026 academic year, applications are officially open, and this guide provides everything you need to know — eligibility, benefits, how to apply, and why this programme stands out among global research fellowships.
What is the Chevening OCIS Fellowship?
The Chevening OCIS Fellowship is a five-month fully funded research fellowship awarded to mid-career professionals, academics, and researchers from selected countries. It is a partnership between the UK Government’s Chevening Programme and the Oxford Centre for Islamic Studies.
The fellowship is not a traditional degree programme but rather a short-term, high-impact research residency. Fellows live in Oxford, engage with leading scholars, attend academic events, and use world-class libraries and resources. The focus is on producing meaningful research that contributes to the understanding of Islam and Muslim societies in the modern world.
Why Choose the Chevening OCIS Fellowship?
There are many scholarships and research opportunities available worldwide, but the Chevening OCIS Fellowship 2025/2026 is unique. Here’s why:
- World-class academic environment – Fellows are based at Oxford University, giving them access to unmatched facilities.
- Cultural immersion – Beyond research, fellows experience British culture and academic traditions.
- Networking opportunities – You will connect with scholars from across the world, creating long-lasting professional relationships.
- Career impact – Alumni of the Chevening network are leaders in government, academia, and policy across the globe.
- Full financial support – The fellowship covers everything, allowing participants to focus solely on their research.
Fellowship Benefits
The Chevening OCIS Fellowship is fully funded by the UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO). Selected fellows will enjoy:
- Full sponsorship covering airfare to and from the UK.
- Living expenses for the five-month residency in Oxford.
- Research allowances to support academic work.
- Accommodation arrangements provided by the Oxford Centre for Islamic Studies.
- Access to Oxford’s libraries, seminars, and events.
- Membership of the Chevening Alumni Network, a prestigious global community.
This generous package ensures that financial concerns never distract participants from their academic goals.
Duration and Host Institution
- Fellowship Duration: 5 months (full-time)
- Host: Oxford Centre for Islamic Studies (OCIS), University of Oxford, United Kingdom
Eligible Countries
The fellowship is available to applicants from selected nations across Asia, Africa, and the Middle East. Eligible countries include:
- Nigeria
- Pakistan
- Bangladesh
- India
- Malaysia
- Indonesia
- Turkey
- Saudi Arabia
- Egypt
- Jordan
- And several others
Applicants are strongly encouraged to check the Chevening official website for the full list of eligible countries before applying.
Areas of Research
The Chevening OCIS Fellowship invites research projects that focus on Islamic culture, history, and contemporary Muslim societies. Possible themes include:
- The role of Islam in governance and politics
- Muslim minorities and integration in global societies
- Islamic finance and economics
- Contemporary issues facing Muslim communities
- Inter-faith dialogue and coexistence
- Historical contributions of Islamic civilizations
Fellows are free to propose a research project aligned with their professional expertise and the broader themes of the programme.
Eligibility Requirements
To apply for the Chevening OCIS Fellowship 2025/2026, candidates must meet the following criteria:
- Citizenship – Be a citizen of one of the eligible countries.
- Education/Experience – Hold a postgraduate degree (Master’s or PhD preferred) or demonstrate equivalent professional experience.
- Research Experience – Have at least five years of professional or academic research experience.
- Language Proficiency – Demonstrate strong English communication skills.
- Leadership Qualities – Show evidence of leadership potential and the ability to contribute to the development of their home country.
- Commitment to Return – Fellows must agree to return to their home country after the fellowship.
- Non-eligibility – Applicants with UK or dual-UK citizenship are not eligible.
Application Process
Applying for the Chevening OCIS Fellowship is straightforward but requires preparation. Here are the steps:
- Visit the Official Application Portal
- Go to the Chevening website.
- Select the OCIS Fellowship from the fellowships menu.
- Prepare Your Documents
- Research proposal (clearly defined objectives and methodology).
- Academic transcripts or professional portfolio.
- Updated CV.
- Two references.
- Submit Online Application
- Complete all fields and upload documents before the deadline.
- Applications for the 2025/2026 cycle close on 7 October 2025.
- Shortlisting and Interviews
- Shortlisted candidates will be invited to an interview.
- Interviews usually take place early in 2026.
- Final Selection
- Successful fellows will be notified by mid-2026 and begin the programme later in the year.
Tips for a Strong Application
- Be specific in your research proposal – Clearly outline the problem you want to study, why it matters, and how you’ll approach it.
- Highlight leadership qualities – Show how you’ve influenced others or made an impact in your field.
- Show relevance to your home country – Emphasize how your research will benefit your society after the fellowship.
- Demonstrate commitment to knowledge sharing – Explain how you will share your findings with your community.
Why This Fellowship Matters in 2025/2026
The world is currently grappling with complex issues related to identity, religion, and global coexistence. The Chevening OCIS Fellowship provides a platform for scholars to contribute to these discussions from an informed and research-based perspective.
In particular, it empowers voices from developing nations to engage in global scholarship, ensuring diversity and representation in academic discourse.
Alumni Impact
Many past fellows have gone on to:
- Publish groundbreaking research.
- Take up leadership roles in universities, NGOs, and government agencies.
- Promote inter-faith understanding and peace-building initiatives.
- Influence policy on issues concerning Muslim societies.
By joining the fellowship, you become part of this growing legacy.
Important Dates
- Application Deadline: 7 October 2025
- Interviews: Early 2026
- Programme Start: Mid/Late 2026
Useful Application Links
Final Thoughts
The Chevening OCIS Fellowship 2025/2026 is more than just a research opportunity — it is a chance to join a global community of leaders and scholars while working in one of the most intellectually stimulating environments in the world.
By applying, you open doors not just for personal growth, but also for contributing valuable insights into the understanding of Islam and Muslim societies. With full financial support, access to Oxford’s academic resources, and the credibility of the Chevening brand, this fellowship can be the turning point in your career.
If you meet the eligibility criteria and have a strong research proposal, don’t miss this chance. Apply before 7 October 2025 and take the next step toward advancing knowledge, leadership, and global impact.
