The Chevening Clore Leadership Fellowship 2026 is now open for applications. This fully funded program is designed for mid-career professionals in the arts and culture sector who are ready to take their leadership to the next level.
Jointly delivered by the UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) and Clore Leadership, the fellowship offers an intensive, highly personalized leadership journey that empowers cultural professionals to innovate, inspire, and drive meaningful change in their communities and beyond.
📅 Application Deadline: 7 October 2025
The fellowship is a bespoke leadership development program for professionals across the creative and cultural industries, including:
Visual and performing arts
Museums, libraries, and archives
Heritage and cultural institutions
Film, media, and digital culture
Arts administration, policy, and cultural management
Since its launch nearly two decades ago, the Chevening Clore Fellowship has supported cultural leaders worldwide, equipping them with the tools, confidence, and global networks needed to strengthen the arts sector in their home countries.
Each year, up to five international fellows join a diverse cohort of UK and international participants, creating a unique space for collaboration, cultural exchange, and cross-border innovation.
The fellowship is not just a training program—it’s a transformative experience.
Former fellows describe it as “life-changing,” offering time for reflection, growth, and career development. Fellows benefit from:
Immersive residential courses
A 4–6 week secondment at a leading UK cultural institution
Access to world-class mentorship and professional training
A global network of cultural leaders
The Chevening Clore Leadership Fellowship is fully funded, covering all major costs, including:
✈️ International Travel: Two return economy flights to the UK
🏠 Accommodation: Housing provided throughout the fellowship
💷 Living Stipend: Monthly allowance for personal expenses
🏛️ Secondment Placement: Funded 4–6 week placement in a UK cultural institution
🎓 Training & Development: Workshops, courses, and conferences tailored to fellows’ goals
🚆 UK Travel Costs: Transportation for fellowship-related activities
📚 Tuition/Fees: All course and training costs in the UK
Applicants must be citizens of one of the following countries:
Brazil, China, Egypt, India, Jordan, Lebanon, Mexico, South Africa
To be eligible, applicants must:
Return Requirement: Commit to returning to their home country after the fellowship.
Education/Experience: Hold a university degree equivalent to a UK second-class honours OR demonstrate equivalent professional experience. A minimum of five years’ work experience (by the end of 2024) is required.
English Proficiency: Have strong English communication skills (assessed at application and interview).
Citizenship Restriction: Applicants with British or dual British citizenship are not eligible.
Employment Restriction: Individuals employed by His Majesty’s Government (or related bodies) within the past two years are not eligible.
Previous Awards: Past UK government scholarship/fellowship holders may reapply only after a five-year gap and must show clear evidence of career progress since their last award.
Complete the application via the official Chevening Fellowship Portal.
Prepare all required documentation, including proof of eligibility and professional experience.
Submit the application before the deadline.
📅 Deadline: 7 October 2025
🔗 Apply Online: [Chevening Fellowship Application Portal]
The Chevening Clore Leadership Fellowship 2026 is a unique opportunity for cultural leaders to strengthen their leadership, broaden their perspectives, and contribute to global cultural development. With full financial support, international exposure, and world-class mentorship, fellows leave the program better equipped to create lasting impact in the arts and cultural sector.
📌 Applications close on 7 October 2025. Don’t miss this chance to begin a life-changing leadership journey in the UK.
1. What is the Chevening Clore Leadership Fellowship?
A fully funded leadership development program for mid-career cultural professionals, hosted in the UK.
2. Who funds the fellowship?
The program is funded by the UK FCDO in partnership with Clore Leadership.
3. How long is the fellowship?
It runs for several months, including residential training, a secondment, and personalized learning.
4. What expenses are covered?
Flights, accommodation, living stipend, training costs, and UK travel expenses.
5. Which countries are eligible?
Brazil, China, Egypt, India, Jordan, Lebanon, Mexico, and South Africa.
6. Do I need a degree to apply?
Yes, or equivalent professional experience with at least five years’ work experience.
7. What level of English is required?
Applicants must have strong English proficiency, assessed during the application process.
8. Can I apply if I hold British citizenship?
No, applicants with British or dual British nationality are not eligible.
9. Can previous UK scholarship holders apply?
Yes, after a five-year gap, with proof of career development.
10. What is the application deadline?
7 October 2025.