Alamin Mahmoud’s Chevening Scholarship Journey: From Sudan to MSc Business Analytics at the University of Manchester

My name is Alamin Mahmoud, and I’m from Omdurman, Sudan. I am currently pursuing an MSc in Business Analytics at the University of Manchester. My academic and professional journey has been deeply shaped by Sudan’s complex socio-political environment, since the great revolution at the end of 2018 until the ongoing war that erupted in April 2023. That context has instilled in me both a sense of urgency and a responsibility to contribute meaningfully to rebuilding Sudanese institutions.

Before coming to the UK, I served as a teaching and research assistant at the University of Khartoum; Sudan’s top university, worked as a management professional for two years at Sudan’s biggest conglomerate (DAL Group), and then worked one year in Dubai as a Planning and Coordination Engineer. These experiences not only refined my analytical and leadership skills but also confirmed my passion for decision-making processes, data-driven policy, and strategy development—all of which led me to choose Business Analytics as a field of study.

Chevening Scholarship Details

I am proud to be a 2024–2025 Chevening Scholar, fully funded by the UK government. Chevening Scholarship covers tuition fees, living costs, travel expenses, and other allowances. It’s more than financial support—it’s a leadership development platform that brings together future change-makers from around the world.

I was solely committed to the Chevening Award, and while I considered applying to other regional scholarships, Chevening was always my top priority because of its leadership focus and emphasis on impact-driven professionals.

Educational Background

I earned my undergraduate degree in Civil Engineering with First Class Honours, followed by roles that bridged academia and business. My academic background, combined with my experience teaching and conducting research, provided me with a strong foundation in problem-solving, critical thinking, and communication.

In particular, my work in academia trained me to approach complex problems systematically—skills that are essential in business analytics. Meanwhile, my time in management exposed me to real-world organizational challenges, which I now address using analytical tools in my postgraduate studies.

How Did You Prepare to Apply to UK Universities?

I began my preparation early, researching UK universities that offer analytics-focused programs with a blend of data science, business strategy, and decision-making. I prioritized schools with strong links to industry and a reputation for academic rigor, which led me to the University of Manchester.

I used resources like university ranking platforms, university websites, Chevening webinars, LinkedIn, and Chevening alumni testimonials to understand course structures and assess alignment with my career goals. I also connected with former scholars and current students to get honest insights.

Standardized Tests and Language Preparation

Since my undergraduate degree was mostly taught in English and I had a strong academic record, I focused my preparation on the IELTS, which I knew was a standard requirement. I prepared using free online materials, YouTube tutorials, and official practice tests. I set aside a few hours each day for listening and reading sections while practicing speaking by recording myself and listening to mock YouTube speaking exams.

I didn’t take the GRE/GMAT as the universities I shortlisted didn’t require them for my program.

How Did You Prepare to Apply to the Chevening Scholarship?

The Chevening application is intensive, with four structured essays (leadership, networking, study in the UK, and career plan). I approached it like a long-term writing project. I drafted each essay multiple times, reflected deeply on past experiences, and made sure each response connected to Chevening’s core values: leadership, influence, networking, and impact.

What helped me the most was storytelling—turning abstract qualities into real-life moments. I also sought feedback from former Chevening scholars, who pointed out areas for clarity and alignment. Importantly, I tailored my UK university choices to show a strategic link between my career goals and the expertise available at those institutions.

How Is Your Experience at the University of Manchester?

The University of Manchester has been intellectually stimulating and incredibly supportive. The Business Analytics MSc combines academic rigor with practical relevance. Courses in decision science, operational research, and data analytics have pushed me to think beyond the numbers and focus on impact.

Outside the classroom, I’ve enjoyed access to a global community, leadership training, and professional development events. The Chevening network also adds another layer of support, especially vital during difficult moments, such as processing news from back home in Sudan.

What Do You Think Made Your Application Stand Out?

Three things, I believe, made a difference:

1. Clarity of purpose – My essays showed a strong, realistic, and measurable plan for post-scholarship impact, especially in Sudan’s context of post-conflict recovery and institution-building. Plans should always follow the SMART framework (Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Realistic, and Time-bound).
2. Leadership through adversity – I highlighted examples where I took initiative in uncertain, high-pressure environments, which reflected resilience and adaptability.
3. Connection to Chevening values – I didn’t just describe achievements, I linked them to values like networking, global collaboration, and long-term public impact.

What Would You Have Done Differently?

If I could go back, I would have started the application earlier (I started one month after the scholarship opened). The Chevening process rewards depth, and more time would have allowed me to reflect even more on my experiences and aspirations.

What Advice Would You Give Those Looking to Apply for a Similar Scholarship?

1. Start early – The Chevening process is about more than writing essays. It’s a journey of reflection, research, and personal growth. Give yourself time.
2. Be authentic – Don’t try to sound like the “ideal” candidate. Speak honestly about your journey, challenges, and ambitions. Authenticity resonates more than polished perfection.
3. Align your goals with the scholarship’s mission – Chevening is about future leaders who will create an impact. Show how your past, present, and future are connected in a meaningful way.
4. Seek feedback – Get others to read your essays. External eyes can catch inconsistencies and suggest stronger phrasing.
5. Use your context as a strength – Coming from a conflict-affected country is not a disadvantage. It’s a story of resilience, and your voice can add unique value to global discussions.