MSc Creative Writing Student Dakshika Cooray from Sri Lanka Shares Her Journey of Studying at the University of Edinburgh, UK, as a Chevening Scholar

Hello, my name is Dakshika Cooray, and I am a writer from Sri Lanka. I have been working in Marketing for over 15 years across various verticals, and when not at my day job, I write fantasy stories set around the mythology of my island home. I had a dream, since I was just twelve years old, to study literature in a Scottish university by the sea, which is why I picked the University of Edinburgh to do my Master's in Creative Writing.

Chevening Scholarship Details

I applied for the Chevening Scholarship for the first time in 2021, while still in lockdown, after my brother found it online and suggested it to me. While I was unsuccessful the subsequent two times I applied, the third time was the charm, and I became a proud member of the 2024/2025 cohort. Chevening is a fully funded scholarship gifted by the FCDO to exceptional students to pursue a one-year Master’s degree of their choice at any university in the UK.

Educational Background

My first degree was in Business Administration from the University of Worcester, which I completed from my home country fully online, and had nothing to do with my Master’s degree, which is my actual passion.

How Did You Prepare to Apply to the University of Edinburgh?

All UK universities require an academic IELTS qualification. For my type of degree, depending on the university, an 8.0 or above is required, which I was able to achieve. In the three years of preparation that I did for the Chevening Scholarship and the universities that I applied to, I did a lot of online research on the institutions, the courses, the structure, and the professors who would teach me. I picked Edinburgh University as my first choice because of the course structure as well as the predominantly female faculty who had a background in speculative fiction and fantasy writing.

How Did You Prepare to Apply to the Chevening Scholarship?

The Chevening Scholarship has three major stages, where you first write four essays on why you think you are eligible for the award. These include instances of leadership, networking, your future career plans, and your choice of degree and university. If you are shortlisted, you are invited to an interview at your local British Embassy, where a panel questions you on your essays and other segments. If this is also successful you then go through a period of letters that will enable you to apply for a visa and attend your studies.

What Do You Think Made Your Application Stand Out?

Being very certain about what I want and what I would do to achieve my dreams.

What Would You Have Done Differently if You Were Going Through the Process Again?

Nothing. My experience and approach are what got me the scholarship, and I would replicate it should I try again.

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

No dream is too wild. Especially if you are interested in the Arts but think it will lead to nothing. Chevening is a wonderful pathway to achieve those dreams and keep trying. Be passionate, be proud, be 100% yourself, and you will be rewarded for that.