Chevening Scholar Jelena Milutinovic from Serbia Shares Her Journey of Studying Education and Human Rights at London Metropolitan University, UK

I’m Jelena Milutinovic, originally from Belgrade, Serbia, and currently based in Melbourne, Australia. I work as an organisational development and partnerships professional for an international human rights organisation headquartered in Sydney, with a focus on building and sustaining partnerships across the Asia Pacific.

Before moving to Australia, I completed an MA in Education (Social Sciences) at London Metropolitan University, where my thesis focused on Human Rights Education. I also hold a BA from the Faculty of Philosophy, University of Belgrade, specialising in adult education. I have been involved in human rights and civil society work since my teens, which has shaped my long-term interest in international development, learning, and the role of education and social policy across different contexts. That interest ultimately led me to research how people engage with knowledge across cultures, and how policy frameworks can better support equitable development.

Chevening Scholarship Details

I was awarded the UK Government’s Chevening Scholarship. Chevening is a prestigious, fully funded master’s scholarship designed for emerging leaders. It typically covers tuition fees, living costs, flights, and key allowances for one year of study in the UK. Eligibility generally includes demonstrated leadership potential, a strong academic record, and at least two years of work experience, alongside a clear plan for future impact.

The scholarship parameters and rates can change annually, but the programme is widely recognised as comprehensive. Full details are available on the official Chevening website.

Were You Offered any Other Scholarships?

I developed a PhD proposal and began discussions with professors at two universities in Victoria, Australia, but ultimately decided not to step away from my professional work just yet. That process did highlight how many research-focused funding options exist. For those exploring research degrees (MA or PhD) in Australia, I’d recommend looking into the Australian Government’s Research Training Program (RTP) and university-specific graduate research scholarships. Both are merit-based, and the RTP can be a particularly strong pathway for international candidates.

Educational Background

I completed my BA at the Faculty of Philosophy, University of Belgrade, specialising in adult education. Relevant coursework included curriculum leadership, learning technologies, and research methods in education, which complemented my professional experience and deepened my interest in education systems and policy.

That foundation helped me pursue a master’s degree in the UK, particularly because many of the critical and learning theory scholars I was engaging with were based in the UK or had worked extensively in UK academic contexts.

How Did You Prepare to Apply to London Metropolitan University?

How Did You Find Information About the Chevening Scholarship and London Metropolitan University?

I did extensive online research and compared scholarships based on eligibility, coverage, and alignment with my goals. Chevening stood out because it offered full funding and had a strong leadership focus. I also spoke with Chevening alumni through my professional networks, which gave me practical insight into the process and helped me prepare more strategically.

Did You Take Any Standardized Tests? If So, How Did You Prepare for Them?

Yes, I took Academic IELTS. I prepared online using free resources (including IELTS Liz; non-affiliated, just my personal experience) alongside my existing English-language background (it was a mandatory second foreign language in my school), and that was sufficient to meet the required standard for my application.

How Did You Prepare to Apply to the Chevening Scholarship?

I focused on reliable sources: the official scholarship guidance, FAQs, and alumni insights. I also used my network to speak with former scholars and attended information sessions and meet-ups (often hosted by the UK Embassy; those are a great source of info). I focused on those and disregarded any other informal online commentary.

How is (was) Your Experience at the London Metropolitan University?

London Metropolitan University offered a great and supportive environment for learning and exchange. For me, the best thing was the strong library access, and I made sure to use most of the university’s journal databases and research resources.

How Do You Rate the London Metropolitan University Academically and Why?

In my experience, the academic experience can vary by subject and teaching team. Some courses were highly participatory, intellectually demanding, and encouraged critical exploration, and I enjoyed those quite a lot. Others were more conventional in style. At the end, at the master’s level, I think outcomes depend significantly on your own engagement; if you participate actively in the readings and discussions, you gain much more.

How Does the London Metropolitan University Support International Students?

London Met provides a range of student support services, including services tailored specifically to international students, which I found reassuring and practical.

What Did You Pursue After the Scholarship? (Work, Further Study, Research, or Something Else?)

I continued working in a field where theory and practice are closely intertwined. I draw heavily on research in my work, and further study is still very much on the table.

What Do You Think Made Your Application Stand Out?

I had a clear alignment between my professional track record in international human rights and the scholarship’s leadership focus. My work and learning have always been closely connected, and I chose a scholarship that explicitly values (and requires) leadership, impact, and professional experience alongside academic merit.

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

Honestly, nothing major. The process had its highs and lows, but I found it all valuable, and it strengthened my confidence and clarity about my goals.

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

Be clear that Chevening is the right fit for you before you start, as it’s highly competitive and assesses more than academic performance. It places strong emphasis on leadership, professional experience, and credible future plans. Because the application requires significant effort, it’s worth checking early that you meet all eligibility criteria and that the programme aligns with your direction. Also, seek out Chevening alumni; their practical advice can be one of the most useful parts of your preparation.