How an Afghan Urban Planner Secured the Fully Funded Chevening Scholarship for an MSc in International Planning and Urban Design at Cardiff University

سلام / سلامونهMy name is Sikandar Hemmat, and I am from Afghanistan, a country in South Asia. I hold a BSc in Architecture and I am currently pursuing an MSc in International Planning and Urban Design at Cardiff University through the Chevening Scholarship.

Growing up in Kabul the capital city of Afghanistan, I observed the challenges posed by unregulated urban expansion after 2001, which has significantly impacted architectural identity and sustainable development. This motivated me to study architecture and later work at the Ministry of Urban Development and Housing (MUDH), where I gained deeper insights into urban challenges. Surveys by UN-Habitat and JICA indicates that 74% of Afghanistan’s population resides in informal settlements with inadequate infrastructure. Recognizing the need for sustainable urban solutions, I am now furthering my expertise in international planning and urban design to contribute to addressing these critical issues.

Scholarship Details

The Chevening fully funded Scholarship is a prestigious UK government scholarship, funded by the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) and its partner organizations. It supports outstanding individuals with leadership potential from around the world to pursue postgraduate studies in the United Kingdom.

I applied to Chevening in 2023 and after a very competitive selection process with an acceptance rate of 2-3% out of 70,000 applicants, I was awarded this prestigious scholarship. I am honored to be part of the 2024-2025 cohort of 1,339 scholars from 144 countries and territories.

In addition to Chevening, I was also offered the South Asia Community Scholarship from the University of Dundee. However, I chose Chevening for its global recognition, leadership development opportunities, and extensive professional network, which aligns with my long-term academic and career aspirations in urban planning and international development.

Educational Background

I pursued a BSc in Architecture at Kabul University one of the prestigious University in Afghanistan, where I developed a distinguished academic background in architecture and urban design. This provided me with a solid foundation for pursuing a program of such academic rigor. During my studies, I completed foundational courses in Architecture, Urban Design, City Planning, Theory of Urban Planning, Site Planning, and Renewable Energy in Architecture and Urban Planning. These courses deepened my understanding of urban design and architecture, preparing me for advanced studies in International Planning and Urban Design (IPUD).

How Did You Prepare to Apply for Cardiff University?

To prepare for my applications to universities, I first gathered the necessary documents, including my CV, personal statement, diploma, and transcript, as these are required by most UK universities. I then used the Course Finder website to search for universities that offer programs aligning with my interests. After applying to 15 universities, I was fortunate to be accepted by 12 of them. Finally, I chose Cardiff University because its International Planning and Urban Design (IPUD) program offers specific modules that align with my educational background and career aspirations, and it is ranked 2nd in the UK for my field, which I discovered through the Cardiff University website.

In addition to the documents, English proficiency is a requirement for acceptance at Cardiff University. To meet this requirement, I began preparing for the TOEFL iBT exam, working with a personal tutor. I also followed TST preparation and Linguamarina on YouTube, which significantly aided my preparation.

How Did You Prepare to Apply for the Chevening Scholarship?

The Chevening journey has been one of the most transformative experiences of my life. I first learned about the Chevening Scholarship in 2018 while studying at Kabul University. I distinctly remember the presenter describing Chevening as a life-changing opportunity, which motivated me to set a clear goal to achieve it. I envisioned myself as a Chevening Scholar, attending the graduation ceremony, and this vision guided my efforts.

Although the Chevening Scholarship was banned for Afghan applicants residing in Afghanistan in 2022, it remained available for those living outside the country. I did not lose hope, and after relocating to a third country, I applied in 2023 to achieve a dream I had dreamed for six years.

I dedicated about a month and a half to writing the four essays required by Chevening. I used the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure my responses effectively. After completing my drafts, I received invaluable feedback from my mentor, Mohammad Mustafa Raheel, whom I connected with through LinkedIn. His guidance and instructions were instrumental in refining my essays.

Following my interview invitation, I prepared by using the Chevening website and learning from the experiences of past alumni. I conducted several mock interviews with Mohammad Mustafa Raheel, which greatly enhanced my confidence and readiness for the interview. I am deeply grateful for his support throughout the process.

What Do You Think Made Your Application Stand Out?

I believe my application stood out because of my passion, determination, and perseverance in pursuing my goals despite challenges. Rather than just listing achievements, I told a compelling and authentic story—why I care about urban planning, how I have worked toward meaningful change, and why Chevening is the right platform to help me achieve my long-term vision.

Beyond technical expertise, my application highlighted leadership, resilience, and adaptability. The ban on Chevening for applicants residing in Afghanistan in 2022 did not discourage me; instead, I used this time to enhance my skills, expand my professional network, and refine my application. This perseverance showed my ability to overcome obstacles and remain committed to my long-term vision.

Most importantly, my commitment to returning and contributing to Afghanistan’s urban development aligned strongly with Chevening’s mission of fostering future leaders. This combination of passion, perseverance, technical expertise, and a clear vision for impact made my application stand out.

What Would You Have Done Differently If You Are Going Through the Process Again?

Looking back, I wouldn’t change anything about my approach, but I would focus more on improving my English skills from an earlier stage. I would also make a conscious effort to enjoy every moment of the journey, embrace the challenges with a positive mindset, and live without overthinking each step of the application process.

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

For those looking to apply for a similar scholarship, my advice would be to start early and plan ahead. Take the time to research the scholarship thoroughly and understand the criteria, as well as what the scholarship values. Be authentic in your application; focus on your unique experiences, skills, and aspirations. Critically evaluate each step, ensuring that every decision you make and every word you write is purposeful and reflects your true intentions, as you are responsible for conveying your message clearly and authentically. Don’t hesitate to seek feedback from mentors or peers, and don’t rush through the essays—each one should clearly communicate your motivations and goals. Lastly, embrace the process and enjoy the journey; it’s a learning experience that goes beyond just the scholarship itself.