Studying abroad is a dream many Nigerians aspire to achieve, and scholarships can help make this dream a reality.
To help you secure the best opportunities, this guide covers 10 scholarships available to Nigerian students for both undergraduate and postgraduate studies.
These scholarships are open for applications in countries such as the USA, UK, Canada, and Europe, offering fully funded and partial financial support to ease the burden of tuition and living costs.
1. Chevening Scholarships (UK)
The Chevening Scholarship, funded by the UK government, is a prestigious opportunity for Nigerian students pursuing postgraduate studies in any field of their choice. This fully funded program covers tuition, living allowances, and travel costs.
Eligibility: Applicants must have at least two years of work experience and demonstrate leadership potential.
Application: Visit the Chevening official website to start your application.
2. Fulbright Foreign Student Program (USA)
The Fulbright Program provides Nigerian graduate students and young professionals an opportunity to study and research in the USA. It is a fully funded scholarship covering tuition, accommodation, and airfare.
Eligibility: Open to students with a strong academic background and a passion for community service.
Application: Submit applications through the U.S. embassy in Nigeria.
3. Commonwealth Scholarships (UK and Commonwealth Countries)
This scholarship targets Nigerian students aiming for postgraduate studies in Commonwealth nations. It supports tuition, travel, and a monthly stipend.
Eligibility: Applicants must demonstrate financial need and academic excellence.
Application: Applications are typically submitted via the nominating agency in Nigeria.
4. DAAD Scholarships (Germany)
The German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) offers scholarships for Nigerian students pursuing postgraduate degrees in Germany. Many programs are tuition-free and include monthly stipends.
Eligibility: Academic merit and proficiency in English or German are required.
Application: Visit the DAAD website for more information.
5. Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program (Various Countries)
This scholarship supports undergraduate and graduate students from Nigeria with full tuition, accommodation, and other allowances. Partner universities span across the USA, Canada, and Africa.
Eligibility: Applicants must demonstrate financial need and a commitment to community service.
Application: Apply directly through participating universities.
6. Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships (Canada)
Designed for Ph.D. students, this Canadian government scholarship provides financial support of $50,000 annually for three years.
Eligibility: Open to students with strong academic achievements and leadership skills.
Application: Submit applications through Canadian universities offering the program.
7. Erasmus Mundus Joint Master Degree (Europe)
This scholarship program allows Nigerian students to pursue a joint master’s degree across multiple European universities. It covers tuition, travel costs, and living allowances.
Eligibility: A bachelor’s degree and proficiency in English are required.
Application: Apply via the Erasmus Mundus website.
8. Orange Knowledge Programme (Netherlands)
Funded by the Dutch Ministry of Foreign Affairs, this program supports mid-career Nigerian professionals to study short courses or master’s programs in the Netherlands.
Eligibility: Applicants must be employed and have at least two years of work experience.
Application: Applications are submitted through Dutch institutions.
9. Lester B. Pearson International Scholarships (Canada)
This scholarship is exclusively for undergraduate students with exceptional academic performance applying to the University of Toronto. It covers tuition, books, and living expenses.
Eligibility: Applicants must be nominated by their high school.
Application: Contact your high school counselor to begin the nomination process.
10. Rhodes Scholarship (UK)
The Rhodes Scholarship is one of the most prestigious awards for postgraduate students worldwide. It is fully funded and offers Nigerian students the chance to study at the University of Oxford.
Eligibility: Leadership potential, academic excellence, and extracurricular involvement are required.
Application: Applications are completed through the Rhodes Trust website.
How to Apply for Scholarships
To improve your chances of securing a scholarship:
- Research and apply early to meet deadlines.
- Gather required documents, such as academic transcripts, recommendation letters, and personal statements.
- Tailor your applications to meet specific requirements for each scholarship.
- Ensure your CV highlights academic achievements, leadership roles, and community engagement.