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A world-class education abroad is no longer just a dream for brilliant Nigerian students. Many Overseas scholarships for Nigerian Students unlock the door to prestigious universities in the UK, US, Australia, Canada, Germany, Dubai, and many more, allowing you to broaden your horizons, develop in-demand skills, and launch your career. These overseas scholarships offer financial support, covering tuition, living expenses, and sometimes even travel, making abroad education a realistic possibility for brilliant Nigerian students from all backgrounds.
Whether you are a high-achieving Undergraduate or a dedicated Postgraduate researcher, program across a diverse range of programs and specialisations, whether your passion lies in Engineering, Business, medicine, Nursing, law, or many more, there’s an overseas scholarship mentioned below waiting to empower your higher education journey.
| Type of Scholarship | Overseas Scholarships |
| Scholarships For | Undergraduate, Postgraduate, and Ph.D. degree programs |
| Location | Varies |
| Target Audience | Nigerian Students |
| Duration | Varies depending on the scholarship |
| Funding Amount | Undergraduate, Postgraduate, and PhD degree programs |
This Blog Includes:
7+ Fully Funded Overseas Scholarships for Nigerian Students
These Overseas Scholarship for Nigerian Students show a diverse range of disciplines, from Engineering, Technology, Business, and Medicine to law and global development. This blog will help you find the right academic path for you and start great job opportunities around the world. Here’s a list of some of the most well-regarded overseas scholarships to start your higher education journey. These are some of the best fully funding scholarships you can apply for.
The DAAD Scholarship
The DAAD scholarship offers a limited number of Masters scholarships for Nigerians in collaboration with the University of Ibadan. This scholarship program has a limited number of openings specifically for Nigerian students. While it’s a great option, it’s wise to explore other scholarship opportunities to broaden your chances. Primarily for university staff in Nigeria or Nigerians seeking postgraduate studies at a university in a neighbouring African country. It covers Tuition fees, monthly living stipends, and sometimes health insurance and travel costs.
| Particulars | Details |
| Coverage | Tuition, living expenses, health insurance |
| Sponsored Country | Germany |
| Fields of Study | Varies (Undergraduate, Masters, PhD) |
| Application Deadline | July 15 (winter semester), and from early December to January 15 (summer semester) |
Lester B. Pearson Scholarship
The Lester B. Pearson Scholarship unlocks prestigious undergraduate studies at the University of Toronto for brilliant Nigerian students. It targets exceptional academic performers with leadership qualities and a passion for making a global impact. If this describes you, and you’re aiming for a first-entry undergraduate program, this fully-funded scholarship covers tuition, residence, books, and living expenses – everything you need to excel in Canada.
| Particulars | Details |
| Coverage | Tuition, living expenses |
| Sponsored Country | Canada |
| Fields of Study | Undergraduate |
| Application Deadline | Varies (school nomination by October 10, 2025; university application by October 17, 2025; scholarship application by November 7, 2025) |
Aga Khan University Scholarships
The Aga Khan University offers postgraduate scholarships for outstanding Nigerian students, primarily for Master’s degrees. These competitive scholarships cover tuition fees and living expenses. Eligibility focuses on academic excellence, leadership qualities, and a commitment to community service. Specific fields may vary but could include architecture, education, or healthcare.
| Particulars | Details |
| Coverage | Full tuition and living expenses |
| Sponsored Country | Various (East Africa, Central Asia) |
| Fields of Study | Varies (Undergraduate, Masters, PhD) |
| Application Deadline | Varies (The 2025-26 application cycle is now closed. The next cycle will open in January 2026 |
The Chevening Scholarship
The Chevening Scholarship is one of the best Overseas Scholarships for Nigerian students. Funding for a one-year master’s degree program at any UK-accredited university is available through this British Government-sponsored initiative. Following the completion of their graduate studies, Chevening Scholars are expected to return home and use their knowledge and skills to further the development of their communities. To be eligible for the Chevening Scholarship, Nigerian students must have a good academic record, two years of work experience, and show leadership potential. Applications typically open in August/September.
| Particulars | Details |
| Coverage | Tuition fees, living expenses, and a return flight to the UK |
| Sponsored Country | UK |
| Fields of Study | Applications for the 2026/2027 academic year opened on August 5, 2025. The deadline is on October 7, 2025. |
| Application Deadline | Applications for the 2026/2027 academic year opened on August 5, 2025,. The deadline is on October 7, 2025. |
The Gates Cambridge Scholarship
The Gates Cambridge Scholarship is a fully-funded overseas scholarship program for outstanding Nigerian students with the opportunity to pursue higher education at the Postgraduate degree level at the University of Cambridge. The Gates Cambridge Scholarship is awarded based on intellectual ability, leadership potential, and a commitment to improving the lives of others. It’s ideal for exceptional Nigerian students with outstanding research potential who are passionate about making a global impact. To be eligible for the overseas scholarship, students must have a strong academic record, good research skills, and a commitment to improving the lives of others. It’s open to all subject areas except the MBA degree program.
| Particulars | Details |
| Coverage | Tuition fees, college fees, living expenses, and travel costs |
| Sponsored Country | UK |
| Fields of Study | Most postgraduate programs (excluding MBA) |
| Application Deadline | Early January 2026 |
The Rhodes Scholarship
The Rhodes Scholarship is another prestigious overseas scholarship for Nigerian students that offers funding for postgraduate study at the University of Oxford. The Rhodes Scholarship is awarded to well-rounded Nigerian students who show extraordinary academic achievement, leadership potential, and a commitment to public service. To be eligible for this overseas scholarship, students must have a bachelor’s degree with excellent grades, strong leadership experience, and a strong moral character. Its application typically opens in March.
| Particulars | Details |
| Coverage | Tuition fees, living expenses, and travel costs |
| Sponsored Country | UK |
| Fields of Study | Applications for the 2025 intake opened on June 2, 2025. The deadline is on August 28, 2025. |
| Application Deadline | Applications for the 2025 intake opened on June 2, 2025,. The deadline is on August 28, 2025. |
The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program
The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program is an overseas scholarship program that provides academically talented students from Africa who come from economically challenged families with an opportunity to pursue Undergraduate and Postgraduate studies at partner universities located all over the world. It’s ideal for academically talented Nigerians from economically challenged backgrounds who are committed to giving back to their communities. To be eligible for this overseas scholarship, students must have a strong academic record, show financial need, and have a passion for contributing to social change.
| Particulars | Details |
| Coverage | Full tuition, living expenses, travel costs, and pre-departure training |
| Sponsored Country | Various |
| Fields of Study | Varies (Undergraduate, Masters) |
| Application Deadline | Varies (course-specific) |
The Australian Awards Scholarships
The Australian Awards Scholarships are a prominent overseas scholarship program that is supported by the Australian Government. These scholarships offer several opportunities for Nigerian students from developing countries to study at participating universities across Australia. It’s ideal for High-achieving Nigerian students with a strong interest in studying in Australia and contributing to development in their home country. To be eligible for these overseas scholarships, you have to show a strong academic record, relevant work experience, and a clear vision of how your studies will benefit your home country. It’s open to undergraduate, Postgraduate, and Doctoral degree programs.
| Particulars | Details |
| Coverage | Tuition fees, living expenses, travel costs, and pre-departure training |
| Sponsored Country | Australia |
| Fields of Study | Varies (Undergraduate, Masters, PhD) |
| Application Deadline | The application deadline for the 2026 intake is April 30, 2025. |
Also Read: University of Ottawa Scholarships for Nigerian Students
How to Get a 100% Scholarship to Study Abroad as a Nigerian Student?
A fully funded scholarship is competitive. This is because students from around the world compete for it. Therefore, to get a fully funded scholarship, you must follow the steps below:
- First, identify the scholarship you want to apply for
- Next, visit its official website and check the eligibility criteria
- Ensure you meet the requirements and have the necessary documents to apply for the scholarship.
- Check the scholarship deadline and then apply for the scholarship.
- Check when the results will be announced, and check if you have received the scholarship.
To get a fully funded merit scholarship, you have to ensure that you have a solid GPA. Your academic performance must be exceptional if you are applying for merit merit-based award. It is important to note that most scholarship providers grant scholarships to students who demonstrate a balance between academic achievement and extracurricular activities. For example, you might be asked to demonstrate leadership skills.
Those who are applying for need-based scholarships (scholarships based on financial need) must ensure that they have decent academic performance, and/or take part in extracurricular activities. They can also be required to show proof of their bank balance for the same.
Partial Overseas Scholarships for Nigerian Students to Study Abroad
Fully funding scholarships are not the only scholarships for Nigerian students. Universities around the world offer partial scholarships. While the partial scholarships may not cover yur entire expenses, it helps in mitigating the tuition cost. The popular partial scholarships for students to study abroad are provided below:
Undergraduate Scholarships for Nigerian Students to Study Abroad
Here is a list of undergraduate overseas scholarships for Nigerian students. The scholarship-providing university and the benefits are for your reference.
| S/N | Scholarship Name | University | Country | Benefit |
| 1 | Global Futures Scholarship | University of Manchester | UK | GBP 24,000 over three years for undergraduate programs |
| 2 | International Undergraduate Commitment Scholarship | University of South Florida | USA | USD 4,000–8,000 per year based on GPA |
| 3 | Global Maverick Access Scholarship | Alcorn State University | USA | USD 4,000 per year for undergraduate students |
| 4 | Tongarewa International Scholarship | Victoria University of Wellington | New Zealand | NZD 10,000 for undergraduate study |
| 5 | Vice-Chancellor’s International Excellence Scholarship | University of Waikato | New Zealand | Up to NZD 20,000 for undergraduate study |
| 6 | International Entrance Scholarship | University of Regina | Canada | CAD 3,000 for high school students |
| 7 | Global Excellence Scholarship | Aston University | UK | GBP 5,000–7,000 for undergraduate programs |
Postgraduate Scholarships for Nigerian Students to Study Abroad
The following are the overseas postgraduate scholarships for Nigerian students. The scholarship name, the university and the benefits are provided for your reference.
| S/N | Scholarship Name | University | Country | Benefit |
| 1 | GREAT Scholarships | Various UK universities in partnership with the British Council | UK | Minimum GBP 10,000 towards tuition fees for a one-year postgraduate course |
| 2 | Global Futures Scholarship | University of Manchester | UK | GBP 15,000 for master’s programs |
| 3 | Fulbright Foreign Student Program | Various US universities | USA | EUR 10,000 stipend for one year, plus a full fee waiver for the scholarship year |
| 4 | Eiffel Excellence Scholarship | Various French higher education institutions | France | Monthly allowance of EUR 1,181 (master’s) or EUR 1,700 (doctoral) plus round-trip ticket |
| 5 | Government of Ireland International Education Scholarship (GOI-IES) | Various Irish Higher Education Institutions | Ireland | EUR 10,000 stipend for one year plus a full fee waiver for the scholarship year |
| 6 | Émile Boutmy Scholarship | Sciences Po University | France | Tuition fee grant ranging from EUR 5,000 to EUR 12,000 for master’s studies |
| 7 | Commonwealth Shared Scholarship | Various UK universities | UK | Tuition fees, return airfare, and a monthly living allowance |
To apply for a partial scholarship, you can visit the official website of the university/scholarship provider, ensure you meet the requirements (don’t forget to check if you need an offer letter to apply), gather the documents, and then send in the application before the deadline. Each university has its own application process for the specific scholarship. Hence, read the scholarship instructions carefully.
Also Read: University of Sheffield Scholarship for Nigerian Students
Factors Affecting Selection For Overseas Scholarships for Nigerian Students
Nigerian students who aspire to pursue higher education overseas can benefit from numerous scholarship opportunities available to them. However, the selection process for these scholarships is influenced by various factors. Being aware of these factors can significantly improve your chances of obtaining a scholarship and help strengthen your application.
- Excellent academic performance is a very important factor that can be considered.
- Getting consistently good grades throughout your academic journey shows that you are dedicated and can do well in a tough academic journey.
- To be eligible for many overseas scholarships, you need to do well on graded tests like the GMAT, GRE, IELTS, or TOEFL.
- Depending on the test, these results show how well you can use English and how well you can do with math or graduate-level studies.
- Show any work experience or jobs that are related to the area you want to study.
- Show off your ability to motivate and direct others by listing leading roles in student groups, clubs, or community projects.
- For university scholarships, it’s important to have a strong research experience. Show that you have done research by listing past projects, papers, or talks that show off your research skills and how you might be able to contribute to your field.
- Write an interesting statement of purpose that explains your academic goals, study hobbies, and plans for the future.
- Strongly recommended letters of support from teachers who know your work well can help your application.
- Some overseas scholarships give priority to students who are struggling to pay for higher education. Please show that you need financial help by submitting the necessary documents.
- Some overseas scholarships are only available to applicants who are citizens of certain countries or who live in a certain country.
- Make sure you meet the requirements based on your identity and where you live.
FAQ’s
The Nigerian government has deals with other governments to help students study abroad by giving them overseas scholarships. The host country pays for these awards so that Nigerian students can pay for their education and living costs.
Students who are eligible based on their gender, religion, family background, or medical history can apply for these types of overseas scholarships.
Yale University in the US, Oxford University in the UK, Cambridge University in the UK, Harvard University in the US, Monash University in Australia, CGS China, and many more leading universities around the world offer fully funded overseas scholarships for Nigerian students.
Yes. Nigerian students can apply for DAAD scholarships. They can apply for the DAAD scholarships at the master’s and PhD levels. To apply for the scholarship, ensure you meet the requirements and have proof of English/German language proficiency.
Yes. Certain universities, and pathway providers like INTO, Kaplan, and Navitas, provide merit-based or partial fee scholarships to students for foundation and pre-master’s programs. These scholarships usually range between EUR 1,000 to EUR 5,000, depending on your academic performance.
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