Are you a Nigerian student aspiring to study abroad but struggling to fund your education? Read about the International Scholarships for Nigerian Students here.
To many Nigerians, Studying abroad is a life-changing experience, opening doors to new perspectives, and outstanding opportunities.
But the financial burden is an obstacle to many.
However, there are numerous scholarship programs designed to support Nigerian students like yourself in realizing your academic ambitions.
In the guide, we’ll discuss the top 10 International Scholarships for Nigerian Students, their eligibility criteria, and application processes.
Let’s begin!
10 International Scholarships for Nigerian Students
1. Chevening Scholarship
It is one of the International Scholarships for Nigerian Students offered by the UK government, to support Nigerian students to pursue a one-year master’s degree in the UK.
Eligibility:
Nigerian citizens with at least 2 years of work experience, a proven track record of leadership, and a clear plan to return to Nigeria upon completion of the program.
How to Apply:
The application process is highly competitive and includes submitting a detailed application, personal statement, and references.
Click https://www.chevening.org/scholarships/ to apply.
2. Commonwealth Scholarship
It is sponsored by the Commonwealth Scholarship Commission to provide funding for Nigerian students to pursue various postgraduate programs in Commonwealth countries.
Eligibility:
Nigerian citizens with a strong academic background and a demonstrated commitment to development in Nigeria.
How to Apply:
Applicants must complete an online application and provide supporting documents, such as transcripts, references, and a research proposal (for research-based programs).
You may also like Top 10 Canadian Scholarships for Nigerian Students 2024
3. Fulbright Scholarship
The Fulbright Program is another International Scholarships for Nigerian Students sponsored by the U.S. government to offer scholarships for Nigerian students to pursue master’s or doctoral degrees in the United States.
Eligibility:
Nigerian citizens with a strong academic record, leadership experience, and a clear plan to contribute to the development of Nigeria upon their return.
How to Apply:
The application process involves visiting the Fulbright Scholarship website and submitting a comprehensive application, including essays, transcripts, and letters of recommendation.
4. African Development Bank (AfDB) Scholarship
The AfDB Scholarship Program provides funding for Nigerian students to pursue postgraduate studies in any field at accredited universities around the world.
Eligibility:
Nigerian citizens with a bachelor’s degree demonstrated academic excellence and a commitment to contributing to the development of Africa.
How to Apply:
Applicants must complete an online application via the African Development Bank (AfDB) Scholarship website and provide supporting documents, such as transcripts, a research proposal, and letters of recommendation.
5. DAAD Scholarship
The German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) offers scholarships for Nigerian students to pursue various degree programs, including undergraduate, master’s, and doctoral studies, in Germany.
Eligibility:
Nigerian citizens with outstanding academic achievements and a strong interest in the German language and culture.
How to Apply:
The application process involves submitting a detailed application, including a statement of purpose, academic transcripts, and letters of recommendation via the DAAD Scholarship website
6. Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program
Offered by the Mastercard Foundation, it is one of the International Scholarships for Nigerian Students provided to support exceptional Nigerian students from disadvantaged backgrounds to pursue undergraduate or postgraduate studies at partner universities around the world.
Eligibility:
Nigerian citizens with demonstrated academic potential, leadership qualities, and a commitment to positive social change.
How to Apply:
Applicants must attend partner universities, and then complete an online application, including essays, references, and a detailed personal background.
7. The Tony Elumelu Foundation Entrepreneurship Program
This program, founded by Nigerian entrepreneur Tony Elumelu, provides funding, mentorship, and training to Nigerian entrepreneurs, including those pursuing international education.
Eligibility:
Nigerian citizens with an innovative business idea or an early-stage startup, and a commitment to creating positive social impact.
How to Apply:
Applicants must submit a detailed business plan and participate in a competitive selection process via the Tony Elumelu Foundation Entrepreneurship Program website
8. Canon Collins Trust Scholarships
Sponsored by the Canon Collins Trust, this scholarship supports Nigerian students to pursue postgraduate studies in various fields at universities in Southern Africa.
Eligibility:
Nigerian citizens with a strong academic background, a demonstrated commitment to social justice and development, and a clear plan to contribute to the betterment of Nigeria and the African continent.
How to Apply: The application process involves submitting an online application, including essays, references, and supporting documents.
9. West African Research Association (WARA) Fellowship
The WARA Fellowship provides funding for Nigerian students to conduct research at universities in the United States or West Africa.
Eligibility:
Nigerian citizens with a strong academic record, a well-developed research proposal, and a commitment to contributing to the advancement of knowledge in their field.
How to Apply:
Applicants must submit a detailed research proposal, academic transcripts, and letters of recommendation through the West African Research Association (WARA) Fellowship
10. Mandela Washington Fellowship
As one of the International Scholarships for Nigerian Students, it is sponsored by the U.S. government, to offer Nigerian students the opportunity to participate in a 6-week leadership program at a U.S. university, with the possibility of further study or professional development.
Eligibility:
Nigerian citizens between the ages of 25 and 35, with a demonstrated record of leadership and a commitment to contributing to the development of Nigeria.
How to Apply:
Interested applicants should apply to the Mandela Washington Fellowship website. As well as essays, references, and a detailed plan for the fellowship experience.
See also New Zealand International Doctoral Research Scholarships (NZIDRS)
Final Thoughts
Here, we have discussed the top 10 International Scholarships for Nigerian Students as well as the eligibility requirements and how to apply.
However, the application process for these scholarships is often highly competitive, so you should start your research and preparation early.
Write a strong personal statement, gather all the necessary documents, and be persistent in your efforts.
We hope you find this guide helpful.
Thanks for reading.
FAQs
What is the average application timeline for these international scholarships?
The application timelines Paris but most scholarships have annual deadlines, usually between 6 to 12 months before the start of the academic year.
Take your time to research the specific deadlines for each scholarship and start your application process in advance.
Do these scholarships cover full tuition and living expenses?
The level of funding provided by these scholarships ranges from partial to full coverage of tuition, fees, and living expenses.
You should review the details of each scholarship program to understand the extent of the financial support offered.
Are there any age or academic requirements for these scholarships?
The eligibility criteria vary, but many scholarships have specific age ranges and academic requirements, such as a minimum GPA or level of education.
Don’t forget to check the individual requirements for each scholarship as well.