Pursuing a Masters degree abroad is a life-changing opportunity that can transform your career prospects and open doors globally. For Nigerian students, the biggest barrier is often funding—international tuition fees and living costs can seem overwhelming. However, numerous scholarships, grants, and funding opportunities exist specifically for Nigerian students. This comprehensive guide covers the best fully-funded and partially-funded scholarships available in 2025.
From government-sponsored programs like Chevening and Commonwealth Scholarships to university-specific awards and private foundations, Nigerians have access to billions of naira in scholarship funding each year. The key is knowing where to look, how to apply, and what makes a winning application.
Fully-Funded Scholarships for Nigerian Students
1. Chevening Scholarships (UK)
The UK Government's flagship scholarship program, Chevening is one of the most prestigious awards available to Nigerians. It offers full funding for a one-year Masters degree at any UK university.
What's Covered:
- Full tuition fees
- Monthly living allowance (ÂŁ1,500+)
- Return flights to UK
- Additional grants for thesis, travel, and arrival
Requirements:
- Nigerian citizenship and resident in Nigeria
- Undergraduate degree (2:1 or equivalent)
- At least 2 years of work experience
- Return to Nigeria for at least 2 years after studies
- Not have previously studied in UK with government funding
Application Timeline: Usually opens August-November for the following academic year. Apply at chevening.org.
2. Commonwealth Scholarships (UK)
Offered by the UK government for Commonwealth citizens, these scholarships fund Masters and PhD studies at UK universities.
What's Covered:
- Tuition fees
- Living allowance
- Return airfare
- Thesis grant
- Study travel grant
Requirements:
- Nigerian citizenship
- First degree of at least upper second class
- Unable to afford study in UK without this scholarship
Application: Through the National Universities Commission (NUC) in Nigeria. Deadline typically in December.
3. DAAD Scholarships (Germany)
The German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) offers various scholarships for international students including Nigerians.
What's Covered:
- Monthly stipend (€934 for graduates)
- Health insurance
- Travel allowance
- Tuition (most German universities are tuition-free anyway)
Requirements:
- Excellent academic record
- Relevant work experience (usually 2+ years)
- Strong motivation for development-related impact
Application: Through daad.de, with deadlines varying by program (usually August-October).
4. Fulbright Foreign Student Program (USA)
The US government's premier scholarship for international students seeking Masters or PhD degrees in America.
What's Covered:
- Full tuition and fees
- Living stipend
- Health insurance
- Round-trip airfare
- Book and research allowances
Requirements:
- Nigerian citizenship
- Bachelor's degree with strong academic record
- English proficiency (TOEFL required)
- Leadership potential
Application: Through the US Embassy in Nigeria. Deadline typically in February for studies beginning 18 months later.
5. Australia Awards Scholarships
The Australian Government provides full scholarships for students from developing countries including Nigeria.
What's Covered:
- Full tuition fees
- Return airfare
- Contribution to living expenses
- Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC)
- Introductory academic program
Requirements:
- Nigerian citizenship and resident
- Not be applying for Australian visa
- Strong academic record
- Relevant work experience preferred
Application: Through the Australia Awards website. Deadline typically April-May.
6. Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships
For doctoral students only, but one of the most prestigious awards in Canada.
What's Covered:
- CAD $50,000 per year for 3 years
Requirements:
- Nominated by a Canadian university
- Exceptional academic achievement
- Research potential
- Leadership abilities
Partially-Funded Scholarships
University-Specific Scholarships
Many universities offer partial scholarships for international students:
- Gates Cambridge (UK): Full funding for postgraduate study at Cambridge
- Rhodes Scholarship (UK): Full funding at Oxford University
- Clarendon Scholarships (UK): Oxford's largest scholarship scheme
- Edinburgh Global Research Scholarships: Tuition fee coverage
- University of Toronto Scholarships: Various awards for international students
Private Foundation Scholarships
- Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program: Full funding at partner universities
- Aga Khan Foundation Scholarships: For postgraduate studies
- Joint Japan/World Bank Graduate Scholarship Program: Development-related studies
Tips for Winning Scholarships
1. Start Early
Most competitive scholarships have deadlines 12-18 months before the program starts. Begin your research and preparation at least 2 years before your intended start date.
2. Strengthen Your Application
- Maintain a strong CGPA (aim for First Class or 2:1 equivalent)
- Gain relevant work or volunteer experience
- Develop leadership skills and document them
- Pursue extracurricular activities with impact
3. Prepare Your Documents
- Get transcripts authenticated early
- Request recommendation letters from professors who know you well
- Prepare a compelling personal statement
- Take required English tests (IELTS/TOEFL) early
4. Craft a Compelling Story
Scholarship committees want to see:
- Clear academic and career goals
- Evidence of leadership and initiative
- Commitment to contributing to Nigeria's development
- Unique experiences and perspectives
5. Apply to Multiple Scholarships
Don't put all your eggs in one basket. Apply to several scholarships simultaneously. Many successful scholars applied to 10+ opportunities.
Alternative Funding Options
Education Loans
- Prodigy Finance: For Masters programs at top universities
- MPOWER Financing: No cosigner required for certain programs
- Bank loans: Some Nigerian banks offer education loans
Work While Studying
Most student visas allow part-time work:
- UK: 20 hours/week during term
- USA: On-campus employment permitted
- Canada: 20 hours/week off-campus
- Australia: 48 hours per fortnight
Graduate Assistantships
Many universities offer teaching or research assistantships that cover tuition and provide stipends, particularly for STEM programs.
Key Deadlines Calendar 2025
- Chevening: August - November 2024 (for 2025 entry)
- Commonwealth: December 2024
- Fulbright: February 2025 (for 2026 entry)
- DAAD: August - October 2024
- Australia Awards: April - May 2025
- University-specific: Varies (typically November - March)
Conclusion
Funding a Masters degree abroad is absolutely achievable for Nigerian students willing to put in the effort. The opportunities are numerous—from fully-funded government scholarships to university awards and private foundations. The key is to start early, apply broadly, and present a compelling case for why you deserve investment.
Remember that competition is fierce for the best scholarships. Thousands of Nigerians apply for Chevening each year, but only a few hundred are selected. Stand out by developing genuine leadership experience, maintaining excellent grades, and articulating a clear vision for how you'll use your education to make a difference.
Your dream of studying abroad is within reach. Start your scholarship journey today!