Discover UK scholarships for international students 2026, fully funded scholarships UK for Nigerians

Winning a scholarship to study abroad can be a life-changing — especially for students from Nigeria and other developing countries. Whether you’re aiming for the UK, USA or Canada, understanding which opportunities exist, what the eligibility is, how to apply, and how to stand out is vital. In this guide we walk you through top scholarships in each country for the 2026 - 2027 cycle, highlight eligibility & deadlines, and provide practical tips to maximise your chances.

1. Scholarships in the United Kingdom (UK)

Why choose the UK?

The UK remains a popular destination due to high-quality universities, international student friendly programmes, and targeted scholarship schemes for overseas students.

Key scholarship schemes

Chevening Scholarship: A flagship scholarship funded by the UK government, offering full-tuition plus stipend for one‐year master’s degrees. 

GREAT Scholarships: Supported by the British Council; for 2026 -2027 they offer around £10,000 towards taught postgraduate tuition for students from selected countries including Nigeria. 

Other UK university-based scholarships: Many UK universities publish internal excellence scholarships for international students. 

Eligibility & deadlines (UK)

Typical eligibility:

Citizenship of eligible country (often Nigeria included)

Academic transcripts (bachelors degree for masters)

IELTS/TOEFL or equivalent (unless waived)

Leadership qualities / clear career plan (especially for Chevening)

Application window: often opens Aug–Nov for next academic year. 

Steps to apply (for UK scholarships)

1. Research the particular scholarship programme (Chevening, GREAT, university)

2. Select UK university and get admission offer (if required)

3. Prepare documents: transcripts, CV/resume, references, personal statement

4. Tailor your essay to scholarship criteria (leadership, impact, home-country return plan)

5. Submit before deadline, track application status

6. Prepare for interview (if applicable)

Tips to improve your chances (UK)

Demonstrate a clear home country impact plan — how your study will benefit your country (Nigeria)

Highlight leadership and extra-curricular activities, not just academics 

Secure strong referee letters

Ensure your personal statement is specific and error-free

Check official eligibility list for Nigeria and ensure you meet all criteria

2. Scholarships in the United States (USA)

Why choose the USA?

The United States boasts many globally-ranked universities, generous financial aid programmes and a variety of scholarship types (need-based, merit-based, specialised).

Prominent scholarship programmes (USA)

Fulbright Foreign Student Program: Widely recognised, full-funded for graduate study and research. 

Specialist scholarships: e.g., for women in STEM, for no-essay quick opportunities. 

Numerous university-specific fully funded scholarships listed for 2025. 

Eligibility & deadlines (USA)

Eligibility varies widely:

For full-funded: often international students with strong academic records, leadership, sometimes requiring SAT/ACT for undergraduates

Some scholarships state “no IELTS” or alternative language tests. 

Deadlines: many open a year ahead; e.g., Fulbright for 2026 intake may open Oct 2025. 

Steps to apply (USA scholarships)

1. Identify the scholarship & institution and check citizenship eligibility

2. Gather academic transcripts, test scores (SAT/ACT, GRE, TOEFL/IELTS unless waived)

3. Prepare essays, references, sometimes project proposals

4. Submit application on time

5. For many, be ready for interviews or additional materials

Tips to increase success (USA)

Focus on distinctive personal stories and how you will contribute globally

For Nigerians: emphasise development impact of your study back home

Pay attention to essay prompts and tailor accordingly

Consider early deadlines and plan accordingly

Explore lesser-known scholarships too (smaller awards but good stepping stones)

3. Scholarships in Canada

Why choose Canada?

Canada is increasingly attractive due to welcoming immigration policies, good value education, safe environment and many scholarships open to international students.

Major scholarship opportunities (Canada)

Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships: For doctoral students; one of the top government awards. 

Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program: With partner universities (University of Toronto, McGill) for students from Sub-Saharan Africa; full tuition + stipend. 

Many universities: e.g., University of Alberta, University of Saskatchewan offering international scholarships. 

Eligibility & deadlines (Canada)

Varies by scholarship & university; many open for international students including Africans/Nigerians

For 2025-26: deadlines often in late-year (Oct–Dec) for next academic year. 

Academic excellence + leadership or community service often required

Steps to apply (Canada)

1. Choose university & programme in Canada

2. Identify scholarship and check eligibility, value, deadlines

3. Prepare transcripts, proof of English proficiency, CV, statement of purpose, sometimes research proposal

4. Submit application (often via university scholarship portal)

5. For some awards, additional nomination by institution may be required

Tips to succeed (Canada)

Emphasise community leadership or impact (many Canadian awards look for this)

Research the institution’s preferred criteria (some prioritize African students)

Prepare early (deadlines can be earlier than you expect)

Engage with university faculty or programme to strengthen your application

4. Comparative strategy

Canada Welcoming environment, scholarships for African students growing Full tuition + stipend  low amounts Students from Nigeria seeking safe, long-term study option Emphasise community leadership, choose universities with strong international student support

5. General tips for Nigerian applicants (and worldwide)

Start early: Many scholarship cycles open one year ahead—mark deadlines in your calendar.

English proficiency: Even if some scholarships waive IELTS, ensure your written English is strong.

Tailor each application: Don’t reuse generic essays. Align with the scholarship’s aims.

Check eligibility for Nigerians: Some awards specify eligible countries. UK’s GREAT lists Nigeria. 

Demonstrate impact: What will you do after study? How will you give back to Nigeria or your home region?

Have strong documentation: Transcripts, certificates, passport, CV, references.

Build a narrative: Why this programme? Why this country? Why now?

Apply to multiple awards: Don’t rely on one. Increase your chances by applying broadly.

Prepare for interviews: Some scholarships (especially UK) require interview rounds.

Stay organised: Track scholarship names, platforms, deadlines, documents required.

Be mindful of scams: Only apply via official links and avoid paying fees.

6. Common pitfalls and how to avoid them

Missing deadlines: Set reminders well ahead (at least 1–2 months)

Generic essays: If your essay doesn’t clearly show what you bring or what you’ll do, you’ll be overlooked

Weak references: Choose referees who know you well and can speak to your leadership/potential

Ignoring eligibility: If your country is not eligible, application will be rejected. Always check.

Poor formatting/errors: Spelling mistakes, incoherent structure reflect poorly. Have someone proofread.

Not aligning with scholarship goals: Many programmes stress leadership, community service, home-country impact. If you ignore this, you lose a differentiator.

7. Call to action: What you should do next

1. Choose 1 scholarship from each country that fits you (UK, USA, Canada) and note its deadline and requirements.

2. Begin gathering all documents now (transcripts, certificates, CV, passport, language test results).

3. Write a first draft of your personal statement/essay focused on leadership, goals, and impact.

4. Seek at least two referees who can provide strong recommendation letters and inform them ahead.

5. Submit your application early (preferably 2-3 weeks before deadline) to avoid last-minute issues.

6. After submission, continue preparing (for interviews, possible travel/visa requirements) and keep backup scholarship options in hand.

Securing a scholarship to study in the UK, USA or Canada is absolutely achievable — even for students from Nigeria and other developing countries — provided you plan well, craft a compelling application, meet deadlines, and choose opportunities aligned to your goals. With the right strategy you can unlock a world of possibilities and transform your future.

Get started today — pick your scholarship, gather your materials, and let your story shine.