If studying abroad is on your bucket list but you’re worried about the cost, here’s some good news: Several universities across the world are offering scholarships specifically for Nigerian and African students in 2025. These scholarships range from fully funded to partial support, covering tuition, living expenses, and sometimes even travel costs.
Whether you’re aiming for undergraduate, master’s, or PhD programs, check out these 8 foreign universities that are opening their doors to Nigerian students this year:
1. University of British Columbia (Canada) – International Scholars Program
Scholarship Type: Fully Funded
Level: Undergraduate
Website: you.ubc.ca
UBC offers several prestigious awards under its International Scholars Program, including the Karen McKellin International Leader of Tomorrow Award. Nigerian students with strong academic records and leadership potential are encouraged to apply.
Perks: Tuition + living expenses for 4 years
2. University of Oxford (UK) – Reach Oxford Scholarships
Scholarship Type: Fully Funded
Level: Undergraduate
Website: www.ox.ac.uk
Oxford offers Reach Oxford Scholarships for students from developing countries, including Nigeria, who cannot study in their home country due to political or financial constraints.
Perks: Tuition, living expenses, and return flights annually
3. DAAD (Germany) – Development-Related Postgraduate Courses
Scholarship Type: Fully Funded
Level: Master’s and PhD
Website: www.daad.de
Germany’s DAAD scholarship remains one of the most popular options for Nigerian postgraduates. It covers a wide range of programs in fields like engineering, public policy, health sciences, and more.
Perks: Tuition-free education + monthly stipends, travel, and health insurance
4. Sciences Po (France) – Emile-Boutmy Scholarship
Scholarship Type: Partial to Fully Funded
Level: Undergraduate & Master’s
Website: www.sciencespo.fr
Named after the founder of Sciences Po, this scholarship is for top international students outside the EU, including Nigerians. It is awarded based on merit and financial need.
Perks: Up to €13,000 per year for tuition + living allowance
5. University of Melbourne (Australia) – Graduate Research Scholarships
Scholarship Type: Fully Funded
Level: Master’s by Research & PhD
Website: www.unimelb.edu.au
The University of Melbourne offers over 600 scholarships annually to outstanding international students. Nigerian researchers are encouraged to apply for programs in science, arts, engineering, and medicine.
Perks: Full tuition, relocation grant, and up to $34,000/year stipend
6. University of Toronto (Canada) – Lester B. Pearson Scholarship
Scholarship Type: Fully Funded
Level: Undergraduate
Website: future.utoronto.ca
This highly competitive scholarship is for exceptional international students who demonstrate academic achievement, creativity, and leadership. It’s one of Canada’s most prestigious undergraduate scholarships.
Perks: Tuition, books, incidental fees, and residence support for 4 years
7. Netherlands Government – Orange Knowledge Programme (OKP)
Scholarship Type: Fully Funded (Short Courses & Master’s)
Level: Short Courses & Master’s Programs
Website: www.studyinholland.nl
The OKP supports professionals from Nigeria and other developing countries to study in the Netherlands. It’s ideal for mid-career professionals looking to upskill or pursue postgraduate education.
Perks: Tuition, visa fees, travel costs, and monthly allowance
8. University of Edinburgh (UK) – Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program
Scholarship Type: Fully Funded
Level: Master’s
Website: www.ed.ac.uk
This partnership between Mastercard Foundation and the University of Edinburgh supports academically talented African students who have demonstrated leadership potential and a commitment to giving back.
Perks: Tuition, travel, accommodation, and living expenses
Tips for Nigerian Students Applying for Scholarships in 2025
- Start early: Most applications open between September and February.
- Polish your essays and CVs: Highlight leadership, volunteering, and academic achievements.
- Meet all deadlines: No late submissions are accepted.
- Get strong recommendation letters: Choose referees who know your work well.
- Don’t limit yourself to one application: Apply to multiple scholarships to improve your chances.
Final Thoughts
Education should never be limited by location or finances. With these global opportunities in 2025, Nigerian students can unlock life-changing experiences and world-class education without the crushing burden of student debt. So get your documents ready, believe in yourself, and shoot your shot!