It may amaze you that you aren’t aware that there are numerous UK scholarships for Nigerian students. Yes, it might seem untrue but there are actually scholarships for Nigerian students to study abroad.
Studying in the UK is a big dream for many Nigerian and international students, and of course, there are many reasons why you may want to get a British degree. Thousands of students from Nigeria, like you, share the same aspirations. Thankfully, an array of UK scholarships for Nigerian students is available to make your dream a reality. With a little research and dedication, you can secure financial aid to help you achieve your academic goals in one of the world’s leading education hubs.
On our list of best websites for scholarship updates, you’ll find more scholarship opportunities, but in this comprehensive guide, we will explore the best UK scholarships for Nigerian students in 2024. We’ll take you through the eligibility criteria, application processes, and all you need to know to make a successful application.
10 Best UK Scholarships for Nigerian Students 2024
So, let’s dive in and discover the opportunities that await you!
1. The Chevening Scholarships
The Chevening Scholarships are among the most prestigious and sought-after scholarships available to Nigerian students. These awards are funded by the UK government and aim to develop global leaders by providing financial support for one-year Master’s degrees at any UK university.
Eligibility Criteria:
- Be a citizen of Nigeria or other eligible Chevening countries.
- Have an undergraduate degree equivalent to a UK second-class upper degree.
- Have at least two years of work experience.
- Meet the English language requirement.
Application Process:
- Visit the official Chevening website and create an account.
- Fill out the application form and submit the required documents.
- Select three courses of study at UK universities.
- Secure unconditional offers from the universities.
- Attend an interview at the British High Commission or Embassy.
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2. The Commonwealth Scholarships
The Commonwealth Scholarships are funded by the UK Department for International Development (DFID) to support Nigerian students who wish to pursue postgraduate studies in the UK.
Eligibility Criteria:
- Be a citizen of Nigeria or other eligible Commonwealth countries.
- Have an undergraduate degree equivalent to a UK second-class upper degree.
- Be unable to afford to study in the UK without financial assistance.
Application Process:
- Visit the Commonwealth Scholarship Commission website and complete the Electronic Application System (EAS) form.
- Submit the required documents, including academic transcripts, references, and a personal statement.
- Secure an unconditional offer from a UK university for your desired course.
- Await the outcome of the scholarship selection process.
Related: Top 20 Private Universities in Nigeria
3. The University of Oxford’s Clarendon Scholarships
The Clarendon Scholarships, funded by the University of Oxford, are awarded to academically exceptional Nigerian students to pursue graduate studies at the university.
Eligibility Criteria:
- Have an excellent academic record.
- Be a citizen of Nigeria or other eligible countries.
- Apply for a full-time or part-time graduate course at the University of Oxford.
Application Process:
- Complete the online application form for your chosen graduate course at the University of Oxford.
- Submit the required documents, including academic transcripts, references, and a personal statement.
- Await the outcome of the scholarship selection process.
Related: 10 Benefits of Studying Abroad for Career Growth
4. The University of Cambridge’s Gates Cambridge Scholarships
The Gates Cambridge Scholarships, funded by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, offer Nigerian students the opportunity to pursue a full-time postgraduate degree at the University of Cambridge.
Eligibility Criteria:
- Be a citizen of Nigeria or any other country outside the United Kingdom.
- Apply for a full-time postgraduate degree at the University of Cambridge.
Application Process:
- Complete the online application form for your chosen postgraduate course at the University of Cambridge.
- Submit the required documents, including academic transcripts, references, and a personal statement.
- Await the outcome of the scholarship selection process.
Related: 15 Colleges that Pay You to Attend Online
More Fully funded international scholarships for Nigerian undergraduate students
If you’re an international student dreaming of studying in the United Kingdom, you’re in the right place! with the help of UK scholarships for Nigerian students, and for every international students, you can ease the financial burden and focus on what really matters – your education.
So, let’s dive in and discover the opportunities that await you in the United Kingdom.
5. Rhodes Scholarship
The Rhodes Scholarship is perhaps the most prestigious of all UK scholarships for international students. Established in 1902 by the will of Cecil Rhodes, the Rhodes Scholarship aims to bring talented students from around the world to study at the University of Oxford. The scholarship is awarded based on academic excellence, leadership potential, and commitment to making a difference in the world.
- Who Can Apply?
The Rhodes Scholarship is open to students from various countries, including but not limited to Australia, Bermuda, Canada, China, Germany, Hong Kong, India, Jamaica, Kenya, Malaysia, New Zealand, Pakistan, Singapore, South Africa, the United States, Zambia, and Zimbabwe. For a full list of eligible countries, visit the Rhodes Trust website.
- What Does It Cover?
The Rhodes Scholarship covers all tuition fees and provides an annual stipend to cover living expenses. Additionally, scholars receive a travel allowance for their journey to and from the United Kingdom.
- How to Apply?
To apply for the Rhodes Scholarship, you must first create an account on the Rhodes Trust website. From there, you will be guided through the application process, which includes submitting a personal statement, CV, academic transcripts, and letters of recommendation. You may also be required to attend an interview as part of the selection process.
6. Developing Solutions Scholarships
The Developing Solutions Scholarships, offered by the University of Nottingham, are specifically designed for students from developing countries who wish to contribute to the development of their home nations. The scholarship is open to students pursuing a full-time Masters’s degree in areas like Engineering, Medicine, Social Sciences, and Environmental Sciences.
- Who Can Apply?
To be eligible for the Developing Solutions Scholarship, you must be a national of, or permanently domiciled in, Africa, India, or one of the developing countries of the Commonwealth. You must also be classified as an overseas student for tuition fee purposes.
- What Does It Cover?
The Developing Solutions Scholarships cover 50-100% of tuition fees, depending on the level of support awarded. Please note that this scholarship does not cover living expenses or travel costs.
- How to Apply?
To apply for the Developing Solutions Scholarships, you must first receive an offer to study a full-time Masters’s degree at the University of Nottingham. Once you have received your offer, you can apply for the scholarship through the University’s online application system. You will be required to submit a personal statement outlining your motivation for applying, your future career plans, and how the scholarship will help you achieve your goals.
Also Read: 10 Best Universities for Accounting and Finance In UK
7. The GREAT Scholarship
The GREAT Scholarship is a collaboration between the British Council and UK universities to provide financial support to students from various countries to study in the United Kingdom. The scholarship is available for both undergraduate and postgraduate study in a wide range of subjects.
Who Can Apply?
The GREAT Scholarship is open to students from China, Egypt, India, Indonesia, Malaysia, Pakistan, and Thailand. To be eligible, you must be a citizen of one of these countries and have received an offer to study at a participating UK university.
Related: Trent University Scholarship
But wait, do you get scholarship in UK?
How to Get A Scholarship In UK
We’ll walk you through a step-by-step process to help you understand how to get a scholarship in the UK. With a bit of perseverance and determination, you can secure the financial aid you need to embark on an unforgettable educational adventure. So, let’s get started!
- Research Scholarship Opportunities
The first step in your quest to secure a scholarship is to familiarize yourself with the various opportunities available. Scholarships in the UK are offered by a range of organizations, including the UK government, universities, and private institutions. Some well-known scholarships to consider include Chevening Scholarships, Commonwealth Scholarships, and university-specific scholarships. Look for scholarships that align with your academic interests, nationality, and financial needs.
- Assess Your Eligibility
Once you have compiled a list of potential scholarships, take the time to carefully evaluate your eligibility for each one. Most scholarships have specific criteria that applicants must meet, such as academic achievements, nationality, or intended field of study. Ensuring you meet the requirements will save you time and increase your chances of success.
Also Read: Canadian Scholarship for Nigerian Students
- Prepare Your Application Documents
Scholarship applications often require a variety of supporting documents, such as academic transcripts, recommendation letters, and personal statements. Make sure to gather these documents well in advance to avoid last-minute stress. When crafting your personal statement, focus on your academic achievements, career goals, and reasons for pursuing your chosen field of study. Remember, this is your chance to showcase your unique qualities and convince the scholarship committee that you are the perfect candidate.
- Polish Your Language Skills
Many UK scholarships require applicants to demonstrate a certain level of proficiency in the English language. If English is not your first language, you may need to take an English language test, such as IELTS or TOEFL, to prove your proficiency. Preparing for these tests in advance will give you the best chance of achieving the required scores.
- Apply for University Admissions
In most cases, you will need to secure admission to a UK university before you can be considered for a scholarship. Apply for your desired course at the university of your choice, keeping in mind the specific requirements of the scholarship you are targeting. Once you receive an acceptance letter or an unconditional offer, you can proceed with your scholarship application.
- Submit Your Scholarship Application
Now that you have your supporting documents, language test scores, and university admission secured, it’s time to apply for the scholarship! Fill out the application form diligently, ensuring that you provide accurate and complete information. Double-check your application for any errors or omissions, as these can diminish your chances of success.
- Stay Organized and Be Persistent
Applying for scholarships can be a time-consuming process, so it’s essential to stay organized. Keep track of important dates, such as application deadlines, and create a schedule to ensure you don’t miss any opportunities. Remember, persistence is key – don’t be disheartened by rejection, as securing a scholarship can often be a numbers game.
Also Read: Top 20 Hardest Degrees In the World
UK Scholarships for Nigerian Students (Summary)
The United Kingdom offers a plethora of scholarships for international students, including those from Nigeria. These scholarships are designed to empower talented and ambitious individuals like you to pursue your academic dreams and contribute to the global community. By taking advantage of these opportunities, you can transform your educational experience and pave the way for a brighter future.
Remember that applying for scholarships may seem challenging, but it’s essential to stay positive and persistent in your pursuit of financial assistance. Conduct thorough research, polish your application materials, and don’t hesitate to reach out to the universities or organizations offering scholarships for guidance and support. While considering UK scholarships for Nigerian students on this page, with determination and hard work, you could be one step closer to realizing your dream of studying in the United Kingdom.
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