What if you could travel out to another country, attend a good school, and even collect stipends; all for free?
Would you take it? Of course you would.
For many Nigerians, that kind of opportunity feels like what we casually call awoof, that rare kind of “free blessing” that looks too good to be true. But here’s the truth: this “awoof” is real, and it’s not just real, it’s very possible; if you understand how scholarships work and you position yourself properly.
A lot of Nigerians genuinely want to study abroad. The dream is there. The motivation is there. The hunger is there. But for most people, the dream gets blocked by one big wall: money.
- Money to pay for tuition
- Money to pay for proof of funds
- Money to pay for visa and travel
- Money to pay for accommodation
- Money to settle before part-time work becomes possible
And if we’re being honest, some people don’t even reach the tuition stage; they struggle to even get to the visa stage.
That’s why fully funded scholarships are life-changing. A proper fully funded scholarship can cover tuition, flight, accommodation support, insurance, and monthly living stipend. In other words: your biggest problem is no longer “How will I pay?” but “How can I qualify?”
Now here is where most people miss it: getting a fully funded scholarship abroad as a Nigerian depends heavily on how informed you are. People who understand the process apply smarter, prepare earlier, and submit stronger documents. People who don’t understand the process apply randomly and get disappointed.
This article is built to give you the information that can move you from “I wish” to “I’m applying” to “I got it.”
I’ll walk you through some of the Top Fully Funded Scholarships for Nigerians to Study Abroad, explain what they offer, who qualifies, how to apply, and what you should do to increase your chances in 2026. Stay with me.
Before Anything: What Does “Fully Funded Scholarship” Really Mean?
A lot of people hear “fully funded” and assume it means “they’ll just pay school fees.” Not always.
A true fully funded scholarship typically covers most (or all) of the following:
- Tuition fee (full coverage)
- Monthly stipend / living allowance
- Airfare (to and from the country)
- Health insurance
- Books and supplies allowance (in some cases)
- Research/thesis support (for research students)
- Visa fees and settlement grants (in some programs)
Some scholarships cover everything. Others cover almost everything but still expect you to handle small personal expenses. Either way, fully funded scholarships are the closest thing to “study abroad awoof” that exists, except it’s not luck; it’s preparation.
What Most Scholarships Actually Look For (The Real Eligibility Secret)
Most Nigerians think scholarships are only for “first class people” or “geniuses.” That’s not always true.
Yes, academic excellence helps. But many top scholarships also look at other things such as:
- Leadership qualities (even small leadership counts)
- Community impact (service, volunteering, projects, mentoring)
- Clarity of purpose (your goals must make sense)
- Financial need (for need-based scholarships)
- Professional experience (for postgraduate scholarships)
- Strong personal statement and recommendations
So your job is not only to be “smart.” Your job is to build a profile that looks like:
“This person will use this opportunity well and represent us well.”
Now let’s enter the main gist.
Top Fully Funded Scholarships for Nigerians to Study Abroad
Below are some of the most popular and proven scholarships Nigerians regularly apply for and win. These are not imaginary opportunities. Nigerians have benefited from these programs for years, many are studying abroad right now because they took these applications seriously.
1. Chevening Scholarships
The Chevening Scholarships is one of the most respected scholarship programs in the world. It is funded by the UK government and designed to develop future global leaders.
With Chevening, you can study a one-year master’s program in any course at any UK university; yes, any accredited UK university;if you meet the requirements and you’re selected.
Benefits of Chevening Scholarships
Chevening is generous, and that’s why it’s so competitive. Benefits commonly include:
- Full coverage of Tuition fee
- Monthly stipends to cover living expenses
- Round-trip airfare to the UK
- Additional support/grants for important expenses such as:
- Visa fees
- Thesis-related costs (e.g., binding)
- Extra academic-related spending (where applicable)
Chevening Scholarships Eligibility Criteria
To qualify, Chevening usually expects the following:
- At least two years of work experience (this can include internships and volunteering in many cases)
- A strong academic background (good university or polytechnic performance)
- Evidence of leadership potential (this can be leadership at work, in school, in community, in projects)
- A clear commitment to return to Nigeria and contribute to development afterward
Application Period
- Usually runs between August and November each year
Official website
Pro Tip for Nigerians: Your Chevening application becomes stronger when your personal statement clearly answers:
Why this course? Why the UK? Why now? And what impact will it create in Nigeria?
2. Commonwealth Scholarships
The Commonwealth Scholarships is meant for citizens of developing Commonwealth countries like Nigeria. It supports qualified students to study Master’s and PhD programs in the UK.
This scholarship is strongly development-focused, meaning they like candidates whose studies connect to real-world impact, nation-building, and public good.
Major Benefits of Commonwealth Scholarships
- Full tuition fee coverage
- Airfare (to and from the UK)
- Monthly stipend as living allowance
Commonwealth Scholarships Eligibility Criteria
You generally need to:
- Be a citizen of a Commonwealth country (Nigeria qualifies)
- Hold a strong degree; often at least Second Class Upper Division
- For PhD applicants, you typically need a Master’s degree
- Prove that you cannot afford to study in the UK without scholarship support
Application Period
- Often opens around November and closes around December
Application process
You may apply through:
- A nominating agency in Nigeria, or
- The Commonwealth online platform, submitting documents like transcripts, passport, and other supporting items
Official website
3. MasterCard Foundation Scholars Program
The MasterCard Foundation Scholars Program is one of the most powerful scholarship opportunities for academically strong Africans who face financial limitations.
This program partners with universities across Africa, North America, and Europe, offering scholars not just education, but mentorship and leadership development.
Benefits of MasterCard Foundation Scholars Program
This scholarship goes beyond paying fees:
- Completely paid tuition fee
- Internship opportunities and career exposure
- Mentorship and career counselling
- Structured leadership development programs
- A strong community of scholars and global network
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify, you often need to demonstrate:
- Strong academic ability but limited financial capacity
- Real commitment to giving back to your community
- Clear leadership potential
- Nationality from an eligible African country (Nigeria qualifies)
Application Period
- Depends on the partner university (different institutions have different deadlines)
How to apply
- You apply through the guidelines of a partner university participating in the program
Official website
4. Joint Japan/World Bank Graduate Scholarship Program
The Joint Japan/World Bank Graduate Scholarship Program supports students from developing countries like Nigeria to study Master’s programs at selected universities worldwide.
It is sponsored by Japan and the World Bank, and the focus is often on development-related fields; public policy, economics, development studies, public health, and related areas.
Benefits
- Payment of full tuition fee
- Monthly stipend
- Airfare support (to and from the study country)
- Health insurance
- Travel allowance (additional support depending on program rules)
Eligibility Criteria
Typically includes:
- Citizenship from an eligible developing country under the World Bank list
- A bachelor’s degree obtained at least three years before applying (as stated in your notes)
- Around three years of work experience connected to development or relevant fields
Application Period
- Often opens March and closes May
Application process
- Apply to an eligible Master’s program first
- Then submit scholarship application through the scholarship portal with required documents
Official website
5. Fulbright Foreign Student Program
The Fulbright Foreign Student Program is one of the most famous scholarship programs in the world. It was created by the United States to strengthen mutual understanding between Americans and other nations.
It supports graduate students, artists, and researchers to study and conduct research in the US.
Benefits
- Full tuition support
- Monthly stipend
- Round-trip airfare
- Health insurance
- Books and supplies allowance
- Computer allowance (in many cases)
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants typically need:
- A strong undergraduate degree and proven excellence
- Demonstrated leadership qualities
- English proficiency
Application Period
- Often opens February and closes May
Application process
Applicants are often required to submit:
- Academic and professional references
- Curriculum vitae (CV)
- Academic transcripts
- TOEFL score report
- A strong study or research proposal
Official website
6. Australia Awards Scholarships
The Australia Awards Scholarships is funded by the Australian government for citizens of partner countries like Nigeria.
It supports undergraduate and postgraduate study and is aimed at empowering scholars who will contribute to development when they return home.
Benefits
- Full tuition fee payment
- Monthly stipend
- Establishment allowance (one-time support for accommodation, books, and materials)
- Return airfare (to and from Australia)
- Overseas Student Health Cover (health insurance)
- Fieldwork support for research students (under specified conditions)
Eligibility Criteria
Your notes highlight the following requirements:
- Must be a Nigerian citizen
- Must be at least 25 years old
- Must have five years of relevant work experience
- English proficiency
- Strong academic background (good high school result for undergrad, strong bachelor’s result for postgrad)
Application Period
- Often opens February and closes April
Application process
- Submit application through the official platform with required documents
Official website
7. University of Michigan-Dearborn Undergraduate Scholarship in USA
This is an undergraduate scholarship opportunity for international students who want to study in the US at the University of Michigan-Dearborn.
It’s designed to support affordability and access to quality education.
Benefits
- Annual scholarship of $12,500
- Total of $50,000 over 4 years (as described)
Eligibility Criteria
Scholarship decisions may consider:
- Academic excellence
- Personal talents
- Leadership qualities
- Interests
- Financial need (or a combination of all)
Specific requirements noted:
- Must be an international student with a valid visa
- Must have a GPA of 3.0 and meet country-specific requirements
- To renew, maintain a cumulative GPA of 3.0 at UM–Dearborn
Language Proficiency Requirements
Applicants may submit any of:
- IELTS 6.5
- TOEFL iBT 80
- TOEFL CBT 213
- TOEFL PBT 550
Application Period
- Runs from March to November
Application Process
- Apply for admission through the university’s online portal
Official website
8. Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships
The Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships is offered through the Swiss government via the Federal Commission for Scholarships for Foreign Students.
It supports international students, including Nigerians, primarily for postgraduate study and research.
Benefits
- Full tuition coverage
- Monthly stipends
- Housing allowance
- Health insurance
- Airfare allowance
Eligibility Criteria
As noted in your draft:
- Designed for master’s-level (and equivalent) categories
- Must have a master’s degree or equivalent (depending on track)
- Must be under 35 years at the time of application
- Must provide a research proposal or admission letter from a Swiss university
Application Period
- Often opens August and closes December
Application process
- Submit application to the Swiss representative in Nigeria (Swiss diplomatic/official channels)
Official website
9. Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships (CGS)
The Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships (CGS) is one of Canada’s most prestigious doctoral scholarships. It is sponsored by the Canadian government and designed to attract and retain top doctoral-level talent.
It is not just for people who are academically brilliant, Vanier pays close attention to leadership and scholarly excellence.
Benefits
- $50,000 per year for three years
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify:
- You must be nominated by a Canadian institution that has a Vanier CGS quota
- You must be pursuing a doctorate degree
- You must demonstrate strong academic excellence and leadership qualities
Application Period
- Often opens July and closes December
Application process
- Nomination by the Canadian institution is mandatory
- After nomination, submit application online
Official website
10. New Zealand Scholarships for International Students
The New Zealand Scholarships for International Students is supported by the New Zealand government and is available to Nigerians and other international applicants for undergraduate and postgraduate studies at New Zealand universities and institutes of technology.
Benefits
- Full tuition fee payment
- Living allowance around NZD $531 per week
- Establishment allowance around NZD $3,000 (one-time)
- Round-trip airfare
- Medical and travel insurance
- Ability to travel home once or twice during the scholarship (depending on duration)
- Research and thesis allowance for many postgraduate students
Eligibility Criteria
As you listed:
- Must be 18 and above at time of application
- Must be Nigerian
- Must commit to returning home after studies
- English proficiency
- Strong academic background
- Priority may be given to courses related to sustainable development, climate change, and inclusive economic growth
Application Period
- Often opens March and closes April
Application process
- Complete eligibility test on their portal first
- If you pass, proceed to submit documents through the portal
Website
Real-Life Motivation: The “Apply Plenty, Win Plenty” Reality
You mentioned something very important, your friend applied for multiple scholarship opportunities for Master’s studies. After writing different aptitude tests and submitting several applications, he got admitted into multiple options and had to choose one.
That situation is not magic. That’s effort.
Many people win scholarships because they:
- apply early,
- apply widely, and
- apply strategically.
Scholarships are competitive, yes; but they’re also predictable: strong applicants who follow instructions tend to rise.
What Your Friend Did Right (And What You Should Copy)
From your story, these are the winning habits:
- He applied on time
Late applications are the easiest way to lose without even competing. - He studied the eligibility criteria carefully
Many Nigerians get rejected because they apply for scholarships they don’t qualify for. - He wrote a strong personal statement and got quality recommendation letters
A weak personal statement can destroy a strong academic profile. - He clearly explained impact
Scholarship bodies love candidates who show how education will translate into real benefit for society.
How to Increase Your Chances of Fully Funded Scholarships as a Nigerian in 2026
Let’s be practical. If you want to win scholarships, you must treat it like a project.
1) Don’t Apply Like You’re Begging; Apply Like You’re Proposing a Future
Scholarship bodies don’t just fund education. They fund potential. Your application should communicate:
- Who you are
- What you’ve done
- What you want to learn
- Why it matters
- What impact it will create
2) Build a “Scholarship Profile,” Not Just a “School Profile”
Scholarships are not only about grades. Add:
- volunteering
- community service
- leadership roles
- projects
- awards
- internships
- research interest (for postgrad)
3) Write a Personal Statement That Actually Sounds Human
Your personal statement must not be a dry essay that sounds like ChatGPT wrote it.
A strong statement includes:
- a real personal story (not fake)
- your motivation
- your academic and career direction
- specific goals
- clear societal impact
4) Apply to Multiple Scholarships (Smartly)
One scholarship might reject you. Another might accept you. The people who win often apply to:
- 5 scholarships
- 10 scholarships
- 15 scholarships
Not randomly but strategically.
5) Start Preparing Early
Most scholarship deadlines come fast. And if you start late, you’ll rush:
- transcripts
- references
- proposal
- tests
- admission documents
Start early and you’ll submit with confidence.
Final Words
We’ve now explored several powerful opportunities under Top Fully Funded Scholarships for Nigerians to Study Abroad. Getting into these programs is not impossible but it does require consistency and serious effort because competition grows every year.
Yes, you can also search for other scholarships because there are hundreds out there. But the ones listed here are among the most commbon and proven programs Nigerians frequently benefit from.
This is your moment.
If studying abroad is your dream, don’t just admire the dream, work it. Apply early, follow the criteria, write strong documents, and keep pushing until one lands.
Your “awoof” is out there, but it rewards effort.
Go get it.