Top 10 Fully Funded Scholarships for Nigerians in 2025
Studying abroad is a dream for many Nigerians, but the biggest challenge remains funding. The good news? Several international organizations, universities, and governments offer fully funded scholarships that cover tuition, living expenses, and even travel costs. This guide outlines the top 10 fully funded scholarships available to Nigerian students in 2025, with direct links to official sources.
1. Chevening Scholarship (UK)
The Chevening Scholarship is funded by the UK government and covers tuition, living allowances, travel costs, and visa fees. It is open to outstanding Nigerians looking to pursue a one-year Master’s degree in the UK.
Highlights:
- Fully funded (no repayment required)
- Access to a powerful alumni network
- Open to all fields of study
2. Commonwealth Shared Scholarship (UK)
The Commonwealth Scholarship targets students from developing countries, including Nigeria. It funds postgraduate study in the UK, covering tuition, living allowance, and flights.
Highlights:
- Covers full tuition and airfare
- Priority for development-related fields
- One of the most competitive UK scholarships
3. DAAD Scholarships (Germany)
Germany is a top destination for Nigerian students, thanks to the DAAD Scholarship. It provides full funding for Master’s and PhD programs in Germany.
Highlights:
- Tuition-free universities
- Monthly stipend provided
- Ideal for STEM, social sciences, and development studies
4. Fulbright Foreign Student Program (USA)
The Fulbright Program offers Nigerians the opportunity to pursue Master’s or PhD degrees in the United States.
Highlights:
- Covers tuition, flights, health insurance, and living costs
- Focus on academic excellence and leadership
- Promotes cultural exchange
5. Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program
Partnering with universities worldwide (including the University of Toronto and University of Edinburgh), the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program provides full scholarships for talented students from Africa.
Highlights:
- Full tuition, accommodation, and living expenses
- Leadership development support
- Strong focus on African students
6. Rhodes Scholarship (University of Oxford)
The Rhodes Scholarship is one of the most prestigious awards in the world. It funds postgraduate study at the University of Oxford.
Highlights:
- Covers all university and college fees
- Provides a stipend for living expenses
- Long history of Nigerian awardees
7. Erasmus Mundus Joint Master’s Scholarships (EU)
The Erasmus Mundus program funds joint Master’s programs across European universities. Nigerians can apply for full funding to study in multiple countries.
Highlights:
- Fully funded for two years
- Study in 2–3 European countries
- Covers tuition, travel, and insurance
8. Australia Awards Scholarships
The Australia Awards program provides Nigerians with fully funded study opportunities in Australia for Master’s degrees.
Highlights:
- Tuition, living expenses, and health insurance covered
- Leadership and development focus
- Post-study return requirement
9. Gates Cambridge Scholarship (UK)
Funded by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, the Gates Cambridge Scholarship covers full costs for postgraduate study at the University of Cambridge.
Highlights:
- Covers tuition, stipend, and airfare
- Highly competitive and prestigious
- Open to Nigerians across various fields
10. Chinese Government Scholarship (CSC Scholarship)
The Chinese Government Scholarship offers Nigerians the chance to study at top Chinese universities on a fully funded basis.
Highlights:
- Tuition, accommodation, and medical insurance included
- Growing opportunities in technology and business
- Programs taught in both English and Chinese
Final Thoughts
If you are a Nigerian student aiming to study abroad in 2025, these scholarships represent some of the best fully funded opportunities worldwide. Application timelines differ, so always check official websites for deadlines. Competition is fierce, but with the right preparation—compelling essays, strong academic records, and recommendation letters—you can secure your spot.
Tip: Start applications early, prepare necessary documents (transcripts, IELTS/TOEFL, reference letters), and always verify scholarship opportunities through official channels.
