7 Easiest Scholarships Nigerians Can Win in Canada (2025)
Canada has become one of the top destinations for Nigerian students, thanks to its high-quality education, diverse culture, and work opportunities after graduation. The major challenge is funding, but the good news is that several scholarships are relatively easy for Nigerians to apply for and win compared to the most competitive global ones. Here are 7 scholarships in Canada that Nigerian students can target in 2025.
1. Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship (University of Toronto)
The Lester B. Pearson Scholarship is one of Canada’s most prestigious undergraduate scholarships. It targets exceptional international students, including Nigerians.
Highlights:
- Full tuition, books, and living allowance
- Four years of undergraduate study
- Leadership and community service required
2. University of British Columbia (UBC) International Leader of Tomorrow Award
The UBC International Leader of Tomorrow Award recognizes students with strong academic performance and leadership potential.
Highlights:
- Renewable for up to 4 years
- Covers tuition and living expenses
- Open to undergraduate applicants from Nigeria
3. Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships
The Vanier CGS program provides financial support for doctoral students. It is one of the more accessible options for Nigerians with strong research backgrounds.
Highlights:
- CAD $50,000 per year for 3 years
- For PhD students in health, social sciences, natural sciences, or engineering
- Requires strong academic and leadership profile
4. Carleton University Entrance Awards for International Students
Carleton University offers entrance scholarships to all international students, including Nigerians, with strong academic records.
Highlights:
- Automatically awarded (no separate application)
- Up to CAD $16,000 over 4 years
- Undergraduate level
5. York University International Student Scholarship Program
York University provides multiple scholarships for Nigerians applying to undergraduate programs.
Highlights:
- Awards range from CAD $20,000 to $140,000 over 4 years
- Based on academic achievement and leadership
- Separate application required
6. University of Manitoba Graduate Fellowships (UMGF)
The UMGF supports Master’s and PhD students from around the world, including Nigeria.
Highlights:
- CAD $14,000 per year (Master’s), CAD $18,000 per year (PhD)
- Renewable based on performance
- Open to all fields of study
7. McGill University Scholarships and Student Aid
McGill University offers merit-based entrance scholarships and need-based aid for international students.
Highlights:
- One-year entrance scholarships (renewable)
- Need-based financial aid for Nigerians with limited funding
- Undergraduate and graduate students eligible
Final Thoughts
While many Canadian scholarships are competitive, these seven options are considered among the more accessible for Nigerians, especially because some are renewable, automatically awarded, or focused on academic merit. If you are planning to study in Canada in 2025, start preparing early with strong transcripts, leadership records, and clear financial need statements.
Tip: Always apply directly through official university websites to avoid scams and fake agents.
