Scholarships offer invaluable opportunities for Nigerian students to pursue their academic dreams without financial constraints. With numerous scholarship programs available globally, it is essential to identify the most reputable and beneficial ones. Below is a detailed overview of the 10 best scholarships for Nigerian students in 2025, including eligibility requirements and application processes.
List of 10 Best Scholarships For Nigerian Students
1. Chevening Scholarship
The Chevening Scholarship, funded by the UK government, provides fully-funded opportunities for Nigerian students to study master’s programs at prestigious UK universities.
Eligibility:
- A minimum of two years of work experience.
- Bachelor’s degree with a second-class upper or higher.
- Leadership potential and a strong academic background.
Application Process:
Applications are made online, requiring essays, references, and proof of academic qualifications.
2. Commonwealth Shared Scholarship
Offered by the UK government, this scholarship targets students from developing Commonwealth countries, including Nigeria, for master’s degrees.
Eligibility:
- Must be a citizen of a Commonwealth country.
- A bachelor’s degree with at least a second-class upper division.
Application Process:
Candidates apply through both the scholarship portal and their chosen university.
3. Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program
This program supports talented but economically disadvantaged students to pursue undergraduate or master’s degrees at partner universities worldwide.
Eligibility:
- Demonstrated financial need and leadership potential.
- High academic performance.
Application Process:
Apply directly through participating universities, such as the University of Toronto and African Leadership University.
4. PTDF Overseas Scholarship
The Petroleum Technology Development Fund (PTDF) provides scholarships for Nigerian students to study petroleum-related fields in top international universities.
Eligibility:
- Minimum of a second-class upper division in relevant fields.
- NYSC certificate.
Application Process:
Applications are submitted online through the PTDF portal, with supporting documents.
5. DAAD Scholarships
The German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) offers scholarships for Nigerian students to pursue master’s and Ph.D. programs in Germany.
Eligibility:
- Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field.
- Two years of professional experience.
Application Process:
Submit applications via the DAAD portal with transcripts, motivation letters, and references.
6. Fulbright Foreign Student Program
The Fulbright Program offers fully-funded scholarships for Nigerian students to pursue master’s or Ph.D. studies in the United States.
Eligibility:
- Strong academic record.
- Proficiency in English.
Application Process:
Apply through the US embassy in Nigeria, providing academic transcripts, GRE/TOEFL scores, and personal statements.
7. NLNG Scholarship for Postgraduate Studies
Sponsored by Nigeria LNG Limited, this scholarship supports Nigerians pursuing master’s programs in leading UK universities.
Eligibility:
- Bachelor’s degree with at least a second-class upper division.
- Admission into a UK university.
Application Process:
Applications are submitted through the NLNG portal.
8. Agbami Medical and Engineering Scholarship
Funded by Chevron Nigeria, this scholarship supports undergraduate Nigerian students in medical and engineering fields.
Eligibility:
- Full-time enrollment in an accredited Nigerian university.
- High academic performance.
Application Process:
Applications are completed online, with submission of academic records and proof of enrollment.
9. The Joint Japan/World Bank Graduate Scholarship Program (JJ/WBGSP)
This scholarship targets Nigerian professionals pursuing development-related master’s programs in partner universities globally.
Eligibility:
- Bachelor’s degree with strong academic performance.
- At least three years of development-related work experience.
Application Process:
Submit applications through the World Bank portal, along with essays and academic records.
10. AIMS Scholarships for Mathematical Sciences
The African Institute for Mathematical Sciences (AIMS) offers fully-funded scholarships for postgraduate studies in mathematical sciences.
Eligibility:
- Strong academic background in mathematics or related fields.
- Commitment to returning to Africa after studies.
Application Process:
Apply online via the AIMS portal, providing transcripts and recommendation letters.
FAQs
How do I determine my eligibility for these scholarships?
Eligibility requirements vary but often include academic excellence, leadership potential, financial need, and specific field of study. Carefully review the requirements of each scholarship before applying.
Can I apply for multiple scholarships at the same time?
Yes, you can apply for multiple scholarships simultaneously. However, ensure you meet the specific eligibility criteria for each and submit separate applications.
Are these scholarships fully funded?
Most of the scholarships listed, such as Chevening, Commonwealth, and DAAD, are fully funded, covering tuition, living expenses, and travel costs. Some, like the Agbami Scholarship, cover partial costs, such as tuition fees.
What documents are commonly required for scholarship applications?
Documents often required include academic transcripts, personal statements, recommendation letters, a valid passport, proof of admission, and English proficiency test results (e.g., TOEFL, IELTS). Always check the specific requirements for each scholarship.
Also Read: Fulbright Scholarship (2025): How To Apply In Nigeria