How to Apply for Scholarships in the USA, UK, and Canada from Nigeria (2025 Guide)
Studying abroad is a dream for many Nigerian students, but the cost can be very high. Thankfully, there are fully funded and partial scholarships available for Nigerians to study in the USA, UK, and Canada.
In this guide, I will show you how to find scholarships, apply successfully, and increase your chances of getting accepted.
1. Types of Scholarships Available for Nigerians
Before applying, it’s important to understand the different types of scholarships:
Fully Funded Scholarships – Cover tuition, accommodation, and sometimes travel expenses.
Partial Scholarships – Cover only part of the tuition fees.
Merit-Based Scholarships – Awarded based on academic excellence.
Need-Based Scholarships – Given to students who can’t afford tuition.
Government Scholarships – Funded by governments (e.g., Chevening, Fulbright, Vanier).
💡 Tip: Focus on fully funded or government scholarships if you need full financial support.
2. Where to Find Scholarships for Nigerians
There are many websites that list scholarships available for Nigerian students.
More Read
Best Websites to Find Scholarships:
Scholarship Positions – www.scholarship-positions.com
Scholarships.com – www.scholarships.com
Study Abroad 365 – www.studyabroad365.com
Chevening UK Government Scholarships – www.chevening.org
Fulbright USA Scholarships – www.fulbrightprogram.org
Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships – www.vanier.gc.ca
💡 Tip: Bookmark these websites and check them regularly for new opportunities.
3. How to Apply for Scholarships (Step-by-Step Guide)
Follow these steps to apply for and secure a scholarship in the USA, UK, or Canada.
Step 1: Research Available Scholarships
Check scholarship websites and make a list of the ones you qualify for.
Read the requirements carefully (some scholarships require work experience).
Choose scholarships that match your field of study.
Step 2: Prepare Your Documents
Most scholarships require these documents:
✅ Academic transcripts (WAEC, BSc, MSc results)
✅ International passport (for visa processing)
✅ Personal statement or essay (explaining why you deserve the scholarship)
✅ Letters of recommendation (from teachers, lecturers, or employers)
✅ English proficiency test (IELTS, TOEFL – some scholarships waive this for Nigerians)
✅ CV/Resume (for graduate scholarships)
💡 Tip: Some scholarships waive IELTS for Nigerians if you studied in English.
Step 3: Write a Strong Personal Statement
Your personal statement is very important in your application. It should explain:
Why you want to study abroad.
How the scholarship will help you.
Your career goals and how they benefit Nigeria.
💡 Tip: Use simple English and avoid long, complicated sentences.
Step 4: Apply Before the Deadline
Submit your application before the deadline (late applications are not accepted).
Double-check your documents for errors.
If required, prepare for an interview (Chevening and Fulbright have interview stages).
💡 Tip: Apply for multiple scholarships to increase your chances.
4. Popular Scholarships for Nigerians in the USA, UK, and Canada
🇺🇸 Scholarships in the USA
Fulbright Foreign Student Program – Fully funded for Master’s/PhD.
🔗 www.fulbrightprogram.orgMastercard Foundation Scholars Program – For undergraduate and graduate students.
🔗 www.mastercardfoundation.orgHarvard University Scholarships – Full and partial scholarships for international students.
🔗 www.harvard.edu
🇬🇧 Scholarships in the UK
Chevening Scholarships – Fully funded by the UK government for Master’s students.
🔗 www.chevening.orgCommonwealth Scholarships – For students from developing countries like Nigeria.
🔗 www.acu.ac.ukGates Cambridge Scholarships – Fully funded scholarships at Cambridge University.
🔗 www.gatescambridge.org
🇨🇦 Scholarships in Canada
Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships – Fully funded for PhD students.
🔗 www.vanier.gc.caLester B. Pearson International Scholarship – Fully funded at the University of Toronto.
🔗 www.future.utoronto.caUniversity of British Columbia Scholarships – Financial aid for international students.
🔗 www.ubc.ca
💡 Tip: Visit the official scholarship websites to confirm eligibility and requirements.
5. Common Mistakes to Avoid When Applying
Many students lose scholarship opportunities because of avoidable mistakes.
Avoid These Mistakes:
❌ Submitting applications after the deadline
❌ Not following the essay or word count instructions
❌ Providing incomplete or false information
❌ Applying for scholarships you don’t qualify for
❌ Poorly written personal statements
💡 Tip: Have someone review your application before submitting it.
6. What to Do After Submitting Your Application
After applying for a scholarship, here’s what to do next:
Check your email regularly for updates.
Prepare for interviews (if required).
Apply for a student visa once you get accepted.
💡 Tip: If rejected, don’t give up! Apply again next year.
Final Thoughts
Applying for scholarships in the USA, UK, and Canada takes time and effort, but with the right approach, you can succeed.
✅ Research scholarships early.
✅ Prepare your documents and apply before the deadline.
✅ Apply for multiple scholarships to increase your chances.
