Top 15 Fully Funded Scholarships for Nigerians in 2025

Top 15 Fully Funded Scholarships for Nigerians in 2025: Top 15 Fully Funded Scholarships for Nigerians in 2025, Studying abroad on a fully funded scholarship is life-changing — it removes financial barriers, opens networks, and often places recipients on accelerated career paths. For many Nigerian students and young professionals in 2025, there are world-class options that cover tuition, living expenses, travel, and more. This guide lists 15 top fully funded scholarships that accept Nigerian applicants (for various levels: Masters, PhD, undergraduate, or postgraduate research).

A number of fully funded scholarships are now open for Nigerian students.

For each scholarship you’ll find: what it covers, who can apply, typical eligibility, application tips, and a direct authoritative source.

I selected these scholarships based on: global reputation, demonstrated history of awarding Nigerians, comprehensiveness of funding, and availability (active calls or rolling cycles in 2025).

How to use this guide

Read the overview of each scholarship to check level (Masters/PhD/undergrad), benefits, and deadlines.
Click the cited official link for the most current application dates and country-specific instructions.
Use the application tips to start strong — many top awards value leadership, community impact, and clear alignment between your goals and the host program.

1. Chevening Scholarships (United Kingdom)

Overview: Chevening is the UK government’s flagship fully funded scholarship for one-year Masters degrees. It targets emerging leaders and provides tuition, a living stipend, airfare, and access to a global alumni network. Nigerians routinely succeed at Chevening.
Who can apply: Young professionals with a minimum of two years’ work experience, strong leadership potential, and a relevant bachelor’s degree.
Why it’s great: Full tuition + monthly stipend + return airfare + leadership training and networking.
Tip: Tailor your essays to show leadership impact and how the UK degree will enable measurable change in Nigeria.
Source: Chevening Nigeria / Chevening program pages.

Studying abroad on a fully funded scholarship is life-changing — it removes financial barriers, opens networks, and often places recipients on accelerated career paths. For many Nigerian students and young professionals in 2025, there are world-class options that cover tuition, living expenses, travel, and more. This guide lists 15 top fully funded scholarships that accept Nigerian applicants (for various levels: Masters, PhD, undergraduate, or postgraduate research). For each scholarship you’ll find: what it covers, who can apply, typical eligibility, application tips, and a direct authoritative source.

I selected these scholarships based on: global reputation, demonstrated history of awarding Nigerians, comprehensiveness of funding, and availability (active calls or rolling cycles in 2025).

How to use this guide

Read the overview of each scholarship to check level (Masters/PhD/undergrad), benefits, and deadlines.
Click the cited official link for the most current application dates and country-specific instructions.
Use the application tips to start strong — many top awards value leadership, community impact, and clear alignment between your goals and the host program.

1. Chevening Scholarships (United Kingdom)

2. Commonwealth Scholarships (UK)

Overview: The Commonwealth Shared Scholarships (CSC) provide fully funded Masters and PhD awards to candidates from Commonwealth countries, including Nigeria, focusing on development-relevant fields. Benefits typically include tuition, living allowance, travel, and visa costs.
Who can apply: Mid-career and early career professionals with strong academic records and an orientation toward development.
Why it’s great: Designed to build capacity in developing countries; strong emphasis on impactful, practical research.
Tip: Demonstrate how your intended study contributes to Nigeria’s development priorities and aligns with CSC themes.
Source: Commonwealth Scholarship Commission (UK). CSC UK+1

3. Fulbright Foreign Student Program (USA)

Overview: The Fulbright Foreign Student Program funds graduate study and research in the United States. It is highly competitive but comprehensive — covering tuition, living stipend, travel, and health insurance. Nigeria has an active Fulbright program run through the U.S. Embassy.
Who can apply: Graduates and early professionals aiming for Masters or PhD study, or research projects.
Why it’s great: Academic excellence + cultural exchange emphasis; strong professional networks in the U.S. and globally.
Tip: Your research proposal or study plan should be feasible, well-scoped, and tailored to specific U.S. departments or advisors. Contact the Fulbright Nigeria office early.
Source: U.S. Embassy / Fulbright pages for Nigeria and the global Fulbright site.

4. Erasmus Mundus Joint Master Degrees (EMJMD / Erasmus+)

Overview: Erasmus Mundus (Erasmus+) funds multi-university joint Masters programs across Europe. High-achieving students receive a full scholarship covering participation costs, travel, insurance, and a monthly allowance.
Who can apply: Graduates with a relevant bachelor’s degree who meet specific program requirements. Many EMJMDs welcome applicants from Nigeria.
Why it’s great: Study in multiple countries, broadened networks, and strong stipend support for the best candidates.
Tip: Apply directly to the specific EMJMD consortium; competition is program-specific. Emphasize international adaptability and academic excellence.
Source: Erasmus+ / EMJMD official pages.

5. DAAD — Development-Related Postgraduate Courses (EPOS) (Germany)

Overview: DAAD-EPOS offers scholarships for development-related Masters and short courses in Germany. Packages usually include tuition, monthly stipend, insurance, and travel. The award targets mid-career professionals from developing countries.
Who can apply: Applicants with at least two years’ work experience and a relevant degree.
Why it’s great: Strong technical and research training in institutions known for applied sciences and development studies.
Tip: Choose programs that clearly match your professional experience; DAAD values concrete post-study impact plans.
Source: DAAD EPOS information pages.

6. Australia Awards Scholarships (Africa)

Overview: Australia Awards (Africa) funds postgraduate study in Australia for Africans, including Nigerians in eligible streams. Beneficiaries receive tuition, travel, living allowance, health cover, and pre-departure briefings.
Who can apply: Experienced professionals and development-oriented candidates. Country requirements may vary; check Nigeria-specific conditions.
Why it’s great: Excellent training in priority sectors, plus strong ties to Australia’s universities and development networks.
Tip: Demonstrate returning home impact and alignment with Nigeria’s development needs. Application windows and eligibility are strict — start early.
Source: Australia Awards Africa and DFAT materials.

7. Japanese Government (MEXT) Scholarships

Overview: The MEXT scholarship funds undergraduate, Masters, PhD, and research students in Japan — covering tuition, monthly stipend, and travel. Many Nigerian students win MEXT through embassy or university recommendation tracks.
Who can apply: Applicants vary by program track (embassy, university, or research institution). Language requirements depend on program.
Why it’s great: Strong support for STEM, engineering, and Japanese language/area studies; also generous living stipends for some tracks.
Tip: If applying via the Japanese Embassy (recommendation), follow embassy timelines and submit complete medical/academic documentation. Consider learning basic Japanese to strengthen your application.
Source: Study in Japan / Embassy MEXT pages.

8. Global Korea Scholarship (GKS / KGSP)

Overview: Korea’s Global Korea Scholarship (GKS) funds undergraduate and graduate study in Korea through Korean universities and the Korean government (NIIED). Scholarships include tuition, living allowance, airfare, and Korean language training. Recent GKS intakes continue to accept international applicants including Nigerians.
Who can apply: Graduates and undergraduates meeting age and academic criteria; selection is competitive.
Why it’s great: Excellent for students interested in Korea’s technology, engineering, and cultural sectors, plus the chance to gain Korean language skills.
Tip: Check the embassy track deadlines and university track opportunities; some spots are limited per country.
Source: GKS / NIIED and Korean embassy announcements.

9. Gates Cambridge Scholarships (University of Cambridge, UK)

Overview: Gates Cambridge is a fully funded postgraduate scholarship (Masters/PhD) to study at the University of Cambridge. It covers tuition, stipend, visa support, and laptop or research funding allowances. Applicants are chosen for academic excellence, leadership, and commitment to improving lives.
Who can apply: Outstanding graduates from any country, including Nigeria.
Why it’s great: Cambridge resources + strong stipend and career-building networks.
Tip: Produce a compelling research proposal or study rationale and secure strong academic references. The foundation values demonstrated leadership and societal impact.
Source: Gates Cambridge official site. Gates CambridgeUniversity of Cambridge

10. Rhodes Scholarships (University of Oxford)

Overview: Rhodes Scholarships provide full funding for postgraduate study at Oxford. There are regionally allocated Rhodes Scholarships; West Africa (including Nigeria) traditionally has its own allocation in some cycles. Benefits cover tuition, living stipend, and travel.
Who can apply: Exceptional graduates with strong leadership and character. Age and eligibility vary by constituency.
Why it’s great: Oxford education + an influential global alumni network.
Tip: Emphasize leadership, community contribution, and intellectual distinction. Check the Rhodes Trust page for constituency deadlines (2025 calls are published).
Source: Rhodes Trust pages on West Africa and applications. Rhodes House+1

11. Schwarzman Scholars (Tsinghua University, China)

Overview: Schwarzman Scholars is a fully funded one-year Master’s program in Global Affairs at Tsinghua University, designed to prepare leaders for global cooperation. The award covers tuition, room and board, travel, health insurance, and stipend.
Who can apply: University graduates with leadership track records and interest in China/Global affairs.
Why it’s great: Intensive leadership training in Beijing with senior mentors and global peer cohort.
Tip: Showcase leadership, cross-cultural experience, and how you’ll use the program to address challenges in Nigeria.
Source: Schwarzman Scholars official site and press. Schwarzman ScholarsForbes

12. Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program

Overview: The Mastercard Foundation funds scholarships for talented African students (undergraduate and postgraduate) through partner universities across the world (and within Africa). Coverage typically includes tuition, accommodation, stipends, internship placements, and career support.
Who can apply: High-potential African students from economically disadvantaged backgrounds. There are institutional application routes (apply to partner universities).
Why it’s great: Holistic support with a strong focus on work readiness and return-to-community outcomes.
Tip: Find partner institutions (e.g., some U.S., Canadian and African universities) and apply through their Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program portals. Highlight leadership and community plans.
Source: Mastercard Foundation program pages and partner sites. Mastercard Foundation+1

13. Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships

Overview: The Swiss Government offers Excellence Scholarships for postgraduate researchers and PhD students to study in Switzerland. Awards cover living allowance, tuition exemption in some cases, and research support. They aim to promote international exchange and research cooperation.
Who can apply: Postgraduates and early career researchers from eligible countries, including Nigeria depending on the year’s call.
Why it’s great: Research intensity and access to Swiss labs/universities with strong funding.
Tip: Applications often open in late summer — prepare a strong research project and contact potential Swiss supervisors in advance.
Source: Swiss government scholarship pages. sbfi.admin.ch+1

14. France Excellence Eiffel Scholarship

Overview: The Eiffel Scholarship program (Campus France) funds outstanding international students for Masters and PhD study in France — providing a monthly stipend, travel costs, and some allowances. It is aimed especially at developing country candidates.
Who can apply: Applicants nominated by French institutions (College/University nominees). Nigeria is often included among eligible countries.
Why it’s great: Generous monthly stipend and support for tuition waivers through French institutions.
Tip: Contact the French institution where you wish to enroll — they must nominate you. Prepare documents early because Campus France deadlines can be strict.
Source: Campus France / Eiffel program pages. Campus France+1

15. Chinese Government Scholarship (CSC)

Overview: The China Scholarship Council (CSC) provides full Chinese Government Scholarships for undergraduate, Masters, and PhD programs at Chinese universities. Benefits frequently include tuition, accommodation, monthly stipend, medical insurance, and airfare. Nigerian students have access to many CSC scholarships.
Who can apply: Students at various levels; some awards require university or embassy application tracks.
Why it’s great: Wide range of disciplines, generous packages for STEM and research, and many English-taught programs.
Tip: Check whether to apply via the Chinese embassy in Abuja or directly through the host university (university or bilateral tracks have different deadlines).
Source: Chinese Scholarship Council and embassy pages. China Scholarship 2025China Embassy

Quick comparative snapshot (what to expect)

Coverage: Almost all listed awards cover tuition + living stipend + travel (return) + insurance. Program details differ (e.g., Chevening covers one-year Masters; Gates and Rhodes cover graduate study at specific universities).
Level: Most are Masters/PhD. A few (MEXT, GKS, CSC) also have undergraduate tracks.
Selection traits: Top awards emphasize academic excellence and leadership, public service, or development impact. Technical excellence alone is often insufficient.

Practical application checklist (start this TODAY)

Passport & academic transcripts: Scan and translate if needed. Official sealed transcripts often required.
References: Ask referees 6–8 weeks in advance; provide them with a brief CV and a summary of the scholarship’s selection criteria.
Test scores: IELTS/TOEFL, GRE, or GMAT where required. Schedule tests early.
CV and personal statement: Tailor statements to each scholarship; show measurable impact and a clear plan to return/benefit Nigeria.
Research proposal (for research awards): Make it focused, feasible, and aligned with potential supervisors.
Deadlines: Note that deadlines vary by country and program track (government/bilateral vs. university). Always verify on the official page.
Proof of service/leadership: Collect documentation—certificates, letters from employers, NGO letters, or project summaries.
Apply early: Some scholarships have fixed annual windows (check official pages); late submissions are usually disqualified.

Final tips to increase your chances

Tailor every application. Generic statements show lack of commitment.
Show return impact. Many development-focused awards (Commonwealth, Australia Awards, DAAD EPOS) favour candidates who clearly explain how knowledge will be used in Nigeria.
Leadership + community service wins. Evidence of initiative, not just membership, matters.
Network with alumni. Former scholars often share insights and can offer referee letters or mentorship. Many programs publish alumni directories.
Keep organized records. Use a spreadsheet to track programs, deadlines, documents, referees, and submission portals.

Closing note

These 15 scholarships represent some of the strongest fully funded routes for Nigerian students in 2025. Each program has different strengths — Chevening and Commonwealth for policy and development impact; Gates and Rhodes for elite graduate training in the UK; Fulbright for U.S. academic networks; Erasmus and DAAD for Europe-based technical training; MEXT, GKS, CSC for excellent STEM and area studies in Asia; Schwarzman for leadership training; Mastercard Foundation for African-focused, holistic fellowships.

Apply widely but wisely: pick the scholarships that match your level, discipline, and long-term plan — and prepare materials early. If you want, I can now:

Draft tailored personal statement templates for any 3 of these scholarships; or
Make an application timeline spreadsheet for your chosen 5 programs with deadlines and required documents.

2. Commonwealth Scholarships (UK)

3. Fulbright Foreign Student Program (USA)

4. Erasmus Mundus Joint Master Degrees (EMJMD / Erasmus+)

5. DAAD — Development-Related Postgraduate Courses (EPOS) (Germany)

6. Australia Awards Scholarships (Africa)

7. Japanese Government (MEXT) Scholarships

8. Global Korea Scholarship (GKS / KGSP)

9. Gates Cambridge Scholarships (University of Cambridge, UK)

10. Rhodes Scholarships (University of Oxford)

11. Schwarzman Scholars (Tsinghua University, China)

12. Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program

13. Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships

14. France Excellence Eiffel Scholarship

15. Chinese Government Scholarship (CSC)

Quick comparative snapshot (what to expect)

Coverage: Almost all listed awards cover tuition + living stipend + travel (return) + insurance. Program details differ (e.g., Chevening covers one-year Masters; Gates and Rhodes cover graduate study at specific universities).
Level: Most are Masters/PhD. A few (MEXT, GKS, CSC) also have undergraduate tracks.
Selection traits: Top awards emphasize academic excellence and leadership, public service, or development impact. Technical excellence alone is often insufficient.

Practical application checklist (start this TODAY)

Passport & academic transcripts: Scan and translate if needed. Official sealed transcripts often required.
References: Ask referees 6–8 weeks in advance; provide them with a brief CV and a summary of the scholarship’s selection criteria.
Test scores: IELTS/TOEFL, GRE, or GMAT where required. Schedule tests early.
CV and personal statement: Tailor statements to each scholarship; show measurable impact and a clear plan to return/benefit Nigeria.
Research proposal (for research awards): Make it focused, feasible, and aligned with potential supervisors.
Deadlines: Note that deadlines vary by country and program track (government/bilateral vs. university). Always verify on the official page.
Proof of service/leadership: Collect documentation—certificates, letters from employers, NGO letters, or project summaries.
Apply early: Some scholarships have fixed annual windows (check official pages); late submissions are usually disqualified.

Final tips to increase your chances

Tailor every application. Generic statements show lack of commitment.
Show return impact. Many development-focused awards (Commonwealth, Australia Awards, DAAD EPOS) favour candidates who clearly explain how knowledge will be used in Nigeria.
Leadership + community service wins. Evidence of initiative, not just membership, matters.
Network with alumni. Former scholars often share insights and can offer referee letters or mentorship. Many programs publish alumni directories.
Keep organized records. Use a spreadsheet to track programs, deadlines, documents, referees, and submission portals.

Closing note

Top 15 Fully Funded Scholarships for Nigerians in 2025, these 15 scholarships represent some of the strongest fully funded routes for Nigerian students in 2025. Each program has different strengths — Chevening and Commonwealth for policy and development impact; Gates and Rhodes for elite graduate training in the UK; Fulbright for U.S. academic networks; Erasmus and DAAD for Europe-based technical training; MEXT, GKS, CSC for excellent STEM and area studies in Asia; Schwarzman for leadership training; Mastercard Foundation for African-focused, holistic fellowships.

Apply widely but wisely: pick the scholarships that match your level, discipline, and long-term plan — and prepare materials early. If you want, I can now:

Draft tailored personal statement templates for any 3 of these scholarships; or
Make an application timeline spreadsheet for your chosen 5 programs with deadlines and required documents.

BySIXTUS