Top 10 Scholarships for Nigerian Students to Study Abroad in 2025

Studying abroad is a dream for many Nigerian students. The exposure to world-class education, diverse cultures, and better career opportunities makes it an enticing prospect. However, the cost of tuition, accommodation, and travel expenses can be a significant barrier. The good news? Numerous scholarships in Nigeria to study abroad can help make this dream a reality.

Scholarships in Nigeria to Study Abroad

Whether you’re an undergraduate, postgraduate, or even a secondary school student, there are fully funded international scholarships that cover tuition, accommodation, and even travel expenses. In this guide, we’ll explore the top 10 scholarships in Nigeria to study abroad in 2025, breaking down their benefits, eligibility, and requirements in an easy-to-follow format.

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Why Study Abroad?

Before diving into the list, let’s take a moment to explore why studying abroad is a fantastic opportunity worth considering.

1. Global Exposure: Studying in a foreign country exposes you to different cultures, perspectives, and ways of learning, making you a well-rounded global citizen.
2. Access to Top-Tier Education: Many universities abroad rank among the best in the world, offering high-quality education, research opportunities, and top-notch facilities.
3. Better Career Prospects: Graduating from an internationally recognized institution increases your employability both in Nigeria and globally.
4. Networking Opportunities: Studying abroad gives you the chance to connect with professionals, mentors, and peers from diverse backgrounds.
5. Personal Growth: Living in a new environment fosters independence, adaptability, and problem-solving skills—qualities that employers highly value.

Now that we understand the immense benefits of studying abroad, let’s dive into the top scholarships in Nigeria to study abroad available for Nigerian students in 2025.

Top 10 Scholarships in Nigeria to Study Abroad in 2025

1. Chevening Scholarships (UK)

• Eligibility: Nigerian citizens with a bachelor’s degree and at least two years of work experience.
• Benefits: Full tuition fees, monthly stipend, travel costs, and exclusive networking events.
• Requirements: Strong academic background, leadership potential, and a well-defined study plan.
• Deadline: November 2024 (for the 2025 intake).

The Chevening Scholarship is one of the most prestigious awards for Nigerian students aiming to study in the UK. It offers a fully funded master’s degree and access to a powerful alumni network.

2. Commonwealth Scholarships

• Eligibility: Open to Nigerians pursuing Master’s or PhD programs.
• Benefits: Covers full tuition, airfare, and living allowance.
• Requirements: Academic excellence and a commitment to contributing to Nigeria’s development.
• Deadline: December 2024.

This scholarship allows students to study in Commonwealth countries such as the UK, Canada, and Australia.

3. Agbami Medical and Engineering Professionals Scholarship

• Eligibility: Nigerian students studying medicine or engineering.
• Benefits: Tuition coverage and a stipend for books and accommodation.
• Requirements: Must be in a recognized Nigerian university with a minimum GPA of 3.5.
• Deadline: Usually announced in early 2025.

Ideal for students looking to advance in the medical and engineering fields, this scholarship provides significant financial support.

4. MTN Foundation Scholarships

• Eligibility: Open to Nigerian students in public universities and tertiary institutions.
• Benefits: Full tuition and a stipend for books and accommodation.
• Requirements: Minimum GPA of 3.5 and proof of financial need.
• Deadline: Mid-2025 (exact dates vary).

MTN Foundation offers both undergraduate and postgraduate scholarships for students interested in studying abroad.

5. NNPC/TotalEnergies Scholarship

• Eligibility: Nigerian students in recognized universities.
• Benefits: Full tuition, accommodation, and a monthly allowance.
• Requirements: Minimum GPA of 3.0 and proof of admission to a foreign university.
• Deadline: October 2024.

This scholarship is particularly beneficial for students pursuing STEM-related courses.

6. DAAD Scholarships (Germany)

• Eligibility: Nigerian students pursuing Master’s or PhD programs in Germany.
• Benefits: Monthly stipend, travel allowance, and health insurance.
• Requirements: Academic excellence and proficiency in English or German.
• Deadline: Varies by program, typically in October 2024.

This is a great opportunity for students interested in studying in Germany, a country known for its high-quality education.

7. Fulbright Scholarships (USA)

• Eligibility: Nigerian students with a bachelor’s degree.
• Benefits: Full tuition, airfare, and living expenses.
• Requirements: Strong academic record and leadership potential.
• Deadline: June 2024 (for the 2025 intake).

The Fulbright Program offers Nigerian students the opportunity to study at top universities in the United States.

8. Shell Nigeria Scholarship Scheme

• Eligibility: Nigerian students in undergraduate or postgraduate programs.
• Benefits: Covers full tuition and provides a stipend for living expenses.
• Requirements: Minimum GPA of 3.5 and proof of admission to a foreign university.
• Deadline: Announced annually, usually in early 2025.

Perfect for students pursuing courses in engineering, geosciences, or environmental studies.

9. Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program

• Eligibility: Nigerian students from economically disadvantaged backgrounds.
• Benefits: Full tuition, accommodation, and a living stipend.
• Requirements: Academic excellence and leadership potential.
• Deadline: Varies by partner university.

This program collaborates with top universities worldwide, offering opportunities to study in countries like Canada and the US.

10. PTDF Scholarships

• Eligibility: Nigerian students pursuing Master’s or PhD programs in oil and gas-related fields.
• Benefits: Covers full tuition, airfare, and a monthly allowance.
• Requirements: Minimum GPA of 3.0 and proof of admission to a foreign university.
• Deadline: Usually in March 2025.

The Petroleum Technology Development Fund (PTDF) scholarship is perfect for students looking to specialize in the oil and gas industry.

Wrap-Up Scholarships in Nigeria to Study Abroad

Securing a scholarship to study abroad is highly competitive, but with determination, research, and preparation, it’s entirely achievable. The scholarships in Nigeria to study abroad listed above provide some of the best opportunities for Nigerian students in 2025.

Start your application process early, and who knows? You could be on a plane to your dream university this year.

Good luck.

This article was updated 6 hours ago