How to Apply for a Scholarship in Canada from Nigeria

How to Apply for a Scholarship in Canada
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Many believe that it is challenging to find and apply for a scholarship in Canada as a Nigerian student. However, there are a great number of scholarships available to Nigerian students that are not widely known!

There are many different foreign scholarships available for Nigerian students, and these scholarships can help cater to various requirements. Therefore, if you are seeking the finest international scholarships for Nigerian students, this article will guide you on how to apply for a scholarship in Canada.

How to Apply for a Scholarship in Canada

A good number of scholarships are available for Nigerian students studying in Canada. Here’s a breakdown of the steps to take:

#1. Research and identify scholarships

  • University-specific awards: Many Canadian universities offer scholarships directly to international students. Check the websites of universities you’re interested in for their scholarship opportunities.
  • National programs: The Canadian government offers the Canada-Nigeria Scholarships for Excellence program, targeted specifically at Nigerian students. Research similar programs that might be available.
  • Scholarship search platforms: Websites like Canadian Scholarships for International Students: [scholarships to study in Canada ON Canadian Bureau for International Education cbie.ca] can help you find scholarships based on your profile.

#2. Meet the eligibility criteria for Students From Nigeria Studying in Canada

Specific prerequisites must be satisfied to be eligible for international scholarships for students from Nigeria who are studying in Canada. Here is a list of the requirements that must be met to be eligible for a scholarship to study abroad for students from Nigeria: 

  • Academic achievement: strong academic record, typically with a minimum GPA (usually a Second-Class Upper or equivalent).
  • Citizenship: Being a Nigerian citizen and not a permanent resident of Canada.
  • Language proficiency: having an English proficiency test like IELTS or TOEFL (sometimes a French equivalent is required).
  • Program fit: Ensure that you comply with the entry requirements of the Canadian university to which you are applying.
  • You must be at least 18 years old.
  • Satisfy the requirements for obtaining a Canadian visa stated by the Department of Immigration in Canada.

#3. Prepare your application materials

  • Academic transcripts: official transcripts from your previous institutions.
  • Standardized test scores: scores from IELTS/TOEFL or French equivalents.
  • Statement of Purpose: A well-written essay outlining your academic goals and why you deserve the scholarship.
  • Letters of recommendation: strong recommendation letters from teachers, professors, or employers.
  • Additional documents: Some scholarships may require proof of financial need, a portfolio, or references.

#4. Apply on time

  • University deadlines: Universities often have separate application deadlines for scholarships. Ensure you meet both the scholarship and program deadlines.

#5. Submit Your Application for a Scholarship in Canada

An application for a scholarship is not a tough process for students from Nigeria. Once a university has chosen you to get a Canadian international scholarship for Nigerian students, you can easily apply, considering the eligibility conditions and any other requirements the university may have. Some of the fundamental requirements that one might need to fulfill to apply for international scholarships for students from Nigeria are:

  • Certificates of completion of educational programs
  • Certificate of score on an English proficiency test (such as the TOEFL, IELTS, or another),
  • Certificate of Completion of an Aptitude Test (such as the GRE, SAT, or GMAT)
  • Acceptance Letter (Written)
  • A Certificate of Medical Examination
  • Transcripts of college courses
  • A Statement of the Objectives

Scholarships Available to Students From Nigeria Who Are Studying in Canada

The international scholarships available to students from Nigeria studying in Canada are all about the numerous opportunities and advantages they provide. These foreign scholarships for Nigerian students are either offered by the government of Canada or by private colleges and universities.

These scholarships have been designed to encourage Nigerian students to pursue their education in other countries. Nevertheless, two primary categories of foreign scholarships are available to students from Nigeria who are studying in Canada. These forms of scholarships are as follows:

#1. Scholarships That the Government Funds

These are the international scholarships that the government of Canada offers to Nigerian students studying in Canada. Individuals who can provide evidence that they require financial assistance are eligible for international scholarships for Nigerian students. 

#2. Scholarships Offered by Private Universities

The private university scholarship is another option we have included on our list of foreign scholarships for Nigerian students studying in Canada. Students from Nigeria with exceptional academic performance are eligible to receive these Canadian foreign scholarships that private universities offer.

Canadian Scholarships that Nigerian Students Can Apply for

If you have understood how to apply for a scholarship in Canada, the next step is to start applying! The following are Canadian scholarships you can apply for:

  • In recognition of Georges Vanier, the first Governor General of Canada to speak French, Canadian universities can compete for the best and brightest PhD students through the Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships program. For three years, recipients of these scholarships will receive $50,000 to support their PhD studies.

    Eligibility is based on factors like academic excellence, research capacity, and demonstrated and future leadership abilities.
  • ServiceScape Scholarships are a merit-need-based opportunity for Nigerian students in Canada to cover tuition fees for three years. The scholarship covers all degrees, subjects, and universities and costs $1000. Eligibility criteria include being 18 years of age or older and studying at an accredited college, university, or trade school.

    Also, submit an English application. A 300-word essay on the impact of writing in today’s world is also required. The scholarship is open to all applicants; the winner will be judged on their writing quality.
  • The University of Waterloo offers the Arthur F. Church Entrance International Scholarship. It is for Nigerian students pursuing a bachelor’s degree in engineering. The scholarship covers $10,000 and is divided into two categories: one in Mechatronics Engineering and one in Computer Engineering or Systems Design Engineering.

    Eligibility criteria include being a full-time, first-year student starting college or university in September 2023, enrolled in a degree program, and selected based on academic performance and the Admission Information Form. The scholarship is available for two years.

Other scholarships include:

PhD Scholarships from the Pierre Elliott Trudeau Foundation

This three-year leadership program, Engaged Leaders, equips outstanding Ph.D. candidates with the tools they need to transform their ideas into meaningful actions for the betterment of their communities.

Brave Spaces provides leadership training and substantial financial support to a chosen group of scholars each year so that they can study in Canada.

Canadian Commonwealth Scholarship Program

Outstanding students from Commonwealth nations pursuing doctoral or master’s degrees are awarded $10,000 under the Canadian Commonwealth Scholarship Program. The recipient of this scholarship will be able to put some of the financial burden of studying in Canada behind them.

Conclusion

By following these steps and showcasing your qualifications, you can increase your chances of landing a scholarship to study in Canada from Nigeria.

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