Imagine yourself striding across a prominent UK university campus, your brain full of information and your future bursting with possibilities. Due to financial constraints, many outstanding Nigerian students may believe their ideal is out of reach. But do not be afraid! The UK has a plethora of scholarships expressly geared to help international students like you. While the Chevening Scholarship is well-known, there are plenty of hidden gems waiting to be discovered.
This page discusses some lesser-known UK scholarships for Nigerian students, as well as recommendations to help you succeed academically. This page lists ongoing scholarships in the United Kingdom for 2024–2025 for Nigerians, international students, and people from other African developing countries.
Types of Scholarships in the UK for Nigerian Students
Scholarships in the United Kingdom are designed to meet a wide range of needs and educational levels. Merit-based scholarships recognize outstanding academic achievements, including high GPAs, standardized test scores, and athletic abilities. In contrast, need-based scholarships take into account the applicant’s financial position, emphasizing their or their family’s income. Both governmental and commercial organizations in the United Kingdom offer these scholarships.
#1. Government-funded Scholarships:
The UK government provides a variety of scholarships to both domestic and overseas students. These scholarships provide financial support and opportunities in a variety of academic subjects and levels of study. The goods primarily aim to improve access to quality education in the United Kingdom, while also encouraging international collaboration and nurturing a skilled and diverse workforce. They attempt to attract national and international students to further their studies in the United Kingdom, thereby enriching the country’s academic reputation and scientific progress. Furthermore, they play an important role in enhancing the UK’s diplomatic links and developing future students who can make beneficial changes in a variety of disciplines in the country.
#2. Non-government Scholarships
Private organizations and wealthy philanthropists in the United Kingdom also provide various scholarships for students. These scholarships in the UK cover a wide range of disciplines and educational levels. In the United Kingdom, private institutions and wealthy benefactors generally seek to support students in their higher education journeys by providing scholarships while also recognizing academic distinction. These products use financial incentives to attract, retain, and cultivate global talent, resulting in a competent, erudite, and rising workforce in the United Kingdom. Furthermore, these scholarships in the UK actively encourage diversity and tolerance in various academic circles.
#3. University-funded Scholarships
Specific departments at UK schools provide faculty- or department-specific scholarships for students enrolled in specialized courses such as arts or science. These scholarships might be based on merit or need. Additionally, nationality-specific scholarships are common at UK schools. These grants are aimed at students from various worldwide regions, including Nigeria.
#4. The Commonwealth Shared Scholarship Scheme
The UK Department for Education funds this prestigious program, which provides master’s and PhD scholarships to students from Commonwealth developing nations like Nigeria. Did you know that, according to the Association of Commonwealth Universities, over 30,000 scholarships and fellowships have been awarded through this scheme since its inception? [Statistic Source: Association of Commonwealth Universities] That’s a massive pool of opportunity waiting to be tapped into!
Pro Tip: Don’t be afraid to contact the admissions office of your target universities to inquire about scholarship opportunities for Nigerian students. They might have information on hidden scholarships that is not readily available online.
What are the Most Popular Scholarships For Nigerian Students In the UK?
Many scholarships in the UK are popular with overseas students, especially Nigerians. These scholarships are offered for a variety of academic subjects and levels, providing financial support and possibilities for education in the United Kingdom. These funding alternatives aim to attract top talent from around the world while also promoting cultural interchange and academic success. They also serve to reduce the financial load on Nigerian students in the UK and motivate them to thrive in their fields of study.
#1. Chevening Scholarships
Chevening is the UK government’s global scholarship project, which works with the Foreign, Commonwealth, and Development Office and other organizations. It provides comprehensive support for a year-long master’s degree in the United Kingdom. The number of Chevening Scholarship holders has reached 50,000 and counting. Students from a variety of countries and backgrounds can apply for Chevening Scholarships, provided they complete the eligibility requirements. The scholarships cover tuition, homeward departure, travel, visa applications, and UK Chevening events.
#2. Commonwealth Scholarships
The Commonwealth Scholarship program is intended for students from Commonwealth countries who do not have enough money to pay for their studies in the United Kingdom. It funds postgraduate education in a variety of study forms, thereby facilitating the development of future leaders and innovators. It is the largest scholarship program in the United Kingdom, promoting British global development goals. So, it strives to attract great talent to UK universities while also promoting sustainable development elsewhere.
#3. GREAT Scholarships
These scholarships are designed exclusively for students from specific nations who want to pursue postgraduate studies in the United Kingdom. Many universities in the UK also provide GREAT scholarships to Nigerian students. The £10,000 fellowship covers tuition fees for various one-year postgraduate courses at participating universities. The GREAT Britain Campaign and the British Council jointly fund each GREAT scholarship.
| Name of the scholarship | Eligibility | Average scholarship amount (in Pounds) |
| Chevening Scholarships | Enrollment in a fully-funded one-year master’s degree at a participating university | Varies by the university (covers tuition fees) |
| Commonwealth Scholarships | Hail from a Commonwealth country like NigeriaHold an upper second-class honours degree | £14,000 |
| GREAT Scholarships | Nationality requirement (Nigerian citizenship)Enrolment in a one-year taught master’s program at a participating university | Up to £10,000 |
The chart above only shows the major conditions for Nigerian students to qualify for scholarships to study in the United Kingdom. The eligibility conditions differ for each type of scholarship. For example, some require that you be unable to study in the country without a scholarship. Depending on the scholarship you are interested in, you may need to apply through a UK university or a non-governmental entity.
UK University Scholarships for Nigerian Students
| University Name | Scholarship Name | Eligibility | Scholarship Value (in Pounds) |
Swansea University | International Excellence Scholarships (Rest of the World) | Academic excellence | Up to £6,000 |
| The University of Hull | George W Gray International Scholarship | Enrol in BSc Chemistry or MChem Chemistry Academic merit requirements | £9,000 |
| The University of Portsmouth | Vice Chancellor’s Global Development Scholarship | Nationality requirement: (be a Nigerian citizen) | £1,600 |
The University of Strathclyde | Faculty of Engineering International Scholarship | Academic merit requirements | A 10% discount on your yearly tuition fee |
Cardiff University | Vice-Chancellor’s International Scholarship | Nationality requirement (be a Nigerian citizen)Join a taught undergraduate or postgraduate program | £5,000 |
| Aberystwyth University | International Accommodation Award | Housing scholarship | Accommodation for free or at a £2,000 discount |
| The University of Bristol | Think Big Undergraduate Award | Choose university accommodation Join an undergraduate or postgraduate course. | A tuition fee reduction of up to £13,000 a year |
The University of Birmingham | KAPLAN Outstanding Achievement Scholarship | Academic excellence Enrol in an undergraduate course in the Arts and Law, Medical and Dental Sciences, Life and Environmental Sciences, or Social Sciences | £2,500 |
The University of West London | International Ambassador Scholarship | Academic competitiveness | Up to £5,000 and £2,000 off from the first year’s undergraduate and postgraduate tuition fees, respectively |
Undergraduate Scholarships to Study in the UK for Nigerian Students
For Nigerian undergraduates, the UK offers a variety of scholarship opportunities. Here are some of the UK scholarships. Many other institutions and organizations in the UK understand the importance of education and cultural interaction. As such, they provide a variety of undergraduate scholarships to international students, including Nigerian residents. These organizations are dedicated to promoting academic excellence and cross-cultural understanding. Their commitment to providing financial support to international students illustrates their confidence in education’s transformational power.
- Think Big Undergraduate Award at the University of Bristol.
- KAPLAN Outstanding Achievement Scholarship at the University of Birmingham.
- International Ambassador Scholarship at the University of West London.
- The Vice-Chancellor’s International Scholarship at Cardiff University
- International Undergraduate Scholarship at the University of Sheffield.
- Nigeria Birmingham Outstanding Achievement Scholarships at the University of Birmingham.
- Marshall Scholarships
- Chevening Scholarships
- BAFTA Scholarships at the Norwich University of the Arts
- Sir Ray Tindle Scholarship at the University of the Creative Arts.
These scholarships play an important part in defining a teenager’s future as they pursue an undergraduate degree in the United Kingdom. As a teenager embarking on a higher education journey, you frequently lack the financial resources to properly pay for your studies. Fully financed scholarships for Nigerian students alleviate the stress of tuition, textbooks, and other educational expenditures, allowing you to focus on studying and improving.
Please keep in mind that the eligibility requirements and application dates differ for each scholarship. Some scholarships may not require a separate application since their suppliers use an automatic selection procedure.
Master’s Scholarships in the UK for Nigerian Students
Do you wish to get a master’s degree in the UK? If that’s the case, you might want to look into scholarships. Many scholarship programs provide Nigerian students and other international people with an excellent opportunity to pursue master’s degrees in the United Kingdom. In the United Kingdom, a variety of universities and organizations offer master’s scholarships. Here are a few of the top choices:
- Marshall Scholarships
- Chevening Scholarships
- The Vice-Chancellor’s International Scholarship at Cardiff University
- International Ambassador Scholarship at the University of West London.
- International Scholarships at Kingston University.
- Nick Jack Scholarship at the University of the Creative Arts.
- International Postgraduate Scholarships at Arts University Bournemouth.
- Postgraduate Alumni Scholarship at Bath Spa University
- CB Davidson Fund at the University of Aberdeen.
- Global Masters Scholarships at the University of Birmingham.
Scholarships are of utmost importance to prospective master’s program applicants in the UK. Pursuing a master’s degree frequently necessitates a significant financial investment, including tuition, housing expenses, and study materials. Scholarships serve an important role in bridging the financial gap, allowing deserving candidates to pursue higher education programs that might otherwise be out of reach.
Some of the scholarships listed above are available for undergraduate and postgraduate degrees in the United Kingdom. They acknowledge and reward intellectual excellence, among other things. It is vital to remember that each scholarship has different qualifying requirements and application deadlines. Certain UK university scholarships use an automatic selection procedure, which eliminates the need for a separate application. However, some universities do not automatically consider course candidates for scholarships unless they submit a separate application.
MBA Scholarships to Study in the UK for Nigerian Students
Scholarships for international students seeking MBA degrees in the UK provide access to world-class business education. These Master of Business Administration (MBA) scholarships help overseas students improve their business, leadership, and management skills without breaking the bank. Aside from financial aid, MBA scholarships frequently provide mentorship opportunities, access to business events, and internships. These benefits add to a full educational experience that goes beyond the classroom and prepares students for leadership positions.
Aspiring MBA candidates from Nigeria can consider the following scholarships:
- The Kingston MBA Scholarship at Kingston University.
- MBA Scholarships at The University of Birmingham
- MBA Excellence Scholarship at the University of Leeds.
- Postgraduate Excellence Scholarship at Edge Hill University
- MBA Scholarships at Anglia Ruskin University
- Sussex MBA scholarships at the University of Sussex.
- MBA Scholarship at Cardiff Metropolitan University.
- Surrey MBA Scholarship, University of Surrey
- Full-time MBA scholarship at Keele University.
- Full-time MBA scholarships at Aston University.
A one-year MBA education is typically less expensive than a two-year study, but you may need a scholarship to offset the difference. While scholarships can significantly improve your MBA experience, it is crucial to realize that one-year MBA programs are intense and frequently attract individuals with prior experience looking to advance their careers. Some people have financial support from their employment or personal resources, thus scholarships are less important to their decision to do a one-year MBA.
In any case, earning a scholarship is a form of recognition for your academic achievements, which boosts your confidence and determination to excel in your MBA studies.
PhD Scholarships in the UK for Nigerian Students
A UK PhD degree requires extensive research, careful analysis, and a distinctive contribution to academia. However, it frequently comes with a cost. The cost of getting a PhD in the UK varies according to the university, program duration, and course type. International students’ tuition fees might range between £15,000 and £25,000 or more per year. Furthermore, living expenses such as housing, food, transportation, and study materials add to the total cost. There are various financing sources available to help relieve the financial strain associated with completing a PhD in the UK. There are various scholarships available for a PhD in the UK, including the following:
- Commonwealth Scholarships for PhDs at Kingston University.
- Early-bird Discounts at the University for the Creative Arts
- CB Davidson Fund at the University of Aberdeen.
- Commonwealth Scholarships for PhDs at Northumbria University.
- Alumnus Discount Scheme at Oxford Brookes University
- Alumni Discounts at Cranfield University
- University of Hertfordshire Graduate Scholarship
PhD graduates acquire critical thinking, analytical skills, and leadership talents, allowing them to advance to significant positions in academia, research, and other fields. Without scholarships, not everyone can take advantage of these opportunities and possibilities. Aside from financial assistance, scholarships in the UK for PhD candidates frequently include networking opportunities, mentorship, and access to cutting-edge research facilities. These items bring a varied and great talent pool from around the world to the UK. Scholarships also helped shape the next generation of specialists and thinkers.
Eligibility Criteria for Scholarships in the UK
Nigerian students discover a potential horizon of chances in the UK’s thriving academic settings. If you are one of these aspirants, you must be aware of the eligibility requirements to make your aspirations a reality. Let’s break down the requirements:
| Criterion | Description |
| Residency | Must be a Nigerian national with a valid passport. |
| Academic Achievement | Typically, an upper second-class honors or its equivalent. |
| Course of Study | Scholarships may be limited to specific courses or disciplines. |
| English Proficiency | A satisfactory IELTS or TOEFL score, as specified by the institution. |
| Financial Need | Some scholarships assess the economic needs of the applicant. |
| Recommendations | Letters from academic or professional referees showcasing your potential. |
Keep in mind that while these are broad guidelines, individual institutions or scholarship programs may have extra requirements. When in doubt, always consult with an AECC counselor. Allow your goals to soar; with the appropriate advice and persistence, a UK educational experience might be within your reach.
How Do Nigerian Students Apply For Scholarships To Study in the UK?
Applying for a scholarship in the UK entails several stages. These stages will walk you through the process of seeking financial aid to pursue your academic goals in the UK:
- Identify Scholarships: Look for available scholarships from credible sources. Scholarship search engines, government portals, and study abroad agents are among the resources available. Identify scholarships that meet your needs, nationality, and criteria.
- Note the Eligibility Criteria, Application Deadline, and Documentation Requirements for each Scholarship. Pay close attention to any specific guidelines, such as essays, recommendation letters, or portfolio submissions.
- Collect Required Documents: Gather the scholarship material, which includes academic transcripts, recommendation letters, English test scores, personal statements, and a résumé.
- Choose the Application Route: There are several ways to apply for UK scholarships. Most scholarships offer online application portals. Some institutions require you to apply for admission to the program first and then wait for scholarship consideration, which may occur automatically or through a separate application.
- Fill out the scholarship application form completely, including all required information. Make sure you fulfill all of the rules, including the word limit for essays and other writing components.
- Review the application thoroughly before submitting it. Submit your application before the deadline, once you have confirmed that all information is correct and complete.
- Accept Scholarship Offer: If you receive an automated scholarship offer, make sure you read and understand the terms and conditions. Accept the offer and complete all required formalities as instructed.
Remember that you are a capable, determined student with a promising future. With the correct scholarship, study plans, and support structure, you may make your goal of studying in the United Kingdom come true. What are your main concerns about studying abroad? Share them in the comments section below, and let’s connect!
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