Introduction
For many Nigerians, securing a scholarship — especially one that covers tuition, living costs, travel and more — can open the door to studying abroad or accessing advanced education. Fortunately, several new and updated scholarship programmes have recently opened or announced deadlines for Nigerians in 2025–2026. Below you’ll find what you need to know, from global programmes to domestic awards, how to apply, what the eligibility looks like, and tips for making strong applications.
1. Why now is a good time to look for scholarships
- Scholarship portals are regularly updated with fresh opportunities specifically for Nigerian students. For instance, a site lists dozens of “ongoing scholarships for Nigerians 2025” including local awards of ₦100 000 or fully-funded overseas programmes. Scholarship Region+1
- Many top-universities and governments are targeting students from Africa (including Nigeria) for international study. For example, University of Manchester offers the Global Futures Scholarships for Nigerian students, open for 2026 intake. The University of Manchester
- With increasing competition, starting early and preparing your application now gives you an advantage.
2. Key scholarship programmes worth noting
2.1 University of Manchester – Global Futures Scholarships
The University of Manchester is offering merit-based awards for Nigerian students:
- Undergraduates: Up to £30,000 (approximately £10,000/year over three years) for eligible international applicants including Nigeria. The University of Manchester
- Master’s: Up to £18,000 discount on overseas tuition fees for African students including Nigerians. The University of Manchester
Why it matters: A major international university admitting applications from Nigeria, offering substantial funding.
Eligibility: Applicants must already apply to the university, hold offer, meet academic standards, etc. The University of Manchester
2.2 UK GREAT Scholarships (2025-26)
For the academic year 2025-26, students from Nigeria are eligible to apply for the GREAT Scholarships – a scheme offering £10,000 toward tuition fees for one-year taught postgraduate programmes at participating UK universities. Study UK
Benefits: Significant tuition discount, study in the UK.
Focus: Postgraduate level, so ideal for those who have completed an undergraduate degree.
2.3 Rhodes Scholarships for West Africa
The prestigious Rhodes Scholarship for West Africa (which includes Nigeria) opened for application on 2 June 2025 and closes 28 August 2025. Rhodes House
Scope: Study at University of Oxford (UK) for postgraduate work, full funded.
Why notable: Among the most prestigious fully funded awards globally.
Tip: Submit a strong leadership-and-impact profile; the competition is very fierce.
2.4 Domestic & Nigeria-specific awards
Aside from international programmes, many scholarship opportunities confined to Nigeria or Nigerian citizens are open now:
- The site ScholarshipRegion lists, among others: Moniepoint Future Builders STEM Scholarship for Nigerians in 2025 (fully funded) and Kelloggs Super Stars Scholarship for Nigerians 2025 (₦150,000 award). Scholarship Region+1
- The site ScholarshipAir lists a range of undergraduate scholarships for Nigerian students 2025-26 (e.g., Jim Ovia Scholars Program). ScholarshipAir+1
Why this matters: These are more accessible (less competition than global awards) and offer good options for undergraduates staying in Nigeria.
3. How to apply: step-by-step guide
Here’s a practical process you can follow to maximise your chance of winning a scholarship:
Step 1: Research & shortlist
- Make a list of scholarships that you are eligible for. Use trusted sources such as ScholarshipRegion, ScholarshipAir. Scholarship Region+1
- Note key details: deadline, award coverage (tuition, accommodation, travel), level (undergraduate, master’s, PhD), destination country.
Step 2: Check eligibility
Typical criteria include:
- Nigerian citizenship/residence.
- Academic requirement (e.g., first degree, minimum grade, for postgraduate).
- English proficiency may be required for overseas programmes.
- For some programmes, leadership/community service is required (e.g., Rhodes). Reddit+1
Step 3: Prepare required documents
Commonly requested:
- Academic transcripts and certificates.
- Curriculum vitae (CV) or résumé.
- Personal statement / essay explaining goals, impact.
- Letters of recommendation.
- Proof of English language proficiency (if required).
Step 4: Meet deadlines
Deadlines are strict. For example: Rhodes West Africa closes 28 August 2025. Rhodes House
Submit early rather than last-minute.
Step 5: Write a strong application
- Highlight your academic achievements, leadership, community service.
- Show clear goals: why you want this scholarship and how you’ll use it.
- Demonstrate why you stand out (unique experience, background, impact).
- Tailor your application to the specific award’s mission/values.
Step 6: Follow up & prepare for outcome
- After submission, check for acknowledgement.
- If an interview is part of process (many global ones have), prepare accordingly.
- If successful, understand the terms: coverage, start date, obligations (e.g., return to Nigeria after study) — some awards require you to commit to your home country afterwards. faseducon.com
4. What awards typically cover & what to watch out for
Coverage may include:
- Tuition fees (often full or large portion).
- Living allowance / stipend.
- Accommodation or housing allowance.
- Travel (flight) to and from host country.
- Health insurance.
For example, one source states that fully funded scholarships for Nigerian students may provide monthly stipend around USD 1,000 plus tuition, travel, health insurance. Scholarship Roar
What to watch out for:
- “Fully funded” doesn’t always mean all costs — check what is covered for your level, and what you still need to fund.
- Obligations: Return to Nigeria after study, work for a certain time, maintain minimum performance.
- Application fees or hidden costs: legitimate scholarships generally do not require large payments up front.
- Language of instruction: If studying abroad, check if courses are in English or you must take an exam.
5. Practical tips for Nigerian applicants
- Build your profile early: Engage in extracurriculars, community service, leadership roles. These help differentiate you.
- Get strong referees: Choose people who know you academically or professionally and can comment on your suitability.
- Prepare for English test: If you’re applying for study in UK/USA/Australia, you might need IELTS/TOEFL.
- Manage your timeline: Applications for 2026 intakes open up early (sometimes 12-18 months ahead). Starting early gives you time to gather documents and craft a strong essay.
- Apply to multiple awards: Don’t rely on just one scholarship. Branch into both domestic and international options.
- Stay organised: Keep a spreadsheet with application names, deadlines, requirements, document status.
- Follow up and network: Join communities of past awardees, get insights from people who have applied.
- Mind the visa & travel: For international study, ensure you meet visa requirements of the host country (financial proof, health insurance, etc.).
- Read and understand terms: Some scholarships require you to return to Nigeria for a certain period or work in a specific sector afterwards.
- Prepare for post-award life: If you win, consider how you’ll use the opportunity and bring value back to Nigeria.
6. Frequently asked questions (FAQs)
Q: Can undergraduates apply for scholarships to study abroad?
Yes — many programmes accept undergraduates, especially via schemes like the University of Manchester’s merit awards. The University of Manchester
Q: Are there scholarships that only cover Nigerian institutions (not abroad)?
Yes — domestic awards (e.g., Moniepoint Future Builders STEM Scholarship, Kelloggs Super Stars Scholarship) are often for Nigerian-based study. Scholarship Region
Q: What is the competition like?
High. Prestigious programmes (Rhodes, UK/US scholarships) receive many applicants. Preparation and strong profile help you stand out.
Q: Does citizenship of Nigeria matter?
Yes. Most awards listed require you to be Nigerian or resident in Nigeria. Always check the eligibility.
Q: Do I need to pay back the scholarship?
Not usually — scholarships are awards, not loans — but some may expect that you return to Nigeria or commit to service. Always check the terms.
7. Final word
If you are a Nigerian student (undergraduate or postgraduate) looking to access financial support for further study, this is a strong time to act. With new and updated scholarship opportunities available both in Nigeria and globally, it’s about preparation, timing and strong application.
By researching thoroughly, applying to both local and international programmes, and crafting standout applications, you can significantly boost your chances of winning an award.
Next steps:
Stay alert to deadlines and apply early.
Shortlist 3–5 scholarships you meet eligibility for (from the lists above and additional searches).
Start gathering documents now (transcripts, references, essay draft).
Prepare your personal statement and hone your profile (extracurriculars, leadership).
