Studying abroad, particularly in the UK, is a dream for many Nigerian students due to the world-class education, diverse culture, and vibrant student life that British universities offer. However, the financial burden can be a significant hurdle. Fortunately, numerous scholarships are available to help Nigerian students achieve their academic goals in the UK. This article highlights some of the top UK scholarships for Nigerian students, outlining their benefits, eligibility criteria, and application processes.
1. Chevening Scholarships
Overview
The Chevening Scholarships are funded by the UK government and are aimed at outstanding emerging leaders from around the world. The scholarship offers a unique opportunity for future leaders, influencers, and decision-makers to develop professionally and academically, network extensively, experience UK culture, and build lasting positive relationships with the UK.
Benefits
– Full coverage of tuition fees.
– Monthly living allowance.
– Travel costs to and from the UK.
– An arrival allowance.
– A homeward departure allowance.
– The cost of one visa application.
– A travel grant to attend Chevening events in the UK.
Eligibility
– Be a citizen of a Chevening-eligible country, including Nigeria.
– Return to your country of citizenship for at least two years after your scholarship ends.
– Have an undergraduate degree that will enable you to gain entry to a postgraduate program at a UK university.
– Have at least two years (equivalent to 2,800 hours) of work experience.
– Apply to three different eligible UK university courses and have received an unconditional offer from one of these choices.
Application Process
Applications typically open in August and close in November each year. The process includes an online application form, followed by interviews for shortlisted candidates. More information can be found on the [Chevening website](https://www.chevening.org).
2. Commonwealth Scholarships
Overview
The Commonwealth Scholarships are aimed at students from developing Commonwealth countries, including Nigeria. They are funded by the UK Department for International Development (DFID) and cover postgraduate study in a range of disciplines.
Benefits
– Approved airfare to and from the UK.
– Approved tuition and examination fees.
– A stipend (living allowance).
– Thesis grant towards the cost of preparing a thesis or dissertation.
– Warm clothing allowance, where applicable.
– Study travel grant.
Eligibility
– Be a citizen of or have been granted refugee status by an eligible Commonwealth country.
– Be permanently resident in a Commonwealth country.
– Be available to start your academic studies in the UK by the start of the UK academic year in September/October.
– Hold a first degree of at least upper second class (2:1) honours standard, or a second class degree and a relevant postgraduate qualification (usually a Master’s degree).
Application Process
The application process involves applying through a National Nominating Agency in your home country, or directly through selected non-governmental organizations and charities. More details can be found on the [Commonwealth Scholarships website](http://cscuk.dfid.gov.uk).
3. Rhodes Scholarship at the University of Oxford
Overview
The Rhodes Scholarship is one of the oldest and most prestigious international scholarship programs in the world. It aims to nurture public-spirited leaders for the world’s future.
Benefits
– Full tuition fees.
– Annual stipend.
– Health insurance.
– Travel allowance for flights to and from the UK.
Eligibility
– Be a citizen of Nigeria.
– Have reached your 19th and not have passed your 25th birthday (i.e., you must have been born after 30 September 1997 and on or before 1 October 2004).
– Have completed (or will have completed by June/July 2025) an undergraduate degree with a First or Upper Second class standard.
Application Process
Applications usually open in June and close in October. The selection process includes a written application and an interview. More information can be found on the [Rhodes Scholarship website](https://www.rhodeshouse.ox.ac.uk).
4. University-Specific Scholarships
University of Edinburgh Global Scholarships
The University of Edinburgh offers various scholarships to international students, including Nigerians. One notable scholarship is the Edinburgh Global Research Scholarship.
Benefits
– Covers the difference between UK/EU tuition fees and those charged to international students.
Eligibility
– Be liable to pay tuition fees at the overseas rate.
– Have applied for and been offered a place at the University of Edinburgh.
Application Process
Applications are usually submitted online, and deadlines vary. More details can be found on the [University of Edinburgh’s website](https://www.ed.ac.uk).
University of Westminster International Scholarships
The University of Westminster offers full tuition fee waivers, accommodation, living expenses, and flights to and from London.
Benefits
– Full tuition fee waivers.
– Accommodation.
– Living expenses.
– Flights to and from London.
Eligibility
– Must be an international student from a developing country.
– Hold an offer for a full-time undergraduate course at the University.
Application Process
The application process involves an online application and may require supporting documents such as references and personal statements. More information is available on the [University of Westminster’s website](https://www.westminster.ac.uk).
5. GREAT Scholarships
Overview
The GREAT Scholarships are jointly funded by the UK government’s GREAT Britain Campaign and the British Council, with participating UK higher education institutions.
Benefits
– Each scholarship is worth at least £10,000 towards tuition fees for a one-year postgraduate course.
Eligibility
– Be a citizen of Nigeria.
– Have an undergraduate degree that will enable you to gain entry onto a postgraduate program at a UK university.
– Be motivated and academically able to follow and benefit from a UK postgraduate taught course.
### Application Process
Application details and deadlines vary by university. Further information can be found on the [Study UK website](https://study-uk.britishcouncil.org).
Conclusion
Securing a scholarship to study in the UK can significantly alleviate the financial burden for Nigerian students and provide access to world-class education and opportunities. The scholarships listed above are among the best available, each offering unique benefits and covering various fields of study. Prospective students are encouraged to research each option thoroughly, meet all eligibility criteria, and apply within the specified deadlines to enhance their chances of success. With determination and preparation, Nigerian students can achieve their academic dreams in the UK.