Top International Scholarships for Nigerians in 2025/2026 – Chevening, Commonwealth, Erasmus+, and GREAT (UK)

Top International Scholarships for Nigerians in 2025/2026

If you're a Nigerian student aiming to study abroad in 2025 or 2026, there are several fully-funded international scholarship opportunities available. These programs not only cover tuition but often provide living expenses, travel allowances, and global networking opportunities.

Here’s a roundup of the most prestigious international scholarships open to Nigerians—plus how and when to apply.

1. Chevening Scholarship (UK)

Funded by the UK government, Chevening is one of the most popular scholarships among Nigerians.

Eligibility: Bachelor’s degree with a minimum second-class upper (2:1)
Experience: Minimum 2 years' work experience
Funding: Full tuition, monthly stipend, travel costs
Next Application Cycle: Opens September 2025, closes November 2025

Apply at: chevening.org

2. Commonwealth Shared Scholarships (UK)

Targeted at students from low and middle-income countries (including Nigeria), for Master's degrees in development-focused courses.

Eligibility: First degree (minimum upper second-class)
Funding: Tuition, airfare, and stipend
2026 Applications: Open in October 2025, via UK universities

Learn more: cscuk.fcdo.gov.uk

3. Erasmus+ Joint Master Degrees (Europe)

The Erasmus Mundus program offers full scholarships for two-year master’s programs across multiple European countries.

Eligibility: Bachelor's degree; some programs require language tests (IELTS/TOEFL)
Funding: Tuition, travel, and €1,000/month stipend
Applications: Begin October–December 2025, depending on course

Browse programs: eacea.ec.europa.eu

4. GREAT Scholarships (UK Universities)

This UK government scholarship supports Nigerian students applying for a one-year postgraduate course in the UK.

University of Southampton, University of Manchester, and others offer slots
Value: £10,000 towards tuition
Focus Areas: Law, Business, Engineering, Health, and more
Next Application Period: October–December 2025 for 2026 entry

Check eligibility: study-uk.britishcouncil.org

Start Preparing Early
Most of these scholarships require recommendation letters, personal statements, and sometimes IELTS or TOEFL. Don’t wait until the last minute.

Tailor Your Application
Clearly explain how your career goals align with the scholarship’s mission (development, innovation, global collaboration).

Track Your Deadlines
Use Google Calendar or Notion to manage dates. Missing deadlines = lost opportunity.

Join Forums
Look for Chevening, Erasmus, or Commonwealth WhatsApp and Facebook groups to get real-time tips from past winners.