Easiest Scholarships for Nigerian Students to Study in the UK (2025 Guide)
Easiest Scholarships for Nigerian Students to Study in the UK (2025 Guide)
Tunde, a final-year student at UNILAG, has always dreamed of studying in the UK for his master’s degree. But when he checked tuition fees, his heart sank—£15,000 to £25,000 per year was simply impossible for his family. Like many Nigerian students, he wondered: Is there an easier way to fund my UK study dream? That’s where scholarships come in.
This guide will show you the easiest scholarships Nigerian students can get in the UK in 2025, how to apply, and what to prepare ahead.
Summary Box
Who this helps:
- Final-year students planning postgraduate study
- Fresh graduates and NYSC members
- Early-career professionals aiming for UK master’s/PhD
What you’ll learn:
- The easiest UK scholarships Nigerian students qualify for in 2025
- Step-by-step application process
- Common mistakes and how to avoid rejection
- Where to find legit opportunities (no scams)
Time to implement:
About 1–2 hours per application once documents are ready
The Easiest Scholarships in UK for Nigerian Students (2025)
While no scholarship is truly “easy,” some are less competitive, open yearly, and tailored for developing countries like Nigeria. Below are top picks:
1. Chevening Scholarships (Fully Funded)
- Covers tuition, flights, and living expenses
- Open to Nigerians for 1-year master’s programs
- Highly prestigious but requires strong leadership potential
2. Commonwealth Shared Scholarship
- For students from Commonwealth countries (Nigeria included)
- Covers tuition, flights, and living stipends
- Easier than Chevening since it targets development-related fields
3. University-Specific Scholarships
Examples:
- University of Sussex Chancellor’s Scholarship
- University of Glasgow African Excellence Award
- University of Manchester Global Futures Scholarship
These are less competitive than national schemes because you compete only among applicants to that university.
Suggested Article for you: How to Find and Apply for Fully Funded Scholarships Abroad (Step-by-Step Guide)
4. GREAT Scholarships (Nigeria-UK partnership)
- Funded by the UK government and specific universities
- Offers £10,000 towards tuition fees
- Many slots reserved for Nigerians annually
5. Research Council / Departmental Scholarships
- PhD candidates often get tuition waivers + stipends
- Requires strong academic record but fewer applicants compared to master’s programs
Eligibility & Fit (Quick Checklist)
You’re a good fit if you:
✔️ Are a Nigerian citizen (with valid international passport)
✔️ Have at least a Second Class Upper in your bachelor’s degree
✔️ Can show leadership potential or community involvement
✔️ Have proof of English proficiency (IELTS/WAEC English accepted by some universities)
✔️ Can write a strong Statement of Purpose (SOP)
Scholarship Requirements (Documents to Prepare)
- Updated CV (1–2 pages, ATS-friendly)
- Degree certificate & transcripts
- Passport data page
- Two reference letters (academic + professional if possible)
- Statement of Purpose / Personal Statement
- Proof of English proficiency (IELTS/TOEFL/WAEC)
- Work experience certificate (if required)
How to Apply (Step-by-Step)
- Research – Visit official scholarship portals (Chevening, Commonwealth, UK university sites).
- Shortlist – Choose 3–5 scholarships that fit your profile.
- Prepare Documents – Draft SOP early, request references on time.
- Apply Online – Fill forms carefully, upload scanned documents.
- Submit Before Deadline – UK scholarships close around October–February yearly.
- Prepare for Interview (if shortlisted) – Be ready to discuss leadership, career goals, and Nigeria’s development needs.
Selection Criteria: What Reviewers Look For
- Academic excellence (CGPA matters but not everything)
- Leadership & volunteer experience
- Clear career goals tied to Nigeria’s development
- Strong, original SOP (avoid copy-paste templates)
- Professional presentation (no typos, well-structured CV)
Common Mistakes to Avoid
❌ Submitting late applications
❌ Weak SOPs without career link to Nigeria
❌ Ignoring specific scholarship instructions
❌ Overly generic CVs
Timeline & Deadlines (Plan Ahead)
- August – October: Research & prepare documents
- November – February: Apply for Chevening, Commonwealth, GREAT Scholarships
- March – June: Apply for university-specific scholarships
- July – September: Prepare visas, accommodation, and travel
Case Study: Ada from UNN
Ada, a graduate of UNN (First Class in Political Science), wanted to pursue a Master’s in International Development. She applied for the Commonwealth Shared Scholarship, highlighting her volunteer work with an NGO in Enugu.
She followed these steps:
- Drafted her SOP in September.
- Asked two lecturers for strong references.
- Submitted her application in January.
- Got shortlisted for interview in April.
By September, Ada was in London studying on full funding.
Expert Tips & Quotes
“Don’t just list achievements. Show how your work in Nigeria connects to your chosen UK program.” — Dr. Adebayo, Career Counselor
“Use a master CV, then tailor it for each scholarship. Reviewers can spot generic applications.” — Ngozi, Chevening Alumna
“Start early. Many Nigerian students lose out because they wait until deadlines to start SOPs.” — Mr. Yusuf, Scholarship Coach
Resources & Templates
Scholarship SOP Outline:
- Introduction (who you are + motivation)
- Academic background
- Leadership/community impact
- Career goals linked to Nigeria’s development
- Why this UK program/scholarship fits
Scholarship Application Checklist:
- CV
- Transcript & degree certificate
- References
- SOP/Personal Statement
- Proof of English
Where to Find Legit Opportunities
- Chevening UK
- Commonwealth Scholarship
- GREAT Scholarships
- Official UK university websites (not agents or third-party blogs)
Disclaimer: We do not collect application fees. Always apply only on official portals.
Actionable Insights (Recap)
- Start preparing 6–12 months before deadlines
- Keep documents scanned and ready
- Apply to multiple scholarships, not just one
- Write an SOP that connects your career to Nigeria’s development
- Confirm deadlines on official sites
- Seek feedback on CV & SOP before submission
- Don’t pay anyone who promises “guaranteed” scholarships
FAQ
Which UK scholarship is easiest for Nigerians in 2025?
The Commonwealth Shared Scholarship and university-specific awards are usually less competitive compared to Chevening.
Do I need IELTS to study in the UK with a scholarship?
Some universities accept WAEC English, but top scholarships like Chevening require IELTS/TOEFL.
Can I apply for more than one scholarship at a time?
Yes, and it’s encouraged. Apply to at least 3–5 opportunities.
What CGPA is required for UK scholarships?
Most require at least a Second Class Upper (2:1). Exceptional cases with strong experience may get through with lower.
Do Nigerian students get fully funded scholarships?
Yes. Chevening, Commonwealth, and some PhD funding schemes are fully funded.
Conclusion & Call to Action
Studying in the UK doesn’t have to remain a dream. With proper planning, strong applications, and the right scholarships, Nigerian students can access world-class education.
Have questions or want us to review your SOP outline? Drop a comment below or subscribe to our ScholarCareer newsletter for updates on the latest scholarships.
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