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Studying in the United Kingdom is a dream for many Nigerian students. UK universities offer respected qualifications, research opportunities and access to international career networks. However, the cost of studying abroad can make that dream difficult to achieve.
Tuition fees, accommodation, feeding, flights and other expenses can cost thousands of pounds. For students who cannot afford these costs, a fully funded scholarship can make a major difference.
The good news is that Nigerian students can apply for several scholarship programmes that cover tuition fees and living expenses. Some also provide travel allowances, visa support and other benefits.
This guide explains some of the best fully funded scholarships in the UK for Nigerian students, their eligibility requirements, what they cover and how to prepare a strong application.
It also highlights application deadlines for the 2027/2028 academic year so you can plan your next steps.
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Quick Answer: Which UK Scholarships Are Fully Funded for Nigerians?
Some of the major fully funded scholarship opportunities available to Nigerian applicants include:
- Chevening Scholarship: A UK government scholarship for eligible international students pursuing a one-year master’s degree.
- Commonwealth Scholarships: Funding for eligible Nigerian students pursuing master’s and doctoral programmes.
- Rhodes Scholarship: A prestigious postgraduate scholarship for study at the University of Oxford.
- Clarendon Scholarship: A fully funded graduate scholarship for outstanding students at Oxford University.
- Gates Cambridge Scholarship: A fully funded postgraduate scholarship at the University of Cambridge for eligible international applicants.
Each programme has different requirements. Some focus on leadership and work experience, while others place greater emphasis on academic achievement, research potential and development impact.
1. Chevening Scholarship
The Chevening Scholarship is one of the best-known opportunities for Nigerian graduates who want to study in the UK.
It is funded by the UK government and supports people with leadership potential who want to make a positive contribution to their home countries.
The programme allows successful applicants to study an eligible one-year master’s degree at a UK university.
What does the Chevening Scholarship cover?
Chevening provides several financial benefits, including:
- Full payment of approved tuition fees.
- Economy-class return flights.
- Monthly living allowance.
- Arrival allowance.
- Departure allowance.
- Visa application costs.
- Some approved travel allowances.
The scholarship also provides access to networking events and a global community of former scholars.
Who can apply?
Nigerian applicants must meet the programme’s eligibility requirements. These include:
- Being a citizen of an eligible country, including Nigeria.
- Holding an undergraduate degree that qualifies for a UK master’s programme.
- Having at least 2,800 hours of eligible work experience after completing an undergraduate degree.
- Applying to three eligible UK master’s courses.
- Meeting the requirement to return to the home country for at least two years after the scholarship.
Chevening accepts eligible full-time, part-time, voluntary and internship work experience, subject to its rules.
Application deadline
The 2027/2028 Chevening application cycle is closed. Applicants should monitor the official website for the next application period.
Official website: https://www.chevening.org/
2. Commonwealth Master’s Scholarship
The Commonwealth Master’s Scholarship is another major opportunity for Nigerian students who want to earn a postgraduate qualification in the UK.
It is funded by the UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office and supports students from eligible Commonwealth countries.
Nigeria is among the countries eligible for this programme.
The scholarship focuses on students whose education can contribute to development in their home countries.
What does the Commonwealth Master’s Scholarship cover?
Depending on the award conditions, successful candidates may receive:
- Full approved tuition fees.
- Return airfare between Nigeria and the UK.
- Monthly living allowance.
- Study-related travel support.
- Additional allowances for eligible scholars with specific family circumstances.
The scholarship is normally for full-time taught master’s study.
Who can apply?
Typical eligibility requirements include:
- Being a Nigerian citizen or having eligible refugee status.
- Being permanently resident in an eligible Commonwealth country.
- Holding a first degree at the required academic level, usually at least an upper second-class honours degree.
- Meeting the programme’s financial eligibility requirements.
- Demonstrating how the proposed course can support development in Nigeria.
- Meeting the requirements of the selected UK university.
Applicants should also check whether they have previously studied in a high-income country, as this can affect eligibility.
Application deadline
Applications for the 2027/2028 Commonwealth Master’s Scholarships closed on 20 October 2026.
Applicants who missed this cycle should prepare for future opportunities.
Official website: https://cscuk.fcdo.gov.uk/scholarships/commonwealth-masters-scholarships/
3. Commonwealth Shared Scholarship
The Commonwealth Shared Scholarship is particularly useful for Nigerian graduates who want to pursue a master’s degree in a development-related subject.
The programme is jointly supported by the Commonwealth Scholarship Commission and participating UK universities.
Unlike some scholarship programmes that accept applications for many courses, Commonwealth Shared Scholarships are limited to approved master’s courses at participating universities.
What does the scholarship cover?
The award can provide:
- Full approved tuition fees.
- Return airfare.
- Monthly living allowance.
- Warm clothing allowance, where applicable.
- Study travel grants.
- Eligible thesis or dissertation support.
The aim is to remove major financial barriers for talented students who would otherwise struggle to study in the UK.
Who can apply?
Applicants generally need to:
- Be Nigerian citizens or citizens of another eligible Commonwealth country.
- Be permanently resident in an eligible country.
- Have the required undergraduate qualification, usually a 2:1 degree or a 2:2 degree with a relevant postgraduate qualification.
- Meet the programme’s financial requirements.
- Demonstrate how their proposed studies can support development in their home country.
- Meet the admission requirements for an approved course at a participating university.
Candidates must apply for admission to their chosen university as well as complete the scholarship application.
Application dates for 2027/2028
The Commonwealth Scholarship Commission has announced the following dates:
- Applications open: 10 November 2026.
- Applications close: 8 December 2026 at 16:00 GMT.
- Study begins: September or October 2027.
The approved course and participating university lists should be checked before applying.
Official website: https://cscuk.fcdo.gov.uk/shared/
4. Rhodes Scholarship at the University of Oxford
The Rhodes Scholarship is one of the most prestigious postgraduate scholarships in the world.
It gives outstanding students the opportunity to study at the University of Oxford.
Nigerian students apply through the Rhodes West Africa constituency, which includes Nigeria and several other West African countries.
The scholarship looks beyond academic results. It also considers leadership, character, service and the potential to make a positive contribution to society.
What does the Rhodes Scholarship cover?
The scholarship provides:
- Full Oxford University course fees.
- Annual living allowance.
- Student visa costs.
- Immigration Health Surcharge.
- Return flights between the scholar’s home country and the UK.
- A settling-in allowance.
The standard scholarship normally covers two years, although some approved academic pathways have different funding arrangements.
Who can apply?
Applicants must meet the Rhodes eligibility requirements for the West Africa constituency.
These may include:
- Citizenship or nationality requirements.
- Age requirements.
- Academic achievement.
- Eligibility for admission to Oxford.
- Evidence of leadership and commitment to service.
Candidates should carefully review the official eligibility criteria before applying.
Application deadline
The 2026 application period for the West Africa Rhodes Scholarship closed on 27 August 2026.
The next application period is expected to open in 2027 for study at Oxford in 2028.
Official website: https://www.rhodeshouse.ox.ac.uk/
5. Clarendon Scholarship at the University of Oxford
The Clarendon Scholarship is an excellent opportunity for Nigerian students with strong academic records who want to pursue postgraduate study at Oxford.
Unlike scholarships limited to particular nationalities, Clarendon is open to outstanding graduate applicants from around the world.
It supports eligible full-time and part-time master’s and doctoral programmes.
What does the Clarendon Scholarship cover?
Successful scholars receive:
- Full payment of course fees.
- A grant towards living expenses.
- Funding for the full period of their course fee liability, according to the award conditions.
The scholarship also connects recipients with an academic and professional community at Oxford.
Who can apply?
Nigerian students applying for a new eligible master’s or DPhil programme can be considered.
The selection process is highly competitive and focuses on academic excellence and potential.
Applicants should:
- Choose an eligible Oxford graduate course.
- Meet the academic entry requirements.
- Prepare strong academic references.
- Submit a well-developed personal statement or research proposal where required.
- Apply before the relevant funding deadline.
How do you apply?
There is no separate Clarendon scholarship application form.
Eligible applicants are automatically considered when they submit their graduate application by the relevant December or January funding deadline for their chosen course.
Official website: https://www.ox.ac.uk/admissions/graduate/fees-and-funding/funding/clarendon
6. Gates Cambridge Scholarship
The Gates Cambridge Scholarship provides another major opportunity for international students who want to study at the University of Cambridge.
It was established to support outstanding students who demonstrate academic excellence, leadership potential and a commitment to improving the lives of others.
Nigerian students can apply if they meet the programme’s eligibility requirements.
What does the scholarship cover?
The core Gates Cambridge Scholarship provides:
- University composition fee.
- Maintenance allowance.
- One economy-class airfare at the beginning and end of the course.
- Inbound visa costs and the Immigration Health Surcharge.
Additional discretionary funding may be available for certain academic and personal needs.
Who can apply?
The scholarship is available to applicants from countries outside the United Kingdom who want to pursue eligible postgraduate courses at Cambridge.
Applicants should demonstrate:
- Outstanding academic ability.
- A strong reason for choosing their proposed course.
- Leadership potential.
- A commitment to improving the lives of others.
How do you apply?
Applicants must apply for admission to the University of Cambridge and indicate their interest in Gates Cambridge funding through the relevant application process.
Check the official website for the correct application deadline for your course and nationality.
Official website: https://www.gatescambridge.org/
Other UK Scholarships Nigerian Students Should Consider
Not every scholarship advertised as fully funded covers all the expenses associated with studying abroad.
Some programmes provide a tuition discount or a fixed contribution towards fees. These can still be useful, but applicants should understand the difference.
GREAT Scholarships
The British Council’s GREAT Scholarships programme offers Nigerian students funding towards postgraduate tuition fees at selected UK universities.
For the 2026/2027 academic year, the award is generally £10,000 towards tuition fees.
This is valuable financial support, but it is not a fully funded scholarship because it does not automatically cover all tuition costs, accommodation, food and travel.
Official website: https://www.britishcouncil.org.ng/study-uk/great-scholarships
Comparison of Fully Funded UK Scholarships for Nigerian Students
| Scholarship | Study level | Main funding |
|---|---|---|
| Chevening | Master’s | Tuition, living allowance and travel |
| Commonwealth Master’s | Master’s | Tuition, living allowance and travel |
| Commonwealth Shared | Master’s | Tuition, living allowance and travel |
| Rhodes | Postgraduate | Oxford fees, stipend and travel |
| Clarendon | Master’s and DPhil | Full course fees and living grant |
| Gates Cambridge | Postgraduate | University fees, maintenance and travel |
Always check the official award conditions because funding amounts, eligible courses and application requirements can change.
General Requirements for Nigerian Students Applying for UK Scholarships
Although each scholarship has its own rules, many programmes request similar documents.
Preparing these documents early can make the application process easier.
1. Academic certificates and transcripts
You will usually need your undergraduate certificate and academic transcript.
Some programmes also require postgraduate qualifications, especially for certain doctoral awards.
2. International passport
A valid Nigerian international passport may be required during the application or admission process.
Check the passport validity requirements before applying.
3. Statement of purpose or personal statement
This document explains:
- Your academic background.
- Why you want to study your chosen course.
- Why you selected the university.
- Your career goals.
- How the qualification will help you contribute to Nigeria or your chosen field.
Avoid using a generic statement for every scholarship. Tailor your application to the specific programme.
4. Recommendation letters
Most competitive scholarships require academic or professional references.
Choose people who know your work, achievements and potential well enough to provide detailed recommendations.
5. Curriculum vitae
Your CV should highlight relevant experience, including:
- Employment history.
- Leadership roles.
- Voluntary activities.
- Research experience.
- Professional training.
- Awards and achievements.
6. English language evidence
Some universities and scholarship programmes require proof of English language ability.
Depending on the university and your educational background, accepted evidence may include IELTS, another approved English test or an exemption.
Always confirm the specific university’s requirements.
How to Apply for Fully Funded UK Scholarships from Nigeria
Winning a scholarship requires careful planning. A strong application should show that you are academically qualified, understand your chosen course and have clear goals.
Follow these steps:
Step 1: Choose your preferred course
Start by identifying the course you want to study.
Consider subjects that match your academic background, work experience and future career plans.
Examples include:
- Public Health.
- Engineering.
- Computer Science.
- Business Administration.
- Education.
- Environmental Science.
- Agriculture.
- International Development.
- Data Science.
Step 2: Research eligible universities
Not every scholarship supports every university or course.
Visit the scholarship website and confirm which institutions and programmes are approved.
Step 3: Check your eligibility
Read the requirements carefully.
Pay attention to:
- Nationality and residency.
- Academic qualifications.
- Work experience.
- Age restrictions, where applicable.
- Course requirements.
- Previous scholarship history.
- Return-home conditions.
Do not spend time preparing an application for an award you do not qualify for.
Step 4: Prepare your documents
Gather your certificates, transcripts, passport, CV, references and personal statement.
Request recommendation letters early because referees may need time to prepare them.
Step 5: Write a strong personal statement
Your personal statement should explain why you deserve the scholarship.
Avoid simply saying that you need financial assistance.
Instead, explain your achievements, challenges, career plans and the impact you hope to make after graduation.
Step 6: Submit before the deadline
Do not wait until the final day.
Submit your application early enough to correct errors, upload missing documents and confirm that your application has been received.
How to Write a Strong UK Scholarship Personal Statement
Your personal statement can make a major difference because scholarship committees want to understand your motivation and future plans.
A good statement should answer these questions:
- What inspired you to choose your course?
- What academic or professional achievements have you made?
- What problems do you want to help solve?
- Why is the UK the right place for your studies?
- How will you use your education after graduation?
Example:
If you are applying for a master’s degree in Public Health, you could explain how your experience in healthcare has helped you understand challenges such as limited access to medical services, disease prevention or community health education.
Then explain how the proposed course will equip you with the knowledge and skills to contribute to better health outcomes in Nigeria.
Use real examples from your own experience. Do not invent achievements or copy another applicant’s statement.
Common Mistakes Nigerian Students Should Avoid
Many scholarship applications fail because applicants overlook important requirements.
Avoid these mistakes:
- Applying without checking eligibility: Read the official requirements before starting.
- Using one personal statement everywhere: Tailor each application to the scholarship.
- Ignoring deadlines: Keep a calendar of application dates.
- Submitting incomplete documents: Review every required upload before submission.
- Choosing an unrelated course: Explain how the course fits your academic or career goals.
- Using false information: Scholarship committees may verify qualifications and experience.
- Paying unofficial agents: Use official scholarship and university websites.
- Assuming every scholarship is fully funded: Check whether the award covers tuition, living costs and travel.
Practical Checklist Before Applying
Use this checklist to organise your application:
- Confirm that Nigerian applicants are eligible.
- Select a suitable UK university and course.
- Check the scholarship’s funding coverage.
- Confirm the application deadline.
- Prepare your academic certificates and transcripts.
- Update your CV.
- Request recommendation letters.
- Write and review your personal statement.
- Complete the official application form.
- Upload all required documents.
- Save your application confirmation.
Frequently Asked Questions About Fully Funded UK Scholarships
1. Can Nigerian students get fully funded scholarships in the UK?
Yes. Nigerian students can apply for several fully funded UK scholarships, including Chevening, Commonwealth, Rhodes, Clarendon and Gates Cambridge. Each programme has different eligibility requirements and selection criteria.
2. Which UK scholarship is easiest for Nigerians to get?
There is no scholarship that is guaranteed or easy to win. Each programme is competitive. Your best option depends on your academic qualifications, work experience, leadership record, research interests and career goals.
3. Can I get a fully funded UK scholarship without IELTS?
Some universities and scholarship programmes may accept alternative evidence of English proficiency or grant exemptions. However, others require IELTS or another approved test. Always check the English language requirements of your chosen university and scholarship.
4. Can I apply for a UK scholarship with a Second Class Lower degree?
Yes, some programmes accept applicants with a Second Class Lower degree if they also meet additional requirements. For example, Commonwealth Shared Scholarships may consider applicants with a lower second-class degree and a relevant postgraduate qualification. Individual universities may also have different admission requirements.
5. Do fully funded UK scholarships cover accommodation and feeding?
Many fully funded scholarships provide a monthly living allowance intended to cover expenses such as accommodation, food and personal costs. However, the amount differs between programmes and locations. Students should review the award conditions and prepare for expenses that may not be covered.
Recommended External Sources
Use these official sources to help readers verify scholarship details and application requirements:
- Chevening Scholarships: https://www.chevening.org/
- Commonwealth Scholarship Commission: https://cscuk.fcdo.gov.uk/
- Rhodes Trust: https://www.rhodeshouse.ox.ac.uk/
- University of Oxford Clarendon Fund: https://www.ox.ac.uk/admissions/graduate/fees-and-funding/funding/clarendon
- Gates Cambridge: https://www.gatescambridge.org/
- British Council Nigeria: https://www.britishcouncil.org.ng/study-uk
