Top Fully Funded Scholarships For Nigerians To Study Abroad 2026

For many Nigerians, studying abroad is a big dream and today we are talking about fully funded scholarships for nigerians. The idea of going to another country, meeting new people, and getting a world-class education is something most people wish for. But when you think about the costs of school fees, flights, accommodation, and living expenses, it can look like a dream that’s too expensive to reach.

The good thing is, there are fully funded scholarships that can make this dream real. These scholarships pay for almost everything, from tuition to living costs, and even travel.

This guide will walk you through what fully funded scholarships mean, the best ones for Nigerians in 2026, and how you can apply and stand a good chance of getting selected.

What Fully Funded Scholarships Really Mean

When people hear “fully funded scholarship,” they think everything is free. But it’s good to know what that really means. A fully funded scholarship usually covers the main expenses you’ll face while studying abroad. Most times, it includes:

• Tuition fees for the full program
• A monthly living allowance to cover feeding and personal needs
• Accommodation support or housing on campus
• Health insurance during your stay
• Return flight ticket (sometimes both going and coming back)
• Money for books, study materials, and research

Not all scholarships include every single one of these, but most of the ones I will share cover almost everything. Always read the details on the scholarship’s official website before applying.

Why You Should Go For A Fully Funded Scholarship

There are many reasons why a fully funded scholarship is one of the best options for Nigerians who want to study abroad.

1. It Saves You Money

Studying abroad can be very expensive, especially when you convert the currency. A scholarship takes away that stress and lets you focus on your education.

2. It Opens Doors To Better Opportunities

Studying in another country gives you exposure to new ways of learning, global ideas, and different people from around the world.

3. It Helps Your Future Career

When you come back to Nigeria or move into the job market, your international degree will make you stand out.

4. Networking Opportunities

Lastly, many scholarships come with mentorship, training, and networking opportunities. You’ll meet other scholars and experts who can help shape your career.

What You Need To Prepare Before Applying

If you want to apply for a fully funded scholarship, there are things you should prepare ahead of time. These are important because most scholarships look at your qualifications, your story, and how prepared you are.

• Have a strong academic record. Your grades matter.
• Prepare your certificates, transcripts, and identification documents.
• Write a good personal statement or motivation letter.
• Get recommendation letters from lecturers or employers.
• Prepare for English language tests like IELTS or TOEFL if needed.
• Have some work or volunteer experience, especially for master’s scholarships.
• Show leadership experience or community involvement.
• Research early and know the scholarship’s requirements and deadlines.
• Create a plan to submit your application before the closing date.

Many people miss great opportunities because they rush their application or submit late. So the earlier you start, the better.

Top Fully Funded Scholarships For Nigerians To Study Abroad 2026

Here are some of the best scholarships available for Nigerians to study abroad in 2026. Each one has its own benefits, requirements, and focus.

Chevening Scholarship (United Kingdom)

The Chevening Scholarship is one of the most popular scholarships in the world. It is funded by the UK Government and offers Nigerians the chance to study for a one-year master’s degree in any university in the United Kingdom.

It covers tuition, living allowance, travel, and other study expenses. Applicants must have a good bachelor’s degree, at least two years of work experience, and must show leadership potential. The scholarship is very competitive, so your essay and personal statement must be strong. Applications usually open around August and close around November.

DAAD Scholarship (Germany)

The DAAD Scholarship is offered by the German government for postgraduate students (masters and PhD). It covers tuition, a monthly stipend, health insurance, and travel costs.

Germany is a great place to study, and most public universities there are tuition-free. Many programs are also taught in English, so you don’t have to worry about the language barrier. Applicants must have good academic records and, in some cases, work experience related to their field of study.

Erasmus Mundus Joint Master’s Scholarship (Europe)

This program allows you to study in more than one European country under a single master’s program. It is funded by the European Union and is one of the most generous scholarships out there.

It covers tuition, travel, living allowance, and insurance. You will move between universities in different European countries as part of the program. It’s perfect for people who love to travel and experience new cultures. You must have a bachelor’s degree and a good academic background to apply.

Commonwealth Scholarship (United Kingdom and Other Commonwealth Countries)

This scholarship is available for postgraduate studies (master’s or PhD) in the UK and other Commonwealth nations. It is aimed at students from developing countries, including Nigeria.

It covers tuition, airfare, and living costs. Applicants must have at least a second-class upper degree and show that they need financial support. The scholarship also values leadership and community involvement, so it’s good to highlight those in your application.

Fulbright Foreign Student Program (United States)

The Fulbright Program is one of the most respected scholarships in the world. It is sponsored by the U.S. Government and allows Nigerians to study for master’s or PhD degrees in the United States.

The scholarship covers tuition, living costs, health insurance, books, and return travel. Applicants must have a good academic record, leadership potential, and a clear plan to return home and use their education to make an impact.

Australia Awards Scholarship (Australia)

The Australia Awards Scholarship is funded by the Australian Government. It provides Nigerians the opportunity to study for master’s degrees in fields that support Nigeria’s development goals, such as health, education, agriculture, and environment.

It covers tuition, airfare, living allowance, and health cover. Applicants must have relevant work experience and be committed to using their knowledge to develop their communities after returning to Nigeria.

Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program

This program is meant for talented African students who come from financially challenged backgrounds. It provides full funding for tuition, accommodation, books, and daily expenses.

It is available at partner universities across Africa, the U.S., and Canada. The program focuses on young people who show leadership potential and a commitment to giving back to their community.

Bilateral Education Agreement (BEA) Scholarship (Nigeria Government)

This scholarship is organized by Nigeria’s Federal Ministry of Education through the Federal Scholarship Board. It allows Nigerians to study abroad (undergraduate or postgraduate) in countries like Russia, Hungary, and Egypt under educational exchange agreements.

It covers tuition, accommodation, living expenses, and travel. Applicants must be Nigerian citizens and meet the requirements stated in the yearly scholarship advert.

Other Scholarships To Check

• Swedish Institute Scholarships for Global Professionals (Sweden)
• MEXT Scholarship (Japan)
• Chinese Government Scholarship (China)
• Turkish Government Scholarship (Turkey)

All of these are fully funded and open to Nigerian students. Always visit the official websites to confirm the latest information and deadlines.

Step-By-Step Guide On How To Apply

If you want to apply for any of these scholarships, follow these steps:

Step 1. Choose The Scholarship For Your Level And Field Of Study

Think about whether you want to study for a bachelor’s, master’s, or PhD. Pick scholarships made for your level and for the subject you care about, it raises your chance of getting picked.

Check if the scholarship focuses on certain fields (like health, agriculture, or tech) or on people from Nigeria. Choosing one that fits you saves time and makes your application stronger.

Step 2. Visit The Official Website And Read All The Requirement

Go to the scholarship’s official page and read every line, not just the summary. The website will tell you who can apply, what documents you need, and the exact deadlines.

If something is not clear on the site, use the contact email they provide, ask one clear question and keep a note of their reply. This helps you avoid mistakes like sending the wrong document or missing a rule.

Step 3. Prepare All Your Documents Early

Start collecting your school transcripts, degree certificates, birth certificate, and any other papers the scholarship asks for. If you need scanned copies, scan them in good quality and save them with clear file names so you don’t get confused.

Ask your referees for recommendation letters early, at least 4 to 6 weeks before the deadline. Give them a short note about what to write and remind them kindly a week before they must submit.

Step 4. Write A Personal Statement That Tells Your Story

Tell your story simply: who you are, what you have done, what you want to learn, and why it matters. Be honest and specific, say what problem you want to solve back home and how the scholarship will help you do that.

Keep the tone personal, not like a formal essay only. Use short clear sentences, give one or two real examples from your life, and end with a clear plan of what you will do after your studies.

Step 5. Apply Before The Deadline

Deadlines are strict. Send your application early so you have time to fix any small problems if they appear. If the scholarship portal allows, save a draft first and review everything the next day with fresh eyes. Submitting a day or two before the deadline reduces stress and lowers the risk of internet or power problems.

Step 6. Prepare For A Test Or Interview

Find out what kind of test or interview they use (English test, subject test, or a panel interview) and practice for it. For interviews, prepare short answers about your goals, why you chose the course, and how you will help Nigeria afterward.

Do mock interviews with friends or mentors and ask for honest feedback. If you need language tests like IELTS, register early so you can book a convenient date and have time to retake if needed.

Step 7. Check Your Email Regularly

Scholarship teams sometimes ask for extra documents or schedule interviews after you apply. Check the email you used for the application every day and respond quickly and politely when they write you.

Also keep a folder with all your submitted documents and a simple timeline of dates (when you applied, when you expect news). This helps you stay calm and organized while waiting for the result.

Best Fields To Study For Scholarship Opportunities

While you can apply for any field, some areas usually have more opportunities for Nigerians. These include:

• Agriculture and Food Security
• Environmental Science and Climate Change
• Health and Public Health
• Engineering and Renewable Energy
• Computer Science and Data Science
• Education and Development Studies
• Public Policy and Governance

These fields are often listed as “priority areas” in most scholarships because they directly support development in Nigeria and other African countries.

Conclusion

Getting a fully funded scholarship as a Nigerian to study abroad in 2026 is possible. Many people have done it, and you can too. It only takes time, planning, and commitment. If I were in your shoes, I’d pick two scholarships, one that I feel confident about and another that’s more competitive, and start preparing my documents now. Studying abroad can change your life. Don’t wait till next year to start. Begin now, take the first step, and give your dream a real chance.