Fully Funded Scholarships for Nigerians 2026/2027: Study in the UK for Free

Scholarships for Nigerians: Every year, thousands of bright and hardworking Nigerian students dream about studying abroad. They imagine attending top universities, earning globally respected degrees, and building successful careers that will make their families proud. But for many students, that dream often feels impossible. When you add up tuition fees, accommodation, visa costs, flight tickets, and daily living expenses, studying overseas can look far too expensive.

Here’s the good news: studying abroad is not only for the rich. Many Nigerians are currently studying in the UK and other countries through fully funded scholarships. These scholarships don’t just pay school fees. They also cover housing, flights, and visas and even provide monthly stipends for food and personal expenses. That means you can study abroad without spending your own money.

In this guide, we’ll show you the most trusted and fully funded scholarships Nigerians are winning for the 2026–2027 academic session. You’ll also learn the eligibility criteria, required documents, and the exact steps you need to follow to apply successfully. If studying abroad is your goal, this article could change your life.

Why Fully Funded Scholarships Are Life-Changing

Fully funded scholarships eliminate the primary financial obstacle that many Nigerian students face. Instead of worrying about how to pay millions of naira in tuition and living costs, you can focus fully on your studies and career goals.

• Tuition fees are paid in full
• Free accommodation or housing allowance
• Flight tickets covered
• Visa fees handled
• Monthly stipends for feeding and transport
• Access to world-class education and global networks

With benefits like these, it’s easy to see why more Nigerian students are applying every year.

Top Fully Funded Scholarships For Nigerians (2026–2027)

Below are some of the biggest and most reliable scholarships currently open to Nigerian students.

Chevening Scholarship

The Chevening Scholarship is the UK government’s flagship fully funded program for international students. It allows Nigerians to study any one-year master’s degree at any UK university.

What it covers: Tuition, accommodation, visa, flights, and monthly living allowance.

Requirements: A bachelor’s degree (preferably 2:1), at least two years of work or volunteer experience, leadership potential, and a commitment to return to Nigeria after your studies.

Applications usually open between August and October each year.

Commonwealth Master’s and PhD Scholarship

This scholarship is funded by the UK government for students from Commonwealth countries like Nigeria. It supports both master’s and doctoral studies.

What it covers: Full tuition, flights, accommodation, and monthly stipends.

Requirements: Strong academic performance (usually a 2:1), proof of financial need, academic transcripts, references, and a compelling personal statement.

Applications typically open about a year before the academic session begins.

Queen Elizabeth Commonwealth Scholarship

This scholarship allows students to study master’s programs at partner universities across the Commonwealth. It’s highly competitive and completely free to apply.

What it covers: tuition fees, living allowance, flights, and research support.

Requirements: Good academic results, a clear study plan, leadership skills, and admission into an eligible partner university.

GREAT Scholarships

The GREAT Scholarship is a partnership between the UK government and selected universities. While not fully funded like Chevening or Commonwealth, it still provides significant financial support.

What it covers: Around £10,000 towards tuition fees for a one-year master’s degree.

Requirements: Nigerian citizenship, admission to a participating university, strong academic performance, and English proficiency.

General Requirements You Should Prepare

Although each scholarship has its own criteria, most of them require similar documents. Preparing these early will save you time.

• Academic transcripts and certificates
• International passport
• CV or resume
• Personal statement or essays
• Reference letters
• Proof of work or volunteer experience
• English test results (IELTS/TOEFL if required)

How To Apply Successfully

Scholarships are earned through preparation, not luck. Follow these simple steps:

• Research scholarships that match your course and level
• Start preparing at least 6–12 months early
• Write a powerful personal statement
• Highlight leadership and community impact
• Apply before deadlines
• Check your email regularly for updates or interviews

Tips To Increase Your Chances

• Maintain a strong CGPA (2:1 or higher)
• Gain volunteer or internship experience
• Join leadership or community service activities
• Practice writing essays early
• Apply for multiple scholarships, not just one

FAQs

Can Nigerians really get fully funded scholarships to study abroad?

Yes. Many Nigerian students win fully funded scholarships every year to study in countries like the UK, Canada, the USA, and Germany. Scholarships such as Chevening, Commonwealth, and Queen Elizabeth programs cover tuition fees, accommodation, flights, visa costs, and monthly living expenses.

What is a fully funded scholarship?

A fully funded scholarship pays for almost all study expenses including tuition fees, housing, travel tickets, visa fees, health insurance, and a monthly stipend. This allows students to study abroad without paying out of pocket.

Which UK scholarships are best for Nigerian students in 2026–2027?

Some of the most trusted UK scholarships for Nigerians include the Chevening Scholarship, Commonwealth Scholarship, Queen Elizabeth Commonwealth Scholarship, and GREAT Scholarships. These programs are recognized globally and provide strong financial support.

What CGPA or grade is required to win a scholarship?

Most fully funded scholarships require at least a Second Class Upper (2:1) or its equivalent. Some programs may consider a 2:2, but you will need extra achievements such as leadership experience, volunteer work, or strong professional experience.

Do I need IELTS or TOEFL to apply for UK scholarships?

Some UK universities require IELTS or TOEFL as proof of English proficiency, while others may waive it if your previous education was in English. Always check the university and scholarship requirements before applying.

When do scholarship applications usually open?

Most UK scholarships open applications between August and October, about one year before the academic session starts. It is best to begin preparing your documents at least 6–12 months in advance.

Can I apply without work experience?

Some scholarships, like Chevening, require at least two years of work or volunteer experience. However, other programs may not require work experience. Internships, volunteering, and leadership roles can strengthen your application.

How can I improve my chances of getting selected?

You can increase your chances by maintaining strong academic grades, gaining leadership or volunteer experience, writing a compelling personal statement, applying early, and submitting complete and accurate documents.

Are scholarship applications free?

Most genuine, fully funded scholarships are free to apply. If anyone asks you to pay money for a scholarship application, it is likely a scam. Always apply through official scholarship websites.

Can I apply for more than one scholarship at the same time?

Yes. You are encouraged to apply for multiple scholarships to increase your chances of success. Just make sure you meet the eligibility requirements and tailor each application to the specific program.

Conclusion

Studying abroad is no longer just a dream for wealthy families. With fully funded scholarships like Chevening, Commonwealth, and Queen Elizabeth programs, Nigerian students now have real opportunities to study in the UK without worrying about money.

The key is to start early, stay informed, and submit strong applications. If others are winning these scholarships, you can too. Prepare yourself, take action today, and you could be one of the successful scholars heading abroad in the 2026–2027 academic session.