Studying abroad is a dream for many Nigerian students. The chance to gain an international education, explore new countries and cultures, and kickstart a global career is an exciting opportunity. However, the high costs associated with overseas studies often put this dream out of reach. This is where scholarships come in.
Scholarships and financial aid programs targeted at international students can make studying abroad possible by covering expenses like tuition, housing, flights, and living costs. With proper planning and targeting of relevant scholarships, Nigerian students can turn their aspirations of international education into reality.
This comprehensive guide provides Nigerian students and their families with a roadmap for securing funding to study abroad. We’ll explain the immense benefits of overseas studies, popular destinations for Nigerian students, top scholarship programs, how to build a strong application, and tips for visa preparation and transitioning to life in another country.
Let’s get started!
Also Read: How to Stand Out and Win a Prestigious Shell or ExxonMobil Scholarship
What are the Benefits of Studying Abroad for Nigerian Students
Studying overseas delivers life-changing experiences and long-term career impacts that are hard to replicate in Nigeria. The benefits Nigerian students can gain include:
1. Access to World-Class Universities and Programs
Studying abroad provides opportunities to earn degrees from many of the world’s top-ranked universities in the US, UK, Canada, Europe, Australia, and Asia. Nigerian students can access specialized programs and cutting-edge research not available at home. These globally-recognized credentials and networks are invaluable.
2. Development of Global Perspectives and Cross-Cultural Skills
Nigerian students gain more open-minded and adaptable worldviews by living, studying, and interacting with people from vastly different backgrounds. The cross-cultural communication and problem-solving skills gained are a huge asset.
3. Improved Employability and Career Prospects
International students are highly attractive to multinational companies and global organizations. Overseas studies signal ambition and exotic experiences that help Nigerian graduates stand out.
4. Opportunity for Immigration and Global Mobility
Degree programs abroad can be pathways to skilled immigration in technologically advanced nations. Graduates gain easier access to work visa schemes and post-study work rights for global career development.
5. Financial Aid and Cost Savings
Major financial aid and scholarship opportunities for international students help lower costs. Also, countries like Germany, Norway, and others offer free or very low-cost tuition at public universities, saving tremendously on degrees.
6. Personal Growth and Independence
Studying abroad accelerates maturity and self-confidence by pushing students outside their comfort zones. Nigerians develop problem-solving skills and learn to thrive in new environments.
Clearly, the incredible academic, career, financial, and personal benefits make overseas studies a wise investment for many Nigerian students.
Next, let’s explore the top destinations and scholarship options.
Some Popular Destinations for Nigerians Studying Overseas
Nigerian students have many great study-abroad locations to choose from. Some top destinations and their key advantages include:
United Kingdom
The UK has historically been Nigerians’ leading overseas study choice due to colonial-era ties, prestigious universities, and English language advantage. With world-class universities like Oxford, Cambridge, Imperial College London, and more, the UK offers cutting-edge programs in fields like engineering, business, law, and medicine. The UK also has relatively easy post-study work and immigration routes.
United States
The US is the current top destination for Nigerian students abroad, hosting over 13,000 in 2020/21. Top schools like MIT, Harvard, Stanford, and others lead globally in research output, education quality, and brand prestige. Nigerians can access extensive scholarships and financial aid. The US also provides practical training and work opportunities during and after study. Visa challenges exist, but the US remains highly appealing.
Canada
Canada has rapidly grown as a study destination for Nigerians. Apart from English fluency, Canada provides affordable tuition relative to the UK and US, along with flexible post-graduation work and permanent residency policies for international students. The top Canadian universities provide high-quality education and research facilities across STEM, business, social sciences, and more.
Australia
With multiple scholarships and affordable living costs, Australia is attracting growing numbers of Nigerian students. Australia provides proximity to the Asia-Pacific region and a temperate climate. Mining, mineral extraction, and marine engineering programs cater to Nigeria’s economy. Top schools like ANU, Melbourne, Monash, and Sydney draw Nigerian students in business, IT, biotech, healthcare, and more.
Germany
Germany has world-class universities with little to no tuition fees, even for international students. Excellence in engineering and technology programs makes Germany a leading study destination for Nigerians. Germany offers post-study visas and work pathways in its advanced manufacturing and tech economy. Top schools include LMU Munich, Heidelberg University, TU Berlin, and more.
France
As a leading Francophone country, France attracts Nigerian students from French-curriculum schools. France offers prestigious institutions like École Polytechnique, HEC Paris, Sciences Po, and more. The cost of living is relatively affordable, and France facilitates immigration for tech professionals after graduation.
China
China is an emerging overseas study choice, with Nigerian students attracted by the unique cultural experience and affordable costs. China powers the world’s second-largest economy and invests heavily in education. Top Chinese universities specialize in technology, engineering, mathematics, sciences, and business. Scholarships like the Chinese Government Scholarship support Nigerians.
Also Read: How to Use Your WAEC Results to Get Scholarships Abroad
How can you Build a Strong Application as an International Scholarships?
With abundant overseas study options, how can Nigerian students maximize their chances of earning those vital scholarships? Here are key tips:
1. Maintain a Strong Academic Record – Scholarship selectors will screen GPAs, standardized test scores, transcripts, and academic honors. High grades in STEM subjects are especially prized.
2. Secure Strong Recommendations – Ask your teachers, counselors, coaches, bosses, community leaders, etc., who can highlight your strengths and potential. Target those who know you best.
3. Demonstrate Financial Need – You need to provide accurate details on your family’s income, assets, and ability to pay overseas tuition. This can give need-based weight.
4. Showcase Extracurriculars and Leadership – Experience in clubs, sports, student government, volunteering, etc., proves well-roundedness and community impact.
5. Tailor Essays for Each Opportunity – Customize how you communicate academic/career goals, leadership skills, and life experiences based on the scholarship provider’s values.
6. Follow Instructions Meticulously – Strictly adhere to word counts, document requirements, deadlines, and application steps to avoid disqualification.
7. Start Your Search Early – Begin identifying and applying for relevant scholarships 12-18 months before your planned enrollment overseas. Don’t miss deadlines!
With attention to these application elements, Nigerian students can submit outstanding dossiers showcasing their worthiness for scholarship investment.
How to Find Scholarships and Financial Aid as International Students
Funding an international education requires creativity and persistence in locating financial aid. Here are fruitful places Nigerian students should look:
1. University Scholarships – Directly contact admissions offices about institutional merit and need-based aid opportunities. These provide large sums that make attending possible.
2. Government Programs – Governments offer scholarships both domestically (Nigerian schemes) and internationally (e.g., Fulbright, Commonwealth). Tap these major funding sources.
3. Companies/Foundations – Corporations like Shell, Visa, Coca-Cola, etc., and foundations like Mastercard, Ford, Gates, etc., run scholarship initiatives.
4. International Organizations – Agencies like the UN, WHO, FAO, AU, ECOWAS, and more have educational scholarship schemes.
5. Professional Associations – Groups like the Institute of International Education and Rotary Club sponsor international study funding.
6. Religious Organizations – Churches, mosques, and religious charities may provide scholarships, especially for theological study.
7. Ethnic/Cultural Groups – Heritage organizations award scholarships to diaspora students studying abroad.
8. Education Fairs/Seminars – Attend local and international education fairs to connect directly with universities and scholarship bodies.
9. Online Scholarship Databases – Platforms like Scholarhips.com and Unigo provide big databases to identify and apply for relevant awards.
The thing is, if you plan early, you can aggressively pursue these avenues and secure the funding for overseas studies.
Also Read: What are the Easiest Scholarships for International Students to Get in Canada?
6 Top Scholarship Programs for Nigerian Students
Some excellent overseas study scholarships for Nigerian students include:
1. Chevening Scholarship – The UK government’s prestigious global scholarship covering all costs for a one-year Master’s degree at any UK university. Extremely competitive.
2. Fulbright FLTA Scholarship – Provides full funding from the US State Department for Nigerians to teach the Yoruba language in US high schools for one year. Includes tuition for a 1-2 year Master’s program afterward.
3. Shell Nigeria University Scholarship – Covers studies abroad in STEM and business fields for high-achieving Nigerian students who are children of Shell employees.
4. PTDF Overseas Scholarship – Nigeria’s government Petroleum Technology Development Fund sponsors hundreds of students annually for oil/gas-related Master’s and Ph.D. studies overseas.
5. ExxonMobil Nigeria National Merit Scholarship – Prestigious award covering postgraduate studies abroad in engineering, geosciences, management, etc.
6. Rhodes Scholarship – All-expenses paid scholarship for Nigerians to pursue a postgraduate degree at the University of Oxford, UK. Extremely competitive.
7. University-Specific Aid – Direct financial assistance for international students offered by institutions like MIT, Harvard, Cambridge, McGill, UBC, Melbourne, etc.
Applying for Visas and Preparing for Life Abroad
Once accepted to an overseas program, Nigerian students should promptly complete their student visa applications required for their country of study. The key steps you have to take include:
- Submitting financial statements proving an ability to cover tuition and living costs.
- Obtaining admission letters from the university.
- Paying required visa processing/application fees.
- Scheduling and passing visa interviews at the relevant embassy.
- Undergoing medical checks and submitting police clearance certificates.
- Applying for campus housing and insurance ahead of time.
To also prepare for a smooth transition after arriving, students should:
- Research the cost of living, transportation, weather, cultural norms, and laws in their destination country.
- Arrange bank accounts and money transfers to pay expenses.
- Ship necessary personal belongings in advance.
- Connect with seniors from Nigeria already studying there.
- Learn key phrases in the local language before arriving.
- Pack funds to cover initial hotel stays, transport, winter clothes, etc.
- Obtain health insurance and vaccinations as required.
Also Read: How to Apply for Canada’s Fully Funded Scholarships in 2023 Without IELTS
Conclusion
Studying abroad is a monumental opportunity for personal growth and career development that Nigerian students should seriously pursue. By targeting diverse scholarship sources early and submitting outstanding applications, Nigerians can secure the crucial funding to realize their dreams of an international education.
With proper planning for visas, travel, and transition to life overseas, students will be set up for an amazing life-changing experience. The investment of time and effort is well worth it for the immense benefits studying abroad provides.
FAQ
What are the best overseas study destinations for Nigerian students?
Some top destinations are the UK, US, Canada, Australia, Germany, France, and increasingly China and other Asian countries. Each location has unique advantages.
What types of scholarships are available for Nigerian students?
There are scholarships offered by foreign governments, universities, foundations, corporations, Nigerian government agencies, cultural/professional groups, and more.
How early should I start applying for scholarships?
Begin your search 12-18 months before starting academic programs overseas, so you have time to meet all deadlines.
What are some tips for a strong scholarship application?
Excel academically, get glowing recommendations, communicate financial needs, highlight extracurriculars and leadership, tailor essays, follow instructions, and apply early.
What steps are required to obtain my study visa after getting accepted?
Typical requirements include financial statements, university admission letters, visa fees, medical checks, police clearance, visa interviews, campus housing/insurance, etc.
