Studying in Europe is a dream for many Nigerian students, especially for postgraduate programs. The continent is home to some of the world’s best universities, and many offer scholarships specifically aimed at international students, including those from Nigeria.
These scholarships can significantly reduce the financial burden and make studying abroad more accessible. In this blog post, I’ll explore 10 of the top scholarship opportunities available for Nigerian students looking to pursue postgraduate studies in Europe in 2024.
Erasmus Mundus Joint Master Degree Scholarships
The Erasmus Mundus program is one of the most prestigious scholarship schemes in Europe, offering fully-funded scholarships to students from all over the world, including Nigeria.
It covers tuition, travel, and living expenses for students enrolled in a range of master’s programs in different European universities.
Eligibility: Open to students worldwide.
Coverage: Full tuition, travel, and monthly stipend.
Application: Typically opens around October.
DAAD Scholarships in Germany
The DAAD (German Academic Exchange Service) offers numerous scholarships to international students, including Nigerians, for postgraduate studies. These scholarships cover tuition, living expenses, and health insurance.
Eligibility: For master’s and Ph.D. students in various fields.
Coverage: Monthly stipend, travel, and health insurance.
Application Deadline: Varies by program.
Swedish Institute Scholarships
The Swedish Institute offers scholarships for highly qualified students from developing countries, including Nigeria. The scholarships cover tuition fees, living expenses, and travel grants.
Eligibility: For master’s programs in Swedish universities.
Coverage: Full tuition, living stipend, and travel grant.
Application Deadline: Around January each year.
Chevening Scholarships (UK)
Chevening Scholarships are the UK government’s global scholarship program, funded by the Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) and partner organizations.
The program offers awards to outstanding scholars with leadership potential from around the world to study for a master’s degree in any subject at any UK university.
Eligibility: For master’s degree programs.
Coverage: Tuition fees, monthly stipend, travel costs.
Application Deadline: Typically in November.
VLIR-UOS Scholarships (Belgium)
VLIR-UOS awards scholarships to students and professionals from developing countries to study in Flanders, Belgium. The scholarships are available for master’s and training programs in various fields.
Eligibility: Primarily for master’s students from developing countries.
Coverage: Full tuition, accommodation, and living expenses.
Application Deadline: Varies, typically early in the year.
Eiffel Excellence Scholarship Program (France)
The Eiffel Scholarship, offered by the French Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs, is designed to attract top international students to French institutions for master’s and Ph.D. programs.
Eligibility: For master’s and Ph.D. programs.
Coverage: Monthly allowance, international airfare, health insurance, and cultural activities.
Application Deadline: Around January each year.
Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships
The Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships are offered to foreign scholars and artists from more than 180 countries. The scholarships are aimed at young researchers from abroad who have completed a master’s degree or Ph.D. and want to pursue further studies or research in Switzerland.
Eligibility: Master’s, Ph.D., and postdoctoral students.
Coverage: Monthly payment, tuition, health insurance, airfare.
Application Deadline: Varies by country.
Rotary Foundation Global Grant Scholarships
Rotary Foundation Global Grants support international studies at the graduate level, either for master’s or Ph.D. programs.
These scholarships are aimed at fostering international understanding and friendly relations among people of different countries.
Eligibility: Open to all graduate students.
Coverage: Tuition, living expenses, travel, and supplies.
Application Deadline: Varies depending on the Rotary club.
Orange Knowledge Programme (Netherlands)
The Orange Knowledge Programme aims to contribute to a society’s sustainable and inclusive development. The scholarships are intended for master’s and short courses, focusing on priority areas relevant to the development of the applicant’s home country.
Eligibility: For master’s programs and short courses.
Coverage: Full or partial tuition, travel costs, and living expenses.
Application Deadline: Several rounds per year.
Leiden University Excellence Scholarship (LExS)
Leiden University offers scholarships to excellent students from non-EU/EEA countries enrolling in a master’s degree program at Leiden University.
Eligibility: For master’s degree students.
Coverage: Tuition fee waiver (partial to full).
Application Deadline: February, May, and October.
FAQs On Fully Funded Scholarships for Nigerian Students 2024
How can I increase my chances of winning a scholarship?
Start by thoroughly researching scholarships that align with your field of study and ensure you meet all the eligibility requirements.
Submit a well-prepared application, including a compelling personal statement, and make sure to apply well before the deadline.
Can I apply for multiple scholarships at once?
Yes, you can apply for as many scholarships as you qualify for. This increases your chances of getting funding.
Do these scholarships cover all expenses?
While many of the scholarships mentioned above are fully funded, covering tuition, living expenses, and travel costs, some may only cover partial expenses. It’s essential to read the scholarship details carefully.
By applying to these scholarships, you can take a significant step toward achieving your dream of studying in Europe. Make sure to start your application process early and give yourself enough time to prepare a strong application.