If you’re researching scholarships in UK for Nigerian students, you’re already taking a big step toward making your dream of studying abroad come true. Every year, thousands of Nigerians apply for fully funded or partial scholarships that allow them to experience not just world-class education, but also the vibrant lifestyle, travel opportunities, and cultural diversity of the United Kingdom. In this guide, we’ll dive deep into the most prestigious awards, university-specific funding, and the eligibility requirements you’ll need to prepare for a successful application.
Why the UK Attracts Nigerian Scholarship Seekers
The UK has always been one of the most popular destinations for Nigerians. Here’s why:
- Top-ranked universities: Institutions like Oxford, Cambridge, and Imperial College London consistently rank in the global top 10.
- Strong Nigerian community: From London to Manchester, you’ll find vibrant Nigerian societies, churches, food shops, and student associations.
- Cultural exposure: Studying in the UK means weekend trips to Paris, Amsterdam, or Rome are just a budget flight away.
- Prestigious scholarships: The UK government and top universities fund a wide range of awards that specifically include Nigerian students.
1. National Scholarships in UK for Nigerian Students
These are large-scale, government or foundation-funded opportunities that Nigerians compete for every year. Winning one can completely change your life.
Chevening Scholarships
The Chevening Scholarship is arguably the most famous award for Nigerians heading to the UK.
- Coverage: Full tuition, living stipend, flights, visa fees, and sometimes even allowances for family.
- Eligibility: Applicants must hold at least two years of work experience, strong academic records, and leadership potential.
- Timeline: Applications open around August and close by early November.
- Pro tip: Your essay questions carry heavy weight. Showcase leadership with real examples — volunteer work, business ventures, or professional roles.
Commonwealth Scholarships in UK for Nigerian Students
Funded by the Commonwealth Scholarship Commission, these awards target students from Commonwealth countries like Nigeria.
- Coverage: Tuition, airfare, living stipend, study travel grant, and thesis allowance.
- Focus: Development-related fields — education, healthcare, renewable energy, governance.
- Why it’s great for Nigerians: Many alumni return to Nigeria with advanced skills that lead to leadership roles.
👉 Learn more about Commonwealth Scholarships
GREAT Scholarships in UK for Nigerian Students
Launched by the British Council in partnership with universities, the GREAT Scholarship offers Nigerian students £10,000 toward tuition fees.
- Universities involved: Southampton, Manchester, and Surrey regularly participate.
- Scope: Not fully funded, but significant support for master’s students.
- Tip: Pair this scholarship with university discounts or external funding to cover living expenses.
👉 Explore GREAT Scholarships
Rhodes, Gates Cambridge & Clarendon Scholarships in UK for Nigerian Students
These are the elite awards — extremely competitive but prestigious.
- Rhodes Scholarship (Oxford): Covers tuition, stipends, and flights. Open to West Africans, including Nigerians.
- Gates Cambridge Scholarship: Established by the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation. Funds full PhDs or master’s at Cambridge.
- Clarendon Scholarship (Oxford): Automatically considered for academically strong graduate applicants. Covers tuition and living costs.
2. University-Specific scholarships in UK for Nigerian students
Beyond national awards, most UK universities run their own funding schemes for Nigerian and African students.
University of Manchester — Global Futures Scholarship
- Offers up to £6,000 for eligible Nigerian students.
- Prioritizes applicants in engineering, science, and social sciences.
University of Southampton — GREAT + Vice Chancellor’s Award
- Often combines GREAT scholarships with additional discounts.
- Nigerian students benefit from automatic consideration when applying.
University of Surrey & University of Exeter
- Provide partial tuition awards (£2,000–£10,000).
- Often based on academic merit and motivation.
Pro tip: Always check the university’s “Fees & Funding” page. Many awards are not widely advertised but can save thousands of pounds.
👉 You can also explore our guide on Scholarship For Graduate Student
3. Eligibility, Documents & Application Timelines
One of the most common reasons Nigerian students miss out on scholarships is incomplete or rushed applications. Let’s break it down:
General Eligibility
- Nigerian citizenship (passport or National ID).
- Strong academic record (usually 2:1 or first-class degree).
- Clear career goals aligned with the scholarship’s mission.
- Proof of English proficiency (IELTS/TOEFL, unless your degree was taught in English).
Required Documents
- Academic transcripts and certificates.
- CV/resume (focus on leadership, work experience, volunteer roles).
- References (at least one academic, one professional).
- Personal statement/essay (this is where many Nigerians shine).
- Proof of financial need (sometimes required).
Application Timeline
- Chevening: Opens August, deadline early November.
- Commonwealth: Varies, but often between September and December.
- University awards: Deadlines align with university admission cycles (December–March for September intake).
Pro tip: Start preparing at least 9–12 months in advance. Rushing in the last weeks is a recipe for failure.
4. Why Early Preparation Matters
Take the example of Chika, a Nigerian student who applied for the Chevening Scholarship in 2021. She started her essays in July — months before the official application opened. By the time the portal went live, she had polished essays, strong references, and had already identified her target UK universities. She not only got the Chevening award but also received an offer from Manchester with additional tuition support.
Her story highlights this: scholarships in UK for Nigerian students favor those who prepare early, seek feedback, and network with alumni.
5. How to Apply and Maximize Your Chances
Applying for scholarships in UK for Nigerian students isn’t just about submitting forms — it’s about telling your story in a way that convinces scholarship boards you are the right investment.
Here’s a proven strategy:
Step 1: Research Thoroughly
Don’t just aim for Chevening or Commonwealth because they’re famous. Many Nigerians overlook smaller awards like GREAT or university merit-based scholarships. These often have lower competition and still provide significant financial relief.
Pro tip: Make a spreadsheet with deadlines, requirements, and benefits of each scholarship you’re targeting.
Step 2: Build a Strong Academic + Leadership Profile
Most scholarships want more than grades — they want impact. Nigerian students who get selected often show:
- Volunteering (community work, NGOs, church initiatives).
- Professional growth (2+ years of work experience, even internships count).
- Leadership (student associations, small businesses, mentorship).
Step 3: Master the Scholarship Essay
This is where you stand out. Your essay should:
- Start with a personal story (why you’re passionate about your field).
- Show impact (how you’ve already made a difference in Nigeria).
- End with vision (how you’ll use UK education to solve Nigerian problems).
👉 Example opening line: “Growing up in Lagos, I witnessed firsthand how inadequate healthcare affects daily lives. This inspired my journey into biomedical sciences, and now I seek to gain world-class expertise in the UK to create solutions back home.”
Step 4: Get Strong References
A glowing reference can make or break your application. Choose referees who know you well and can highlight specific achievements. A generic letter is almost as bad as no letter.
Step 5: Ace the Interview
If shortlisted, you’ll be invited for an interview. Common questions include:
- Why this course and university?
- How will this scholarship benefit Nigeria?
- What’s your long-term career plan?
Tip: Prepare short but impactful answers. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result).
6. Understanding Costs of Studying in the UK
Even with a scholarship, you’ll want to know what costs to expect.
Tuition Fees
- Master’s programs: £14,000 – £35,000 depending on subject and university.
- PhD programs: £5,000 – £30,000 per year (some research PhDs are partially funded by departments).
💡 Engineering, Law, and Medicine cost more, while Social Sciences and Arts are generally cheaper.
Living Costs
The cost of living depends on your destination city:
- London: £1,200 – £1,600 per month (rent is the biggest expense).
- Manchester/Leeds/Birmingham: £800 – £1,200 per month.
- Smaller towns like Durham or Lancaster: £650 – £900 per month.
Breakdown:
- Rent: £400–£1,000/month
- Food: £150–£300/month
- Transport: £50–£150/month
- Miscellaneous (phone, books, clothing): £100–£200/month
Visa & Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS)
When applying for a UK Student Visa, you’ll pay:
- Visa fee: About £490
- Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS): £776 per year (gives you access to the NHS).
👉 Check latest visa requirements
7. Visa and Immigration Tips for scholarships in UK for Nigerian students
Getting your visa approved is just as important as winning a scholarship.
Maintain Proof of Funds
Even if your tuition is covered, you need to show bank statements proving you can cover living costs (about £1,023/month outside London, £1,334/month in London).
Apply Early
Student visa applications can take 3–8 weeks, sometimes longer during peak periods. Apply at least 3 months before departure.
Attend Credibility Interviews
Nigerian applicants are often called for credibility interviews. Be honest, confident, and consistent with your documents.
8. Destination Insights — Choosing the Right UK City
Choosing where to study is about more than rankings — it’s about lifestyle, affordability, and cultural fit.
London — Global Hub, High Costs
- Pros: Networking, diverse culture, Nigerian food everywhere.
- Cons: Rent can be double that of smaller towns.
Manchester — Student-Friendly & Affordable
- Pros: Large Nigerian community, cheaper housing, lively nightlife.
- Cons: Rainy weather (pack umbrellas!).
Oxford & Cambridge — Elite and Historic
- Pros: World-class education, strong alumni network.
- Cons: Highly competitive, smaller city life may feel quiet.
Birmingham, Leeds, Newcastle — Balance of Cost & Quality
- Pros: Affordable, multicultural, great job opportunities.
- Cons: Smaller Nigerian communities than London or Manchester.
9. Travel Costs and Student Discounts
As a scholarship student, you’ll want to travel — both inside the UK and across Europe.
- Train travel: A London to Manchester trip costs £25–£50 with advance booking.
- Flights to Europe: With Ryanair or EasyJet, you can fly to Paris or Rome for £40–£80 return.
- Student discounts: Get a 16–25 Railcard (£30/year) for 30% off UK train fares.
Personal tip: Many Nigerian students travel during winter or summer breaks. Budget at least £300–£500 per year for short trips if you want to enjoy Europe while studying.
10. Balancing Scholarship Stipends and Expenses
Let’s say you win the Commonwealth Scholarship:
- Monthly stipend: ~£1,347 (outside London) or £1,652 (in London).
- Rent: £500–£1,000
- Food + bills: £250–£400
- Transport: £100
➡️ You’ll be comfortable if you manage wisely, but remember UK prices (especially for food and winter clothing) can surprise you.
Pro tip: Bring some Nigerian staples (garri, crayfish, dried pepper). Cooking at home saves money and cures homesickness.
11. Travel Blog Insights — Life as a Nigerian Student in the UK
Winning a scholarship is only the beginning. The real journey starts the moment you step off the plane at Heathrow, Manchester, or Birmingham Airport.
For many Nigerians, the cultural adjustment is both exciting and overwhelming. You’ll encounter:
- Weather shocks: The UK is colder than most Nigerian students expect. Even September can feel like “harmattan on steroids.”
- Cultural differences: Punctuality is non-negotiable. Lectures start on time, buses leave on time, and professors expect deadlines to be met without excuses.
- Nigerian communities: Whether you’re craving suya in Peckham, attending Nigerian Society events in Manchester, or celebrating Independence Day in Birmingham, you’ll find a piece of home wherever you study.
12. Packing Tips & Arrival Checklist
Packing for a year in the UK isn’t like packing for a quick vacation. You need to prepare for academics, weather, and life abroad. You can explore our International Travel Packing List
Essential Documents
- Valid Nigerian passport (with visa stamped).
- CAS (Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies).
- Scholarship award letter.
- Academic transcripts and admission offer.
- Accommodation contract (if pre-arranged).
Clothing & Weather Prep
- A good winter coat (if you don’t have one, budget at least £70–£120 to buy in the UK).
- Layers: sweaters, hoodies, gloves, and scarves.
- Waterproof shoes and umbrella — UK rain doesn’t play.
Tech & Gadgets
- Laptop (a must for assignments).
- UK adapter plugs (Nigeria uses Type D, UK uses Type G).
- Power bank for long journeys.
Food & Cultural Comforts
- Dried garri, crayfish, and spices (within airline limits).
- Traditional outfits — you’ll wear them at Nigerian Society events or Independence celebrations.
Pro tip: Don’t overpack. You’ll buy many things in the UK, and excess luggage fees can cost £50–£100 per bag at Nigerian airports.
13. Arrival & First Week Checklist
- Register with the university: Submit documents, collect student ID.
- Open a UK bank account: Most banks will ask for your Biometric Residence Permit (BRP).
- Get a SIM card: Giffgaff, EE, or Vodafone are popular.
- Register with a GP (doctor): Free under NHS once you’ve paid IHS.
- Explore your city: Take a free walking tour, learn bus routes, and check Nigerian shops.
14. Personal Anecdotes — Nigerian Students in the UK
Here are a few stories Nigerian students have shared:
- Ada, London (Chevening Scholar): “My first shock was the rent. Even with a scholarship, finding accommodation under £700/month was tough. But living near Nigerian markets in Peckham made me feel at home.”
- Kunle, Manchester (Commonwealth Scholar): “I underestimated how much it rains. I had to invest in waterproof shoes, but Manchester feels like a second Lagos — vibrant, busy, and full of Nigerians.”
- Fatima, Newcastle (University Awardee): “I packed so much foodstuff that I had to pay £120 in excess luggage. My advice: carry only spices and easy-to-pack items. You’ll find African shops in most UK cities.”
15. Common Mistakes Nigerian Students Make
Even the brightest students sometimes slip up. Avoid these mistakes:
- Applying late: Deadlines in the UK are strict. No extensions.
- Ignoring smaller scholarships: GREAT and university awards are less competitive.
- Overestimating stipends: Even if you win a fully funded award, budget wisely.
- Not networking: Alumni connections can lead to jobs, internships, and mentorship.
16. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Can Nigerian undergraduates get full scholarships in the UK?
A: Rarely. Most full scholarships are for postgraduate studies. However, some universities offer partial discounts for undergraduates.
Q2: Do I need IELTS if my Nigerian degree was in English?
A: Many universities accept a WAEC English credit instead of IELTS. Check each school’s policy.
Q3: Does a scholarship guarantee a UK student visa?
A: No. A scholarship strengthens your application, but the UK Home Office makes independent visa decisions.
Q4: Can I work while studying on a scholarship?
A: Yes, up to 20 hours per week during term and full-time during holidays. Many students work part-time in supermarkets, restaurants, or as teaching assistants. You can check our Study Abroad Jobs For International Student
Q5: What happens if I lose my scholarship?
A: Some scholarships have conditions (maintaining grades or attendance). If withdrawn, you must cover costs yourself. Always read terms carefully.
17. Conclusion
Studying abroad is a dream for many, but scholarships in UK for Nigerian students make that dream accessible. From Chevening to Commonwealth, GREAT to Rhodes, opportunities exist for ambitious Nigerians ready to take bold steps. The key is early preparation, smart budgeting, and embracing the UK as more than just a classroom — but as a gateway to global experiences.
With the right mindset, careful packing, and a willingness to adapt, your scholarship journey can become the adventure of a lifetime.
