Fully Funded Scholarships for Nigerian Students 2024 Without IELTS

Securing higher education abroad can open many doors for Nigerian students. However, the financial aspect is often a major concern, and many scholarships require high scores in standardized tests like the IELTS. Fortunately, there are several fully funded scholarships available for Nigerian students in 2024 that do not require the IELTS exam, making it easier for students to pursue their studies abroad without worrying about both the cost and the test requirement.

Why IELTS Isn’t Always Necessary

Many universities across various countries now recognize that IELTS is not the only reliable way to assess a student’s language skills. Some universities accept alternative proofs of English proficiency, such as:

English Language Proficiency Certificate: Nigerian students can present a letter from their previous institution confirming that English was the medium of instruction throughout their studies.

Other English Language Tests: Tests like TOEFL or the Pearson Test of English (PTE) are sometimes accepted as alternatives to IELTS.

Interview Process: Some institutions prefer to assess language proficiency through interviews, which can be conducted online or over the phone.

The absence of an IELTS requirement opens up more opportunities for Nigerian students, especially those who may find it difficult to access testing centers or afford the test fees.

Top Fully Funded Scholarships Without IELTS for 2024

Here’s a list of scholarships that Nigerian students can apply for in 2024. These scholarships cover tuition fees, living expenses, travel costs, and other associated expenses, and importantly, they do not require an IELTS score.

1. Turkiye Burslari Scholarships (Turkey)

Turkey offers a range of scholarships to international students, including Nigerians, under the Turkiye Burslari program. This program provides undergraduate, master’s, and PhD scholarships. Students do not need to submit IELTS scores. Instead, they can provide proof that their previous studies were conducted in English. The scholarship covers tuition fees, accommodation, health insurance, and a monthly stipend.

• Eligibility: Open to Nigerian students applying for undergraduate, master’s, and doctoral programs.
• Benefits: Full tuition, monthly stipend, health insurance, accommodation, and round-trip travel expenses.
• Application Process: Apply online via the Turkiye Burslari official website.

2. Chinese Government Scholarships (China)

China has become a top destination for international students due to its affordable living costs and numerous scholarship opportunities. The Chinese Government Scholarship (CSC) is one of the most generous scholarships, available to Nigerian students for undergraduate, master’s, and PhD programs. IELTS is not required if the applicant can provide an English Proficiency Certificate from their previous institution.

• Eligibility: Nigerian students applying for degree programs in China.
• Benefits: Full tuition, accommodation, medical insurance, and a monthly allowance.
• Application Process: Submit applications through the China Scholarship Council website or the Chinese embassy in Nigeria.

3. DAAD Scholarships (Germany)

Germany is known for providing high-quality education at public universities with little to no tuition fees. The DAAD Scholarship is a fully funded program for international students, including Nigerians, pursuing master’s and PhD programs. The good news is that many German universities do not require IELTS for students from English-speaking countries. An English Proficiency Certificate is usually sufficient.

• Eligibility: Nigerian students applying for master’s or PhD programs in Germany.
• Benefits: Full tuition, a monthly living stipend, health insurance, travel allowance, and additional research grants.
• Application Process: Applications are submitted through the DAAD portal.

4. Swedish Institute Scholarships (Sweden)

The Swedish Institute (SI) offers scholarships to highly qualified international students who wish to study at master’s level in Sweden. IELTS is not mandatory for Nigerian students, provided they can demonstrate that their previous degree was conducted in English. The scholarship covers tuition fees, living expenses, and travel costs.

• Eligibility: Nigerian students applying for a master’s program in Sweden.
• Benefits: Full tuition, living allowance, health insurance, and travel expenses.
• Application Process: Apply through the Swedish Institute website.

5. Russian Government Scholarships (Russia)

The Russian Government offers fully funded scholarships to international students under the ‘Open Doors’ program, and IELTS is not a requirement for Nigerians. This scholarship is available for master’s and PhD programs. The scholarship covers tuition fees, accommodation, and living expenses.

• Eligibility: Nigerian students applying for master’s or PhD programs in Russia.
• Benefits: Full tuition, living stipend, and accommodation.
• Application Process: Submit applications through the Open Doors Scholarship portal.

6. Hungarian Government Scholarships (Hungary)

The Stipendium Hungaricum Scholarship is Hungary’s most prestigious government-funded program, open to students from Nigeria. IELTS is not required for Nigerian students, and an English Proficiency Certificate will be accepted instead. This scholarship covers undergraduate, master’s, and PhD programs.

• Eligibility: Nigerian students applying for undergraduate, master’s, or doctoral programs in Hungary.
• Benefits: Full tuition, health insurance, a monthly stipend, and accommodation.
• Application Process: Apply through the official Stipendium Hungaricum website.

7. Chevening Scholarships (UK)

While many UK scholarships require IELTS, the Chevening Scholarship offers some flexibility for Nigerian students. Instead of an IELTS score, students may be allowed to present alternative evidence of English proficiency. This fully funded scholarship is available for master’s programs across various UK universities and is one of the most prestigious awards.

• Eligibility: Nigerian students applying for a one-year master’s program in the UK.
• Benefits: Full tuition, living allowance, travel costs, and visa fees.
• Application Process: Submit applications through the Chevening website.

Preparing Your Application

When applying for these scholarships, it’s important to focus on your overall application package, which often includes:

1. Academic Transcripts: Make sure your transcripts are up-to-date and include all necessary stamps and signatures.

2. Statement of Purpose or Motivation Letter: This is your chance to explain why you are interested in the program and how it fits into your career goals. Be sure to emphasize any experiences or skills that make you a strong candidate.

3. Letters of Recommendation: Strong recommendation letters from previous teachers or employers can set your application apart. Choose individuals who know your academic or professional strengths well.

4. Research Proposal (for PhD Programs): If you’re applying for a doctoral program, a clear and well-thought-out research proposal is essential. It should outline the problem you want to investigate, your research methodology, and the potential impact of your work.

Alternative Proof of English Proficiency

In most cases, an English Proficiency Certificate from your previous university will be accepted in place of IELTS. This document should state that English was the language of instruction during your degree. In some instances, a simple interview with the admissions committee or a brief English test organized by the university may be sufficient.

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