Fully Funded Scholarships in Europe for Nigerian Students

Studying in Europe is a dream for many Nigerian students, but the high cost of tuition and living expenses often makes it seem impossible. However, fully funded scholarships have made it easier for those who cannot afford these costs to pursue higher education abroad. Several European countries and institutions offer scholarships that cover tuition, accommodation, and even living expenses, making it possible for Nigerian students to study without financial burden.

This article highlights some of the best fully funded scholarships available in Europe for Nigerian students, along with details on eligibility, application processes, and benefits.

Erasmus Mundus Joint Masters Scholarships

The Erasmus Mundus Joint Masters Scholarships are among the most popular opportunities for Nigerian students who want to study in Europe. This scholarship is funded by the European Union and allows students to study at multiple universities across different European countries.

Benefits

• Full tuition coverage
• Monthly stipend for living expenses
• Travel allowances
• Insurance

Eligibility

• Applicants must have a bachelor’s degree
• Strong academic performance
• Some programs may require work experience
• English proficiency (IELTS or TOEFL may be required)

Application Process

1. Visit the Erasmus Mundus catalog and choose a master’s program.
2. Check the specific requirements for your chosen program.
3. Prepare necessary documents such as academic transcripts, recommendation letters, and a statement of purpose.
4. Submit your application online through the program’s official website before the deadline.

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DAAD Scholarships (Germany)

The German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) provides fully funded scholarships for Nigerian students who wish to study in Germany. These scholarships cover master’s and PhD programs in various fields.

Benefits

• Full tuition fees
• Monthly stipend of about €861 for master’s students and €1,200 for PhD students
• Health insurance
• Travel allowance
• Study and research grants

Eligibility

• Applicants must have completed a bachelor’s degree
• At least two years of professional experience (for some programs)
• Strong academic records
• English or German language proficiency, depending on the program

Application Process

1. Search for DAAD-funded programs on the DAAD scholarship database.
2. Gather required documents, including transcripts, CV, motivation letter, and recommendation letters.
3. Submit your application online through the DAAD portal before the deadline.

Swedish Institute Scholarships for Global Professionals (Sweden)

This scholarship is offered by the Swedish government for international students, including Nigerians, who want to study in Sweden. It targets professionals who have leadership experience.

Benefits

• Full tuition fees
• Monthly stipend of SEK 11,000
• Travel allowance
• Insurance coverage
• Membership in a network of global leaders

Eligibility

• Applicants must have a bachelor’s degree
• At least 3,000 hours of work experience
• Leadership experience in an organization or project
• English language proficiency

Application Process

1. Apply for admission to a Swedish university through the University Admissions Sweden portal.
2. Apply for the Swedish Institute Scholarship separately after receiving an admission offer.
3. Submit documents, including CV, motivation letter, and proof of leadership experience.

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Chevening Scholarships (United Kingdom)

The Chevening Scholarship, funded by the UK government, allows Nigerian students to pursue a master’s degree in the UK. It is awarded based on academic excellence and leadership potential.

Benefits

• Full tuition fees
• Monthly living allowance
• Travel costs to and from the UK
• Additional grants for necessary expenses

Eligibility

• Bachelor’s degree with a good academic record
• At least two years of work experience
• Strong leadership qualities
• English proficiency (IELTS may be required)

Application Process

1. Research eligible courses and apply for admission to UK universities.
2. Submit an online application for the Chevening Scholarship through their official website.
3. Provide recommendation letters, essays on leadership and networking experience, and academic documents.
4. Attend an interview if shortlisted.

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Eiffel Excellence Scholarship (France)

This scholarship is funded by the French Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs and supports international students, including Nigerians, for master’s and PhD programs in France.

Benefits

• Full tuition coverage
• Monthly stipend of €1,181 for master’s students and €1,700 for PhD students
• Travel expenses
• Health insurance
• Cultural activities in France

Eligibility

• Applicants must be under 25 years old for master’s programs and under 30 for PhD programs
• Strong academic performance
• English or French proficiency, depending on the program

Application Process

1. Apply for admission to a French university offering the Eiffel Scholarship.
2. The university will nominate selected candidates for the scholarship.
3. If selected, the French government will fund your studies.

Netherlands Orange Knowledge Programme (OKP)

The Orange Knowledge Programme (OKP) provides fully funded scholarships for professionals from developing countries, including Nigeria, to study in the Netherlands.

Benefits

• Full tuition fees
• Living allowance
• Travel expenses
• Insurance

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Eligibility

• Nigerian professionals with work experience in relevant fields
• Employer nomination is required
• English proficiency may be required

Application Process

1. Choose an OKP-eligible program in a Dutch university.
2. Apply for admission and indicate interest in the OKP scholarship.
3. If shortlisted, submit required documents and attend an interview.

Switzerland Government Excellence Scholarships

Switzerland offers fully funded scholarships for Nigerian students pursuing postgraduate studies. These scholarships are available for research, PhD, and postdoctoral studies.

Benefits

• Full tuition coverage
• Monthly stipend
• Health insurance
• Travel allowance
• Housing allowance

Eligibility

• A strong academic background
• Research proposal (for PhD applicants)
• English, French, or German proficiency, depending on the university

Application Process

1. Contact the Swiss Embassy in Nigeria for details on the scholarship.
2. Prepare and submit the required documents, including academic certificates and a research proposal.
3. If shortlisted, attend an interview.

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