UK universities offering scholarships to Nigerian students 2025

Embarking on an academic journey in the United Kingdom is a cherished aspiration for many Nigerian students. The allure of world-class education, diverse cultural experiences, and expansive professional networks makes the UK a top destination for higher education. However, the financial implications can be daunting. To bridge this gap, numerous UK universities and organizations offer scholarships tailored specifically for Nigerian students. This article delves into some of these esteemed scholarships, shedding light on their benefits, eligibility criteria, and application processes.

1. Chevening Scholarships

The Chevening Scholarship stands as a beacon of opportunity for Nigerian students aiming to pursue a one-year master’s degree in the UK. Funded by the UK government’s Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office, Chevening offers:

• Full coverage of tuition fees
• Monthly stipends
• Travel expenses to and from the UK
• An arrival allowance
• A departure allowance
• Cost of one visa application
• A travel grant to attend Chevening events in the UK

To qualify, applicants must:

• Be Nigerian citizens
• Return to Nigeria for a minimum of two years after completing their studies
• Possess an undergraduate degree
• Have at least two years of work experience
• Apply to three eligible UK university courses and receive an unconditional offer from one

Applications for the 2025-2026 academic year are open until November 5, 2024.

ALSO READ: How to Get Admission to UK Universities from Nigeria

2. University of Manchester – Global Futures Scholarships 2025

The University of Manchester extends the Global Futures Scholarships to international students, including Nigerians, commencing their studies in September 2025. For undergraduate applicants, over 100 merit-based scholarships worth £24,000 (£8,000 per year over three years) are available. Postgraduate applicants can access scholarships valued at £15,000, awarded as a discount on tuition fees. Eligible countries include Nigeria, Ghana, Kenya, and others. Applicants must first secure an offer from the university before accessing the scholarship application form.

ALSO READ: Nigerian Government Scholarships for Undergraduate Students: How to Apply

3. GREAT Scholarships

In collaboration with the British Council and the GREAT Britain Campaign, several UK universities offer the GREAT Scholarships, providing £10,000 towards tuition fees for one-year taught postgraduate courses. For the 2025-2026 academic year, participating universities include:

• Keele University
• Sheffield Hallam University
• The University of Manchester
• University of Southampton
• University of Warwick
• University of York
• University of Strathclyde
• University of Kent
• The University of Edinburgh
• University of Exeter
• University of Reading
• Edinburgh Napier University
• Anglia Ruskin University
• University of Surrey
• Lancaster University
• Solent University
• Robert Gordon University
• Royal Holloway, University of London
• City St George’s, University of London

Eligibility criteria include being a Nigerian citizen, holding an undergraduate degree, meeting the English language requirements of the chosen university, and demonstrating interest in the proposed subject area. Application processes and deadlines vary by institution.

ALSO READ: Scholarships for Undergraduate Students in Nigerian Universities

4. University of East Anglia – David Sainsbury Scholarships in Global Plant Health

The University of East Anglia offers the David Sainsbury Scholarships in Global Plant Health, fully funded for students planning to undertake an MSc in Plant Health. The scholarship covers tuition fees, living stipends totaling £33,150, and transportation costs of £4,000. Applicants must first apply and be accepted into the university before being considered for the scholarship. The application deadline is May 31, 2024.

5. University of Edinburgh – Global Undergraduate Scholarships 2025

The University of Edinburgh offers Global Undergraduate Scholarships to Nigerian students applying for undergraduate programs. These scholarships provide up to £10,000 off tuition fees. Applicants need to apply for an undergraduate program at Edinburgh and complete the scholarship application form by the April 2025 deadline.

ALSO READ: Step-by-Step Guide to Getting a Scholarship in the UK from Nigeria

6. University of Oxford – Reach Oxford Scholarships 2025

The University of Oxford’s Reach Oxford Scholarships are available to students from low-income countries, including Nigeria, aiming to pursue undergraduate courses. The scholarship covers full tuition fees, living costs, and one return flight per year. Applicants must apply for an undergraduate course at Oxford and, upon receiving an offer, submit the scholarship application by February 2025.

7. University of Bristol – Think Big Scholarships 2025

The University of Bristol’s Think Big Scholarships are open to Nigerian students applying for undergraduate or postgraduate courses. These scholarships offer up to £20,000 towards tuition fees. Applicants should apply to the University of Bristol and complete the Think Big scholarship application by the March 2025 deadline.

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