Top UK Scholarships for Nigerian Students in 2026-27

Studying in the UK is a dream for many Nigerian students, but the cost of tuition and living expenses can be a significant barrier. Thankfully, numerous scholarships are available in 2026 that can make your UK study journey more affordable or even completely free.

In this guide, we highlight the top UK scholarships for Nigerian students in 2026, including fully funded and partially funded options for undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral studies.

Why Apply for a UK Scholarship as a Nigerian Student?

• Save thousands of pounds in tuition and living costs

• Study at world-renowned universities

• Gain international exposure and networking opportunities

• Increase your chances of getting a UK student visa with a scholarship

Top Fully Funded Scholarships for Nigerian Students in the UK

1. Chevening Scholarships

• Funded by: UK Government

• Level: Postgraduate (Master’s)

• Covers: Full tuition, monthly stipend, travel, visa, and more

• Eligibility: Bachelor’s degree, 2 years of work experience, leadership qualities

• Deadline: Expected around Nov

2. Commonwealth Master’s Scholarships

• Funded by: Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO)

• Level: Master’s

• Covers: Tuition, airfare, living stipend, and study-related expenses

• Eligibility: Nigerian citizenship, admission to eligible UK universities, and academic excellence

• Deadline: Usually Oct–Nov

3. University of Oxford – Reach Oxford Scholarships

• Level: Undergraduate

• Covers: Tuition, college fees, return airfare, and living costs

• Eligibility: Outstanding academic ability, financial need

• Deadline: November to october

Top Partially Funded Scholarships for Nigerians in the UK

4. GREAT Scholarships – Nigeria

• Funded by: British Council & UK universities

• Level: Master’s

• Amount: £10,000 toward tuition fees

• Participating Universities: University of Manchester, University of Kent, University of Derby, and more

• Deadline: Varies by university

5. University of Dundee – Global Excellence Scholarship

• Level: Undergraduate & Master’s

• Amount: Up to £6,000 per year

• Eligibility: Academic excellence, Nigerian nationality

6. University of the West of England (UWE) Bristol – Chancellor’s Scholarship

• Level: Postgraduate

• Amount: 50% tuition discount

• Requirement: Academic excellence, motivation, and interview

Other UK Universities Offering Scholarships to Nigerian Students

Tips for Applying for UK Scholarships

• Early applications can open as early as August, the year before

• Prepare a strong Statement of Purpose (SOP)

• Get academic and professional reference letters

• Maintain excellent academic records

• Apply to multiple scholarships to increase your chances

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I study in the UK for free as a Nigerian student?
Yes, fully funded scholarships like Chevening or Commonwealth can cover all costs.

2. Is IELTS required for UK scholarships?
Most scholarships require proof of English proficiency. IELTS is commonly accepted, but some universities accept MOI (Medium of Instruction) letters.

3. Can I get a scholarship without work experience?
Yes, undergraduate and some postgraduate scholarships do not require work experience.

4. Are there scholarships for undergraduate Nigerians in the UK?
Yes, options like Reach Oxford and institutional scholarships from the University of Birmingham and Kent are available.

If you’re a Nigerian student planning to study in the UK in 2026, you don’t have to let cost hold you back. Apply for these top UK scholarships, both fully funded and partially funded, to support your dreams of an international education. From the prestigious Chevening and Commonwealth programs to GREAT Scholarships and university-specific awards, there’s an opportunity for you.