Are you looking for fully funded scholarships in Canada for Nigerian students? Read along as we explore these opportunities for you.
Canada has become one of the most sought-after study destinations for Nigerian students due to its high-quality education system, multicultural environment, and numerous opportunities for post-graduation employment and immigration. However, studying abroad can be expensive, and many students face financial barriers that prevent them from pursuing their dreams.
Fully funded scholarships provide an excellent opportunity for Nigerian students to study in Canada without the burden of tuition fees and other expenses.
This article explores various fully funded scholarships available for Nigerian students in 2025, their benefits, application requirements, and how students can increase their chances of winning these scholarships.
List of Fully Funded Scholarships in Canada for Nigerian Students 2025
There are various fully funded scholarships available for Nigerian students. These scholarships are categorized into government-funded, university-funded, and private/NGO scholarships.
Let’s take a deeper look into these scholarship opportunities:
Government Scholarships in Canada for International Students
Government scholarships in Canada for international students help cover tuition and living expenses while promoting global education. Programs like the Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships and Emerging Leaders in the Americas Program (ELAP) support academic excellence and cultural exchange.
These opportunities make Canada an attractive destination for students worldwide. Let’s look at some of the important Canadian Government Scholarships available for international students.
Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships
The Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships provide $50,000 per year for three years to outstanding doctoral students. This scholarship is awarded based on academic excellence, research potential, and leadership abilities.
Canada-ASEAN Scholarships and Educational Exchanges
Although primarily aimed at students from ASEAN countries, Nigerian students can also explore similar government-funded opportunities that cover full tuition and living expenses.
Banting Postdoctoral Fellowships
This program supports postdoctoral researchers with a generous stipend, enabling them to conduct high-level research in Canadian institutions.
University Scholarships for Nigerian Students in Canada
Nigerian students dreaming of studying in Canada can benefit from a variety of university scholarships designed to ease financial burdens. Prestigious institutions like the University of British Columbia and the University of Alberta offer scholarships that reward academic achievement, leadership, and community involvement.
These opportunities not only make education more affordable but also open doors to world-class learning and global networking.
Here’s a look at some of the University scholarships available for Nigerian students in Canada:
University of Toronto Lester B. Pearson Scholarship
This is one of Canada’s most prestigious scholarships, covering full tuition, books, incidental fees, and full residence support for international undergraduate students.
UBC International Scholars Program
The University of British Columbia (UBC) offers fully funded scholarships for academically outstanding international students who demonstrate financial need.
McGill University Scholarships for African Students
McGill University provides several funding options for Nigerian students, covering both undergraduate and graduate programs.
Private & NGO Scholarships for Nigerian Students
Apart from government and university scholarships, there are numerous private and NGO-funded scholarships available for Nigerian students pursuing education abroad. Organizations like the Mastercard Foundation, MTN Foundation, and Shell Petroleum offer scholarships that cover tuition, living expenses, and other academic costs.
These programs often focus on empowering students from underprivileged backgrounds, fostering leadership, and promoting sustainable development in Nigeria and beyond.
Here’s a list of private and NGO scholarships for aspiring Nigerian students to pursue their education in Canada:
MasterCard Foundation Scholars Program
This scholarship provides full financial support, including tuition, accommodation, and living expenses, to talented students from Africa, including Nigeria.
Commonwealth Scholarships for Nigerians in Canada
This program covers full tuition, airfare, and a stipend for postgraduate students from Commonwealth countries, including Nigeria.
Pierre Elliott Trudeau Foundation Scholarships
Designed for doctoral students in humanities and social sciences, this scholarship offers generous funding to support research and leadership development.
How to Apply for a Fully Funded Scholarship in Canada
Applying for scholarships requires careful planning and preparation. Below are key steps Nigerian students should take:
- Research Available Scholarships – Understand eligibility requirements, deadlines, and application processes.
- Prepare Required Documents – These include academic transcripts, reference letters, personal statements, and research proposals (for graduate scholarships).
- Meet Language Proficiency Requirements – Many Canadian scholarships require proof of English proficiency through IELTS or TOEFL.
- Submit Applications on Time – Late applications are often not considered, so ensure you submit well before the deadline.
Requirements for Scholarships in Canada for Nigerian Students
Scholarships in Canada have varying requirements, but some common eligibility criteria include:
- Strong Academic Performance – Most scholarships require a high GPA and academic excellence.
- Leadership and Extracurricular Activities – Many programs look for students with leadership experience and involvement in extracurricular activities.
- English Proficiency – While some scholarships waive the IELTS requirement for students from English-speaking countries, others require proof of proficiency.
Top Universities in Canada Offering Fully Funded Scholarships
Several Canadian universities are known for offering generous financial aid to international students, including:
- University of Toronto
- University of British Columbia (UBC)
- McGill University
- University of Alberta
- University of Waterloo
Canada Study Visa for Nigerian Students with Scholarships
Receiving a scholarship is just one step; students must also obtain a study visa. Below are the key steps:
- Apply for a Study Permit – This is required for international students studying in Canada.
- Documents Required – Scholarship acceptance letter, proof of financial support, a valid passport, and medical examination reports.
- Work and Study Opportunities – Students with valid study permits can work while studying to gain experience and support themselves financially.
How to Increase Your Chances of Winning a Fully Funded Scholarship in Canada
If you want to be on a safer side when applying for fully-funded scholarships, follow the guidelines below:
- Apply to Multiple Scholarships – Increase your chances by applying to various funding opportunities.
- Write a Strong Personal Statement and Essay – Clearly highlight your achievements, career goals, and why you deserve the scholarship.
- Get Excellent Recommendation Letters – Choose referees who know you well and can provide a strong endorsement.
- Submit Applications Before Deadlines – Avoid last-minute applications, as they may result in errors or missed opportunities.
Conclusion
Studying in Canada presents a fantastic opportunity for Nigerian students, especially with fully funded scholarships that cover tuition, living expenses, and more. By carefully researching available scholarships, preparing strong applications, and applying early, students can maximize their chances of securing financial aid.
If you are serious about studying in Canada, start preparing today by gathering necessary documents and researching institutions that best match your academic goals. Fully funded scholarships in Canada can help make your dream of studying abroad a reality!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Which Canadian University Gives Full Scholarships to Nigerian Students?
Many universities, including the University of Toronto, UBC, and McGill, offer full scholarships to international students.
Can I Get a Fully Funded Scholarship in Canada Without IELTS?
Some universities waive IELTS for students from English-speaking countries like Nigeria. However, alternative proof of proficiency may be required.
What is the Deadline for Applying for Scholarships in Canada for 2025?
Deadlines vary, but most scholarships have deadlines between December 2024 and March 2025.
How Much GPA is Required for a Full Scholarship in Canada?
Most scholarships require a minimum GPA of 3.5 on a 4.0 scale or its equivalent.