Studying in the United Kingdom is one of the biggest dreams for many Nigerians. The UK is known for its world-class education, global recognition, and opportunities for career growth after graduation. However, the cost of studying abroad, tuition, accommodation, and living expenses can make it seem impossible for many families.
The good news is that several universities in the UK offer free scholarships for Nigerians every year. These scholarships help students study at top institutions without worrying about financial stress. Some cover full tuition, while others include living costs, travel expenses, and even monthly stipends.
In this article, we will explore the top universities in the UK that offer free scholarships for Nigerians, the types of scholarships available, how to apply successfully, and what you can do to increase your chances of getting selected.
Whether you are a secondary school graduate, undergraduate, or postgraduate student, this detailed guide will show you practical steps to make your UK study dream come true.
Understanding UK Scholarships for Nigerians
Before listing the universities, it is important to understand how scholarships work in the UK.
What Is a Scholarship?
A scholarship is financial aid given to students to help cover the cost of their education. Unlike loans, scholarships do not need to be repaid. They are awarded based on different criteria such as academic performance, financial need, leadership, or specific talents.
Types of Scholarships in the UK
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Fully Funded Scholarships:
These cover all your study expenses, including tuition fees, living allowance, travel cost, and sometimes health insurance. -
Partially Funded Scholarships:
These cover only a portion of your study cost, such as tuition or accommodation. -
Merit-Based Scholarships:
Awarded to students with strong academic performance or exceptional leadership skills. -
Need-Based Scholarships:
For students from low-income backgrounds who cannot afford tuition fees. -
Country-Specific Scholarships:
These are designed for students from specific countries, including Nigeria.
Top Universities in the UK That Offer Free Scholarships for Nigerians (2025)
1. University of Oxford
The University of Oxford is one of the oldest and most prestigious universities in the world. It offers several scholarships for international students, including Nigerians.
Popular Scholarships for Nigerians at Oxford:
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Reach Oxford Scholarship: Designed for students from developing countries, including Nigeria. It covers tuition, living expenses, and return flights.
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Clarendon Fund Scholarship: A fully funded scholarship for graduate students based on academic excellence.
Benefits:
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100% tuition coverage
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Monthly living allowance
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Airfare and accommodation
2. University of Cambridge
The University of Cambridge provides many scholarship opportunities through colleges and partner organizations.
Notable Scholarships:
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Gates Cambridge Scholarship: Fully funded for master’s and PhD students. It covers all study and living costs.
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Cambridge Trust Scholarship: Open to students from Commonwealth countries, including Nigeria.
Benefits:
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Full tuition
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Travel costs
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Annual maintenance allowance
3. University of Edinburgh
The University of Edinburgh supports Nigerian students through fully and partially funded scholarships.
Scholarships Available:
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Edinburgh Global Undergraduate Scholarships
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Edinburgh Global Online Learning Scholarships (for distance learning)
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Commonwealth Shared Scholarship Scheme
Benefits:
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Full tuition fee waiver
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Access to top research facilities
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Post-study career opportunities
4. University of Manchester
The University of Manchester offers a variety of scholarships targeted at students from Africa and developing nations.
Available Scholarships:
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Global Futures Scholarship
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Equity and Merit Scholarships for master’s students from Nigeria and other African countries.
Benefits:
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Tuition and travel cost covered
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Stipend for accommodation
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Internship and employment opportunities after study
5. University of Nottingham
University of Nottingham is known for its Developing Solutions Scholarship, created specifically for students from Africa and other developing countries.
Scholarship Benefits:
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Up to 100% tuition fee coverage
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Access to entrepreneurship training and skill-building programs
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Opportunity for part-time jobs on campus
6. University of Glasgow
The University of Glasgow provides a variety of fully funded scholarships for Nigerian students at both undergraduate and postgraduate levels.
Scholarships Include:
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Glasgow International Leadership Scholarship
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Commonwealth Shared Scholarship
Benefits:
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Tuition and living costs
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Access to mentorship and research networks
7. University of Birmingham
This university offers the University of Birmingham Global Masters Scholarship, available for students from Nigeria and other African countries.
Benefits:
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Partial to full tuition coverage
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Opportunity to work part-time
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Access to professional development programs
8. University of Sussex
University of Sussex is popular for the Chancellor’s International Scholarship and the Sussex Nigeria Scholarship for outstanding students.
Benefits:
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Up to 100% tuition fee waiver
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Exposure to research and innovation opportunities
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Networking with international students
9. University College London (UCL)
UCL offers various scholarships that Nigerian students can apply for, including the UCL Global Undergraduate Scholarship and the Denys Holland Scholarship.
Benefits:
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Full or partial tuition
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Annual maintenance allowance
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Career support after graduation
10. University of Leeds
The University of Leeds provides the Africa Scholarship Programme and the Leeds University Business School Scholarships for postgraduate students.
Benefits:
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Tuition coverage
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Monthly stipends
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Access to research assistant roles
Comparison Table: UK Universities Offering Free Scholarships for Nigerians
| University Name | Scholarship Name | Coverage | Eligible Level | Special Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| University of Oxford | Reach Oxford, Clarendon Fund | Full | UG & PG | Return flight + Stipend |
| University of Cambridge | Gates Cambridge, Cambridge Trust | Full | PG | Leadership training |
| University of Edinburgh | Global & Commonwealth | Partial/Full | UG & PG | Distance learning option |
| University of Manchester | Global Futures, Equity & Merit | Full | PG | Work placement support |
| University of Nottingham | Developing Solutions | Up to 100% | PG | Entrepreneurship training |
| University of Glasgow | Leadership & Commonwealth | Full | UG & PG | Mentorship programs |
| University of Birmingham | Global Masters | Partial/Full | PG | Part-time job support |
| University of Sussex | Chancellor’s, Nigeria Scholarship | Full | UG & PG | Research exposure |
| University College London | Global Undergraduate, Denys Holland | Partial/Full | UG | Career mentorship |
| University of Leeds | Africa Programme | Full | PG | Research roles |
Benefits of Studying in the UK with a Scholarship
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Global Recognition: UK degrees are respected worldwide.
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Financial Relief: No tuition burden.
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Work Opportunities: Many scholarships allow part-time work.
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Networking: Meet professionals and students from around the world.
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Career Growth: Easier access to international jobs after graduation.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Apply for UK Scholarships as a Nigerian Student
Step 1: Research and Choose a Scholarship
Check the university website or official page for available scholarships for Nigerians.
Step 2: Prepare Your Documents
You will need:
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WAEC/NECO or Bachelor’s degree certificate
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Academic transcripts
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Recommendation letters
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Personal statement or essay
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International passport
Step 3: Meet All Requirements
Each scholarship has eligibility rules such as CGPA, course selection, or country restrictions. Read carefully.
Step 4: Apply Early
UK scholarships are very competitive. Submit applications months before the deadline.
Step 5: Prepare for Interviews
Some scholarships include online or in-person interviews. Be ready to talk about your goals and leadership skills.
Challenges and How to Overcome Them
| Challenge | Solution |
|---|---|
| High competition | Apply early and submit strong essays |
| Limited slots | Apply to multiple universities |
| Visa delays | Apply for student visa on time |
| Proof of funds | Some fully funded scholarships remove this requirement |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What are the best UK universities offering free scholarships for Nigerians?
Oxford, Cambridge, Manchester, Nottingham, and Edinburgh are top choices.
2. Are UK scholarships fully funded?
Yes, many are fully funded, covering tuition, living, and travel expenses.
3. Can undergraduate Nigerians apply?
Yes. Some universities like Oxford and UCL offer undergraduate scholarships.
4. Do I need IELTS to apply?
Most universities require IELTS, but some accept WAEC English results as proof.
5. How can I increase my chances of getting selected?
Maintain high grades, write strong essays, and apply early.
6. Can I work while studying in the UK?
Yes. Students can work up to 20 hours per week during the semester.
7. Do UK scholarships require repayment?
No, scholarships are financial aid and do not need repayment.
8. Are scholarships available for MBA students?
Yes, universities like Leeds and Birmingham offer MBA scholarships.
9. When should I apply?
Applications usually open between September and March.
10. Can I apply for more than one scholarship?
Yes, as long as you meet the eligibility criteria for each.
Conclusion
Studying in the United Kingdom is a dream that can come true for Nigerian students through scholarships. These scholarships not only remove financial barriers but also open doors to quality education, global exposure, and career success.
Whether you choose Oxford, Cambridge, Manchester, or any other UK university, what matters most is preparation, determination, and early application.
If you stay focused, meet all requirements, and apply strategically, your journey to a UK degree with a full scholarship can become a reality.