Top Fully Funded International Scholarships for Nigerian Students in 2025

Are you a Nigerian student dreaming of studying abroad in 2025 but worried about the cost? Good news—you’re not alone, and you’re definitely not out of options! Whether you want to pursue your Master’s in the UK, a PhD in the U.S., or research in Japan, fully funded international scholarships for Nigerian students are opening doors to top universities around the world.

In fact, thousands of Nigerian students apply every year, and many succeed with the right scholarship, timing, and preparation. From the prestigious Fulbright and Gates Cambridge Scholarships to the highly competitive MEXT and DAAD programs, these scholarships cover tuition fees, living expenses, airfare, health insurance, and more. Ready to make your academic journey global without breaking the bank? Let’s explore the top scholarships you can apply for in 2025!

Top Fully Funded Scholarships for Nigerian Students

Fulbright Scholarship (USA)

The Fulbright Scholarship is one of the most prestigious and competitive fully funded international scholarships for Nigerian students looking to study in the United States. Administered by the U.S. Department of State and facilitated in Nigeria through the U.S. Embassy and EducationUSA, the scholarship covers everything you need—from full tuition and living expenses to airfare and visa support. It opens doors to top U.S. universities, including Ivy League and top public research institutions. In recent years, over 350 Nigerian scholars have benefited from the Fulbright Program. Following are the key details of Fulbright Scholarship:

Gates Cambridge Scholarship (UK) 

The Gates Cambridge Scholarship is one of the most competitive and fully funded international scholarships for Nigerian students aiming to study in the UK. Funded by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, this prestigious award supports outstanding students from outside the UK to pursue a full-time Master’s or PhD degree at the University of Cambridge.

Each year, around 80 scholarships are awarded, and since its launch in 2000, over 2,000 Gates Scholars from more than 100 countries—including Nigeria. The Gates Cambridge Scholarship not only covers full tuition and living costs but also offers additional grants for academic development, fieldwork, and family allowances, making it one of the most generous scholarships available to international students. Below are the key details of Gates Cambridge Scholarship: 

MEXT Scholarship (Japan)

The MEXT Scholarship for Nigerian students 2025—offered by the Japanese Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science, and Technology (Monbukagakusho) —is one of the most prestigious and fully funded international scholarships for students from developing countries. This scholarship is highly competitive and open to students pursuing undergraduate, master’s, or doctoral degrees in Japan. 

Each year, hundreds of Nigerian students apply, and many are selected based on academic merit, language ability, and a strong research proposal. With zero tuition fees, free flights, monthly living stipends, and even subsidized accommodation, the MEXT Scholarship provides everything a Nigerian student needs to succeed abroad. Below are the key details of MEXT Scholarship: 

Leakey Foundation Research Grants 

If you’re a Nigerian student passionate about anthropology, evolutionary biology, or human origins, the Leakey Foundation Research Grants could be the one for you. These grants are specifically designed to support PhD and postdoctoral research students. The foundation has supported over 700 research projects globally, including several in Africa, where human origins research is especially relevant.  

In 2025, the foundation is expected to award dozens of research grants, with funding amounts ranging from $3,000 to $20,000, depending on the project scope. This is an ideal opportunity if you’re planning fieldwork, data analysis, or lab-based evolutionary research abroad. Following are the key details of Leakey Foundation Research Grants: 

University of Edinburgh Scholarships

The University of Edinburgh offers a range of fully funded scholarships for international students, with a strong focus on Nigerian and African students. Among its most prominent offerings is the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program, which provides comprehensive funding for academically talented students. Since launching the Mastercard Foundation partnership, the University of Edinburgh has supported over 200 students from Sub-Saharan Africa, including dozens from Nigeria. These scholarships aim to empower students by covering not just tuition, but full living costs, airfare, and leadership training opportunities. Following are the key details of University of Edinburgh:

Stanford University Scholarships 

The Knight-Hennessy Scholars Program at Stanford University offers fully funded scholarships to exceptional international students. This is one of the most competitive and prestigious graduate scholarship programs in the world.

Launched in 2018, the program selects up to 100 scholars annually from around the globe. These students represent more than 75 countries, and many are from Sub-Saharan Africa, including Nigeria. Whether you’re aiming for an MBA, MS in Engineering, or a master’s in education, the Knight-Hennessy Scholarship gives you access to fully funded education, plus opportunities for leadership training, global networking, and cross-cultural exchange. Below are the key details of Stanford University Scholarship 

Conclusion 

Studying abroad is no longer just a dream for Nigerian students—it’s a real, achievable goal thanks to fully funded international scholarships in 2025. Whether you’re aiming for the world-class campuses of Cambridge, Stanford, or top universities in Germany, Japan, or Australia, the financial barriers are being lifted like never before. 

Now’s the time to take action: shortlist your programs, prep for tests like IELTS or GRE, and start your application early. And once you’ve secured your spot, don’t forget to plan where you’ll stay. Need help finding safe, student-friendly housing abroad? University Living is here to help you compare, book, and move in stress-free.

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