Gloria PenAre you a Nigerian student dreaming of studying abroad but worried about the costs? The good news is that you can study abroad with a free visa and scholarship, yes without spending millions on tuition and travel.
Many countries and universities offer full scholarships that cover tuition, living expenses, and even visa fees.
In this post, you’ll learn how to get a free visa and scholarship to study abroad from Nigeria. Even if you want to study in Canada, the UK, Germany, or any other country, this guide will show you the best way to make your dream a reality.
Let’s discuss in detail as you learn all.
Check Also: How to Apply for Scholarships to Study Abroad from Nigeria
What Does a Fully Funded Scholarship Mean?
A fully funded scholarship means that all major costs of your studying abroad are covered for you, like tuition fees, accommodation, living allowance, travel allowance, health insurance, and visa application fees.
Some scholarships also give you extra money for books, research, or even to bring your spouse.
Best Countries That Offer Free Visa and Scholarships to Nigerians
Not all countries offer the same benefits. Here are the top countries Nigerian students can study in with free visas and scholarships:
Germany – Free tuition in most public universities + DAAD scholarships.
Canada – Many scholarships cover visa fees (e.g., Vanier CGS, Lester B. Pearson).
UK – Chevening and Commonwealth scholarships cover tuition, visa, and flights.
USA – Fulbright, Mastercard Foundation, and university-specific scholarships.
Norway – Free tuition + grants available for international students.
Australia – Australia Awards and university scholarships.
How to Get Free Visa and Scholarship to Study Abroad from Nigeria
Below is a step-by-step guide to get free Visa and scholarship to study abroad from Nigeria:
1. Choose the Right Country and Course
Start by asking yourself these questions:
Where do I want to study?
What course do I want to pursue?
Do I meet the academic requirements?
Look for countries you like most that offer free tuition or fully funded scholarships. You can visit scholarship databases like: DAAD (Germany), Scholarships (Canada), Chevening (UK), Mastercard Foundation Scholarships, etc.
2. Search for Scholarships That Cover Visa Fees
Look for scholarships that explicitly mention visa fee coverage, such as:
1. Chevening Scholarship (UK)
2. Erasmus Mundus Joint Master’s Degree (Europe)
3. Fulbright Foreign Student Program (USA)
4. Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship (Canada)
5. DAAD EPOS Scholarships (Germany)
These scholarships usually pay your tuition, cover your living allowance, include health insurance, pay for your visa application and flight, and more.
3. Prepare the Right Documents
To apply for these free visa and scholarships abroad, you will need the following documents:
1. A strong academic transcript.
2. Valid international passport.
3. Admission letter or proof of application to a university abroad.
4. Statement of Purpose or Motivation Letter.
5. Letters of recommendation.
6. English proficiency test scores (IELTS, TOEFL, though some accept WAEC English).
Meanwhile note that some scholarships don’t require IELTS if your previous education was in English.
4. Apply to the School First (or Alongside the Scholarship)
Some scholarships require you to get admission first and then apply for the scholarship. Others, like Erasmus, allow joint applications.
Follow each scholarship’s instructions carefully. Deadlines are strict, therefore you need to be ahead of time.
5. Apply for the Visa with Your Scholarship Award Letter
Once you receive your scholarship letter, use it during your visa application. Many embassies waive visa fees if you’re on a fully funded scholarship. This includes:
a. UK (Chevening)
b. Germany (DAAD)
c. Canada (Pearson, Vanier)
d. USA (Fulbright)
Make sure to also submit your Proof of scholarship, University admission letter, Medical test results (if required), Police clearance (if requested), and Proof of accommodation.
Check: Top Best Automotive Design Schools in Germany
Tips to Increase Your Chances of Getting Free Visa and Scholarship to Study Abroad from Nigeria
Here is what you should do if you’re working to get free visa and scholarships to help you study abroad as Nigerian:
1. Start Early: Begin preparing 6 to 12 months before deadlines. Abroad is not Africa where many things is manuover, you need to do the right thing to be able to succeed.
2. Apply to Multiple Scholarships: Yes, the best way to go about it, is just to apply to many scholarships same time, so that if Is didn’t go, Was will go. Don’t rely on just one.
3. Perfect Your Documents: Get help writing a strong personal statement. Ensure you make everything exceptional and enticing, so you don’t get rejected when you apply.
5. Check Eligibility Carefully: Some scholarships are only for specific courses or levels. Hence be very sure to read instructions carefully before you start application.
6. Practice for Interviews: Some scholarships, like Chevening, require an interview. Make sure to prepare well and speak confidently.
Read Also: Top Best Music Schools in Germany
FAQs for How to Get Free Visa and Scholarship to Study Abroad from Nigeria
Here are questions other students like you are asking about free Visa and scholarship to study abroad from Nigeria and their answers that might help your search as well:
Q1. Can I study abroad for free from Nigeria?
Yes, if you win a fully funded scholarship, you can study without paying tuition, visa fees, or even accommodation.
Q2. Do I need IELTS to apply for scholarships?
Not always. Some scholarships accept WAEC English results, especially if your studies were in English.
Q3. Can I apply for scholarships without admission?
Some allow it, while others require proof of admission first. It recommended you always check the guidelines before you apply.
Q4. Is there an age limit for study abroad scholarships?
Most scholarships have age limits. It’s usually 18 to 35 for Master’s, and 40 or below for PhDs.
Q5. When is the best time to apply?
The best time to apply for scholarship is between September and February, as that’s when most scholarship portals are open.
Final Words
Getting a free visa and scholarship to study abroad from Nigeria is not just a dream, it’s a goal you can achieve with the right information and preparation.
Note that scholarships don’t just reduce your costs; they open doors to world-class education, professional networks, and brighter career opportunities.
So start now, start early, stay committed, and don’t give up, lots of good opportunities are out there waiting for you to try first.
Good luck!
And remember to share this insightful and helpful post with your friends and family.
Gloria Pen