Securing a scholarship to get in the UK as a Nigerian can be a game-changer for students seeking to further their education abroad without the burden of hefty tuition fees. The UK offers a wide range of scholarships specifically designed to attract international students and some of these scholarships are particularly accessible to Nigerians.
Scholarships such as the Commonwealth Shared Scholarship and Chevening Scholarships not only target academic achievers but also those with leadership potential and a vision for contributing to the development of Nigeria. These scholarships prioritize financial need and leadership qualities, making them easier to obtain compared to more academically competitive awards. Understanding the eligibility criteria and tailoring your application to align with the values of these programs can significantly improve your chances of success.
Moreover, many UK universities offer scholarships that are easier for Nigerian students to access due to lower applicant numbers or simpler application processes. University-specific scholarships such as the University of Sussex Chancellor’s International Scholarship or the GREAT Scholarships focus on personal essays and clear articulation of academic and career goals.
These scholarships value well-rounded candidates who show a genuine commitment to using their education for positive change, both in their home country and globally. For Nigerians, the easiest scholarships often lie in demonstrating financial need, strong personal motivation and a clear vision for how studying in the UK will impact their future and their community back home.
Scholarships Available
There are numerous scholarships available in the UK for Nigerian students, but not all of them are easy to get. Some scholarships require academic excellence, while others focus on leadership, community service or specific fields of study. To simplify the process, we’ve categorized the scholarships into a few broad types:
- Merit-Based Scholarships: These scholarships are awarded based on academic achievements and are often competitive.
- Need-Based Scholarships: Designed for students who demonstrate financial need.
- Subject-Specific Scholarships: Scholarships tied to a specific field, such as engineering or healthcare.
- Government Scholarships: Provided by the UK or Nigerian governments.
- University Scholarships: Offered directly by universities and often easier to obtain compared to government or global scholarships.
Let’s delve into the specific scholarships that are the easiest to secure as a Nigerian student.
Commonwealth Shared Scholarship
What is it?
The Commonwealth Shared Scholarship is one of the easiest scholarships for Nigerians to get in the UK. It’s funded by the UK Department for International Development (DFID) and targeted at students from developing countries, including Nigeria. The scholarship is designed for those who would not otherwise be able to study in the UK.
Eligibility:
To qualify for the Commonwealth Shared Scholarship, you must be a Nigerian citizen and have been accepted into a UK university. Your course must be related to sustainable development, such as science and technology, healthcare or economic growth.
Why it’s Easy to Get:
Unlike many scholarships that focus primarily on academic excellence, the Commonwealth Shared Scholarship is more accessible because it focuses on financial need. If you meet the basic eligibility criteria and can demonstrate financial hardship, you stand a strong chance of securing this scholarship.
Pro Tip:
Make sure your application highlights your passion for the subject and how studying in the UK will help you contribute to Nigeria’s development upon returning home. It’s also critical to demonstrate your financial need clearly.
Chevening Scholarships
What is it?
The Chevening Scholarship is a highly prestigious UK government scholarship that attracts thousands of applications from around the world each year. However, it’s surprisingly accessible to Nigerians due to the high number of awards available for applicants from Nigeria.
Eligibility:
To qualify, you must be a Nigerian citizen and have completed at least two years of work experience. You also need to secure admission to a UK university before applying for Chevening.
Why it’s Easy to Get:
Despite its prestigious reputation, Chevening is easier to get than you might think, primarily because the program values leadership potential and your commitment to driving change in Nigeria. The key is in the personal essays, where you need to demonstrate how your chosen course aligns with Nigeria’s development needs and how you will use your degree to make a difference back home.
Pro Tip:
Focus on showcasing your leadership skills in your essays and highlight any initiatives you have led or been part of. While academic excellence is important, Chevening is looking for well-rounded individuals who are future leaders.
University-Specific Scholarships
Many UK universities offer scholarships that are exclusively available to international students, including Nigerians. These scholarships are often easier to secure because they don’t have as many applicants compared to national or global scholarships.
University of Sussex Chancellor’s International Scholarship
What is it?
This scholarship is available to international students at the University of Sussex and Nigerians have historically had strong success with this particular award.
Eligibility:
You must have been offered a place to study at the University of Sussex and demonstrate academic excellence.
Why it’s Easy to Get:
This scholarship is much easier to secure compared to government scholarships because the pool of applicants is smaller. Additionally, the application process is straightforward, focusing on your academic records and your personal motivation to study at Sussex.
Pro Tip:
Make your application stand out by connecting your past achievements with the specific program you’ve chosen. Showing that your academic and career goals align with what the University of Sussex offers can give you a significant edge.
GREAT Scholarships
What is it?
GREAT Scholarships are funded by the British Council and are available to students from certain countries, including Nigeria. The scholarship covers a portion of tuition fees and is available for a range of subjects.
Eligibility:
To apply, you must have an offer from a UK university participating in the GREAT Scholarships program.
Why it’s Easy to Get:
This scholarship is relatively easy to secure because the criteria aren’t overly restrictive and a wide range of universities and courses are eligible. Moreover, the scholarship values a strong personal statement, making it accessible to applicants who can clearly articulate their academic and career ambitions.
Pro Tip:
A compelling personal statement is critical. Use your essay to tell a story about your passion for your chosen field and how this scholarship will help you achieve your long-term goals. Make sure your application emphasizes how you plan to give back to Nigeria after your studies.
Clarendon Fund Scholarships at the University of Oxford
What is it?
The Clarendon Fund provides scholarships to international students at the University of Oxford. While Oxford is notoriously competitive, the Clarendon Fund is one of the easiest ways for Nigerian students to study at Oxford, as it’s open to applicants from all backgrounds and is based primarily on academic merit.
Eligibility:
You must have applied for and received an offer to study at the University of Oxford.
Why it’s Easy to Get:
What makes this scholarship easier to get is that there are no additional application forms—if you apply to Oxford and meet the criteria, you’re automatically considered for the Clarendon Fund. This streamlines the process and removes many of the barriers often associated with scholarship applications.
Pro Tip:
Since the scholarship is based on academic merit, ensure that your Oxford application is as strong as possible. Focus on your academic achievements, but also emphasize your future goals and how an Oxford education will help you contribute to Nigeria.
The Nigerian Law School Scholarships
What is it?
Nigerian students interested in studying law in the UK may find the Nigerian Law School Scholarships an easy opportunity to pursue further legal studies. These scholarships are specifically for Nigerian law graduates and are aimed at increasing the number of Nigerians who can practice internationally.
Eligibility:
You need to have completed your law degree in Nigeria and be accepted into a UK law program.
Why it’s Easy to Get:
Because this scholarship is specifically tailored for Nigerian law students, the competition is smaller compared to broader scholarship programs. It’s targeted at increasing the number of Nigerian legal professionals with international qualifications, making it a more focused and accessible option.
Pro Tip:
When applying, focus on how studying law in the UK will help you bring back skills to improve Nigeria’s legal system. Show that you’re committed to making an impact both in the UK and at home.
Tips to Make Your Application Stand Out
Getting a scholarship isn’t just about meeting the minimum criteria—you also need to make your application stand out. Here are some tips to improve your chances:
- Start Early: The earlier you start, the more time you’ll have to prepare a strong application.
- Tailor Each Application: Don’t send the same application to multiple scholarships. Tailor each one to reflect the specific goals of the scholarship program.
- Showcase Your Leadership: Many scholarships, particularly Chevening and Commonwealth, prioritize leadership. Demonstrate how you’ve taken initiative in your community, work or school.
- Focus on Your Essays: Scholarships often come down to how well you tell your story in your personal statement. Be clear, concise and passionate about your goals.
- Get Strong References: A recommendation from someone who knows your strengths can give your application a major boost.
Securing the easiest scholarship in the UK as a Nigerian is achievable if you know where to look and how to prepare. By focusing on scholarships that align with your strengths, leveraging personal stories and following the tips laid out in this guide, you can greatly increase your chances of success. Always remember that the key is persistence—don’t get discouraged by rejections, but instead use them to improve your next application.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to have excellent grades to get a scholarship in the UK?
While strong academic performance is often beneficial, many scholarships such as the Commonwealth Shared Scholarship prioritize financial need and leadership potential over academic excellence, making it accessible to a wider range of students.
Can I apply for more than one scholarship at the same time?
Yes, you can apply for multiple scholarships as long as you meet the eligibility criteria for each one. This increases your chances of securing funding.
Are there scholarships for specific fields of study in the UK?
Yes, many scholarships are subject-specific. For instance, the Commonwealth Shared Scholarship focuses on courses related to sustainable development, while others like the Clarendon Fund at Oxford are available for various academic disciplines.
What documents do I need to apply for a scholarship in the UK?
Typically, you will need academic transcripts, a personal statement, letters of recommendation, proof of English proficiency and evidence of financial need. Each scholarship may have specific requirements, so it’s essential to review them carefully.
How can I make my scholarship application stand out?
Focus on crafting a compelling personal statement that showcases your leadership potential, your passion for your chosen field of study and how your education in the UK will help you contribute to Nigeria’s development. Tailoring your application to each scholarship program is crucial.
Do I need to secure admission to a UK university before applying for a scholarship?
For most scholarships, including Chevening and university-specific scholarships like the University of Sussex Chancellor’s International Scholarship, you must first receive an offer of admission before applying for the scholarship.
Are there scholarships that cover all expenses, including tuition and living costs?
Yes, full scholarships like the Commonwealth Shared Scholarship and Chevening Scholarships often cover tuition fees, living costs, airfare and other essential expenses.
Is work experience required for any UK scholarships?
Some scholarships, like the Chevening Scholarship, require applicants to have at least two years of work experience. However, many other scholarships do not have this requirement.
How competitive are scholarships for Nigerian students in the UK?
While UK scholarships are competitive, there are a significant number of scholarships specifically allocated for Nigerian and other international students, increasing the likelihood of success if you meet the eligibility criteria and submit a strong application.
Leave a Reply