Studying abroad is an exciting opportunity for students who want to gain international exposure, access quality education, and advance their careers. However, the cost of international education, including tuition fees, accommodation, travel, and living expenses, can make studying overseas difficult for many students.
Fortunately, governments, universities, and international organisations offer fully funded scholarships to help qualified international students pursue their academic ambitions without bearing the full cost of studying abroad.
These scholarships may cover tuition fees, accommodation, monthly living allowances, health insurance, travel expenses, and other study-related costs, depending on the programme.
Whether you are planning to study in the United Kingdom, United States, Germany, Australia, Japan, China, or another destination, here are ten fully funded scholarship opportunities worth considering for the 2026/2027 and 2027/2028 academic cycles.
Note: Scholarship eligibility, benefits, and deadlines vary. Some 2026 application rounds have already closed, while several opportunities for 2027 entry are opening or will open shortly. Always check the official scholarship website before applying.
1. Fulbright Foreign Student Program (USA)
«FULBRIGHT FOREIGN STUDENT» DASTURIDA ISHTIROK ETING!
The Fulbright Foreign Student Program is a US government-funded scholarship programme that provides opportunities for international graduate students, young professionals, and artists to study, conduct research, or undertake academic activities at universities and institutions across the United States.
The programme supports international academic exchange and helps participants develop professional and academic skills through exposure to American education and research.
What does it cover?
Depending on the country-specific award, benefits may include:
- Tuition and other approved academic costs.
- Monthly living allowance.
- International travel expenses.
- Health benefit coverage.
- J-1 visa sponsorship.
- Academic and cultural enrichment activities.
Who can apply?
Generally, applicants must hold a bachelor’s degree or its equivalent and meet the academic, professional, and English-language requirements applicable to their country.
Study level: Mainly Master’s and PhD, with some research opportunities.
Application: Selection procedures and deadlines differ by country. Nigerian applicants should consult the US Embassy’s Fulbright information.
Official website: Fulbright Foreign Student Program. New Apply Page+1
2. DAAD Scholarships (Germany)
The German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) offers scholarship opportunities to international graduates, doctoral candidates, and researchers interested in studying or conducting research in Germany.
One of its well-known opportunities is the Development-Related Postgraduate Courses (EPOS) scholarship, which supports qualified professionals from developing countries pursuing selected postgraduate programmes.
What does it cover?
Depending on the scholarship scheme, benefits may include:
- Monthly living allowance.
- Travel allowance.
- Health, accident, and personal liability insurance.
- Study and research support.
- Additional allowances in certain circumstances.
Who can apply?
Eligibility depends on the selected programme. EPOS applicants generally need a relevant bachelor’s degree, strong academic results, and at least two years of relevant professional experience.
Study level: Mainly Master’s and PhD, depending on the scheme.
Application: Applicants must select eligible programmes and follow the individual application deadlines published for each course.
Official website: DAAD Scholarship Database. DAAD+1
3. Erasmus Mundus Joint Masters Scholarships (Europe)
Gallery – i-MESC an Erasmus Mundus Joint Master
The Erasmus Mundus Joint Masters is one of the most attractive scholarship opportunities for students who want to study in multiple European countries.
Funded by the European Union, the programme brings together universities from different countries to deliver joint Master’s degree programmes. Students typically study at two or more participating institutions and may graduate with a joint or multiple degrees.
What does it cover?
Successful scholarship recipients may receive:
- Full participation and tuition-related costs.
- Monthly living allowance.
- Travel expenses.
- Visa-related support.
- Financial assistance for installation and living costs.
Who can apply?
Applicants from all countries are welcome. You generally need a bachelor’s degree or must be in the final year of your undergraduate studies, graduating before the Master’s programme begins.
Study level: Master’s degree.
Application period: Most programmes accept applications between October and January for the following academic year. Individual deadlines vary by course.
Official website: Erasmus Mundus Joint Masters. Erasmus+
4. Commonwealth Scholarships (United Kingdom)
Celebrating 65 years of Commonwealth Scholarships | Print Edition – The Sunday Times, Sri Lanka
The Commonwealth Scholarship Programme provides opportunities for talented students from eligible Commonwealth countries to pursue postgraduate education in the United Kingdom.
The Commonwealth Shared Scholarship is particularly relevant to students from developing Commonwealth countries, including Nigeria. It supports applicants who demonstrate academic ability and the potential to contribute to the development of their home countries.
What does it cover?
Benefits generally include:
- Full approved tuition fees.
- Approved return international airfare.
- Monthly living allowance.
- Warm clothing allowance, where applicable.
- Thesis or study-related grants, subject to the award conditions.
Who can apply?
Applicants generally need:
- Citizenship or refugee status in an eligible Commonwealth country.
- A qualifying undergraduate degree, normally at least an upper second-class (2:1) standard or an accepted equivalent.
- Financial need.
- A commitment to return to their home country after completing their studies.
Study level: Primarily Master’s under the Shared Scholarship scheme. Other Commonwealth schemes also support PhD study.
Upcoming opportunity for Nigerians
The 2027/2028 Commonwealth Shared Scholarship application window is scheduled to open on 10 November 2026 and close on 8 December 2026. The scholarships are for programmes beginning in September/October 2027. Commonwealth Scholarship Commission in the UK+1
Official website: Commonwealth Shared Scholarships.
5. Australia Awards Scholarships (Australia)
Australia Awards students say farewell to UC – University of Canberra
The Australia Awards Scholarships are funded by the Australian Government to support students from eligible developing countries who want to pursue higher education in Australia.
The programme aims to develop professional skills and academic knowledge that recipients can use to contribute to development in their home countries.
Nigeria is among the participating African countries.
What does it cover?
The scholarship generally provides:
- Full tuition fees.
- Return economy-class airfare.
- Establishment allowance.
- Fortnightly living allowance.
- Overseas Student Health Cover.
- Introductory Academic Programme.
- Pre-course English training, where approved.
- Certain supplementary academic and research support.
Who can apply?
Eligibility depends on the applicant’s nationality and country-specific requirements. Applicants must meet the academic, professional, English-language, and other conditions for their country and selected programme.
Study level: Primarily postgraduate programmes, depending on the participating country’s arrangements.
Application period: The 2027 intake application window for Nigeria and other participating African countries ran from 1 February to 30 April 2026 and has closed. Prospective applicants should monitor the official website for the next application round. DFAT+1
Official website: Australia Awards Scholarships.
6. Chevening Scholarships (United Kingdom)
Applications for the UK Government’s Chevening Scholarships are now open to apply – GOV.UK
The Chevening Scholarship is a UK Government-funded scholarship programme designed for outstanding individuals with leadership potential and a strong academic and professional background.
It gives successful applicants the opportunity to undertake a one-year taught Master’s degree at an eligible UK university.
Chevening is particularly attractive to professionals who want to develop their careers, gain international exposure, and build professional networks.
What does it cover?
The scholarship generally includes:
- Full tuition fees.
- Approved return economy-class airfare.
- Monthly living allowance.
- Arrival allowance.
- Departure allowance.
- Certain visa and travel-related costs.
Who can apply?
Applicants generally need:
- Citizenship of an eligible Chevening country, including Nigeria.
- An undergraduate degree that qualifies them for a UK Master’s programme.
- At least two years of qualifying work experience, equivalent to 2,800 hours.
- Three eligible UK university course choices.
- A commitment to return to their home country for at least two years after the scholarship.
Study level: One-year taught Master’s degree.
Application status: The 2027/2028 application round opened in August 2026 and closed in October 2026. Applicants who missed the deadline should prepare for the next application cycle. Chevening+2
Official website: Chevening Scholarships.
7. Türkiye Scholarships (Türkiye)
Türkiye Bursları’na bu yıl 135 bini aşkın öğrenci başvurdu
The Türkiye Scholarships is a government-funded scholarship programme that offers international students opportunities to study at universities across Türkiye.
It is open to students from different countries and provides scholarship options at undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral levels.
One advantage of this programme is that successful applicants receive university and course placement as part of the scholarship process.
What does it cover?
The full-time scholarship generally includes:
- University tuition fees.
- Monthly stipend.
- University accommodation.
- Health insurance.
- Turkish language training for one year.
- One-time flight ticket at the beginning of studies and upon graduation.
Who can apply?
Applicants must meet the programme’s academic and age requirements. The general minimum academic achievement requirements are:
- Undergraduate applicants: 70%.
- Master’s and PhD applicants: 75%.
- Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmacy applicants: 90%.
Age limits also apply, generally under 21 for undergraduate, under 30 for Master’s, and under 35 for PhD applicants.
Study levels: Undergraduate, Master’s and PhD.
Application period: The general application period traditionally runs from 10 January to 20 February each year. Prospective applicants should confirm the 2027 dates when announced. Criteria & Scholarship Programs+2
Official website: Türkiye Scholarships.
8. MEXT Japanese Government Scholarship (Japan)
MEXT奨学金とは？外国人留学生が日本で学ぶための完全ガイド – 大学・専門学校の学費ランキング｜知っておきたい基礎知識と家庭のリアルな声
The MEXT Scholarship is funded by Japan’s Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology.
It provides international students with opportunities to study at Japanese universities and other approved educational institutions.
The programme offers different scholarship categories, making it suitable for students at different stages of their academic journey.
What does it cover?
Depending on the scholarship category, benefits include:
- Full tuition fee exemption.
- Monthly scholarship allowance.
- Round-trip international airfare.
- Preparatory Japanese language education, where required.
Who can apply?
Eligibility depends on the category. Applicants must meet the relevant age, academic, educational, and other requirements. Some programmes also require written examinations and interviews.
Study levels: Undergraduate, Master’s, PhD, teacher training, and other specialised categories.
Application process: Students can apply through the Japanese Embassy in their home country or through a participating Japanese university, depending on the scholarship category.
The 2027 embassy-recommendation cycle has been advertised for selected categories. Applicants should check with the Japanese Embassy in Nigeria for the applicable deadlines and available categories. 日本留学情報サイト Study in Japan+1
Official website: MEXT Japanese Government Scholarship.
9. Chinese Government Scholarship (China)
The Chinese Government Scholarship (CSC) is a scholarship programme sponsored by the Chinese Government to attract international students to Chinese universities.
It offers opportunities across several academic disciplines, including engineering, medicine, business, sciences, technology, and social sciences.
What does it cover?
Depending on the award category, the scholarship may include:
- Full tuition fees.
- University accommodation or an accommodation subsidy.
- Monthly living stipend.
- Comprehensive medical insurance.
International travel expenses should not be assumed to be covered under every CSC award.
Who can apply?
International applicants must meet the academic, age, language, and other requirements for their selected study programme and university.
Study levels: Undergraduate, Master’s and PhD.
2027/2028 applications open
As at 31 October 2026, applications for the 2027/2028 Chinese Government Scholarship have opened. Applicants should consult the Chinese Embassy or their preferred university for the applicable application route and deadlines.
Undergraduate applicants for the 2027 intake must also take the required China Scholastic Competency Assessment (CSCA). Embassy of China in Maldives
Official application portal: Chinese Government Scholarship Application Portal.
10. Gates Cambridge Scholarship (United Kingdom)
Gates Cambridge: Class of 2024
The Gates Cambridge Scholarship is a prestigious scholarship programme funded by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation.
It supports outstanding applicants from outside the United Kingdom who wish to pursue postgraduate studies at the University of Cambridge.
The programme seeks applicants with strong academic records, leadership potential, and a commitment to improving the lives of others.
What does it cover?
The scholarship generally covers:
- The full University composition fee.
- Maintenance allowance.
- One economy single airfare at the beginning and end of the course.
- Visa and Immigration Health Surcharge costs.
- Additional discretionary funding for academic development, family support, and fieldwork, where applicable.
Who can apply?
Applicants must be citizens of countries outside the UK and must apply for an eligible postgraduate course at the University of Cambridge.
Selection is based on academic excellence, reasons for choosing the course, leadership potential, and commitment to improving the lives of others.
Study level: Selected postgraduate programmes, including Master’s and PhD degrees.
Application period: Applications for 2027 entry are submitted alongside the Cambridge postgraduate admission application. International deadlines depend on the selected course, with relevant deadlines including 8 December 2026 and 6 January 2027. Brown University
Official website: Gates Cambridge Scholarship.
Are These Scholarships Available to Nigerian Students?
Yes. Nigerian students can apply for several of the scholarships listed above, provided they meet the relevant eligibility requirements.
Some particularly useful opportunities for Nigerian applicants include:
| Scholarship | Destination | Nigerian applicants |
|---|---|---|
| Commonwealth Shared | UK | Eligible |
| Chevening | UK | Eligible |
| Australia Awards | Australia | Eligible |
| Fulbright | USA | Country programme available |
| Erasmus Mundus | Europe | Eligible |
| DAAD EPOS | Germany | Eligible, subject to course criteria |
| Türkiye Scholarships | Türkiye | Eligible |
| MEXT | Japan | Eligible |
| Chinese Government Scholarship | China | Eligible |
| Gates Cambridge | UK | Eligible |
Eligibility does not guarantee an award. Applicants must meet the individual scholarship’s academic, age, nationality, professional experience, and other requirements. Commonwealth Scholarship Commission in the UK+4
6 Tips for Preparing a Winning Scholarship Application
Securing a fully funded scholarship can be competitive. A strong application requires preparation, proper documentation, and a clear explanation of your academic and career objectives.
Here are six practical tips to improve your chances:
1. Start Your Scholarship Search Early
Do not wait until you receive admission before researching scholarship opportunities. Many scholarships open applications several months before the academic session begins.
Start researching at least 6–12 months ahead of your intended study period.
2. Check Eligibility Requirements Carefully
Before applying, confirm that you meet the scholarship’s requirements, including:
- Nationality and country of residence.
- Academic qualifications and minimum grades.
- Age restrictions, where applicable.
- Relevant work experience.
- English-language or other language requirements.
- Eligible courses and universities.
3. Prepare a Strong Statement of Purpose (SOP)
Your Statement of Purpose should clearly explain your academic background, reasons for choosing the programme, career objectives, and how the scholarship will help you achieve your goals.
For scholarships that assess leadership and community development, explain how your education and experience will enable you to contribute to your community or home country.
4. Obtain Strong Recommendation Letters
Request recommendation letters from lecturers, academic supervisors, or employers who can provide specific examples of your academic abilities, professional achievements, leadership qualities, and suitability for the scholarship.
5. Demonstrate Leadership and Community Involvement
Some scholarship programmes, particularly Chevening and Commonwealth, assess leadership potential and the applicant’s ability to contribute to society.
Include relevant volunteering activities, professional achievements, community projects, research contributions, and leadership responsibilities.
6. Submit Complete Applications Before the Deadline
Prepare your supporting documents early. Depending on the scholarship, these may include:
- Academic transcripts and certificates.
- Updated CV or résumé.
- Statement of Purpose or personal statement.
- Recommendation letters.
- Research proposal, where required.
- English-language test results, where required.
- Passport and other identification documents.
Always follow the official application instructions and submit before the closing date.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Applying for Scholarships
Even academically qualified applicants can miss scholarship opportunities because of avoidable application mistakes.
Watch out for the following:
- Applying without checking the scholarship’s eligibility requirements.
- Submitting the same generic SOP to different scholarship programmes.
- Missing application deadlines.
- Providing incomplete or inconsistent information.
- Failing to demonstrate leadership, relevant experience, or academic motivation.
- Paying individuals who promise guaranteed scholarship awards.
- Ignoring university admission requirements while applying for scholarships.
Remember that legitimate scholarship programmes do not guarantee selection simply because an applicant pays an application or consultancy fee.
Final Thoughts
Fully funded scholarships provide an excellent opportunity for international students to access quality education without having to bear the full financial burden of studying abroad.
Whether you are interested in studying in the UK, USA, Germany, Australia, Japan, China, Türkiye, or elsewhere in Europe, there are scholarship opportunities worth considering at different academic levels.
The key is to identify programmes that match your academic qualifications, prepare your documents early, and submit well-written applications within the required deadlines.
Are you planning to study abroad but unsure which scholarship is right for you?
We can assist you in identifying suitable scholarship and university opportunities, understanding admission requirements, preparing your Statement of Purpose, and managing your university application process.
Contact us today for guidance on your study-abroad plans and take the first step towards achieving your international education goals.
The article reflects scholarship information checked as at 31 October 2026. Recheck individual application portals before publication, particularly the Commonwealth, Chinese Government and Gates Cambridge deadlines. The term fully funded describes the advertised award package, not necessarily every personal expense. Applicants should read each scholarship’s funding conditions carefully.