How to apply for a scholarship in the UK from Nigeria

Studying in the UK is a dream come true for many Nigerian students, there are more opportunities for career growth in the UK than you have here in Nigeria.

The quality of education and exposure to different cultures is also another reason.

However, one of the major barriers for most students is the financial demand.

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The cost of studying in the UK is too high, you have to handle tuition fees, accommodation, travel expenses, and other minor expenses.

Not many Nigerians can afford these fees, thankfully, UK institutions offer scholarships to international students including Nigerian students.

If you want to study in the UK but can’t afford the fees, you can apply for and get a scholarship to sponsor yourself.

To get a scholarship in the UK, your application has to stand out, it has to meet the needs of the sponsoring bodies.

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This guide will walk you through how to properly apply for a scholarship in the UK from Nigeria.

Getting a scholarship in the UK

Different types of scholarships are available for Nigerian students looking to study in the UK.

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Before you apply for any of these scholarships, you need to know what category of scholarship you are looking at, it helps you understand what the sponsors need from you.

• Government scholarships: These are funded by the UK government or the Nigerian government. Examples include the Commonwealth Scholarship, the Chevening Scholarship, and the Nigerian Government Scholarship.
• Institution-specific scholarships: Many UK universities offer scholarships specifically for international students, including those from Nigeria. These scholarships can be merit-based, need-based, or targeted towards students from specific regions or disciplines.
• Private scholarships: These scholarships are funded by private organizations, foundations, or individuals.

Every scholarship you will be applying for belongs to either of these three categories and each category has a specific application pattern you need to follow.

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How to apply for a scholarship in the UK from Nigeria

To apply for a scholarship in the UK from Nigeria, start by researching the available options.

• Search for scholarships that are currently accepting applications

Once you’ve familiarized yourself with the types of scholarships available, the next step is to search for scholarships that accept Nigerians and are open for applications.

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Here’s how you can do it:

• Use online scholarship databases to your advantage: To search for scholarships, you can use online databases, websites like ScholarshipPortal, Studyportals, and Scholarships.com have comprehensive databases of scholarships available for international students. Use search filters to narrow down scholarships relevant to your field of study and nationality.
• Visit university websites: Another way to find scholarships that are open for application is by checking the websites of UK universities you’re interested in attending. Many universities have dedicated pages listing available scholarships for international students.
• Check government websites: Keep an eye on the official websites of the UK government and the Nigerian government for any scholarship opportunities.
• Network: You can also reach out to alumni, professors, or education consultants in the UK school you are interested in and see if they have any openings available for you.

Aside from these options, you can also use search engines like Google or Bing to search for scholarships in the UK.

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• Check the eligibility requirements

Every scholarship opportunity out there has requirements that you must meet before you can apply.

Here is the thing, if you find a scholarship that is open for application, you have to go through the application requirements, and check if you qualify to apply.

Ensure that meet all the requirements, there is no need to apply for a scholarship if you do not meet its requirements, your application will be rejected.

• Prepare your application materials

Once you’ve identified potential scholarships and you meet the eligibility requirements, it’s time to start submitting your application.

Each scholarship has its application procedure that you must follow. Obey the application guidelines that will be outlined by the organizing body.

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The application requirements also vary between scholarships but you will likely need the following documents:

• Academic transcripts: You may be asked to provide transcripts from your previous educational institutions, demonstrating your academic achievements.
• Personal statement or statement of purpose: You need to write a compelling essay outlining your academic background, career goals, and reasons for applying for the scholarship.
• Letters of recommendation: You should request letters of recommendation from your previous teachers, professors, or employers who can attest to your academic abilities and character.
• English language proficiency test scores: If English is not your first language, you may need to provide scores from tests such as the TOEFL or IELTS.
• Proof of financial need: Some scholarships will require you to provide evidence of financial need, such as bank statements or income certificates.

In addition, make sure that your passport is up to date and be prepared to provide any necessary visa documents if you’re awarded the scholarship.

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For some scholarships, you also need to fill out the application form and then attach these documents to the form.

• Submitting your application

Once you’ve gathered all the necessary documents, carefully review the application requirements for each scholarship and submit your application before the deadline.

Pay attention to any additional instructions or supplementary materials required by the organizing body.

• Follow up and stay organized

After submitting your applications, you can decide to follow up with the organizing body.

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If you’re shortlisted for an interview or if additional documents are needed, respond promptly.

As a Nigerian student who wants to study in the UK, getting a scholarship will be wonderful, it will ease the financial burden of studying in the UK

However, scholarships don’t come easy, you must do thorough research for available scholarship opportunities.

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If you find one, ensure that you meet the requirements before applying ( and make sure you submit your application before the deadline).

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There is no need to apply for a scholarship if you do not meet the requirements, your application will be rejected.