If you're a Nigerian student looking to study abroad in Germany, the UK, or top global universities, then these three scholarships should be on your radar:
- DAAD (Germany)
- Chevening (UK)
- PTDF (Nigeria – overseas postgraduate)
These are fully funded scholarships that cover tuition, accommodation, living expenses, and more. This 2025 guide breaks down exactly how to apply — even if it's your first time.
1. DAAD Scholarship – Germany
Who Can Apply:
- Nigerians applying for Master’s or PhD programs in Germany
- Fields: development studies, engineering, public policy, agriculture, health, etc.
- Strong academic background (minimum 2:1 or equivalent)
What DAAD Covers:
- Full tuition (in most public universities)
- Monthly stipend (~€934 for Master’s, ~€1,200 for PhD)
- Health insurance
- Travel allowance
- German language course (if required)
2025 Application Timeline:
- Opens: October 2024
- Closes: January 2025 (exact dates vary by course)
How to Apply:
- Choose an eligible course via the DAAD scholarship database.
- Apply to the university directly (most require pre-admission).
- Create a profile on the DAAD portal.
- Upload required documents:
- CV (Europass format)
- Motivation letter (1–2 pages)
- University certificates + transcript
- Research proposal (PhD)
- Proof of work experience (if applicable)
- Academic references
- Submit application on the DAAD portal before the deadline.
Tips:
- Apply early to both the university and the DAAD portal.
- Highlight how your course will benefit your home country.
- Check if your course is marked as “Development-Related Postgraduate Course.”
2. Chevening Scholarship – UK
Who Can Apply:
- Nigerians with at least 2 years of work experience
- Applying for a one-year Master’s degree in the UK
- Demonstrated leadership or community impact
What Chevening Covers:
- Full tuition for a UK university Master’s program
- Monthly living allowance
- Travel to and from the UK
- Visa and medical testing costs
2025 Application Timeline:
- Opens: August 2024
- Closes: November 2024
- Interview Stage: February–April 2025
- Final Offers: June 2025
- Departure to UK: September 2025
How to Apply:
- Visit the Chevening website and create an account.
- Fill the online application form — include 4 strong essays:
- Leadership and influence
- Networking skills
- Career plan
- Studying in the UK
- Choose 3 eligible UK universities (you must later gain admission to at least one).
- Submit required documents:
- Academic transcript
- Degree certificate
- Two professional references
- Passport or ID
- If shortlisted, prepare for a panel interview at the British High Commission.
Tips:
- Essays must show real-life examples of leadership and impact.
- Focus on long-term goals that benefit Nigeria.
- Pick courses and universities with global recognition and relevance.
3. PTDF Overseas Scholarship – Nigeria
Who Can Apply:
- Nigerian graduates applying for Master’s or PhD
- Must have 2:1 or 2:2 + relevant work experience
- Fields: oil & gas, engineering, environmental sciences, geosciences, and related sectors
What PTDF Covers:
- Full tuition fees
- Flight ticket
- Living allowance
- Health insurance
- Accommodation stipend
2025 Application Timeline:
- Opens: January 2025
- Closes: March 2025
- Interviews & Screening: May – June
- Final Selection: July 2025
How to Apply:
- Visit the PTDF scholarship portal when open.
- Choose a partner university abroad (usually in UK, Germany, France, or Malaysia).
- Upload documents:
- Degree certificate and transcript
- NYSC certificate
- Statement of purpose
- Research proposal (for PhD)
- Academic references
- Take an online CBT test (if shortlisted).
- Attend interview/oral screening with supporting documents.
Tips:
- Prepare for the online test with past questions in your field.
- Choose a course aligned with Nigeria’s development goals.
- Having industry experience adds major points.
Summary Comparison Table
|
Scholarship |
Level |
Host Country |
Covers Tuition |
Living Stipend |
Other Benefits |
|
DAAD |
Master’s/PhD |
Germany |
✅ Yes |
✅ Yes |
Travel, health, language course |
|
Chevening |
Master’s |
UK |
✅ Yes |
✅ Yes |
Visa, flights, leadership dev. |
|
PTDF |
Master’s/PhD |
Various |
✅ Yes |
✅ Yes |
Flights, medicals, CBT test |
Final Tips for Success
- Start preparing early — don’t wait for the portal to open.
- Polish your CV and get recommendation letters ahead of time.
- Practice essay writing — many scholarships are won through your story.
- Always double-check eligibility before applying.
- Don’t recycle one essay for all scholarships — tailor each to the funder’s goals.
Conclusion
Getting a fully funded scholarship to study abroad is not just a dream — it’s a real possibility for Nigerian students in 2025. Whether you're aiming for the UK with Chevening, Germany with DAAD, or international study through PTDF, the process is achievable if you start early and stay organized.
Your opportunity to level up academically, professionally, and globally is just one application away.
