ScholarshipmaponlineCanada is an increasingly popular study destination for students from Nigeria. With its globally ranked universities, multicultural communities, and strong immigration pathways, Canada offers both a world-class education and a promising future. However, studying abroad can be expensive—this is where Canadian scholarships for Nigerian students come in.
In this guide, you’ll discover:
- Fully funded and partial Canadian scholarships for Nigerians
- How to apply from Nigeria
- Eligibility requirements
- Canadian institutions offering funding
- Visa and documentation tips
- FAQs and application deadlines for 2025
Why Study In Canada As a Nigerian Student?
- Globally recognized education system
- Post-graduation work permits and permanent residency options
- Safe, inclusive, and multicultural society
- Large Nigerian diaspora across provinces like Ontario and Alberta
- Wide array of scholarships from government, institutions, and foundations
Scholarships can significantly reduce the cost of studying in Canada or cover it entirely if fully funded.
Fully Funded Canadian Scholarships for Nigerian Students
1. Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship – University of Toronto
- Coverage: Tuition, books, accommodation, incidental fees
- Level: Undergraduate
- Eligibility: Outstanding academic achievement and leadership
- Deadline: November 2024 (school nomination required)
2. Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships
- Coverage: CAD $50,000/year for 3 years
- Level: Doctoral studies (PhD)
- Eligibility: Research excellence and leadership
- Deadline: November 2024 via nominating university
3. University of British Columbia (UBC) Scholarships
- Types: International Major Entrance Scholarships (IMES), Outstanding International Student (OIS) Award
- Coverage: CAD $5,000–$30,000
- Level: Undergraduate
- Deadline: January 2025 (automatically considered)
4. York University International Scholarships
- Scholarships: Global Leader of Tomorrow, International Entrance Scholarships
- Coverage: Up to CAD $180,000 over 4 years
- Level: Undergraduate
- Deadline: February 1, 2025
5. Carleton University Entrance Awards
- Coverage: CAD $4,000 – $16,000
- Level: Undergraduate
- Eligibility: 80%+ average in high school
- Deadline: Varies
Popular Canadian Universities That Offer Scholarships to Nigerians
| University | Location | Scholarship Type |
| University of Toronto | Ontario | Fully funded Lester B. Pearson |
| University of Alberta | Alberta | Entrance and Gold Standard Scholarships |
| McGill University | Quebec | Merit-Based Entrance Awards |
| University of Waterloo | Ontario | Master’s & Doctoral Awards |
| Simon Fraser University | British Columbia | President’s Scholarship |
| University of Manitoba | Manitoba | Graduate Fellowships |
| Dalhousie University | Nova Scotia | In-course Scholarships |
Many of these universities offer automatic scholarship consideration upon application.
Eligibility Criteria for Nigerian Students
General eligibility requirements include:
- Must be a citizen of Nigeria
- Have completed WAEC/NECO with high distinction (undergraduate) or bachelor’s (for postgraduate)
- Valid IELTS/TOEFL or equivalent English test
- Strong academic transcripts
- Leadership or extracurricular achievements (for competitive scholarships)
- Valid international passport
Some scholarships may require separate essays, references, or research proposals.
Graduate Scholarships for Nigerian Students
For Nigerian students pursuing master’s or PhD degrees:
- Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships (PhD)
- Trudeau Foundation Scholarships (PhD in social sciences)
- University of Manitoba Graduate Fellowships
- University of Calgary Graduate Awards
- Ontario Trillium Scholarships (PhD students in Ontario)
These cover full or partial tuition, living allowances, and research funding.
Estimated Cost of Study in Canada (Without Scholarships)
| Expense | Yearly Cost (CAD) |
| Tuition (Undergraduate) | $20,000 – $40,000 |
| Tuition (Graduate) | $15,000 – $30,000 |
| Living Expenses | $10,000 – $18,000 |
| Books & Supplies | $1,000 – $2,000 |
| Health Insurance | $600 – $900 |
Scholarships can reduce or eliminate these costs, making education in Canada much more affordable for Nigerian students.
How to Apply for Canadian Scholarships from Nigeria
Step-by-Step Guide:
- Choose a Program and University
Ensure it’s a Designated Learning Institution (DLI). - Check Scholarship Eligibility
Read through admission pages for specific requirements. - Prepare Documents
- WAEC/NECO/Bachelor’s transcript
- IELTS/TOEFL results
- Recommendation letters
- Personal statement
- Valid passport
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Submit Admission Application
This often doubles as the scholarship application for institutional awards. - Apply for External Scholarships
Like Vanier or Commonwealth, through their respective portals. - Apply for Study Permit
Once accepted, use your Letter of Admission to begin your visa application.
Study Permit Requirements for Nigerian Students
To study in Canada, you must apply for a study permit via the IRCC website. Key documents include:
- Letter of acceptance from a Canadian institution
- Proof of sufficient funds
- Valid passport
- Police clearance certificate
- Medical exam
- Visa application form
- Biometrics
Processing time for Nigerian students can take 8–16 weeks. Apply early!
FAQs – Canadian Scholarships for Nigerian Students
Q1: Can I get a full scholarship to study in Canada from Nigeria?
Yes. Fully funded scholarships like Lester B. Pearson and Vanier CGS are available for top students from Nigeria.
Q2: Do I need IELTS for a scholarship?
Yes, most universities require IELTS or TOEFL for both admission and scholarship consideration.
Q3: Are these scholarships renewable?
Some are one-time awards, while others are renewable annually if you maintain good grades.
Q4: Can I work while studying?
Yes. Study permit holders can work 20 hours/week during semesters and full-time during breaks.
Q5: When should I apply?
Start at least 8–12 months before your intended intake. Most scholarships have deadlines between November and February.
Your Future in Canada Begins with a Scholarship
Whether you’re dreaming of studying in Toronto, Vancouver, or Montreal, Canadian institutions welcome Nigerian students with open arms and generous financial support. These scholarships make studying abroad affordable, attainable, and life-changing.
Start early, prepare thoroughly, and position yourself for success.
Don’t wait—start your journey to Canada with a scholarship application today!
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