Top Scholarships for Nigerians in Canada

Are you an undergraduate, master’s, or Ph.D. program, this guide will walk you through the best scholarships for Nigerians in Canada. Studying abroad has become a dream for many Nigerian students.

Among the top destinations, Canada stands out—not just for its excellent education system and multicultural environment, but also for the vast array of scholarships for Nigerians in Canada.

With rising tuition fees and living expenses, finding scholarships in Canada can be a game-changer.

Why Study in Canada as a Nigerian Student?

Canada offers several benefits to international students, especially Nigerians:

World-Class Education: Canadian universities consistently rank among the best globally.
Diverse Culture: Over 300,000 Nigerians currently live in Canada, making integration easier.
Work and Study Opportunities: Students can work while studying and access post-graduation work permits.
Pathway to Permanent Residency (PR): Canada offers an immigration-friendly system that supports students post-graduation.

Types of Scholarships for Nigerians in Canada

Scholarships available for Nigerians in Canada generally fall into these categories:

Government Scholarships
University Scholarships
Private/NGO Scholarships
Fully Funded Scholarships
Merit-based and Need-based Scholarships

Top Fully Funded Scholarships for Nigerians in Canada

Fully funded scholarships cover tuition, accommodation, living expenses, and sometimes travel costs. Here are the best ones available in 2025:

1. Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships (Vanier CGS)

Eligibility: Ph.D. candidates
Value: CAD $50,000/year for three years
Focus Areas: Health research, engineering, social sciences, and humanities
Application Deadline: November 2025

2. Lester B. Pearson International Scholarships (University of Toronto)

Eligibility: Outstanding secondary school students
Value: Covers tuition, books, incidental fees, and full residence support
Highly competitive
Deadline: January 2025

3. MasterCard Foundation Scholars Program

Universities: University of Toronto, McGill University, UBC
Eligibility: High-achieving African students
Value: Full tuition, accommodation, travel, and stipend
Focus: Leadership and community service

4. Trudeau Foundation Scholarships

Eligibility: Doctoral students in humanities and social sciences
Value: Up to CAD $60,000/year for three years
Includes: Tuition, travel, and living stipend

5. Commonwealth Scholarships (Canada)

Eligibility: Nigerian students from Commonwealth nations
Level: Master’s and Ph.D.
Value: Full tuition, living allowance, and travel grants
Deadline: Varies by institution and nomination agency

Government Scholarships in Canada for Nigerians

These are awarded directly by Canadian government bodies:

1. Canadian Commonwealth Scholarship Program

Funded by Global Affairs Canada
Supports master’s and Ph.D. candidates from developing Commonwealth countries
Eligibility: Academic excellence, leadership potential
Includes: Full tuition, airfare, monthly stipend

2. Canada-CARICOM Leadership Scholarships

Available for short-term exchange programs
Great for research or coursework
Target Audience: Graduate students
Value: CAD $8,700–$14,700 depending on program duration

3. Emerging Leaders in the Americas Program (ELAP)

Ideal for short-term exchange students
Level: Undergraduate and graduate
Value: Up to CAD $11,100
Duration: 4 to 6 months

Top University Scholarships for Nigerians in Canada

Many Canadian universities offer specific scholarships for Nigerian and African students:

1. University of British Columbia (UBC) International Scholars Program

Scholarship Types: Karen McKellin International Leader of Tomorrow (ILOT) & Donald A. Wehrung International Student Award
Value: Fully covers cost of tuition and living
Eligibility: Exceptional academic and leadership record

2. University of Alberta International Scholarships

Types: Gold Standard, International Entrance, Doctoral Recruitment, etc.
Value: Ranges from CAD $5,000 to $30,000
Eligibility: Varies by scholarship and level

3. University of Manitoba Graduate Fellowships (UMGF)

Value: Master’s: CAD $14,000/year; Ph.D.: $18,000/year
Field: Any graduate program
Application: Through departmental nominations

4. McGill University Scholarships

Value: Entrance scholarships from CAD $3,000 to $10,000
Postgraduate Awards: McCall MacBain Scholarship (fully funded)
Eligibility: Leadership, academics, and service

5. York University Global Leader of Tomorrow Award

Eligibility: Undergraduate Nigerian students
Value: Up to CAD $80,000 over 4 years

Undergraduate Students Scholarships for Nigerians in Canada

1. University of Toronto International Scholar Award

Automatic consideration for undergraduates
Value ranges from CAD $20,000–$100,000

2. Concordia Presidential Scholarship

Fully funded for tuition, books, and living expenses
Renewable annually
Only 2 awarded each year

3. Carleton University Entrance Scholarships

Value: CAD $4,000–$16,000
Automatic consideration based on admission average

Postgraduate Students Scholarships for Nigerians in Canada

1. Ontario Graduate Scholarship (OGS)

Offered at multiple Ontario universities
Value: CAD $15,000/year
Master’s or Doctoral programs

2. Dalhousie University Scholarships

Several internal and external awards for international grad students
Amount: CAD $15,000–$30,000

3. Brock University Graduate Awards

Value: CAD $5,000–$25,000
Field: Open to all disciplines

How to Apply for Scholarships in Canada from Nigeria

Step-by-Step Guide:

Research Early: Begin searching at least 8–12 months in advance.
Choose a Program: Identify universities and programs that offer your desired course.
Check Scholarship Eligibility: Match your profile with available offers.
Prepare Documents: Transcripts, passport, recommendation letters, proof of leadership, and a statement of purpose.
Apply Online: Follow the instructions on the university or funding body’s website.
Track Deadlines: Most deadlines fall between December and March for fall intake.

Key Documents and Eligibility Requirements

General Documents for Scholarships for Nigerians in Canada:

WAEC/NECO results (undergraduate)
Bachelor’s/Master’s degree certificate (postgraduate)
Academic transcripts
Statement of purpose
Reference letters (2-3)
IELTS or TOEFL score
Proof of financial need (if applicable)

Common Eligibility Criteria:

Strong academic record
Leadership or community involvement
Proof of financial need (some)
English language proficiency
Admission offer from a Canadian university

Tips to Win: Scholarships for Nigerians to Canada

Start Early: Some scholarships require nomination before application.
Tailor Your Application: Customize your statement of purpose for each scholarship.
Highlight Impact: Showcase how your education will benefit Nigeria and the global community.
Secure Strong References: Use referees who know your academic or leadership achievements.
Practice for Interviews: Some scholarships involve virtual interviews.

FAQs About Scholarships for Nigerians in Canada

Q1: Are there fully funded scholarships for Nigerians in Canada?

Yes. Programs like the Vanier CGS, Lester B. Pearson Scholarship, and MasterCard Foundation Scholarship are fully funded.

Q2: Can I apply for scholarships before getting admission?

Some scholarships require admission first, while others allow you to apply in parallel.

Q3: Do I need IELTS for Canadian scholarships?

Yes, most universities and scholarships require proof of English proficiency (IELTS/TOEFL).

Q4: Is there Scholarships for Nigerians in Canada?

Yes, multiple Canadian institutions and the government are offering scholarships to Nigerians in 2025.

Q5: Can I work while studying in Canada?

Yes, Nigerian students can work up to 20 hours per week during school and full-time during breaks.

Final Thoughts

With increasing educational costs, applying for scholarships for Nigerians in Canada can dramatically ease your financial burden and make your dreams come true. Canada offers not just quality education, but life-changing opportunities.

Whether you’re applying for a bachelor’s, master’s, or Ph.D. program, there’s a scholarship for you—if you plan early, apply strategically, and follow through with persistence.