Have you been searching for how to get a scholarship in Canada? This page lists available scholarships in Canada for Nigerian students. Most of these scholarships are funded by government bodies and private organisations in both Canada and Nigeria.
Studying abroad—anywhere—requires proper financial planning, so it’s important to check whether there are scholarships or other types of financial support available in your preferred study destination. This section will guide you on how to find information about awards and scholarships for Nigerian students who want to study in Canada.
There are different programs and funding options for international students who want to study in Canada. Most of them are for students with strong academic performance, or for students from specific countries or regions that qualify for certain financial support.
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Below, you will find information on how to search and see whether you are eligible for any scholarship or funding to study in Canada.
CANADIAN GOVERNMENT FUNDING FOR INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS
Government-funded scholarships in Canada actively support international students who want to pursue higher education. These programs show Canada’s commitment to encouraging global academic collaboration. They offer financial help, making tuition and living costs easier to manage for international students. Through these efforts, Canada continues to build its reputation as a leading destination for students from around the world.
| Name of the scholarship | Eligibility | Average scholarship amount (in CAD) |
| Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships | Academic achievementResearch aptitudeLeadership skills | Up to $50,000 |
| Banting Postdoctoral Fellowships | For national and international postdoctoral applicants | $70,000 |
| Canadian Commonwealth Scholarships | For master’s degree and doctoral candidates | Varies by the specific scholarship |
Canadian University Scholarships for Nigerian Students
Canadian universities offer a variety of scholarships for Nigerian students and other international applicants to support their academic goals. These scholarships, designed to promote diversity and reward strong academic performance, help reduce the financial stress of studying in Canada. By investing in global talent, Canadian institutions open doors for students from around the world to reach their full academic potential.
University Name | Scholarship Name | Eligibility | Scholarship Amount (in CAD) |
The University of the Fraser Valley | International Excellence Entrance Scholarship | GPA and CGPA requirements for a degree program at UFV. | Up to $20,000 |
Royal Roads University | The Allan Cahoon Scholarship | Academic excellenceLeadership potential | $1,500 |
Western University (Ontario) | Western International Admission Scholarship | Academic merit | Up to $25,000 |
The University of Regina | International Entrance Scholarship | Be an undergraduate degree applicant.An admissions average of 85% or more | $3,000 |
| Brock University | Brock Scholarships | Academic meritFor a first-time undergraduate program participant | Tuition, residence fees, or both |
University of Saskatchewan | University of Saskatchewan International Excellence Awards | Academic achievementBe an undergraduate applicant. | Up to $10,000 |
Ontario Tech University | Scholarships for international students | Academic achievement and personal excellence | Varies from one scholarship to another |
Undergraduate Scholarships to Study in Canada for Nigerian Students
Canadian institutions offer a wide range of undergraduate scholarships to support students from different academic backgrounds and talents. These financial aids help international students settle in more easily as they begin their higher education journey in Canada. By recognising potential and strong academic performance, these scholarships ensure that deserving students receive the support they need to succeed in their undergraduate studies.
Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship:
The University of Toronto offers the Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship to outstanding international students. It gives them the chance to study at a world-class university in a diverse city. This scholarship recognises students who have excellent academic records, strong creativity, and clear leadership qualities. It also values the positive impact a student has had on their school or community, as well as their potential to contribute globally.
International Entrance Scholarship at the University of Regina:
Every international student who applies for an undergraduate program at the University of Regina automatically has a chance to receive this scholarship. It provides a $3,000 credit toward housing or tuition. To qualify, students must have a minimum admission average of 85%.
University of Saskatchewan International Excellence Awards:
The University of Saskatchewan offers these awards to non-Canadian students who receive direct admission and pay differential tuition. Eligibility is based on academic achievement.
Master’s Scholarships to Study in Canada for Nigerian Students
Master’s degree scholarships in Canada give international students the financial support they need to advance their academic goals across many fields. These scholarships recognise strong academic performance and the potential contributions students can make in their areas of study. With a focus on developing global talent, Canadian institutions offer these awards to ease the financial challenges of postgraduate studies, helping students pursue their goals within Canada’s vibrant academic environment.
Ontario Trillium Scholarship:
This provincial program aims to attract top international students to pursue PhD studies at universities in Ontario. One of the participating institutions is the University of Guelph. The scholarship is designed to bring outstanding global researchers to the province.
International Student Emergency Bursary at York University:
Unlike typical scholarships, York University offers an emergency bursary to cover unexpected expenses, such as losses from a phishing scam or other unforeseen events. This support is available to eligible students who are enrolled in graduate programs at the university.
International Graduate Student Entrance Scholarships at the University of Manitoba:
The University of Manitoba provides this scholarship to new international graduate students. It recognises academic excellence and offers an amount equal to the international student differential tuition fee, helping reduce the financial load for new graduate students.
MBA Scholarships to Study in Canada for Nigerian Students
MBA programs in Canada attract talented students from around the world by offering a variety of scholarship opportunities. These scholarships help international students by providing financial support based on their academic performance, leadership skills, and professional background. Many Canadian institutions aim to create diverse MBA classes, and they use these financial incentives to attract top candidates globally. For future business leaders, these scholarships offer a great chance to earn a world-class education while reducing overall costs.
Queen’s University Smith School of Business Scholarships:
Smith School of Business offers many financial support options, including scholarships, for international MBA applicants. For example, the General Entrance Scholarships are awarded based on academic merit, as decided by the school’s MBA Scholarship Committee.
Schulich MBA Entrance Scholarships:
York University’s Schulich School of Business provides several entrance scholarships for international MBA students. These awards are based on strong academic performance and leadership qualities. Many of these scholarships are funded by generous contributions from Schulich alumni and supporters who want to help deserving students study in Canada.
HEC Montréal MBA Scholarships:
HEC Montréal offers various scholarships for Nigerian students and other eligible international applicants. Their MBA scholarship options are based on academic excellence and leadership potential, helping students reduce the financial burden of studying abroad.
Eligibility Requirements for Scholarships in Canada for Nigerian Students
Are you a motivated Nigerian student looking for affordable education in Canada? If so, you might want to apply for a Canadian scholarship. Here’s what you typically need to qualify:
| Criteria | Details |
| Nationality | A confirmed Nigerian citizenship and valid passport. |
| Academic Excellence | A track record with at least a Second-Class Upper or its equivalent. |
| Field of Study | Some scholarships are field-specific. Stay aligned with your major. |
| English/French Proficiency | Compulsory IELTS or TOEFL scores, or their French counterparts. |
| Financial Assessment | Several scholarships are need-based; your financial situation might matter. |
| Endorsements | Robust letters of recommendation from mentors or professionals. |
How to Apply for Scholarships to Study in Canada for Nigerian Students?
Applying for scholarships to study in Canada follows a structured process that depends on each student’s academic and extracurricular background. Following the right steps can make a big difference, especially for Nigerian students. Consulting study abroad experts and using online resources can also make the process smoother, helping you maximise your chances of earning a scholarship in Canada.
Research: Start your scholarship search early to give yourself plenty of time to explore all the options in Canada. Study the details of each scholarship carefully to find those that match your qualifications and goals.
Prepare Documents: Good preparation is key to a strong application. Gather all necessary academic records, making sure your transcripts are up to date. Also, secure strong reference letters from teachers or professionals who know your work well.
Apply: Follow the application process carefully. Whether you apply directly to a university or through a study-abroad consultant, make sure all information is correct. Check every part of your application to ensure it is complete and follows all instructions.
Fees: Some scholarships are free to apply for, while others may have small application fees. Be aware of any charges and pay them on time, as missing a payment can affect your application. Always confirm the legitimacy of any fees and avoid platforms that seem suspicious.
Tips to Increase Your Chances of Getting Accepted for Canadian Scholarships for Nigerian Students
Boosting your chances of earning a scholarship takes more than just meeting the basic requirements. Consider these tips to strengthen your application for scholarships in Canada:
Tailor Your Application: Carefully read the requirements for each scholarship and customise your application accordingly. Highlight experiences, achievements, and goals that match the scholarship’s objectives. Generic applications often get overlooked, so make yours stand out.
Engage in Extracurricular Activities: Take part in clubs, organisations, or volunteer work related to your interests or field of study. Scholarship committees value well-rounded candidates. Showing your passion outside the classroom highlights your leadership, teamwork, and commitment.
Seek Strong Recommendations: Ask mentors, professors, or professionals who know you well to provide recommendation letters. A strong letter can greatly enhance your application, offering an external perspective on your strengths and potential.
Proofread and Review: A mistake-free application shows attention to detail and seriousness. Review your documents several times and, if possible, get feedback from peers or mentors to ensure clarity and coherence.
In summary, scholarships in Canada offer an excellent way for students to pursue education without financial worries. The inclusive and innovative scholarship programs empower learners to succeed and make meaningful contributions to society. Taking advantage of these opportunities helps students build a strong foundation for a successful and fulfilling future.