Canada is one of the top destinations for Nigerian students looking to pursue higher education abroad. With its globally recognized education system, welcoming culture, and vibrant student life, Canada offers excellent opportunities for international students. However, the cost of education can be a concern for many. Fortunately, there are numerous scholarships in Canada for Nigerian students that can help reduce financial barriers and make studying abroad more accessible. This guide will walk you through top scholarships, eligibility criteria, the application process, and tips on securing a scholarship for studying in Canada.
Why Should Nigerian Students Study in Canada?
Canada has consistently been a preferred study destination for international students due to several key factors:
World-Class Education: Canadian universities rank highly in global rankings, offering quality education and research opportunities across various disciplines.
Diverse Cultural Environment: With a rich multicultural society, Canada offers international students the chance to interact with peers from all over the world, promoting a global perspective.
Work Opportunities: Canadian policies allow students to work part-time during their studies and even offer post-graduation work permits (PGWP), which make it easier to gain work experience in Canada.
Affordable Tuition: Compared to other countries like the US and the UK, Canada offers more affordable education options, especially with available scholarships.
Safety: Canada is known for being one of the safest countries, making it an ideal place for international students to live and study.
Part-time work during studies, PGWP after graduation
Affordable Tuition
Lower tuition fees compared to other countries
Safety
One of the safest countries for international students
Top Scholarships for Nigerian Students in Canada
Canada offers several scholarships to help international students, including Nigerian students, cover their tuition fees and living costs. Below are some of the most popular scholarships:
1. Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships
Purpose: For international PhD students pursuing doctoral studies at Canadian universities.
Benefits: CAD 50,000 per year for three years.
Eligibility: Nigerian students with a strong academic background, research capabilities, and leadership potential.
Scholarship Name
Amount
Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships
CAD 50,000 per year for three years
2. The Canadian Commonwealth Scholarships
Purpose: For students from Commonwealth countries, including Nigeria, to pursue master’s and PhD programs in Canada.
Benefits: Covers tuition fees, travel expenses, and living costs.
Eligibility: Open to postgraduate students from Nigeria applying for programs in Canada.
Scholarship Name
Coverage
Canadian Commonwealth Scholarships
Full tuition, travel expenses, and living costs
3. Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship Program
Purpose: Offered by the University of Toronto for international students with exceptional academic achievements and leadership skills.
Benefits: Full tuition, books, incidental fees, and accommodation.
Eligibility: Nigerian students applying for undergraduate programs at the University of Toronto.
Scholarship Name
Coverage
Lester B. Pearson Scholarship
Full tuition, living expenses, books, and fees
4. The Québec Merit Scholarship Program
Purpose: For students planning to study in the province of Québec, Canada, this scholarship is available for undergraduate and graduate degrees.
Benefits: CAD 7,000 to CAD 20,000 depending on the level of study.
Eligibility: Nigerian students applying to study in Québec.
Scholarship Name
Amount
Québec Merit Scholarship
CAD 7,000 to CAD 20,000 based on program level
5. The University of British Columbia (UBC) International Leader of Tomorrow Award
Purpose: Provides scholarships for high-achieving international students who demonstrate leadership potential.
Benefits: Covers full tuition fees, living expenses, and books.
Eligibility: Nigerian students with strong academic records and financial need.
Scholarship Name
Coverage
UBC International Leader of Tomorrow Award
Full tuition, living expenses, and books
6. The Pierre Elliott Trudeau Foundation Doctoral Scholarships
Purpose: These scholarships support doctoral students pursuing studies in social sciences, humanities, and public policy.
Benefits: Up to CAD 40,000 per year for up to three years.
Eligibility: Nigerian doctoral students pursuing studies related to public policy, humanities, and social sciences.
Scholarship Name
Amount
Pierre Elliott Trudeau Foundation Scholarships
CAD 40,000 per year for up to three years
7. The Ontario Graduate Scholarship (OGS)
Purpose: For graduate students in Ontario, the OGS supports students with exceptional academic achievements.
Benefits: CAD 15,000 per year.
Eligibility: Nigerian graduate students applying for programs in Ontario.
Scholarship Name
Amount
Ontario Graduate Scholarship (OGS)
CAD 15,000 per year
8. The Erasmus Mundus Scholarship Program
Purpose: Offers scholarships for international students to study in the European Union, but also includes opportunities for Canadian-based courses.
Benefits: Full tuition, living expenses, and travel costs.
Eligibility: Nigerian students who wish to study in Canada as part of the Erasmus Mundus program.
Scholarship Name
Coverage
Erasmus Mundus Scholarship
Full tuition, living expenses, travel costs
9. The Inlaks Scholarship
Purpose: The Inlaks Foundation offers scholarships to Indian and Nigerian students for graduate and post-graduate studies abroad, including Canada.
Benefits: Full tuition fees, living expenses, and travel.
Eligibility: Nigerian students with a strong academic record and leadership potential.
Scholarship Name
Coverage
Inlaks Scholarship
Full tuition, living expenses, and travel
10. The Subir Chowdhury Fellowship in Quality and Economics
Purpose: For Nigerian students wishing to pursue postgraduate programs in quality management at the University of Michigan.
Benefits: Full tuition, living expenses, and travel.
Eligibility: Nigerian students with academic excellence in quality management and economics.
Scholarship Name
Coverage
Subir Chowdhury Fellowship
Full tuition, travel, and living expenses
How to Apply for Scholarships in Canada?
The application process for Canadian scholarships typically involves the following steps:
Research Scholarships: Start by researching the scholarships you are eligible for and noting the application deadlines. Many scholarships have strict deadlines, so it’s essential to apply early.
Prepare Your Documents: Gather all necessary documents, including your academic transcripts, letters of recommendation, proof of language proficiency (IELTS/TOEFL), and a strong personal statement or SOP.
Apply Online: Most Canadian scholarships allow you to apply online through the university or scholarship provider’s portal. Ensure that you fill in all the necessary details and upload your documents correctly.
Submit Your Application: Double-check your application before submission to ensure you haven’t missed any details. Some scholarships may require an interview or additional documentation.
Follow Up: After applying, monitor your application’s status. Some scholarships may require further documentation or interviews before making a decision.
Application Steps
Details
Research Scholarships
Find eligible scholarships with deadlines
Prepare Documents
Gather academic transcripts, recommendation letters, etc.
Apply Online
Submit applications through official portals
Submit Your Application
Double-check your application before submission
Follow Up
Monitor the status of your application
Tips for Applying for Scholarships in Canada
Here are some tips to help increase your chances of getting a scholarship:
Start Early: Begin your scholarship search and application process at least 6 months before the deadline to ensure enough time for preparation.
Tailor Your Statement of Purpose (SOP): Write a personalized and compelling SOP that highlights your academic background, career goals, and why you want to study in Canada.
Follow Instructions: Ensure that you meet all the eligibility criteria and follow the scholarship application instructions carefully.
Seek Help: Don’t hesitate to reach out to university advisors, alumni, or education consultants for guidance during the application process.
Tip
Details
Start Early
Begin the application process early for a smoother experience
Personalize Your SOP
Write a compelling statement of purpose tailored to the scholarship
Follow Instructions
Carefully adhere to all application requirements
Seek Guidance
Reach out to advisors or consultants if needed
Conclusion
Canada offers numerous scholarships for Nigerian students to make studying abroad more affordable and accessible. Whether you are looking for undergraduate, graduate, or doctoral opportunities, there are scholarships that can cover tuition fees, living expenses, and travel costs. By carefully researching your options, meeting eligibility criteria, and submitting well-prepared applications, you can greatly enhance your chances of receiving financial support. Start early, apply diligently, and make your study in Canada dream come true!
