Canada is one of the top global destinations for Nigerian students seeking world-class education, a safe environment, and post-study work opportunities. However, studying abroad can be expensive, especially when factoring in tuition, accommodation, and living costs. Thankfully, several Canadian scholarships for Nigerian students in 2025 can help ease this financial burden, with many offering fully funded options that cover tuition, living stipends, and travel costs.
In this guide, you’ll find the top scholarships available, their eligibility requirements, how to apply, and key tips to increase your chances of success.
Why Study in Canada as a Nigerian Student
Canada ranks among the top five countries for quality education and multicultural inclusivity. Universities like the University of Toronto, McGill University, and the University of British Columbia (UBC) consistently appear in the world’s top 100 institutions.
Why Canada appeals to Nigerians:
- Globally recognized degrees accepted worldwide
- Safe, diverse, and immigrant-friendly environment
- Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) opportunities
- Scholarships and grants for international students
- Affordable compared to the UK or US
According to EduCanada, over 17,000 Nigerian students were enrolled in Canadian institutions as of 2024 — a number that continues to rise every year.
Types of Scholarships in Canada for Nigerian Students
Scholarships come from multiple sources — the federal government, universities, provincial governments, and private foundations. Understanding the categories helps you target the right opportunities.
Government-Funded Scholarships
1. Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships (Vanier CGS)
One of Canada’s most prestigious government programs, the Vanier CGS supports exceptional doctoral students who demonstrate academic excellence, leadership, and research potential.
- Coverage: CAD $50,000 per year for three years
- Eligible Levels: PhD or combined MA/PhD programs
- Fields: Health sciences, engineering, natural sciences, social sciences, and humanities
- Eligibility: Must be nominated by a Canadian university; first-class academic record; research proposal required
- Deadline: November 2025
The Vanier CGS offers fully funded PhD scholarships worth CAD $50,000 per year for exceptional research-driven Nigerian students.
2. EduCanada Scholarships
Funded by Global Affairs Canada, this program provides short-term exchange opportunities for international students from developing countries, including Nigeria.
- Coverage: Tuition, visa fees, airfare, health insurance, and living expenses
- Eligible Levels: Undergraduate, graduate, and short-term research programs
- Duration: 4 to 8 months
- Eligibility: Must be enrolled full-time in a Nigerian institution; strong academic performance
- Deadline: March 2025
EduCanada Scholarships fund short-term study or research exchanges in Canada for Nigerian students enrolled in local universities.
3. Canadian Commonwealth Scholarship Program
Offered through the Canadian government, this award targets students from Commonwealth countries pursuing postgraduate studies.
- Coverage: Tuition, living stipend, travel, and research costs
- Eligible Levels: Master’s and PhD
- Fields: Open to all academic disciplines
- Eligibility: Strong academic standing and acceptance by a Canadian institution
- Deadline: December 2025
University-Funded Scholarships
4. Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship (University of Toronto)
Perhaps the most competitive undergraduate scholarship in Canada, the Lester B. Pearson Scholarship recognizes exceptional academic achievement and creativity.
- Coverage: Full tuition, books, incidental fees, and residence for four years
- Eligible Level: Undergraduate
- Eligibility: International students nominated by their high school and accepted into the University of Toronto
- Deadline: October 2025
The Lester B. Pearson Scholarship fully funds undergraduate studies at the University of Toronto for high-achieving Nigerian students.
5. University of British Columbia (UBC) International Scholars Program
UBC offers several scholarships under this umbrella, including the Karen McKellin International Leader of Tomorrow Award and Donald A. Wehrung International Student Award.
- Coverage: Full tuition and living expenses proportional to demonstrated financial need
- Eligible Level: Undergraduate
- Eligibility: Academic excellence, leadership, and financial need
- Deadline: November 2025
6. University of Manitoba Graduate Fellowships (UMGF)
The UMGF provides merit-based funding for graduate students pursuing research-based master’s or PhD degrees.
- Coverage: CAD $14,000 (Master’s) and CAD $18,000 (PhD) annually
- Eligible Fields: All disciplines
- Deadline: Rolling admission (depends on department)
The UMGF supports master’s and PhD students at the University of Manitoba with substantial annual stipends.
7. McGill University Entrance Scholarships
McGill provides automatic entrance scholarships to new students with outstanding academic records.
- Coverage: CAD $3,000 to $12,000 per year
- Eligible Levels: Undergraduate and postgraduate
- Eligibility: Excellent grades and strong extracurriculars
- Deadline: January 2025
8. University of Alberta International Admission Scholarship
This merit-based award recognizes academic excellence among international applicants.
- Coverage: Up to CAD $9,000
- Eligible Level: Undergraduate
- Eligibility: Academic excellence and English proficiency
- Deadline: February 2025
Provincial Scholarships
9. Ontario Graduate Scholarship (OGS)
Jointly funded by the Ontario government and universities, this scholarship rewards academic excellence among graduate students.
- Coverage: CAD $10,000–$15,000 per year
- Eligible Level: Master’s and PhD
- Eligibility: Enrolled in an Ontario-based institution with at least 80% GPA
- Deadline: February 2025
10. Ontario Trillium Scholarship
Designed to attract top-tier international PhD candidates to Ontario universities.
- Coverage: CAD $40,000 annually for four years
- Eligible Level: PhD
- Eligibility: First-class academic record, research proposal, admission to an Ontario university
- Deadline: December 2025
11. Quebec Merit Scholarship
For international students pursuing research programs in Quebec.
- Coverage: CAD $25,000 per year
- Eligible Levels: Master’s and PhD
- Eligibility: High GPA and active research involvement
- Deadline: Rolling
Private and Foundation Scholarships
12. Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program
A partnership between Mastercard Foundation and top Canadian universities such as UBC, McGill, and the University of Toronto.
- Coverage: Full tuition, accommodation, books, living stipend, and travel
- Eligible Levels: Undergraduate and postgraduate
- Eligibility: Must be a citizen of a Sub-Saharan African country (including Nigeria), with proven leadership and financial need
- Deadline: Varies by institution
The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program offers full scholarships to talented African students committed to giving back to their communities.
13. MPOWER Financing for Nigerian Students
Although not a traditional scholarship, MPOWER provides funding and select scholarships to Nigerians studying in North America.
- Coverage: CAD $2,000–$10,000
- Eligibility: Enrolled in a recognized Canadian university
- Deadline: Quarterly
14. African Leaders of Tomorrow (ALT) Scholarship
This program, funded by Global Affairs Canada and the Institute of Public Administration of Canada, supports emerging African leaders.
- Coverage: Full tuition, travel, living allowance, and health insurance
- Eligible Level: Master’s in public policy or administration
- Deadline: October 2025
Eligibility Criteria and Requirements
To be considered for these scholarships, Nigerian students must typically demonstrate:
- Academic excellence and leadership qualities
- Proof of admission to a Canadian institution
- Evidence of English language proficiency (IELTS/TOEFL or waiver)
- Valid Nigerian passport
- Financial documents or statement of purpose
How to Apply for Canadian Scholarships (Step-by-Step)
- Research early – Identify 5–10 scholarships aligned with your study goals.
- Check eligibility – Review criteria carefully to avoid wasting effort.
- Prepare documents – Transcripts, essays, recommendation letters, and proof of language proficiency.
- Apply online – Through official scholarship or university portals.
- Follow up – Watch your email for interview invitations or updates.
- Secure visa & funding proof – Once accepted, begin the study permit process.
Common Challenges Nigerian Students Face
- Visa delays and proof-of-funds issues
- Currency exchange fluctuations
- Application scams and unofficial agents
- Tight deadlines and incomplete documentation
Pro Tip: Use only official websites like EduCanada.ca or Vanier.gc.ca to apply for scholarships.
CTA: Sign up for verified scholarship alerts to avoid scams.
Tips to Increase Your Chances of Winning a Scholarship
- Apply early – most deadlines fall between October and March.
- Customize your essays to show leadership, impact, and long-term goals.
- Secure strong recommendation letters from professors or employers.
- Highlight extracurricular and community service involvement.
- Target smaller or university-specific scholarships for better odds.
Application Timeline for 2025/2026
| Month | Key Actions |
|---|---|
| July–September 2024 | Research scholarships and prepare documents |
| October–December 2024 | Apply for early-deadline programs (Pearson, UBC) |
| January–March 2025 | Submit government and graduate-level scholarships |
| April–June 2025 | Follow up, attend interviews, and prepare visa documents |
FAQs – Canadian Scholarships for Nigerian Students
1. Can Nigerian students get full scholarships in Canada?
Yes. Fully funded options like the Vanier, Pearson, and Mastercard Foundation programs cover tuition, living, and travel expenses.
2. Do I need IELTS for Canadian scholarships?
Many universities accept waivers if your previous education was taught in English.
3. What GPA is required?
Most scholarships require at least a Second Class Upper (3.5/5.0) or equivalent.
4. Do scholarships cover visa and flight fees?
Fully funded ones typically do, while partial ones may not.
5. When should I start applying for 2026 scholarships?
Start research and preparation around June 2025.
6. Can I work while studying?
Yes, international students in Canada can work up to 20 hours weekly during term time.
Real Success Story: From Lagos to Toronto
Chioma Eze, a University of Lagos graduate, won the Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship in 2024. She attributes her success to applying early, crafting a powerful essay linking her education to Nigeria’s development, and securing strong references. Her journey proves that with the right preparation, any Nigerian student can study in Canada tuition-free.
Additional Resources and Official Links
- EduCanada Scholarships
- Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships
- University of Toronto – Lester B. Pearson Scholarship
- UBC International Scholars Program
- Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program
Conclusion
Pursuing a degree in Canada is a dream for many Nigerians — and with the right scholarship, it can become reality. From government-funded programs like Vanier and EduCanada to university-specific awards such as Pearson and UBC International Scholars, opportunities are vast and growing. Start preparing early, gather your documents, and apply confidently. Canada values academic excellence, leadership, and diversity — and Nigerian students have consistently excelled in all three.