For many Nigerian students, studying abroad feels out of reach because of high tuition costs and English language test requirements like IELTS. The good news is that several fully funded scholarships for the 2026 academic year are available to Nigerians without IELTS, provided you meet alternative English requirements.
This guide is written from the perspective of an education consultant helping Nigerian students navigate legitimate, fully funded opportunities with clarity and confidence.
What Does “No IELTS Required” Really Mean?
Most international scholarships do not automatically demand IELTS if:
- Your previous education was taught entirely in English
- You can provide a Medium of Instruction (MOI) letter
- You have a credit or distinction in WAEC/NECO English
- The host university accepts alternative English proof
⚠️ Important: Language policies may vary by university and year. Always confirm on the official scholarship or university website.
Top Fully Funded Scholarships Nigerians Can Apply for in 2026 (Without IELTS)
Below are well-known and reputable scholarship programs Nigerians apply for every year, many of which accept MOI instead of IELTS.
1. Türkiye Burslari Scholarship (Turkey)
- Level: Undergraduate, Master’s, PhD
- Coverage: Tuition, monthly stipend, accommodation, health insurance, flight ticket, language training
- IELTS: Not required at application stage (MOI accepted)
2. Chinese Government Scholarship (CSC)
- Level: Undergraduate, Master’s, PhD
- Coverage: Tuition, accommodation, monthly allowance, medical insurance
- IELTS: Usually waived with MOI or proof of English-taught education
3. DAAD Scholarships (Germany)
- Level: Master’s and PhD
- Coverage: Monthly stipend, travel allowance, insurance, research support
- IELTS: Often waived if prior degree was taught in English
4. Stipendium Hungaricum (Hungary)
- Level: Undergraduate, Master’s, PhD
- Coverage: Tuition, accommodation support, monthly stipend, health insurance
- IELTS: May be waived with MOI or university confirmation
5. Chevening Scholarship (United Kingdom)
- Level: Master’s only
- Coverage: Full tuition, living allowance, flights, visa support
- IELTS: No longer mandatory if the university accepts alternative English proof
Eligibility Requirements for Nigerians
While each scholarship has its own criteria, most fully funded programs require the following:
General Eligibility
- Nigerian citizenship (valid international passport)
- Strong academic record (WAEC, ND/HND, BSc, or MSc depending on level)
- Proof of English proficiency without IELTS (MOI, WAEC English, or equivalent)
- Relevant academic background for chosen course
- Leadership potential, community involvement, or research interest (especially for postgraduate studies)
Additional Requirements (May Apply)
- Age limits (varies by scholarship)
- Research proposal (mainly for PhD and some Master’s programs)
- Work or volunteer experience (for programs like Chevening)
Step-by-Step Application Process
Step 1: Identify the Right Scholarship
Choose scholarships that match:
- Your academic level
- Your course of interest
- Your eligibility (especially English requirements)
Step 2: Prepare Your Documents Early
Start gathering documents at least 6 months before deadlines.
Step 3: Create an Online Application Account
Most scholarships use official portals. Save drafts and avoid rushing.
Step 4: Write a Strong Motivation Letter
Focus on:
- Your academic journey
- Career goals
- Why the scholarship country/program fits your plans
- How you plan to contribute after graduation
Step 5: Upload Documents Carefully
Check:
- File format (PDF/JPEG)
- File size limits
- Correct naming of documents
Step 6: Submit Before Deadline
Avoid last-minute submissions due to network or portal issues.
Step 7: Monitor Email & Portal Updates
Interviews, additional documents, or clarifications are often requested by email.
Required Documents Checklist
Most fully funded scholarships will ask for:
- Valid Nigerian passport
- Academic transcripts and certificates
- WAEC/NECO result
- Medium of Instruction (MOI) letter
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Motivation/Personal Statement
- Letters of Recommendation (2–3)
- Research proposal (for postgraduate applicants)
- Passport photograph
2026 Scholarship Application Timeline (At a Glance)
- August – October 2025: Research scholarships & prepare documents
- November 2025 – February 2026: Major scholarship applications open
- March – May 2026: Interviews and shortlisting
- June – August 2026: Final results, admission, and visa processing
Common Mistakes Nigerians Make (And How to Avoid Them)
❌ Waiting until deadlines are close
✅ Start early and submit days ahead
❌ Submitting generic motivation letters
✅ Tailor each letter to the specific scholarship
❌ Incomplete or poorly scanned documents
✅ Use clear, properly labeled files
❌ Assuming IELTS is never required
✅ Always confirm university-specific language rules
❌ Falling for “agents” asking for fees
✅ Legitimate scholarships are free to apply
Scholarship Red Flags Nigerians Should Avoid
- Requests for “processing” or “guarantee” fees
- Applications handled only via WhatsApp
- No official website or government backing
- Emails not linked to official institutions
If it sounds too easy or too urgent, verify carefully.
What If You Miss the Scholarship Deadline?
Missing one opportunity does not end your chances.
Alternative Options
- University-specific scholarships
- Partial funding combined with assistantships
- Research or teaching assistant roles (especially for MSc/PhD)
- Short-term international programs to strengthen your profile
Prepare for the Next Cycle
- Improve your academic profile
- Gain volunteer or research experience
- Rewrite and strengthen your motivation letter
Final Advice for Nigerian Students
Studying abroad on a fully funded scholarship without IELTS is possible, but it requires:
- Early preparation
- Accurate information
- Careful application
Stay organized, apply to multiple programs, and always rely on official sources.
Disclaimer
Scholarship requirements, deadlines, and language policies may change yearly. Applicants should always confirm details on the official scholarship or university website before applying.
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