Europe is home to some of the world’s most prestigious universities and institutions, offering excellent opportunities for Nigerian graduates to further their education. Many European countries provide scholarships specifically for international students, including Nigerians, to pursue postgraduate and doctoral programs. Here’s a guide to scholarships in Europe that Nigerian graduates can apply for:
1. Erasmus Mundus Joint Master Degrees (EMJMDs)
The Erasmus Mundus program is one of the most prestigious scholarship programs offered by the European Union (EU). It is aimed at international students, including Nigerian graduates, who wish to study a joint master’s degree at universities across Europe.
- Coverage: Full tuition, travel allowance, installation costs, and a monthly allowance.
- Eligibility: Applicants must have a Bachelor’s degree or equivalent and meet the admission requirements of the specific program.
- Fields of Study: Offers scholarships in various fields, including science, technology, engineering, arts, and social sciences.
Tip: Research the specific Erasmus Mundus programs available for the academic year you intend to apply. The application process often involves multiple institutions.
2. DAAD Scholarships (Germany)
Germany is known for its world-class education system and offers various scholarships for international students through the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD). The DAAD scholarships provide opportunities for Nigerian graduates to pursue postgraduate studies in Germany.
- Coverage: Tuition fees, monthly stipends, travel allowances, and health insurance.
- Eligibility: A Bachelor’s degree or equivalent in a related field, academic excellence, and professional experience (depending on the program).
- Fields of Study: Offers scholarships in a wide range of academic disciplines, from engineering and business to social sciences and humanities.
Tip: DAAD has specific deadlines, so check the website for the scholarship programs and application guidelines.
3. The Holland Scholarship (Netherlands)
The Holland Scholarship is for international students from outside the European Economic Area (EEA), including Nigerian graduates, who wish to study in the Netherlands. This scholarship is provided by the Dutch Ministry of Education and several Dutch research universities.
- Coverage: €5,000 for the first year of the degree program.
- Eligibility: Applicants must meet the academic requirements set by the Dutch universities and must be applying for a full-time bachelor’s or master’s program.
- Fields of Study: Available for various fields of study, including technology, science, business, and arts.
Tip: Check the specific universities offering this scholarship and confirm eligibility based on your chosen field of study.
4. Chevening Scholarships (United Kingdom)
Chevening Scholarships are the UK government’s global scholarship program aimed at developing future leaders. Nigerian graduates who have the potential to contribute to the development of their home country can apply for these highly competitive scholarships.
- Coverage: Full tuition fees, airfare, living allowance, and additional allowances.
- Eligibility: Applicants must have a minimum of two years’ work experience and meet the specific criteria of their chosen university.
- Fields of Study: Offers scholarships for master’s degree programs in any subject at participating UK universities.
Tip: Applications for Chevening Scholarships usually open in August and close in November. Make sure to research the eligibility requirements and start preparing early.
5. Swedish Institute Scholarships for Global Professionals (Sweden)
The Swedish Institute offers scholarships for Nigerian graduates wishing to study at Swedish universities. These scholarships are aimed at students who have demonstrated leadership potential and are committed to contributing to the development of their home country.
- Coverage: Full tuition, living allowance, travel grants, and insurance.
- Eligibility: Applicants must hold a degree equivalent to a Swedish Bachelor’s degree and meet the specific requirements for their chosen program.
- Fields of Study: Available for master’s programs in various fields, including social sciences, engineering, and natural sciences.
Tip: Applications for Swedish Institute scholarships open once a year, so make sure to apply early. The application process is competitive, so ensure your personal statement highlights your leadership potential.
6. The Eiffel Excellence Scholarship Program (France)
The Eiffel Scholarship is a French government initiative designed to attract international talent for postgraduate and doctoral programs in French institutions. Nigerian graduates can apply for this prestigious scholarship to study in France.
- Coverage: Monthly allowance for living expenses, as well as travel costs, health insurance, and housing allowances.
- Eligibility: Applicants must have a master’s degree (or be enrolled in a master’s program) or equivalent. Applicants for doctoral programs should be under 35 years of age.
- Fields of Study: Scholarships are offered in engineering, science, economics, law, and political science.
Tip: The Eiffel Scholarship is highly competitive, so it’s essential to ensure your application stands out, particularly your academic achievements and motivation for studying in France.
7. Italian Government Scholarships (Italy)
The Italian Government offers scholarships for international students, including Nigerian graduates, to pursue undergraduate, postgraduate, and research programs at Italian universities.
- Coverage: Full or partial tuition fees, living allowances, and travel grants.
- Eligibility: Requirements vary by university and program, but generally, applicants must meet specific academic criteria and prove their financial need.
- Fields of Study: Available across various disciplines, including arts, engineering, medicine, and social sciences.
Tip: Each Italian university may have specific application processes and deadlines, so be sure to check the respective university websites for more details.
8. University-Specific Scholarships
Many European universities offer their own scholarships for international students, including Nigerian graduates. These scholarships often cover tuition fees, living expenses, or both.
- Examples of Universities Offering Scholarships:
- University of Amsterdam (Netherlands)
- ETH Zurich (Switzerland)
- University of Copenhagen (Denmark)
- Università Bocconi (Italy)
Tip: Visit the scholarship pages of the universities you’re interested in and apply for their specific funding opportunities.
9. The Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships (Switzerland)
Switzerland offers scholarships for postgraduate and research studies to international students through the Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships. These scholarships are aimed at talented individuals who wish to study in Switzerland.
- Coverage: Tuition fees, monthly allowance, airfare, and health insurance.
- Eligibility: Applicants must hold a master’s degree or equivalent for postgraduate programs, and meet specific university admission criteria.
- Fields of Study: Available for all fields of study, with an emphasis on research and development.
Tip: Research the specific programs and eligibility criteria for the Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships on their official website.
