If you want to study in the UK but are worried about the costs, the good news is many scholarships can help you. With the right steps and patience, you can move to the UK without spending too much. Let’s break it down simply:
Step 1: Look for Scholarships
First things first, you need to find a scholarship. There are lots of them for Nigerian students who want to study in the UK. Some scholarships even cover everything school fees, living expenses, and flight tickets.
5 Best Scholarship Websites for Nigerians Moving to the UK
Here’s where you can find real scholarship opportunities:
Chevening is a UK government scholarship that covers everything — your tuition fees, living expenses, flight tickets, and even visa costs.
It’s mainly for students who want to do a one-year master’s degree. You don’t need to be super rich or super connected to get it — you just need leadership skills, good academic results, and a strong vision for your future.
Tip: They usually open applications around August and close in November.
This is another full scholarship funded by the UK government for people from Commonwealth countries like Nigeria.
It’s available for master’s and PhD students. They look for people who want to use their education to make an impact back home.
Tip: Your undergraduate grades matter a lot for this one — try to have at least a second-class upper (2:1).
This website isn’t a scholarship itself, but it lists thousands of scholarship opportunities around the world, including the UK.
You can filter by country, course type, and level (undergrad, master’s, or PhD). They update almost daily.
Tip: Sign up for email alerts so you don’t miss deadlines.
4. British Council Study UK Scholarships
The British Council runs the Study UK page, which gathers a list of scholarships available from different UK universities.
Some of these are partial scholarships (like 50% off tuition), but some cover full tuition plus living expenses. They also sometimes run special programs just for Nigerians!
Tip: They often partner with banks and NGOs to offer extra funding, so always check the full list.
Opportunity Desk is like the “WhatsApp group” of scholarships and fellowships. They post daily updates about scholarships, conferences, and competitions happening worldwide.
It’s not UK-only, but they post a lot of UK opportunities you might not hear about elsewhere.
Tip: Search “UK scholarships” in their search bar and scroll through the latest posts.
Step 2: Apply for University Admission
Most scholarships will only give you money if you already have an offer from a UK university. So while applying for scholarships, also apply to the schools you want to attend.
Check each school’s admission requirements carefully and apply on time!
Step 3: Get Your Scholarship Offer
If you’re lucky and hardworking, you’ll get a scholarship. They will send you an official letter confirming it. Keep that letter safe —you’ll need it when applying for your visa.
Step 4: Apply for Your UK Student Visa
Once you have your admission and scholarship letters, you can apply for your visa. You’ll need:
• Your CAS (Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies) from the school.
• Proof of your scholarship or financial support.
• Proof of English language ability (some universities waive this for Nigerians).
You’ll also need to go for a biometric appointment at a visa center.
Step 5: Get Ready to Move
When your visa is approved, it’s time to prepare for life in the UK! Book your flight, arrange for a place to stay, and pack your bags.
Conclusion
Moving to the UK with a scholarship is not impossible. Many Nigerians have done it you can too!
Start early, stay focused, and don’t feel bad if you face rejections. Sometimes you just need that one, yes to change your life.
