Welcome back! In Part 1, we covered the University of Toronto, the University of British Columbia, and the University of Melbourne.
In this section, you’ll discover two more prestigious universities that offer generous scholarships to international students, along with practical tips to improve your chances of success.
Missed Part 1?
4.
Lund University
(Sweden)
If you’re looking for a world-class European education, Lund University should be high on your list. It is one of Sweden’s oldest and most respected universities and attracts students from more than 130 countries.
For outstanding international applicants, the university offers the Lund University Global Scholarship, a merit-based award for students from outside the EU/EEA. The scholarship mainly supports master’s applicants, though a few bachelor’s programmes may also be eligible.
Why Choose Lund University?
- Ranked among Europe’s leading universities
- Strong research environment
- English-taught programmes
- Excellent career prospects after graduation
- Diverse international student community
Scholarship Benefits
Depending on your academic profile, the scholarship may provide:
- 25% to 100% of tuition fees
- Recognition as a high-achieving international student
- Access to world-class facilities and research opportunities
Note: Living expenses are generally not included, so applicants should plan for accommodation and daily costs separately.
Eligibility
To qualify, applicants should:
- Be a citizen of a country outside the EU/EEA (including Nigeria).
- Apply for an eligible degree programme.
- Meet the university’s academic and English-language requirements.
- Submit a complete application before the deadline.
Official Application Page
https://www.lunduniversity.lu.se/study/admission-degree-studies/scholarships-and-awards
5.
ETH Zurich
(Switzerland)
ETH Zurich consistently ranks among the world’s best universities, particularly in engineering, computer science, mathematics, architecture, and the natural sciences.
For exceptional master’s students, ETH offers the Excellence Scholarship & Opportunity Programme (ESOP), which combines financial support with academic mentoring.
Scholarship Benefits
Successful applicants typically receive:
- Full tuition support (where applicable)
- A generous living stipend
- Mentorship from ETH faculty
- Access to advanced research facilities
Why Nigerian Students Should Apply
Graduates from ETH Zurich are highly sought after by employers worldwide. The university has produced numerous Nobel Prize winners and is renowned for innovation and research.
Eligibility
Applicants should:
- Hold an excellent bachelor’s degree.
- Apply for an eligible master’s programme.
- Demonstrate outstanding academic performance.
- Meet the programme’s admission requirements.
Official Application Page
https://ethz.ch/en/studies/financial/scholarships/excellencescholarship.html
Tips to Increase Your Chances of Winning a Scholarship
Competition for fully funded scholarships is intense, but a strong application can make you stand out.
1. Maintain Excellent Grades
Most scholarship committees look for consistent academic excellence. Aim for strong WAEC/NECO results for undergraduate programmes or a high CGPA for postgraduate studies.
2. Write a Powerful Personal Statement
Your statement should explain:
- Why you chose the programme.
- Your career goals.
- How the scholarship will help you contribute to Nigeria and your community.
- Why you are a strong candidate.
Avoid generic statements—use specific examples from your academic or personal journey.
3. Get Strong Recommendation Letters
Ask teachers, lecturers, or employers who know your abilities well. A detailed recommendation carries more weight than a brief, generic letter.
4. Apply Early
Many scholarships close months before the academic year begins. Submitting early also gives you time to correct any mistakes in your application.
5. Double-Check Every Requirement
A missing document or incomplete application can result in automatic disqualification. Before submitting, confirm that you have included every required item.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can Nigerian students apply for fully funded scholarships abroad?
Yes. Many universities and scholarship programmes welcome qualified Nigerian applicants, provided they meet the academic and application requirements.
Are IELTS or TOEFL always required?
Not always. Some universities waive English-language test requirements if previous education was completed in English or if other criteria are met. Always check the official admissions page for your chosen programme.
Do fully funded scholarships cover living expenses?
It depends on the scholarship. Some cover tuition only, while others also include accommodation, travel, health insurance, and a monthly stipend. Read the scholarship details carefully before applying.
Is there an application fee?
Some universities charge an application fee, while others do not. Check the official admissions website for the latest information.
Final Thoughts
Studying abroad doesn’t have to remain a dream. Every year, universities across Canada, Europe, Australia, and other destinations invest millions of dollars in scholarships for talented international students—including Nigerians.
The key is to prepare early, submit a compelling application, and apply only through official university or scholarship websites.
Even if you don’t succeed on your first attempt, use the experience to improve your application for the next cycle. Persistence, preparation, and attention to detail can make a significant difference.
📚 Continue the Series
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