Scholarships for Masters Degrees: 20 Best Funded Programs
So you’ve finished your first degree.
Congratulations, seriously. That’s no small achievement, especially in Nigeria where just getting through university is like completing an obstacle course with regular ASUU strikes and everything else.
But now you’re thinking about a masters degree. And you’re also thinking about the cost.
Let me guess… you’ve checked the fees for masters programs abroad. Your heart sank. You did the mental calculation of converting dollars or pounds to naira, and yeah… it looked impossible.
I’ve been exactly where you are right now.
Staring at my laptop. Seeing masters programs that could change my career trajectory. Then seeing price tags that looked completely out of reach for someone whose salary couldn’t even cover three months of tuition.
Here’s what changed everything for me: scholarships for masters degrees.
Not the “partial tuition waiver” kind. I’m talking about fully-funded scholarships that cover everything – tuition, accommodation, flights, living expenses, sometimes even research funding.
They exist. In abundance, actually.
Why Scholarships for Masters Degrees Are Different (And Better)
Here’s something most people don’t realize…
Getting scholarships for masters degrees is actually easier than undergraduate scholarships in many ways.
Wait, let me explain before you think I’ve lost it.
Universities and organizations invest heavily in postgraduate education because they’re looking for future researchers, industry leaders, and change-makers. They’re not just educating you – they’re investing in your potential to contribute to your field.
Plus, you now have something undergraduates don’t: a proven academic track record, potentially work experience, and clearer career goals.
That makes you a more attractive candidate.
The Financial Reality of Masters Degrees
Let’s talk numbers for a second.
A masters degree in the UK costs between £15,000 to £35,000 (roughly ₦30 million to ₦70 million at current rates). In the US? Between $30,000 to $120,000 for the full program.
Canada, Australia, Germany… they all have different price points, but the bottom line remains: it’s expensive.
For the average Nigerian professional earning maybe ₦150,000 to ₦500,000 monthly, saving enough for a self-funded masters would take years. Maybe decades.
Scholarships for masters degrees eliminate this barrier completely.
20 Top Scholarships for Masters Degrees You Need to Know
Let me walk you through the absolute best opportunities available. I’ve organized these by region to make your search easier.
UK Scholarships for Masters Degrees
1. Chevening Scholarships
This is the crown jewel of UK scholarships for masters degrees.
Funded by the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office, Chevening isn’t just a scholarship. It’s a network. A brand. A career accelerator.
I know a guy who got Chevening in 2019. Before his scholarship, he was a mid-level civil servant in Abuja. After? He’s now consulting for international organizations, getting paid in dollars.
The network alone is worth its weight in gold.
What it covers: Full tuition, monthly stipend, travel costs, arrival allowance, visa costs
Eligibility: Minimum 2 years work experience, undergraduate degree, leadership potential
Application period: Usually August to November
2. Commonwealth Scholarships
These scholarships specifically target Commonwealth developing countries. That’s us.
Multiple programs exist under this umbrella – Commonwealth Master’s Scholarships, Commonwealth Shared Scholarships, Commonwealth Distance Learning Scholarships.
Each has slightly different criteria, but all share one goal: developing future leaders from Commonwealth nations.
What it covers: Full tuition, living expenses, airfare, thesis grant
Eligibility: Usually requires commitment to return home after studies
Best for: Students in development-related fields
3. Gates Cambridge Scholarship
Extremely competitive. But hear me out…
If you’re exceptional (and I mean top 1% exceptional) in your field, this scholarship is life-changing. Full funding for any masters degree at Cambridge, plus access to the Gates Cambridge community.
One application. One shot. Potentially transformative outcome.
What it covers: Full cost of studying at Cambridge, including discretionary funding
Eligibility: Outstanding intellectual ability, leadership potential, commitment to improving others’ lives
Success rate: About 0.3% of applicants
4. Rhodes Scholarships
The most prestigious scholarship in the world. There, I said it.
Only a handful of Nigerians get selected each year for Oxford. But those who do? They join a network of global leaders, Nobel laureates, and heads of state.
Worth every hour you spend on that application.
What it covers: Full tuition, living stipend, one economy airfare to Oxford
Eligibility: Age 18-28 (depending on your region), exceptional academic achievement
Fun fact: Nigeria has its own Rhodes constituency
5. University-Specific UK Scholarships
Beyond national programs, individual UK universities offer substantial scholarships for masters degrees:
- University of Westminster International Scholarships: Full tuition plus living expenses
- University of Bristol Think Big Scholarships: £6,500 to £26,000
- University of Manchester Global Masters Scholarships: Up to £5,000
- LSE Graduate Support Scheme: Various amounts based on need and merit
Don’t overlook these. Sometimes they’re less competitive than the big-name scholarships.
US Scholarships for Masters Degrees
6. Fulbright Foreign Student Program
America’s flagship international scholarship program.
Beyond funding your masters degree, Fulbright provides cultural exchange, professional development, and access to American academic excellence.
The application process is rigorous (I won’t lie to you). But it’s structured, predictable, and if you follow guidelines carefully, definitely achievable.
What it covers: Full tuition, living stipend, health insurance, airfare, books
Eligibility: Strong academic record, leadership experience, commitment to return home
Application: Through EducationUSA Nigeria
7. Hubert Humphrey Fellowship Program
This one’s specifically designed for experienced professionals.
No degree awarded (it’s a fellowship, not a masters), but participants engage in graduate-level courses while building leadership skills. Plus, it’s fully funded.
If you have 5+ years professional experience and clear leadership trajectory, consider this alongside traditional masters scholarships.
What it covers: Full funding for 10 months of study and professional development
Eligibility: Mid-career professionals with 5+ years experience
8. AAUW International Fellowships
Specifically for women pursuing graduate degrees.
The American Association of University Women has been supporting women’s education since 1888. Their international fellowships help women from developing countries pursue full-time graduate studies in the U.S.
What it covers: $18,000 – $30,000 for one year
Eligibility: Women who are not U.S. citizens or permanent residents
Important: Not full funding, but substantial support
9. Clark University Global Scholars Program
Clark offers scholarships for masters degrees specifically to international students who demonstrate academic excellence and leadership.
What it covers: Up to $15,000 per year, plus tuition remission
Eligibility: Strong academic record, demonstrated leadership
Why I like it: They specifically welcome applications from developing countries
Canadian Scholarships for Masters Degrees
10. Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships
If you’re planning a research-based masters (or PhD), this is golden.
Canada wants to attract world-class doctoral students, and they’re willing to pay for it. While primarily for PhD, some programs accept masters students transitioning to PhD.
What it covers: $50,000 per year for up to three years
Eligibility: Nominated by Canadian institution, exceptional research potential
11. Ontario Graduate Scholarship (OGS)
Province-specific, but extremely valuable.
If you’re planning to study in Ontario (Toronto, Ottawa, Waterloo, McMaster), this scholarship supports graduate studies across all disciplines.
What it covers: Minimum $15,000 for one year
Eligibility: Strong academic standing, enrolled in Ontario university
12. Trudeau Foundation Scholarships
For humanities and social sciences students specifically.
If your masters research relates to human rights, environmental sustainability, responsible citizenship, or Canada’s role in the world, you should absolutely apply.
What it covers: $60,000 over three years, plus travel allowances
Eligibility: Social sciences and humanities students with clear research goals
European Scholarships for Masters Degrees
13. Erasmus Mundus Joint Masters Degrees
This is unique… and honestly pretty amazing.
You study in at least two different European countries as part of your masters. Imagine doing one semester in France, another in Germany, your thesis in Italy.
Full scholarship. Multiple countries. One degree.
What it covers: Full tuition, travel, installation costs, monthly allowance
Eligibility: Varies by program, generally strong academic record
Programs: Over 100 different joint masters programs
14. Swedish Institute Scholarships for Global Professionals (SISGP)
Sweden’s commitment to international education is impressive.
These scholarships for masters degrees cover full tuition and living expenses. Plus, you get to experience Swedish quality of life (which, by the way, is consistently ranked among the world’s best).
What it covers: Full tuition, living expenses, insurance, travel grant
Eligibility: Developing country nationals with work experience and leadership potential
Application: Through individual Swedish universities
15. DAAD Scholarships (Germany)
The German Academic Exchange Service offers multiple programs.
What I love about Germany? Many public universities charge minimal or zero tuition. Even without a full scholarship, studying there is affordable. With a DAAD scholarship? You’re basically getting paid to study.
What it covers: Monthly stipend (currently €934 for masters), health insurance, travel allowance
Eligibility: Varies by program, generally minimum one year work experience
Bonus: Many programs taught in English
16. Holland Scholarship
The Netherlands wants international talent.
Dutch universities partner with the government to offer scholarships for masters degrees to non-EU students. It’s not full funding, but €5,000 helps significantly.
What it covers: €5,000 for one year
Eligibility: Non-EU students with strong academic record
Why consider it: High-quality education, English-taught programs, bike-friendly cities
Australian Scholarships for Masters Degrees
17. Australia Awards Scholarships
Designed specifically for developing country nationals.
These scholarships focus on development impact. They want you to gain skills, return home, and contribute to Nigeria’s development. Fair exchange, honestly.
What it covers: Full tuition, return airfare, establishment allowance, monthly contribution to living expenses
Eligibility: Commitment to development work, return to home country
Application: Through Australian Embassy in Nigeria
18. Research Training Program (RTP) Scholarships
If you’re doing research-based masters at Australian universities.
Many Australian universities offer these to high-achieving international students. They’re competitive but definitely worth applying for.
What it covers: Full tuition offset, living stipend for research students
Eligibility: Strong academic record, research proposal
Asian Scholarships for Masters Degrees
19. Chinese Government Scholarship
China is investing billions in international education.
Multiple scholarship types exist – full scholarships, partial scholarships, bilateral programs. With numerous universities participating, your chances are actually quite good.
What it covers: Full tuition, accommodation, living stipend, medical insurance
Eligibility: Varies by program type
Important: Many programs now taught in English
20. MEXT Scholarship (Japan)
The Japanese government scholarship for research students.
If you’re interested in science, technology, engineering, or even social sciences, Japan offers world-class education plus a completely different cultural experience.
What it covers: Full tuition, monthly allowance (¥144,000), airfare
Eligibility: Research proposal, acceptance from Japanese supervisor
Application: Through Japanese Embassy in Nigeria
The Real Strategy for Winning Scholarships for Masters Degrees
Okay, you’ve got the list. Now what?
Having information is one thing. Actually winning these scholarships? That requires strategy.
Start With Your “Why”
Before you write a single application…
Why do you want a masters degree? Not the generic “to advance my career” answer. The real reason.
What problem are you trying to solve? What impact do you want to make? How will this masters degree specifically help you achieve that?
Scholarship committees read thousands of applications. The ones that stand out tell authentic, compelling stories connected to genuine purpose.
Choose Your Field Strategically
Some fields have more scholarships for masters degrees than others.
Development studies, public health, education, environmental science, renewable energy – these fields attract significant funding because they align with global development goals.
That doesn’t mean you should change your field. But if you’re deciding between two interests, knowing where funding flows can inform your decision.
Build Your Profile Before Applying
The strongest scholarship applications come from candidates who’ve been preparing for years, not months.
For academic scholarships:
- Maintain strong grades (minimum 2:1 or Second Class Upper)
- Engage in research, even small projects
- Publish if possible (journals, conference papers, even blog posts in your field)
- Build relationships with potential referees
For professional scholarships:
- Gain relevant work experience (minimum 2-3 years for most)
- Take on leadership roles in your organization
- Engage in community service or volunteer work
- Document your impact with specific metrics
Master the Application Components
Let’s break down what makes winning applications…
Personal Statements That Actually Work
Your personal statement isn’t your autobiography. It’s a focused narrative that demonstrates:
- Why you want this specific degree
- Why you’re qualified to pursue it
- How it aligns with your career goals
- What impact you’ll make afterward
Use specific examples. Avoid generic statements. Show, don’t tell.
Instead of “I am passionate about education,” write “When I designed a volunteer tutoring program that improved JAMB scores by 40% in my community, I realized education policy was my calling.”
See the difference?
Recommendation Letters That Stand Out
Your referees can make or break your application.
Choose people who:
- Actually know you and your work
- Can provide specific examples of your abilities
- Understand what the scholarship is looking for
- Write well and meet deadlines
Give them at least 6-8 weeks notice. Provide them with:
- Your CV
- Your personal statement draft
- Specific examples they might reference
- Clear deadline information
Make their job easier, and they’ll write stronger letters.
Research Proposals (For Research-Based Masters)
If you’re applying for research-based scholarships for masters degrees, your proposal is critical.
Elements of strong proposals:
- Clear, focused research question
- Understanding of existing literature
- Feasible methodology
- Potential impact and significance
- Alignment with supervisor’s expertise
Start conversations with potential supervisors early. Their support strengthens your application significantly.
The Application Timeline That Works
Here’s a realistic timeline for competitive scholarships for masters degrees:
18-24 months before: Start researching programs and scholarships, identify required tests (GRE, IELTS, etc.)
12-18 months before: Take required tests, begin reaching out to potential supervisors, start drafting personal statements
9-12 months before: Finalize university choices, request recommendation letters, submit scholarship applications
6-9 months before: Apply to universities, follow up on pending applications, apply for additional funding sources
3-6 months before: Receive decisions, accept offers, arrange visa and travel
Starting early isn’t just advisable – it’s essential.
Common Mistakes That Kill Scholarship Applications
Let me save you some heartache.
I’ve reviewed scholarship applications (as an alumni reviewer for my scholarship program). I’ve seen what works and what doesn’t.
Mistake #1: Generic Applications
Copying the same essay for every scholarship is scholarship suicide.
Each program has specific values, selection criteria, and goals. Your application must demonstrate you understand and align with them.
Tailor. Every. Application.
Mistake #2: Ignoring Eligibility Requirements
If a scholarship requires 2 years work experience and you have 1 year, you’re wasting your time applying.
Read eligibility criteria carefully. Every word. Apply only to scholarships you actually qualify for.
Mistake #3: Weak Connection to Home Country
Many scholarships for masters degrees (especially development-focused ones) expect you to return home and contribute.
If your application suggests you’re using the scholarship as an immigration pathway, you’ll get rejected instantly.
Show genuine commitment to Nigeria’s development. Because honestly, that’s what these scholarships are funding.
Mistake #4: Last-Minute Applications
Technical issues happen. Internet fails. Documents don’t upload. Recommendation letters arrive late.
Submitting on deadline day is playing Russian roulette with your future.
Submit at least one week early. Earlier if possible.
Mistake #5: Ignoring the Interview
If you make it to interview stage (congratulations, by the way – that alone is an achievement), preparation is everything.
Research the scholarship program thoroughly. Prepare answers for common questions. Practice, but don’t memorize scripts. Be yourself, but be your most prepared, articulate self.
Mistake #6: Not Following Up
After submitting applications, follow up professionally.
Confirm receipt. Provide additional information if requested. Respond promptly to communications.
This shows professionalism and genuine interest.
Alternative Funding Sources for Masters Degrees
Scholarships aren’t the only game in town.
If you’re struggling to secure full scholarships for masters degrees, consider these alternatives:
Employer Sponsorship
Some organizations sponsor employees for masters degrees, especially if the degree directly benefits the organization.
Approach your employer with a clear proposal showing how your masters will benefit them. Some companies offer full sponsorship in exchange for a bond (you work for them for X years after graduation).
Worth exploring.
University Assistantships
Many universities offer teaching or research assistantships that waive tuition and provide stipends.
You work 10-20 hours per week for the department while studying. It’s work, yes. But it funds your education.
Loan Programs with Favorable Terms
Organizations like LEAP Africa, Prodigy Finance, and Future Finance offer education loans specifically for international students.
Not ideal (debt is debt), but better than missing opportunities entirely. Some offer income-based repayment or partial loan forgiveness.
Crowdfunding
Platforms like GoFundMe, Indiegogo, or even local platforms can help raise partial funding.
Tell your story compellingly. Leverage social media. You’d be surprised how people rally around genuine educational aspirations.
Partial Scholarships + Part-Time Work
Many countries allow international students to work part-time (usually 20 hours per week).
A partial scholarship covering tuition plus part-time work covering living expenses can make masters degrees affordable.
Countries like Canada, Australia, and Germany are particularly friendly to international student employment.
Your Mental Game Matters
Here’s something nobody talks about…
The scholarship application process is emotionally draining.
You’ll spend hours crafting perfect applications. You’ll get rejected. Maybe multiple times. You’ll question whether you’re good enough.
Let me tell you something important: rejection doesn’t mean you’re not good enough.
Sometimes it’s timing. Sometimes it’s fit. Sometimes it’s just the sheer competition (some scholarships have 10,000+ applicants for 50 spots).
Every successful scholar has rejection stories. I got rejected from seven scholarships before getting my yes. Seven.
But that one yes changed everything.
Building Resilience
Create a support system. Connect with others applying for scholarships. Share resources, encouragement, and occasional commiseration.
Celebrate small wins. Got invited for an interview? Celebrate. Submitted a strong application? Celebrate. Received positive feedback? Celebrate.
Learn from rejections. If possible, request feedback. Identify weak areas. Improve for next applications.
Keep applying. Even after you receive one scholarship, keep applying until you start your program. More options give you negotiating power and backup plans.
Remember your why. On difficult days, reconnect with your purpose. Why does this masters degree matter? Who will benefit from your education?
That purpose will carry you through rejections.
Making the Final Decision
Let’s say you’re fortunate enough to receive multiple scholarship offers (it happens more often than you’d think).
How do you choose?
Factors to Consider
Academic fit: Does the program align with your research interests and career goals?
Financial coverage: Some “full” scholarships have hidden costs. Compare total coverage carefully.
Career prospects: Which degree offers better career opportunities in your field?
Location: Consider quality of life, safety, cost of living, and cultural fit.
Network: What kind of professional network does each program offer?
Return requirements: Some scholarships require you to return home immediately after graduation. Others are more flexible.
There’s no wrong choice if you’re choosing between good options. Trust your instincts.
Life After the Scholarship
Winning a scholarship for your masters degree is just the beginning.
Once you’re there, make the most of it:
Excel academically. You’re representing Nigeria. Your performance reflects on future applicants from our country.
Build genuine relationships. Your classmates become your global network. Invest in these relationships.
Engage beyond academics. Join clubs, attend seminars, participate in university life. These experiences matter as much as grades.
Stay connected to home. Maintain relationships in Nigeria. Follow developments in your field here. This connection makes your eventual return more impactful.
Pay it forward. Help future scholarship applicants. Answer their questions. Review their essays. Share your journey.
The scholarship community thrives on mutual support.
Your Journey Starts Now
Look, I won’t lie to you.
Securing scholarships for masters degrees requires serious work. Time. Effort. Persistence. Resilience.
But it’s absolutely, definitely, 100% possible.
Right now, there are Nigerian students studying at Oxford, Cambridge, Harvard, MIT, and countless other prestigious universities. On full scholarships.
They’re not smarter than you. They’re not more deserving than you. They’re not luckier than you.
They just started. They applied. They persisted.
Your masters degree journey begins with a single action.
Research one scholarship today. Draft one paragraph of your personal statement. Reach out to one potential referee. Register for one required test.
Just start.
Because six months from now, you’ll wish you had started today.
And two years from now? You could be walking across a stage in another country, collecting your masters degree, fully funded.
That future is possible.
Now go make it happen.
Conclusion
Scholarships for masters degrees have transformed countless careers and lives, including mine and many other Nigerians I know personally.
The opportunities are abundant. The funding is real. The question is whether you’re willing to invest the time and effort to claim what’s available.
Remember, scholarship committees aren’t doing you a favor – they’re investing in potential. Your job is to show them why you’re worth that investment.
Start your search today. Apply strategically. Stay persistent through rejections. Celebrate every small victory.
Your fully-funded masters degree is out there waiting for you.
Go find it.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Can I get a fully-funded masters scholarship with a 2:2 degree?
Honestly, it’s challenging but not impossible. Most competitive scholarships for masters degrees prefer minimum 2:1 or equivalent. However, exceptional work experience, strong research proposals, leadership achievements, or relevant professional certifications can compensate for lower grades. Focus on scholarships that emphasize professional experience over purely academic merit, and consider doing a postgraduate diploma first to strengthen your academic profile.
Q2: How long does the entire scholarship application process take?
Plan for 12-18 months from start to finish. This includes researching opportunities (2-3 months), preparing for required tests like IELTS or GRE (3-4 months), gathering documents and writing applications (2-3 months), waiting for decisions (3-6 months), and arranging visa and travel (2-3 months). Starting early is absolutely critical for competitive scholarships.
Q3: Can I apply for multiple scholarships for masters degrees simultaneously?
Absolutely yes, and you should. Most successful scholars apply to 15-25 different opportunities. Each scholarship has different selection criteria, timelines, and competition levels. Applying to multiple programs dramatically increases your chances. Just ensure you can genuinely commit to any offer you accept, and notify programs promptly if you decline their offer.
Q4: Do I need work experience for all masters scholarships?
Not all, but many prestigious scholarships for masters degrees prefer 2-5 years of professional experience. Programs like Chevening and Commonwealth explicitly require work experience. However, scholarships targeting recent graduates also exist, especially for research-based masters or specific fields like STEM. Check individual eligibility requirements carefully before applying.
Q5: What are my chances of getting a scholarship without IELTS or TOEFL?
Very limited for English-speaking countries. Most scholarships for masters degrees in UK, US, Canada, and Australia require proof of English proficiency. However, some exceptions exist if you completed your undergraduate degree taught entirely in English. Also, some European countries (Germany, Netherlands) and Asian countries offer alternative language requirements or accept other English certifications. Budget for these tests – they’re essential investments.
Q6: Can I switch my field of study when applying for masters scholarships?
Yes, but you’ll need to demonstrate clear motivation and relevant preparation. Many successful applicants switch fields, especially moving from pure sciences to applied fields, or from humanities to development studies. Your personal statement must convincingly explain why you’re changing fields and how your previous background adds unique value. Some fields require prerequisite courses before admission.
Q7: Should I apply for masters scholarships before getting university admission?
This depends on the scholarship type. Some scholarships like Chevening and Commonwealth require you to apply simultaneously to the scholarship and universities separately. Others are university-specific and require admission first. Read application guidelines carefully. Generally, start university applications and scholarship applications in parallel to maximize your chances and meet all deadlines.
Q8: What happens if I win a scholarship but get rejected by all universities?
Most scholarships are conditional on gaining university admission. If you receive a scholarship offer but fail to secure university admission, you typically forfeit the scholarship. This is why you should apply to multiple universities at different competitiveness levels – include reach schools, match schools, and safety schools to ensure at least one admission.
Q9: Are there scholarships for masters degrees for older candidates (35+)?
Yes, definitely. Many professional and development-focused scholarships specifically target mid-career professionals regardless of age. Programs like Hubert Humphrey, Commonwealth Professional Fellowships, and many DAAD programs welcome experienced professionals. Some scholarships even prefer older candidates with substantial work experience and proven impact. Age can be an advantage if you have the right experience.
Q10: How do I handle scholarship bond agreements requiring return to Nigeria?
Honor them. These bonds exist because scholarships for masters degrees are investments in your country’s development, not immigration pathways. Most bonds require 2-5 years work in your home country after graduation. Some allow flexibility for specific career opportunities. Violating bond agreements can have legal consequences, damage your reputation, and hurt future applicants from Nigeria. If circumstances change, communicate with your scholarship provider – they’re often more flexible than you’d expect with honest communication.
