Studying in the UK can be expensive, but several scholarships can help Nigerian teachers fund their education.
Whether you’re pursuing a Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE), a Master’s in Education, or any teaching-related course, this guide will show you the best UK scholarships for Nigerian teachers and how to apply.
1. Chevening Scholarships
The Chevening Scholarship is a fully funded UK government scholarship for outstanding professionals, including teachers.
What it covers?
- Full tuition fees.
- Travel costs.
- Monthly stipend for living expenses
Who is eligible?
A bachelor’s degree with at least a 2:1 (second-class upper) and a minimum two years of teaching experience.
Leadership and networking skills and commitment to return to Nigeria after studying is also required.
How to apply
- Visit Chevening’s official website and check eligibility.
- Choose a one-year master’s program in education or teaching.
- Submit an online application with an essay on leadership and networking.
- If shortlisted, attend an interview at the British High Commission.
Application Deadline: Between August – November each year.
2. Commonwealth Master’s Scholarships
A fully funded scholarship for students from developing Commonwealth countries, including Nigeria, who want to pursue a Master’s in Education or other teaching-related fields.
What it covers?
- Full tuition fees.
- Travel allowance.
- Living expenses.
Who is eligible?
First-class or upper second-class bachelor’s degree holders with proof of financial need and strong academic background in education.
How to apply
- Apply through the Commonwealth Scholarship Commission website or through Nigerian nominating agencies.
- Submit a personal statement on how your study will impact education in Nigeria.
- Provide academic transcripts and recommendation letters.
Application Deadline: within October – December annually.
3. The University of Nottingham Developing Solutions Scholarship
A 50-100% tuition fee scholarship for students from Africa, India, and selected Commonwealth countries pursuing a Master’s in Education or a related field.
Who is eligible?
Nigerians with an offer to study at the University of Nottingham and are interested in solving educational challenges back in Nigeria with strong academic background.
How to apply
- Apply for admission to a Master’s program at the University of Nottingham.
- Fill out the Developing Solutions Scholarship application form on their website.
- Write a personal statement on how you’ll use your education to benefit Nigeria.
Application Deadline: May each year
Apply Here
4. Gates Cambridge Scholarship
A fully funded scholarship for outstanding students worldwide, including Nigerian teachers pursuing a Master’s or PhD at the University of Cambridge.
What it covers?
- Full tuition fees.
- £20,000+ annual stipend.
- Travel and visa costs
Who is eligible?
Nigerian with an offer to study a Master’s or PhD in Education at Cambridge who also has academic excellence, leadership potential and shows commitment to improving education in Nigeria.
How to apply
- Apply for a Master’s or PhD at the University of Cambridge.
- Indicate interest in the Gates Cambridge Scholarship.
- Submit academic transcripts, research proposal, and two references.
Application Deadline: December – January each year
Apply Here
5. IOE Centenary Masters Scholarships (UCL – Institute of Education)
A full tuition scholarship for international students pursuing a Master’s in Education at University College London’s (UCL) Institute of Education (IOE).
Who is eligible?
Nigerian citizen with an unconditional offer from UCL IOE and a strong academic record in education or teaching with willingness to return to Nigeria after studies.
How to apply
- Apply for a Master’s at UCL IOE.
- Fill out the Centenary Scholarship application form.
- Write a statement on how your studies will improve Nigerian education.
Application Deadline: May each year
Apply Here
6. GREAT Scholarships for Nigerian Students
A £10,000 tuition fee scholarship offered by various UK universities to students from Nigeria.
Who is eligible?
Nigerian students applying for a Master’s in education-related fields with academic excellence, leadership potential and an offer from a participating UK university.
How to apply
- Visit the GREAT Scholarships website.
- Check participating universities offering education-related courses.
- Apply directly through the university’s scholarship portal.
Application Deadline: Varies by university
Tips for applying to UK scholarships
- Start early – Many scholarships have strict deadlines.
- Write a strong personal statement – Focus on your impact as a Nigerian teacher.
- Prepare recommendation letters – Ask former professors or employers for references.
- Check eligibility requirements carefully – Some scholarships require financial proof.
- Apply to multiple scholarships – Increase your chances of success.
By securing a scholarship, you can gain world-class education in the UK without financial burden.
Which scholarship are you applying for? Let us know in the comments!
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