Canada is one of the most sought-after destinations for Nigerian students looking to further their education. With its high-quality educational institutions, diverse culture, and opportunities for career growth, it’s no surprise that many Nigerians dream of studying in Canada. However, the financial burden of tuition fees, living expenses, and visa costs can make it challenging. Fortunately, there are several scholarships available that not only cover tuition fees but also offer free visas, making studying in Canada more accessible. Here’s a guide to some of the top scholarships for Nigerians to study in Canada with a free visa.
Advertisements
1. Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships (CGS)
The Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarship is one of the most prestigious scholarships in Canada, specifically designed for doctoral students. This scholarship is aimed at attracting world-class doctoral students to Canadian institutions and is open to international students, including Nigerians.
Key Features:
Amount: $50,000 per year for three years.
Eligibility: Open to both Canadian and international students, including Nigerians, who are pursuing doctoral studies.
Coverage: Covers full tuition fees, living expenses, and includes the cost of a study permit (free visa).
Application Process: Students must be nominated by the institution they wish to attend. Application deadlines vary depending on the university.
How to Apply: To apply, you need to secure admission into a Canadian university and then apply for the Vanier Scholarship through the school’s graduate studies office. Ensure you have a strong academic record and research proposal.
Advertisements
2. Ontario Graduate Scholarship (OGS)
The Ontario Graduate Scholarship program offers financial support to graduate students from around the world, including Nigeria, who wish to pursue studies at the graduate level in Ontario, Canada.
Key Features:
Amount: Up to $15,000 for one year.
Eligibility: Open to international students, including Nigerians, who are enrolled in graduate programs at participating universities in Ontario.
Coverage: Tuition fees, living expenses, and study permit fees are covered by the scholarship.
Application Process: Students must apply through their chosen Ontario university. The application process may include submitting academic records, a research proposal, and recommendation letters.
How to Apply: Students must be accepted into a graduate program at an Ontario-based university. After acceptance, you can apply for the OGS program directly through the school’s graduate office.
3. The University of British Columbia (UBC) International Leader of Tomorrow Award
The UBC International Leader of Tomorrow Award is a scholarship for undergraduate international students who demonstrate excellent academic performance and leadership abilities. It is available to Nigerian students who wish to study at UBC, one of Canada’s top universities.
Key Features:
Amount: Full tuition, fees, and living expenses.
Eligibility: Open to undergraduate international students from Nigeria who demonstrate financial need, academic excellence, and leadership skills.
Coverage: Full tuition, housing, and other living expenses, as well as the cost of your study permit (free visa).
Application Process: To apply, you must first gain admission to the University of British Columbia and then apply for the scholarship.
How to Apply: Begin by applying for admission to UBC. Once admitted, you can submit your scholarship application through the UBC website, providing all required documents, including your academic transcripts, leadership references, and financial need statement.
4. The Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship Program at the University of Toronto
The Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship Program is one of the most renowned scholarships in Canada. It is offered by the University of Toronto to international students who demonstrate exceptional academic achievement and leadership potential.
Key Features:
Amount: Covers tuition, books, incidental fees, and full residence support for four years.
Eligibility: Open to international students, including Nigerians, who are nominated by their school for excellence in academic performance and leadership.
Coverage: Full tuition fees, accommodation, books, and living expenses, as well as the cost of your study permit.
Application Process: Students must be nominated by their school and apply for admission to the University of Toronto. Once admitted, they can submit their scholarship application.
How to Apply: To apply, ensure your school nominates you for the scholarship. Once nominated, you will be able to submit your application for the Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship, along with supporting documents like your academic records and leadership achievements.
5. Canadian Commonwealth Scholarship Program
The Canadian Commonwealth Scholarship Program is another excellent opportunity for Nigerian students who wish to study in Canada. This scholarship is offered by Global Affairs Canada to students from Commonwealth countries, including Nigeria, for master’s and doctoral programs.
Key Features:
Amount: Covers tuition fees, airfare, and living expenses.
Eligibility: Open to international students from Commonwealth countries, including Nigeria, who wish to pursue graduate studies in Canada.
Coverage: Full tuition fees, airfare, and living expenses, plus a free visa for your stay in Canada.
Application Process: The scholarship is managed by the Canadian government, and students must apply through their home country’s national scholarship office.
How to Apply: Students must first apply through the Nigerian government’s scholarship body and be selected for nomination. Once nominated, they can apply for the Canadian Commonwealth Scholarship through the Canadian government.
6. The Pierre Elliott Trudeau Foundation Doctoral Scholarship
The Pierre Elliott Trudeau Foundation Doctoral Scholarship is aimed at students pursuing a doctoral degree in social sciences and humanities. The scholarship supports international students, including Nigerians, who are enrolled in a Canadian university.
Key Features:
Amount: Up to $60,000 per year for three years.
Eligibility: Open to doctoral students from all disciplines who wish to study in Canada.
Coverage: Full tuition, research costs, and living expenses, including the cost of a study permit.
Application Process: You need to apply through the foundation’s online portal, submitting a research proposal, academic records, and recommendation letters.
How to Apply: Visit the Pierre Elliott Trudeau Foundation website for details on the application process and deadlines. Ensure you meet the eligibility criteria and submit all required documents before the deadline.
Conclusion
Studying in Canada as a Nigerian student is more accessible than ever, thanks to the numerous scholarships available that cover tuition fees, living expenses, and even study permit costs (free visa). Whether you’re aiming for a graduate program or an undergraduate degree, these top scholarships provide a fantastic opportunity to pursue your academic goals in one of the world’s leading educational destinations. Make sure to carefully review the eligibility criteria and deadlines for each scholarship, and begin your application process as soon as possible to secure your future in Canada.
Leave a Reply