As the demand for quality education grows among Nigerian students, Canada remains one of the most attractive destinations due to its globally respected institutions, multicultural environment, and numerous scholarship opportunities.
For 2025, several top-tier scholarships are available to Nigerian students pursuing undergraduate, master’s, or doctoral studies in Canada. These scholarships not only cover tuition but in some cases offer full funding, including living expenses and travel.
1. Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships
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Target: Doctoral students
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Value: $50,000 per year for 3 years
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Eligibility: Academic excellence, research potential, and leadership
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Application: Must be nominated by a Canadian institution
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Website: Vanier Canada Scholarships
2. Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship (University of Toronto)
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Target: Outstanding international undergraduate students
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Value: Full tuition, books, incidental fees, and full residence support
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Eligibility: Exceptional academic achievement and leadership
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Deadline: Varies, usually January
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Website: University of Toronto Scholarships
3. University of British Columbia (UBC) International Scholars Program
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Target: Undergraduate international students
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Scholarships Included: International Major Entrance Scholarship (IMES), Outstanding International Student Award (OIS), and more
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Value: Partial to full tuition coverage
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Website: UBC Scholarships
4. York University International Student Scholarship
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Target: Undergraduate students
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Value: Up to CAD $180,000 for 4 years (CAD $45,000 annually)
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Eligibility: High academic performance and leadership
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Website: York International Scholarships
5. University of Manitoba Graduate Fellowships (UMGF)
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Target: Master’s and PhD students
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Value: $14,000 (Master’s) and $18,000 (PhD) per year
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Duration: 12 months (renewable)
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Website: UMGF Details
6. University of Waterloo International Funding
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Target: Undergraduate and graduate students
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Types: President’s International Scholarship of Excellence, International Master’s Award of Excellence (IMAE)
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Value: Up to $10,000/year
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Website: Waterloo Scholarships
7. Carleton University Entrance Awards for International Students
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Target: Undergraduate students
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Value: $4,000 to $16,000
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Eligibility: Based on academic performance at the point of admission
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Website: Carleton Scholarships
8. Canadian Commonwealth Scholarship Program
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Target: Students from developing Commonwealth countries (including Nigeria)
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Level: Master’s and PhD
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Value: Full tuition, travel, and living expenses
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Website: EduCanada Scholarships
9. Dalhousie University Scholarships
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Target: Graduate students (research-based programs)
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Value: Up to $40,000 per year
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Website: Dalhousie Awards
10. McGill University Entrance Scholarships
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Target: Undergraduate international students
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Value: $3,000 to $12,000
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Eligibility: Strong academic record
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Website: McGill Scholarships
Application Tips for Nigerian Students
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Start Early: Most applications open 6–10 months before the academic year begins.
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Prepare Transcripts and Certificates: Ensure they’re verified and meet Canadian standards.
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Write a Strong Personal Statement: Showcase leadership, community involvement, and academic goals.
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Secure References: Academic and professional referees increase your chances.
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Verify Language Proficiency: Most scholarships require proof of English proficiency (IELTS or TOEFL).
Conclusion
These scholarships represent a major opportunity for Nigerians to gain quality education in one of the world’s most welcoming and academically rigorous environments. Interested applicants should check eligibility, prepare necessary documents, and apply early to maximize their chances.