Are you a Nigerian or an African student who would want to pursue a Master's or PhD program in the UK ? but dont know how or have funds for it? Maybe you’ve looked at UK schools before and thought, “This can’t be for me... the school fees, the visa, everything is just too expensive.
I understand too well because many of us have been there, full of dreams but stuck and is as if you are practically wasting away. But here’s something you need to hear loud and clear: It Is Possible
You may not know this, but many UK universities are still accepting applications for 2025, especially for international students from Nigeria and Africa. And the best part is?
- Fully and partially funded scholarships are available
- Some schools even offer application fee waivers
- And There’s still time for you.
If you are also wondering where or how to start, what’s needed, or if you’re even qualified? this article will break everything down for you, step-by-step. Let’s go.
Top UK Universities Still Accepting Nigerian and African Students For Master's or PhD Program 2025:
Here are some UK universities known to be welcoming to Nigerian and African students, offering scholarships and easier admissions:
1. University of Glasgow
This top-ranking university in Scotland offers the Excellence Scholarship worth up to £10,000 for international postgraduate students. It’s competitive but very achievable, they actively welcome applications from Africa, especially Nigeria. Glasgow also has a strong African student community and many support systems once you're on campus. They offer:
- Scholarship: International Excellence Scholarship
- Value: Up to £10,000 off tuition
- Application Fee Waiver: No
- Deadline: Rolling (apply ASAP)
- Courses: Engineering, Public Health, Law, Education
- where to apply: glasgow.ac.uk
2. University of Sussex
Located near London, Sussex offers the Chancellor’s International Scholarship, which covers 50% of tuition fees. This is great for students with a strong academic record. Occasionally, they also give out application fee waivers during virtual events, so it’s worth staying updated with their international office.
- Scholarship: Chancellor’s International Scholarship
- Value: 50% tuition fee waiver
- Application Fee Waiver: Sometimes during events
- Deadline: March to May 2025 (check course)
- Courses: International Development, Politics, Environment, Media
- Where to apply: sussex.ac.uk
3. University of Dundee
This student-friendly school in Scotland offers the Global Excellence Scholarship, which provides up to £6,000 per year. Nigerian and Ghanaian students have been known to benefit from this. Dundee is also known for being affordable compared to other UK cities.
- Scholarship: Global Excellence Scholarship
- Value: Up to £6,000/year
- Application Fee Waiver: Yes
- Deadline: Rolling
- Courses: Medicine, Nursing, Law, Engineering
- Where to apply: dundee.ac.uk
4. University of the West of England (UWE Bristol)
UWE offers the Millennium Scholarship, which can cover 50% to 100% of your tuition. It’s especially attractive because it also comes with internship opportunities, giving you UK work experience even before graduating. The application process is straightforward, and Nigerians are encouraged to apply.
- Scholarship: Millennium Scholarship
- Value: 50%–100% tuition + Internship
- Application Fee Waiver: No
- Deadline: 31 May 2025
- Courses: Business, Media, Computer Science
- Where to apply: uwe.ac.uk
5. University of Leeds
One of the UK’s largest and most respected universities, Leeds has the Masters Excellence Scholarship, offering up to £7,000 in tuition support. They’re particularly welcoming to international students in fields like Business, Education, and Engineering. Sometimes they give fee waivers, so check during the application period.
- Scholarship: Masters Excellence Scholarship
- Value: Up to £7,000
- Application Fee Waiver: Yes, for some courses
- Deadline: Early March–June depending on course
- Courses: Engineering, Business, Education, Health
- Where to apply: leeds.ac.uk
6. University of Birmingham
Birmingham has the Global Masters Scholarship, which ranges from £2,000 to £10,000, depending on your course and qualifications. The earlier you apply, the better. Their website is very user-friendly and their Africa team regularly holds virtual events and consultations for students across West Africa.
- Scholarship: Global Masters Scholarship
- Value: Between £2,000–£10,000
- Application Fee Waiver: Sometimes
- Deadline: February–May
- Courses: Economics, Data Science, Policy
- Where to apply: birmingham.ac.uk
7. University of Portsmouth
Known for being flexible and welcoming, Portsmouth provides the Chancellor’s Global Academic Merit Scholarship, which rewards academic excellence. While not fully funded, they do have rolling admissions and flexible deadlines — great for late applicants. They also offer personal support for visa and accommodation planning.
- Scholarship: Chancellor’s Global Academic Merit
- Value: Merit-based discounts
- Application Fee Waiver: Yes
- Deadline: Rolling
- Courses: Business, Technology, Maritime Studies
- Where to apply: port.ac.uk
What You Need to Apply (Especially for Newbies)
Here’s your basic checklist if you're just starting out:
✅ Required Documents:
- Valid international passport
- Degree certificate (at least 2:1 or 2:2 with a strong SOP for most scholarships)
- Academic transcript
- Personal statement (motivation letter)
- Two recommendation letters
- CV/Resume (academic or professional)
- Proof of English e.g., IELTS ( some universities can wave it for English speaking countries)
- Research proposal (for PhD only)
📌Optional but Helpful:
- Work experience (2+ years for Chevening, others vary)
- Proof of leadership or volunteer work
Where to Start (Step-by-Step for Beginners)
- Choose a Course: Look for a program that matches your background and goals
- Find 2–3 UK Universities offering that course (Apply to as many as possible)
- Check Scholarship Opportunities on their websites
- Prepare your documents and draft a personal statement
- Apply directly to the university (or via UCAS/Postgrad Portal)
- Apply for scholarships separately, if required
- Track deadlines and submit before the cut-off
- Attend webinars or ask the university admissions team for support
FAQs:
When should I apply for 2025 entry?
- Application deadlines vary by university and program. It's advisable to check specific deadlines on the university's official website and apply as early as possible.
Do I need to pay an application fee?
- Application fees differ between universities and programs. Some institutions may waive fees for certain applicants; refer to the university's admissions page for detailed information.
What scholarships are available for international students?
- Many UK universities offer scholarships such as the GREAT Scholarships, Chevening Scholarships, and university-specific awards. Eligibility criteria and application processes vary; consult the university's scholarship page for details.
What are the English language requirements?
- Most UK universities require proof of English proficiency through tests like IELTS or TOEFL. Specific score requirements can be found on the university's admissions page.
Can I apply to multiple universities simultaneously?
- Yes, you can apply to multiple universities. Ensure you meet each institution's application requirements and adhere to their deadlines.
Conclusion
Start where you are and use what you have! I know what it’s like to scroll through endless blog posts, save screenshots, and dream about "japka-ing" to the UK with no money in your account. It feels far sometimes, but it’s not impossible.
These scholarships and schools exist to give people like you, who are serious, hungry, and hopeful a real chance. So take that bold step and START NOW
For more information on scholarships and funding opportunities, you can visit the British Council's official page: https://study-uk.britishcouncil.org/scholarships-funding
Best of luck with your applications!