Canada has become an increasingly popular destination for Nigerian students, and that demand is matched by a growing number of scholarship routes spanning federal programs, provincial awards, and foundation-backed funding.
The ten options below give Nigerian applicants a realistic starting point, and complement the broader list of [fully funded scholarships in Canada](/fully-funded-scholarships-in-canada/).
1. Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at the University of Toronto
The [Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at the University of Toronto](/mastercard-foundation-scholars-program-university-toronto/) has supported many Nigerian students, covering tuition, housing, and a living allowance for the full degree.
2. University of Port Harcourt Mastercard Foundation TAGDev Scholarship
This Mastercard Foundation-backed program supports Nigerian students in agriculture-related fields at the University of Port Harcourt, with graduates often pursuing further study or research connections in Canada through the foundation’s wider network.
3. PTDF Overseas Scholarship Scheme
Nigeria’s Petroleum Technology Development Fund sends graduates to Canadian partner universities for master’s and PhD study in oil, gas, and related technical fields.
4. Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships
Open to doctoral candidates of any nationality, the [Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarship](/vanier-canada-graduate-scholarship/) has supported a steady number of strong Nigerian PhD applicants over the years.
5. Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Scholarships
This program has included Nigeria among its partner countries in several exchange cycles, funding study periods at Canadian universities through shared government and university funding.
6. Rotary Global Grant Scholarship
Rotary clubs across Nigeria sponsor candidates for Canadian graduate study tied to one of the organization’s recognized areas of focus.
7. IDRC Doctoral Research Award
Nigerian doctoral candidates conducting development-relevant research can apply for this award, offered through Canada’s International Development Research Centre.
8. Pierre Elliott Trudeau Foundation Doctoral Scholarship
The [Pierre Elliott Trudeau Foundation Doctoral Scholarship](/pierre-elliott-trudeau-foundation-doctoral-scholarship/) funds doctoral research connected to major public issues and has supported strong Nigerian applicants in past cycles.
9. University of Calgary International Entrance Scholarship
This entrance award covers a significant portion of tuition for incoming international undergraduates, including Nigerian applicants, renewable each year the required grade average is maintained.
10. Global Affairs Canada Scholarships
Global Affairs Canada funds a range of scholarship initiatives connected to Canada’s development partnerships, which periodically include programs specific to Nigeria and West Africa.
Because Canadian study permit processing times for Nigerian applicants can run longer than for some other countries, securing a scholarship offer well ahead of the intended intake leaves enough buffer time for the visa process itself.
Nigerian applicants should also budget for Canada.’s proof-of-funds requirement at the study permit stage, since a scholarship covering tuition alone may still leave a documented gap that needs to be shown through personal or sponsor funds.
Building relationships with Nigerian alumni already studying at a target Canadian university, often reachable through student associations or social media groups, can provide practical guidance that is not available through official program materials.
Applicants should also compare tuition and living costs across different Canadian provinces before finalizing a shortlist, since a scholarship of the same nominal value can stretch considerably further in a smaller university town than in a major city.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program only for Nigerian students?
No, it is open to students from across Africa, though Nigeria has consistently been one of the countries with strong representation among recipients.
Does the PTDF Overseas Scholarship Scheme cover any subject in Canada?
No, it is specifically focused on oil, gas, and related engineering and technical fields tied to Nigeria’s petroleum sector.
Are undergraduate Nigerian students eligible for Vanier?
No, Vanier is a doctoral-only scholarship, so undergraduate applicants would need to look at university entrance scholarships instead.
How competitive is the IDRC Doctoral Research Award for Nigerian applicants?
It is competitive, since funding is limited and applicants are expected to propose research clearly connected to development outcomes.
Do these scholarships affect Canadian study permit processing?
Not directly, though holding a confirmed scholarship offer can strengthen a study permit application by demonstrating financial support.
Is work experience required for Rotary Global Grant Scholarships?
Not always required, though relevant experience connected to the proposed area of focus can strengthen a Nigerian applicant’s case.
Can Nigerian students combine a Canadian scholarship with part-time work?
Yes, most Canadian study permits allow international students to work part-time during the academic year under standard conditions.