Canada Scholarships for Nigerians 2027: Fully Funded Opportunities, Eligibility and How to Apply

 

If you graduated with a Second Class Lower (2:2) degree, you may have been told that your chances of studying abroad are slim. Fortunately, that isn't true.

Many international universities, governments, and scholarship organisations consider far more than academic grades when selecting scholars. Leadership experience, professional achievements, volunteer work, research potential, and a compelling personal statement often carry significant weight during the selection process.

Every year, thousands of Nigerian graduates with a 2:2 degree secure fully funded and partially funded scholarships to study in countries such as Ireland, Canada, the United Kingdom, Germany, Australia, Sweden, Japan, and several European nations.

The secret is knowing which scholarships accept applicants with a 2:2 degree, understanding when applications open, and preparing a competitive application before the deadline.

This comprehensive guide highlights some of the best international scholarships Nigerians with a Second Class Lower degree can apply for in 2027. You'll also discover application periods, official scholarship websites, eligibility requirements, funding benefits, and practical tips that can improve your chances of success.

You may also find these scholarship guides helpful:

• Ireland Fellows Programme 2027/2028: Fully Funded Scholarship for Nigerians and Other Africans
• Fully Funded Canada Scholarships for Nigerians (2027 Guide)

Can You Get an International Scholarship with a 2:2 Degree?

Yes.

Although some highly competitive scholarships require a First Class or Second Class Upper (2:1), many reputable scholarship programmes use a holistic selection process.

They often consider:

• Professional work experience.
• Leadership and community service.
• Research interests.
• Career achievements.
• Professional certifications.
• Quality of your personal statement.
• Recommendation letters.
• English language proficiency.

For experienced professionals, practical achievements can sometimes outweigh university grades.

Quick Scholarship Comparison

Scholarship	Country	Funding	2:2 Accepted?	Typical Opening
Ireland Fellows Programme	Ireland	Fully Funded	Yes	Late June
Chevening Scholarship	United Kingdom	Fully Funded	Yes*	August
Commonwealth Master's Scholarship	United Kingdom	Fully Funded	Yes*	September
DAAD Scholarship	Germany	Fully Funded	Yes	August
Erasmus Mundus	Europe	Fully Funded	Yes	October
Australia Awards	Australia	Fully Funded	Yes	February

*Acceptance depends on the university and the strength of your complete application.

1. Ireland Fellows Programme

Country: Ireland

Funding: Fully Funded

Study Level: Master's Degree

Typical Application Period: Late June – Late July.

Accepts 2:2? Yes. Applicants with relevant work experience and leadership potential are encouraged to apply, provided they satisfy the programme's country-specific eligibility requirements.

Benefits:

• Full tuition fees.
• Monthly living allowance.
• Accommodation support.
• Return flights.
• Medical insurance.
• Leadership development programme.

Official Scholarship Website:
https://www.ireland.ie/en/ireland-fellows-programme/

Official Application Portal:
https://www.ireland.ie/en/ireland-fellows-programme/applying-for-the-ireland-fellows-programme/

Application Tip: Demonstrate how your work experience and leadership activities will help you contribute to Nigeria's development after completing your studies.

Read our complete guide: Ireland Fellows Programme 2027/2028.

2. Chevening Scholarships

Country: United Kingdom

Funding: Fully Funded

Study Level: One-Year Master's Degree

Typical Application Opening: Early August

Typical Application Closing: Early October

Accepts 2:2? Yes. Chevening does not specify a minimum degree classification, but applicants must satisfy the admission requirements of their chosen UK universities. A strong professional profile and leadership experience are essential. 0

Scholarship Benefits:

• Full tuition fees.
• Monthly living allowance.
• Return economy airfare.
• Visa application support.
• Travel grants.
• Exclusive networking and leadership opportunities.

Official Scholarship Website:
https://www.chevening.org/scholarships/

Official Application Portal:
https://www.chevening.org/apply/

Application Tip: Your leadership experience, networking skills, career plan, and essays are often more important than graduating with a First Class. 1

3. Commonwealth Master's Scholarships

Country: United Kingdom

Funding: Fully Funded

Study Level: Master's Degree

Typical Application Opening: September

Typical Application Closing: October

Accepts 2:2? Some universities and programmes may consider applicants with a 2:2, particularly where there is strong professional experience and other outstanding qualifications.

Scholarship Benefits:

• Full tuition.
• Monthly stipend.
• Return airfare.
• Warm clothing allowance.
• Study travel grants.

Official Scholarship Website:
https://cscuk.fcdo.gov.uk/

Application Tip: Demonstrate how your studies will contribute to Nigeria's development after graduation.

4. DAAD Scholarships

Country: Germany

Funding: Fully Funded

Study Level: Master's & PhD

Typical Application Opening: August

Typical Application Closing: September to October (varies by programme)

Accepts 2:2? Yes. Many DAAD programmes place significant emphasis on relevant work experience, research interests, and professional achievements. 2

Scholarship Benefits:

• Monthly living allowance.
• Travel allowance.
• Health insurance.
• Research support.
• Study grants.

Official Scholarship Website:
https://www.daad.de/en/

Scholarship Database:
https://www.daad.de/en/study-and-research-in-germany/scholarships/

Application Tip: Applicants with professional experience and a strong motivation letter often perform well during selection.

5. Erasmus Mundus Joint Master's Scholarships

Countries: Multiple European Countries

Funding: Fully Funded

Study Level: Master's Degree

Typical Application Opening: October

Typical Application Closing: January

Accepts 2:2? Yes. Admission requirements vary by consortium, and several programmes assess applicants holistically.

Scholarship Benefits:

• Full tuition fees.
• Monthly stipend.
• Travel allowance.
• Installation allowance.
• Medical insurance.

Official Website:
https://erasmus-plus.ec.europa.eu/

Application Tip: Apply to programmes closely related to your academic background and work experience.

6. Australia Awards Scholarships

Country: Australia

Funding: Fully Funded

Study Level: Master's Degree

Typical Application Opening: February

Typical Application Closing: April

Accepts 2:2? Yes. Australia Awards places significant emphasis on professional experience, leadership potential, and commitment to national development.

Scholarship Benefits:

• Full tuition fees.
• Monthly living allowance.
• Return airfare.
• Health insurance.
• Academic support.
• Pre-departure training.

Official Scholarship Website:
https://www.australiaawardsafrica.org/

Application Tip: Highlight your work experience, leadership activities, and how your studies will contribute to Nigeria's development.

7. Swedish Institute Scholarships for Global Professionals (SISGP)

Country: Sweden

Funding: Fully Funded

Study Level: Master's Degree

Typical Application Opening: February

Typical Application Closing: February

Accepts 2:2? Yes. Applicants are assessed using a holistic approach, with leadership and professional experience playing a major role.

Official Website:
https://si.se/

8. MEXT Scholarship

Country: Japan

Funding: Fully Funded

Study Level: Master's & PhD

Typical Application Opening: April

Typical Application Closing: June

Accepts 2:2? Yes. Selection depends on research potential, academic ability, and performance during the screening process.

Official Website:
https://www.studyinjapan.go.jp/

Documents You'll Need

• International Passport.
• Degree Certificate.
• Academic Transcript.
• Updated Professional CV.
• Personal Statement.
• Recommendation Letters.
• Employment Letter (where applicable).
• English Language Test Results (if required).

Need help preparing your CV? Read our guide: How to Write an ATS-Friendly CV That Gets Interviews.

Common Mistakes That Reduce Your Chances

• Applying after the deadline.
• Submitting incomplete documents.
• Using a generic personal statement for every scholarship.
• Ignoring eligibility requirements.
• Applying through unofficial websites.
• Failing to demonstrate leadership or community impact.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I get a fully funded scholarship with a 2:2?

Yes. Several international scholarships consider applicants with a 2:2 degree, especially where applicants have relevant work experience, leadership qualities, and a strong application.

Which country is easiest to get a scholarship with a 2:2?

Countries such as Ireland, Germany, Canada, Australia, and the United Kingdom offer several opportunities for qualified applicants with a Second Class Lower degree.

Can I apply without work experience?

Some scholarships accept fresh graduates, but many government-funded programmes prefer applicants with relevant professional experience.

Should I still apply if I have a low CGPA?

Yes. Many universities assess applicants holistically, considering leadership, research interests, professional achievements, and community service alongside academic performance.

Related Articles

• Ireland Fellows Programme 2027/2028: Fully Funded Scholarship for Nigerians and Other Africans
• Fully Funded Canada Scholarships for Nigerians (2027 Guide)
• How to Write an ATS-Friendly CV That Gets Interviews
• How to Answer "Tell Me About Yourself" in Job Interviews

Final Thoughts

A Second Class Lower (2:2) degree should never stop you from pursuing your dream of studying abroad. Many scholarship providers are looking for applicants who can demonstrate leadership, commitment, professional growth, and the potential to make a positive impact after completing their studies.

Start preparing your documents early, apply through official scholarship websites only, and submit your applications before the deadlines. With proper preparation and persistence, your 2:2 degree can still open doors to world-class education and life-changing opportunities.

Disclaimer: Scholarship opening and closing dates may change from year to year. Always confirm the latest information on each scholarship's official website before applying. Never pay anyone claiming they can guarantee you a scholarship.