$120,000 Fully Funded Undergraduate Scholarships for Nigerians in USA

Scholarship 1: Joint Japan World Bank Graduate Scholarship Program

Overview and Eligibility

The Joint Japan/World Bank Graduate Scholarship Program (JJ/WBGSP) is designed for mid-career professionals from developing countries and Japan, aiming to pursue master’s degrees in development-related fields. Since its inception in 1987, the program has supported over 6,000 professionals committed to the development of their countries. To be eligible, applicants must be nationals of a World Bank member country, not hold dual citizenship with any developed country, and possess a bachelor’s degree with at least three years of development-related work experience.

Application Process

The application process for the JJ/WBGSP is meticulous and requires candidates to meet specific criteria before applying. Firstly, applicants must have been unconditionally admitted (except for funding) to one of the JJ/WBGSP-participating programs. The complete application includes two recommendation letters and a detailed CV highlighting relevant professional experience. Applications are only accepted through the program’s online portal by the specified deadline.

Key Benefits

Scholars of the JJ/WBGSP receive comprehensive support covering tuition, a monthly living stipend, round-trip airfare, health insurance, and a travel allowance. This extensive funding package ensures that scholars can focus fully on their studies and professional development without financial stress.

Important Dates

For those targeting the 2024 academic year, it’s crucial to note that the application window is organized in two rounds to accommodate various academic calendars. Prospective students should ensure they understand the specific timelines and requirements for the program they are applying to.

Scholarship 2: Rotary Foundation Global Scholarship Grants

Overview and Eligibility

The Rotary Foundation Global Grant Scholarships are designed for graduate-level academic studies or vocational training abroad, focusing on individuals who exhibit strong leadership skills and a commitment to improving the lives of others. To qualify, you must plan to study or train in one of Rotary’s areas of focus, which include peace and conflict prevention/resolution, disease prevention and treatment, water and sanitation, maternal and child health, basic education and literacy, and economic and community development. Additionally, applicants are required to have a bachelor’s degree or equivalent before the start of the scholarship term and must be proficient in the language of the host country.

Application Process

Initiating your application involves identifying a host Rotary club or district in the country where you plan to study or train. You’ll need to work closely with this host to complete the global grant application, which is then submitted to The Rotary Foundation for review and approval. The process is thorough, ensuring that all candidates meet the high standards expected of scholars.

Key Benefits

The key benefits of receiving a Rotary Foundation Global Grant Scholarship include funding for tuition, living expenses, and round-trip transportation to the host country. This comprehensive support allows you to focus on your studies and professional development without the burden of financial stress. Furthermore, you’ll have the opportunity to connect with local Rotary members and participate in various service projects, enhancing your educational experience and providing valuable community service.

Important Dates

The application deadline for these scholarships is typically in early August, with the scholarship awards being allocated for the following academic year. It’s crucial to adhere to these timelines to ensure your application is considered within the appropriate academic cycle.

Scholarship 3: AAUW International Fellowships

Overview and Eligibility

The AAUW International Fellowships, established in 1917, are designed for women who are not U.S. citizens or permanent residents and are pursuing full-time graduate or postdoctoral studies at accredited U.S. institutions. These fellowships are also available for women who are members of Graduate Women International for studies outside of the U.S., excluding their home countries. To be eligible, you must have earned a degree equivalent to a U.S. bachelor’s degree by the application deadline, intend to return to your home country to pursue a professional career, and demonstrate English proficiency.

Application Process

You should have applied to your proposed institution of study by the time of the application. The application process involves online submission of detailed academic and professional information, recommendations, and supporting documents by the specified deadline. It is crucial to ensure all parts of your application are complete and submitted on time to be considered for the fellowship.

Key Benefits

The fellowship offers substantial financial support including funds for educational expenses, living expenses, and dependent child care. Additionally, a limited budget is available for travel to professional meetings, conferences, or seminars, up to 10% of the fellowship total. This comprehensive financial package is designed to relieve the fellows from financial burdens, allowing them to focus entirely on their academic and professional development.

Important Dates

The application period opens on August 1, 2023, and the deadline for submitting all required documents is November 15, 2023, by 11:59 p.m. Pacific Standard Time. Notifications of the fellowship decisions will be emailed to all applicants by April 15, 2024. The fellowship year runs from July 1, 2024, to June 30, 2025, during which the fellows are expected to complete their full-time study or research.

Scholarship 4: Swedish Institute Scholarships

Overview and Eligibility

The Swedish Institute Scholarships for Global Professionals (SISGP) offer a unique opportunity for full-time, one- or two-year master’s studies in Sweden. This program is aimed at developing a network of future global leaders who will contribute to the United Nations 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. To be eligible, you must be a citizen of a country that qualifies for the SI scholarship, though residency in the country at the time of application is not required. Applicants must have demonstrated work experience and leadership skills either from their current or previous employment or through engagement in civil society.

Application Process

The application process for the SISGP is structured and occurs annually, aligning with the start of the autumn semester. You must first be admitted to one of the over 750 eligible English-taught master’s programs at Swedish universities. Following university admission, the specific scholarship application documents become available in November, with the application portal opening in February. It is crucial to follow the steps of University Admissions to be considered eligible.

Key Benefits

The SISGP covers full tuition fees, provides a monthly allowance of SEK 12,000 to cover living expenses, and includes insurance against illness and accident. Additionally, it offers a travel grant of SEK 15,000, or SEK 10,000 for scholars from selected countries, to cover travel costs to Sweden. After completing the scholarship period, recipients become part of the SI Alumni Network, enhancing professional growth and networking opportunities.

Important Dates

For those planning to apply for the academic year 2024/2025, the timeline is as follows: application for Swedish master’s programs through University Admissions from October 2024 to January 2025, publication of SI Scholarship application documents in November 2024, opening of the application portal in February 2025, announcements of university admissions in March 2025, and finally, the SI Scholarship announcement day in April 2025.

Conclusion

Through this article, we’ve journeyed across the globe to uncover the top fully funded undergraduate scholarships for international students, diving deep into the specifics of each program. These scholarships, from the Joint Japan World Bank Graduate Scholarship Program to the Swedish Institute Scholarships, not only offer a financial lifeline but also open up a world of opportunities for academic and professional growth in various fields. By highlighting the eligibility criteria, application processes, and key benefits, this piece aims to equip aspiring scholars with the necessary knowledge to embark on their educational quests, transforming their dreams into achievable goals.

The broader implications of securing such scholarships cannot be overstressed, as they serve not just the individual recipients but also their communities and countries by fostering talent that can contribute to sustainable development and global welfare. As education continues to be a powerful tool for social and economic change, these opportunities underscore the value of global educational exchanges. For students around the world looking to elevate their academic and professional journeys, these scholarships represent stepping stones towards achieving greatness, urging further exploration and action towards securing a brighter future through education.