Overview / About the Scholarship
The GREAT Scholarship is a prestigious initiative jointly funded by the UK government’s GREAT Britain Campaign and the British Council, in partnership with participating UK higher education institutions. This program is designed to support high-achieving Nigerian students in accessing world-class education at leading UK universities. It aims to foster global academic excellence and provide future leaders with the skills necessary to drive positive change in Nigeria.
Scholarship Value / Benefits
Financial Award: A minimum contribution of £10,000 toward tuition fees for a one-year Master's course.
Networking Opportunities: Scholars are invited to attend exclusive networking events with other GREAT scholars from around the world to discuss their academic experiences.
Ambassadorial Role: Successful candidates act as ambassadors for UK Higher Education and the GREAT Scholarship scheme, promoting the value of studying in the UK.
Professional Development: Provides a platform for scholars to demonstrate future contributions to socio-economic advancement through their achieved graduation benefits.
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for this competitive award, Nigerian applicants must:
Nationality: Be a citizen, passport holder, and permanent resident of Nigeria.
Academic Excellence: Hold an undergraduate degree and demonstrate a strong interest in the proposed subject area.
English Proficiency: Meet the specific English-language requirements set by the host UK higher education institution.
Status: Be classified as an overseas fee-paying student for tuition purposes.
Engagement: Be willing to establish an active engagement with the UK through personal and academic fulfillment.
Level & Field of Study
Level: Valid only for one-year, full-time taught Master's programs.
Field: Available for a wide range of subjects, although individual universities may restrict eligibility to specific eligible courses.
Exclusions: Two-year courses, integrated masters, and distance/online learning programs are generally not eligible.
Host University / Provider Info
For the 2026-27 academic year, 12 UK universities are offering specialized GREAT Scholarships for Nigerian students.
List of Participating Universities for Nigerians:
Required Documents
While requirements may vary by university, typical documentation includes:
Academic Credentials: Certified copies of undergraduate transcripts and degree certificates.
Identity Proof: A valid Nigerian international passport.
Offer Letter: A conditional or unconditional offer of admission to an eligible full-time Master's degree at a participating university.
English Language Proficiency: Official test results meeting the university's entry standards.
Expression of Interest/Personal Statement: A completed scholarship application form or statement explaining your leadership goals.
How to Apply
Secure University Admission: Apply for an eligible one-year full-time Master's course at one of the participating 12 institutions and receive an offer.
Access Scholarship Forms: Visit each university's GREAT scholarship page to find the specific application links.
Submit Application: Complete the scholarship application form before the institution-specific deadline.
Adhere to Deadlines: Deadlines vary; common cut-offs include April 30, 2026 (Southampton/Brunel) and May 7, 2026 (UCL).
Await Results: Successful scholars will be informed individually by their respective universities between mid-June and early July.
