Many fully funded scholarships for Nigerians do not require IELTS in 2026. Countries like Turkey, Germany, Hungary, China, Japan, and Malaysia accept WAEC, NECO, or English proficiency letters. These programs cover tuition, accommodation, monthly stipends, and travel costs.

Can Nigerians Study Abroad Without IELTS?

Yes. Many universities and scholarship programs allow Nigerians to apply without IELTS. The requirements vary by level of study:

• Undergraduate: WAEC or NECO English results are typically sufficient.
• Masters/PhD: Most programs accept an English Proficiency Letter on university letterhead confirming your previous degree was taught in English. Transcripts in English may also suffice.

For postgraduate-specific requirements, see: Essential Requirements for Applying for a Full-Funding Scholarship (MSc or PhD).

Undergraduate Scholarships Without IELTS

For undergraduates, your WAEC or NECO English result is usually accepted.

Recommended Scholarships:

• Türkiye Burslari Scholarship (Turkey) – Covers tuition, stipend, flights, accommodation, health insurance, Turkish language course.
• Mauritius Africa Scholarships – Tuition, accommodation, monthly allowance.
• Malaysia International Undergraduate Scholarships – Tuition, housing, monthly stipend.
• Cyprus Government Scholarships – Tuition and partial living costs.

Tip: Minimum C grade in English is usually required. For general tips on applying faster, see: The Easy Way to Get a Scholarship Fast: A Step-by-Step Guide.

Masters and PhD Scholarships Without IELTS

For postgraduate applicants:

• A Bachelor’s or Master’s degree is required depending on the program.
• An English Proficiency Letter on official university letterhead is often accepted.
• Degrees taught fully in English with English transcripts may waive IELTS.

Programs to consider:

• DAAD Scholarships (Germany) – Tuition, stipend, travel, health insurance.
• MEXT Scholarship (Japan) – Tuition, stipend, airfare, research funding.
• Stipendium Hungaricum Scholarship (Hungary) – Tuition, dorm, stipend, health insurance.
• Chinese Government Scholarship (CSC) – Tuition, accommodation, stipend, medical insurance.
• Erasmus Mundus Joint Masters – Tuition, accommodation, stipend, travel.
• Malaysia International Scholarship (MIS) – Tuition, monthly allowance, housing.
• Korean Government Scholarship (GKS) – Tuition, stipend, flight allowance, settlement support.

For detailed preparation, see: Essential Requirements for Applying for a Full-Funding Scholarship (MSc or PhD).

Top Fully Funded Scholarships for Nigerians in 2026

Countries Offering Scholarships Without IELTS

• Europe: Germany, Hungary, Netherlands, France, Norway, Finland
• Asia: Japan, China, Malaysia, South Korea, Taiwan
• Africa: Mauritius, Egypt, Ghana
• Middle East: Qatar, UAE
• UK: Select scholarships at Aberdeen, Southampton, Oxford

Some programs may require online interviews instead of IELTS.

Required Documents

Undergraduate

• WAEC/NECO certificate
• Passport
• Birth certificate
• Recommendation letters
• Motivation letter
• Transcripts

Masters/PhD

• Bachelor’s/Master’s degree certificate
• Official transcripts
• CV/Resume
• Research proposal (for PhD)
• English Proficiency Letter (official)
• Passport
• Recommendation letters
• Statement of Purpose

For funding help with exams like IELTS, see: Top Nigerian Organizations Offering Funding for GRE, GMAT, TOEFL, and IELTS for Graduate Studies.

Step-by-Step Application Guide

1. Select Scholarship: Identify scholarships for your level and country.
2. Check Eligibility: Verify GPA, field, and nationality requirements.
3. Prepare Documents: Gather all documents 2–3 months in advance.
4. Write SOP/Motivation Letter: Highlight achievements, research, goals.
5. Submit Application: Apply via official portals before deadlines.
6. Attend Interview: Some universities interview to verify English proficiency.

Tips to Improve Your Chances

• Apply to multiple programs
• Personalize SOPs and CVs for each scholarship
• Highlight leadership, research, and volunteer experience
• Start early and stay organized

For detailed tips on boosting your chances: The Easy Way to Get a Scholarship Fast: A Step-by-Step Guide.

FAQs

Q1. Can I get a fully funded scholarship without IELTS as a Nigerian?

Yes, many scholarships accept WAEC, NECO, or English proficiency letters.

Q2. Can I study in Germany without IELTS?

Yes, DAAD and other German programs accept English proficiency letters.

Q3. Does Turkey require IELTS for Nigerians?

No, Türkiye Burslari accepts English proficiency letters.

Q4. Can I use NECO for scholarships?

Yes, for most undergraduate scholarships.

Q5. Can I do postgraduate studies without IELTS?

Yes, if your degree was in English and you can provide a university-issued proficiency letter.