Scholarships For Nigerian Students

The New Year is almost here, but there’s no reason why your 2026 lock-in plans can’t start today. If a fully-funded international master’s degree sounds like a dream you want to achieve in 2026, this is the article you want to bookmark and revisit now and then.

We spoke to four Nigerian scholars who are studying for free and receiving monthly stipends while at it. They shared everything you need to know about getting a fully-funded scholarship across multiple countries. P.S., these scholarships are open till 2026.

Swedish Institute Scholarship for Global Professionals

If you’ve ever wondered what it’s like to study in Sweden without touching your own money, this is the scholarship you should have on your radar. According to Steve, a Nigerian who actually got it and is currently living his best tuition-free life, the SI Scholarship is designed for people who are smart and killing it in their professional lives.

This scholarship is for professionals who’ve gathered real-world experience, led projects in a major or smaller capacity, and want to channel that energy into solving bigger problems back home.

So how exactly did Steve get it? Two words: early preparation. He discovered the scholarship in 2019, and instead of rushing, he took his time to build the kind of professional profile that shows he’s been working, learning, and influencing change in his own corner of the world.

Here’s how he got the scholarship:

First, he applied for a master’s programme in Sweden. It’s important to note that this is the entry point for this scholarship. SI won’t consider candidates who haven’t applied to the Swedish university portal. The admission window is open till January. After that, he waited for the scholarship window to open (usually in February), picked a course that was actually eligible for SI funding, and ensured it aligned with his communication and marketing background.

Then, he moved on to the documentation phase. SI loves receipts. They want to see the hours you’ve worked, the roles you’ve held, the projects you’ve led, and the proof of your leadership. Steve documented everything from work hours, reference letters, leadership roles and double-checked all the tiny details that can ruin an application (like inconsistent name spelling).

But the wow effect was in his story. SI wants people who’ll return home and make an impact, and Steve showed exactly how his field, which is strategic communication, connects to the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals. Applications are expected to open in February 2026, but the university admission process began in October.

Erasmus Mundus Scholarship

Erasmus Mundus isn’t a one-country, one-school deal. It’s a fully funded master’s scholarship backed by the European Union, designed to enable you to study in multiple countries. For Ridwan, that meant studying in four schools in three different countries.

So who exactly is this for? People who can adjust to new classrooms, languages, and cities every few months. If you’re flexible, curious, and open to change, Erasmus is perfect for you.

Ridwan’s journey started with persistence. He tried for years before finally getting the email that changed everything. The trick, according to him, is to stop treating Erasmus like one school and start treating it like a network of programmes. Each programme has its own theme, from climate change to data, to public policy, to engineering, and each one sits inside the Erasmus Mundus catalogue.

Ridwan says some of the eligible courses have names that sound nothing like what they actually teach. To figure out the perfect course for him, he looked through the catalogue, opened each link, read through the curriculum, and picked the one that matched his goals. That programme eventually took him through four universities in three different countries.

For the application process, Ridwan made sure his motivation letter was honest and personal, his CV followed the recommended Europass format, and his experience, including volunteering, aligned with the programme’s mission. He double-checked deadlines, file formats, and tiny details because Erasmus panels take those things seriously.

Most of the eligible courses for this scholarship are open till January 2026, so today’s a great day to start your application.

Stephen Young Global Leaders’ Scholarship

The Stephen Young Global Leaders’ Scholarship (SYGL) is a fully-funded scholarship for Nigerian professionals with MBA dreams. According to Adekanmi, this scholarship is seeking individuals with ambition, leadership, and a selfless cause.

Strathclyde Business School in Glasgow, UK, offers SYGL. If you’re selected, your tuition and living expenses will be covered. It also covers leadership training, mentorship through the Stephen Young Institute, and a network of like-minded global changemakers.

Who’s this scholarship for?

Professionals who are ready for a full-time MBA.
People with strong academic credentials and a clear record of achievement.
Those without other major sponsors or scholarships.
Future leaders who think big, care about social impact, and want to use their MBA to create meaningful change.

Adekanmi recommends starting your application with intention. He first got accepted into the Strathclyde MBA because admission is necessary to access the scholarship application. Then he applied for SYGL with essays and statements that told his authentic story, showed his academic merit, and highlighted his vision for impact. He avoided generic, copy-paste statements and prepared thoroughly for the interview.

Applications for SYGL will typically begin in 2026, but we recommend that you start preparing for it today.

Think Big Scholarship

Think Big Scholarship is a partial (and sometimes full) scholarship at the University of Bristol in the UK. According to Ruth, it’s perfect for people who want to advance their education and contribute to social development.

Ruth got the scholarship in 2022 as a teacher and advocate for inclusive education. She believes that her community advocacy record, passion for education access, and a clear articulation of what she wanted to achieve earned her the scholarship.

Here’s what worked for Ruth.

Having a real track record of advocacy, volunteering, and community work.
Building a strong, honest application. For Think Big, she wrote three essays on why she wanted the scholarship, what she’d already done to prove herself, and what she’d do as a “Bristol ambassador.”
Making sure your experience shines more than just academic grades. Ruth said there are people with weak GPAs who still got scholarships because their stories were solid.
Being intentional about how you connect your past, your passion, and your goals.

This scholarship is already open, but the deadline isn’t till April 2026. We recommend starting your application early to give yourself enough time to complete something you can be confident in before submission.

[ad]

Dola* (25) decided that Nigeria was no longer an option for her after completing her undergraduate degree. So she applied for a Russian scholarship, packed her bags and left before her parents could say no. Here, she shares why she still encourages Nigerians to apply for the scholarship despite the war.

Where do you currently live, and when did you leave Nigeria?

I’m currently in Moscow. I left Nigeria in September 2022.

So how exactly did you leave?

I had my bachelor’s degree in Nigeria. COVID happened after I graduated. It gave me time to reflect, and I decided that I wasn’t going to do my master’s in Nigeria. Before then, my friends and I were always searching for scholarships.

I remember applying for the Chevening scholarship twice, the Erasmus scholarship, and a few others. I did my National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) in Imo State, and one of my friends told me about a friend who got a Russian scholarship called Open Doors. He said we should try it, and I agreed.

At the time, there was no talk of war or anything like that, so we just applied. I think we applied in December 2020, and that was how it started.

Was it a fully funded scholarship?

The Open Doors scholarship is a scholarship of the Russian government that covers tuition and a monthly stipend. Every other thing, including your travel and personal expenses, is on you.

It’s open to applicants from most countries, as long as your country’s government has a good relationship with Russia.

Is the scholarship still available now?

Yes, it’s still running. In fact, the current application window closes in about five days.

Oh, interesting. Can you share more about the process? How did you apply, and how can others do the same?

Sure. When I applied, the process opened in October and closed in December. It has about three or four phases, depending on your study level. Since I came in for my master’s, I went through just two phases.

The first stage runs from October to December. At that time, the process was different from now. Back then, you just submitted your portfolio to sell yourself to the selection team. You’d upload your CV, certificates, and any other documents you had.

Then, they would shortlist candidates for the second stage. That stage involves writing an exam and doing an interview. The exam itself is in two parts: one supervised live (similar to a proctored session) and another done remotely while the candidates’ screen activity is monitored.

After that, they release a list of successful candidates on their website. If your name is there, that’s when your chosen university starts reaching out to you.

During the application, you can select up to six universities in order of preference. Usually, the first school that contacts you is the one that admits you.

In my case, I wanted to study in Moscow, but my background wasn’t considered directly related to the master’s program I applied for.

I had to think fast because there was a short window to make changes. It was like the NYSC situation, where everyone wants Lagos or Abuja, but you end up choosing another location because time is running out. So, I picked the last university on my list.

I reached out to them via email, and the response time amazed me. Unlike in Nigeria, they replied almost immediately. They told me what to send, and I did.

After that, the school asked for additional documents like proof of degree (BSc), medical reports showing I’m free from HIV, tuberculosis, and hepatitis, and my international passport. All documents must be translated into Russian because that’s the official language here.

After this, you’ll be given a two-week deadline to return everything. The entire process typically takes about a year. For example, if you apply in September, you’ll resume by the following September.

When I applied three years ago, the process was smoother, but lately, it has become more competitive, similar to the Erasmus process. Some people who got the scholarship last year still haven’t resumed.

Would you still recommend that people apply?

That’s tricky. When I came, the flight fare was around ₦280,000. Now, it’s about ₦1.5 million, and that’s if you buy early. I wouldn’t ask people not to come, but I’d advise people to plan carefully before coming.

Before I left, I worked at a bank for about nine months. Looking back, I wish I had worked longer or deferred my admission by a year to save more. Because coming here can be mentally, financially, and emotionally exhausting.

Truth is, about 90% of Nigerians here don’t plan to stay permanently. Most of us just use it as a stepping stone to move somewhere else. The downside is that the Russian currency isn’t strong. Unlike Canada or the UK where you can work a few days and send money home, here you have to work multiple shifts just to make ends meet.

Also, because of the war and sanctions, most Western embassies have closed, so you can’t easily move from here to another country. People now go back to Nigeria to reapply for visas. But I’m trying to bring my siblings here.

Would you say life in Russia is better than in Nigeria?

Honestly, yes. When I left Nigeria, things weren’t even that bad yet. I just felt stuck and depressed. Work in Lagos was draining, and I needed a change.

When I came to Russia, it wasn’t easy. The war had just started that January, and people were panicking. I even stopped telling people I was in Russia because anytime I said it, they’d start scaring me and asking if the military had bombed my area.

I didn’t even tell my dad I was moving to Russia until I was about to travel to Abuja for my visa. I just called to say, “Daddy, I’m going.” I didn’t ask for permission. I’ve always been strong-willed like that.

People at work asked, “Why Russia?” and I didn’t even bother explaining.

Despite everything, Russia is still strong. They continue to fund education for international students from master’s to PhD, and have even added bachelor’s programs recently.

I was schooled in Siberia, which is one of the coldest places in the world, but I have no regrets.

So what was it like adjusting to life in Russia, especially living in such a cold place?

Honestly, the first few weeks were tough. Before coming, I bought jackets at Yaba market, but those ones can’t stand the Russian cold. They’re only good for mild weather like autumn.

When I arrived, I had to start from scratch, new clothes, shoes, coats, everything. I even came with a bad phone. There were no jobs for the first few months, and I came during winter, which made it worse.

Winter here is brutal. It gets dark by 4 p.m., sometimes 3 p.m. And since I didn’t speak Russian then, it felt like being on another planet. You can’t even ask for help properly because of the language barrier.

When I arrived, I didn’t have any real friends here, just “a friend of a friend of a friend.” That lack of community made things harder.

On a scale of one to ten, how happy are you in Russia?

I’d say seven. Russia has given me so many opportunities.

[ad]

Someone you know has left or is planning to leave. 1,000 Ways To Japa speaks to real people and explores the endless reasons and paths they take to japa.

Adekanmi had been chasing a fully-funded scholarship since 2023, but it didn’t happen until 2025. In this story, he shares everything you need to know about the Stephen Young Global Leadership Scholarship and why it stands out from most others.

Where do you currently live, and when did you leave Nigeria?

I currently live in Glasgow, Scotland, and I left Nigeria on September 15, 2025.

Congratulations! How exactly did you relocate?

I left through a scholarship. It’s called the Stephen Young Global Leadership Scholarship. It’s a fully funded scholarship that doesn’t just focus on academic excellence like most others. This one looks at students who have also made a social impact in their community. They want to know not just what you’ve done, what drives your work and what impact it’s had beyond profit.

So, that’s what the scholarship is all about. They provide enough stipends that will cover your living expenses and almost everything else.

Can you tell me more about it? I know you’ve touched on the basics, but can you go a bit deeper?

Sure. Like I said, it’s called the Stephen Young Global Leaders Scholarship. They usually select only five students every year. It’s very competitive.

Academic excellence matters to the reviewers, but they also look at achievements outside academics. I had a distinction in my Bachelor of Pharmacy, which helped, but they also considered my other accomplishments.

Another thing to note is that this scholarship is strictly for MBA students, unlike others that cover different courses. So before applying, you must already have some years of work and leadership experience.

You first apply to the University of Strathclyde for admission into the MBA programme. Once you get in, you can then apply for the Stephen Young Global Leadership Scholarship. If shortlisted, you’ll be invited for an interview, and then they’ll notify you of the outcome.

When you say five people, do you mean five from all over the world or five from Nigeria?

Five from all over the world.

Wow, that’s insanely competitive.

Yes. Only two people from Nigeria received the award this year.

Crazy! What was your life like in Nigeria before receiving this scholarship?

Back in Nigeria, I worked as a clinical pharmacist after earning my Bachelor of Pharmacy, gaining experience in both community and hospital settings. I later became a Superintendent Pharmacist, overseeing operations and managing regulatory compliance.

Over time, however, I realised I didn’t want to remain in the traditional clinical space — I wanted to understand how businesses, especially startups, grow and scale.

So I founded DigitalMedHub, a small hub where I helped healthcare startups craft business plans, go-to-market strategies, and investor pitch decks — all driven by a desire to help innovative businesses succeed.

So, in summary, I was both a pharmacist and an entrepreneur in Nigeria.

Interesting. So what inspired you to want to study in the UK?

To be honest, I didn’t only apply to UK universities. I’ve been at it since around 2023. One thing I’ve learned is that clarity attracts opportunity. I always knew I wanted an MBA — not a PhD or MSc — because I didn’t want to remain just a traditional pharmacist. I wanted to work at the intersection of healthcare, entrepreneurship, and business.

To do that, I needed a business foundation. I already had the clinical knowledge, but I needed to understand how businesses and leadership work. People say your network is your networth, and that’s true. I wanted to build a global network and sharpen my leadership mindset. That’s why I chose an MBA.

You mentioned you’ve been trying since 2023. What happened? Were you getting rejections?

Yes, I started immediately after my NYSC. I already knew what I wanted; that’s why I said clarity attracts opportunity. I wasn’t chasing “japa” for the sake of it. For me, it was purpose-driven. Instead of looking for jobs after NYSC, I started preparing for scholarships. At first, I thought about writing the Canadian pharmacy exams, but when I saw the cost, I decided to focus on the MBA path.

I did a lot of research, studied for months, watched YouTube tutorials, and practised daily to prepare for the GRE.

Then I started applying to schools in the U.S. because funding for an MBA was more accessible there before the Trump era. I got some partial scholarships and rejections, but nothing fully funded. I told myself, “If it’s not fully funded, it’s not what God promised me.”

I paused applications for a while. Then, early this year, someone sent me the link for the Stephen Young Global Leadership Scholarship on WhatsApp. Honestly, I didn’t think much of it at first because most UK scholarships aren’t fully funded, especially for an MBA. But I still applied anyway, in faith and with an open mind.

I tailored my essays to match their focus on social impact. After some weeks, they sent me an email saying I was among the top 20 candidates. I wasn’t happy because I wanted top five. I actually DELETED the email.

LMAO. That’s crazy

They offered me a partial scholarship, but I refused. I told God, “You promised me fully funded.” A week later, on a Saturday, surprisingly, I got another email saying I’d been shortlisted for an interview.

I prepared seriously. But on the day of the interview, everything went wrong. My network kept disconnecting; it even logged me out of Google Meet at least five times. They eventually messaged me saying they had to move on to the next candidate. My heart sank.

I immediately sent an apology email explaining it was a technical glitch. They said not to worry. The following Monday, I opened my email in the evening and there it was: “Congratulations.” I had been awarded a fully funded scholarship. I couldn’t believe it.

That’s an amazing story. Congratulations again. For people who might want to apply, can you walk me through the process?

Sure. First, know that it’s only for the MBA. Don’t just apply because it’s a scholarship. Ask yourself, “Am I eligible?” You must have at least two to three years of work experience, preferably in a leadership or management role. It’s not for fresh graduates.

You also need a good academic background, though the review process is holistic. They don’t focus only on GPA; they evaluate your essays, your video interview, and your professional achievements.

Once you’ve been admitted to the MBA programme at the University of Strathclyde, you can apply for the scholarship separately.

Most importantly, tailor your application to their core values like social impact, leadership, and community contribution. They’re not just looking for high grades but for people who’ve made a meaningful impact in their environment.

Do you know when the scholarship usually opens?

Intending applicants need to do their research to confirm this, but I applied around April this year. It opens once a year, so the next round should be next year.

What do you think made you stand out?

Honestly, I don’t think you have to be perfect. I’ll be sincere, God qualified me for this.

But practically speaking, I took time to understand what they wanted. I studied their values, their mission, and ensured that my essays reflected those things. Apart from having distinction in Pharmacy, I aligned my story with their goals, showing leadership, social impact, and authenticity.

That’s what I believe made me stand out.

So now that it’s been a couple of months, what’s it been like for you studying in the UK?

It’s actually been interesting. I don’t want to compare it to Nigeria, but it’s been an amazing experience. Oh, and I need to mention something unique about this scholarship; they provide at least two mentors for you. And the kind of mentors they assign are people you’d typically never have access to in your lifetime.

I’ve already met mine, and they’ve really shaped my thinking and broadened my perspective. That’s one of the most beautiful parts of the programme.

Generally, studying in the UK has been impressive. The standard of education here is unbeatable. The only challenge so far has been adjusting to the cold. We’re in winter now, and it’s been quite an experience. Apart from that, everything has been great.

Do you have any plans of ever returning to Nigeria?

I believe in God’s leading. But to be honest, I really want to stay here, at least for now. I’m married, and my wife is still in Nigeria, but I believe she’ll be able to join me soon.

This scholarship doesn’t require you to go back to your home country, unlike some other scholarships, like Erasmus, where you’re required to return after your studies. For now, I can’t say for sure what the future holds, but I’d like to gain international experience first.

Is there a reason why you weren’t able to move with your wife? I know most scholarships come with the opportunity to bring dependents.

Yes, that’s true, but recently, the policy changed. Before now, students could bring dependents, but in July last year, they updated the rule. Now, only those on research-based master’s programmes or PhD programmes can bring dependents. If you’re on a taught master’s like me, you can’t bring dependents until you start working and get a sponsorship.

Of course, your spouse can still visit as a tourist, but not stay long-term until you either secure a sponsored job or move into a PhD or research programme. That’s been the main challenge for us.

I can imagine. On a scale of one to ten, how happy are you right now?

I can’t even begin to describe it. Honestly, I’m extremely happy, so maybe 11.

Want to share your japa story? Please reach out to me here.

[ad]

Someone you know has left or is planning to leave. 1,000 Ways To Japa speaks to real people and explores the endless reasons and paths they take to japa.

Steve spent five years preparing for a fully-funded scholarship that would change his life. In 2025, he received the Swedish Institute Scholarship, and his life changed forever. In this story, he shares how he did it.

Where do you currently live, and when did you leave Nigeria?

I currently live in Sweden. I left Nigeria on August 19, 2025.

Oh wow! Congratulations.

Thank you!

What was life like for you before leaving Nigeria?

I was in Lagos, but most of my friends weren’t. I came to Lagos in 2023 to resume a job. Later, I took on the role of Social Media Manager for Tera Academy for the Arts, which is owned by Terra Kulture and Bolanle Austen-Peters Productions.

Then, sometime in December 2024, I was promoted to Head of Communications and Marketing. That was the role I held until I left. Most of my social interactions were with the few friends I had in Lagos and through work-related activities. Terra Kulture is a cultural hub, so there were always opportunities to interact and socialise with people there.

Sounds like you have a good life. What inspired you to apply for the Swedish Institute Scholarship, and how did you hear about it?

Honestly, I was inspired to apply because I wanted to further my education in communications and marketing. Before applying for the Swedish Institute (SI)Scholarship, I had already started a course with the Chartered Institute of Marketing in the UK. While I was on that, I decided I wanted to pursue a full master’s degree in communication, with marketing attached to it.

I first heard about the Swedish Institute Scholarship for Global Professionals on December 29th, 2019. From that moment, I started working towards it because I wanted to take one shot and make it count. So, I spent the next five years putting the pieces together to make sure I was ready. From October 2024 to February 2025, I made my application, and it was successful.

That’s amazing. What helped improve your chances?

I got it on my first attempt, and the most important thing that helped me was research. There’s no substitute for that. Applying for the SI Scholarship requires a lot of personal work because it’s your story; no one can tell it for you.

I spent years reading every page on their website, watching thousands of hours of YouTube videos, and gathering resources. It’s a very competitive scholarship; they receive over 9,000 applicants every year and only select 2–3%. So, I studied every cycle, looked at what successful applicants did differently, and refined my approach year after year until I was ready to apply.

Can you walk me through the step-by-step process, especially for people who want to apply?

The Swedish Institute Scholarship for Global Professionals is not like other scholarships; it’s targeted at professionals who have worked in their fields and made an impact aligned with the UN Sustainable Development Goals.

The process starts with an application for admission to a Swedish university. You need to first gain admission before being considered for the scholarship. The entire process begins every October.

I started my university application in October 2024. By November, the scholarship board (which is separate from the university) releases the application documents so you can start preparing.

You select your courses by January 15th, which is the deadline. Then, in the first week of February, university admissions close. By the second week of February, the SI Scholarship application officially opens, and you only have two weeks to submit your application.

By late March, university admission results are released. In my case, I got my first-choice admission at Lund University. Then, by late April, the scholarship results come out. That’s when you know if you’ve been awarded funding, and from there, you can start planning your travel to Sweden.

What advice would you give to people applying this year? Any tips you wish you had known earlier?

My biggest advice is: do the work yourself. I get people asking me to help them apply or even offering to pay, but I’m not an agent, and even if I were helping, I wouldn’t charge. My advice is always: go back and do the research.

Be committed to it. I won’t tell anyone to put all their eggs in one basket, like I did; it worked for me, but it might not work for everyone. Another thing: read between the lines. English isn’t the first language for the Swedes, so some instructions might be worded in a way that could confuse you.

Pay close attention to every single detail because I almost made a mistake with the work experience section, which is crucial. They’re very strict with instructions. There are no second chances or late submissions. If you miss something, you’ll have to wait till next year.

You got the scholarship on your first try. What do you think you did exceptionally well that made them say yes?

I put together a very strong application. I provided everything they asked for and more. I also had a supportive organisation behind me, Tera Academy for the Arts.

For example, one of the requirements is to prove that you’ve worked for at least 3,000 hours — full-time, part-time, or freelance. Many people struggle with that because they don’t provide the proof in the format the Swedish Institute wants. People also make mistakes with document stamps, reference letters, or even the order of names.

I ensured every detail was correct and every document followed instructions. Scholarship applications are competitions, so you must put your best foot forward. Read everything carefully and present your experiences — work, leadership, documents — exactly as instructed.

You’ve mentioned a few times that English isn’t their first language. What’s it like living in a country where people speak a different language?

They speak Swedish, but everyone I’ve met so far also speaks English. You can live comfortably in Sweden without speaking Swedish.

However, if you plan to integrate into society by volunteering, working part-time, or building relationships, learning Swedish helps. They even have a program called Swedish for Immigrants (SFI) that makes it easy to learn. So, you don’t need to speak Swedish to live here, but if you want to truly belong, it’s good to learn.

What’s it like studying there, especially since most Nigerians go to the UK or the US?

The education system here is excellent. They take honesty seriously. For example, if a website doesn’t have an updated picture of a building, they’d rather not post it than mislead people. That’s how serious they are about accuracy and integrity.

The same values reflect in their schools. The resources, facilities, and lecturers are top-notch and very responsive. They’re also informal; you call professors by their first names, and they make sure you feel comfortable and included. There’s no discrimination in resource allocation, and they emphasise sustainable, progressive learning. Everything is world-class. The only thing they don’t joke with is plagiarism; it’s treated almost like a crime. So, everyone is careful about academic integrity.

Could you share exactly what you’re studying and how you chose it?

Sure. Selecting my course was a two-step process. First, I had to find a course that the Swedish Institute was willing to sponsor because not every course qualifies. Every year, they release a list of about 700 eligible courses.

After finding the eligible courses, I had to check if I was qualified by asking myself questions like, do I have the background, the credits, and relevant experience? I wanted something heavy on communication but also covering marketing, PR, advertising, crisis communication, and brand strategy. I found all that in the Strategic Communication course at Lund University.

For anyone applying, don’t just pick any course. Make sure it’s one sponsored by the scholarship, or you might not be able to afford it.

Do you see yourself staying in Sweden after your studies?

Not necessarily, but all options are on the table. One of the main goals of the scholarship is for us to go back and contribute to our home countries. The future is still about 20 months away, but I definitely want to give back in whatever capacity I can.

On a scale of one to ten, how happy are you in Sweden?

I’d say ten. People talk about the “honeymoon phase” when you first arrive, but it’s been two months, and I’m still very happy. The system works for everyone.

There are things I didn’t even realise should just work until I experienced them here. Everything is organised, people are cared for, and the environment makes life easier. There’s really a lot to be happy about.

Want to share your japa story? Please reach out to me here.

[ad]

Someone you know has left or is planning to leave. 1,000 Ways To Japa speaks to real people and explores the endless reasons and paths they take to japa.

When Chioma* (26) first started learning Chinese in university, she didn’t think it would be exactly what she needed to study in China. Now, she’s helping other Nigerians study in China, and wants to show you how to access similar opportunities without exhausting your life savings.

Why She Chose China

“I know most Nigerians dream of the UK, US, or Canada. For me, it began with learning Chinese, as it was offered at my university. Then I realised translators earn good money. That pushed me to take it seriously.”

After discovering the Confucius Institute Scholarship, she decided to apply and was accepted, then moved to China.

How She Got the Scholarship

Chioma applied through the Confucius Institute at Nnamdi Azikiwe University. “You have to be enrolled in a Confucius Institute to qualify. The higher your Chinese proficiency, the better your chances,” she explains.

She studied up to level six before sitting for the scholarship exam and passed.

But that’s not the only route. “There are other scholarships like the Chinese Government Scholarship, the Presidential Scholarship, and the One Belt, One Road Scholarship. Some don’t even require Chinese proficiency, just English.”

Cost Breakdown of Studying in China without a Scholarship

If you’re self-sponsoring, China is still one of the more affordable study destinations.

Bachelor’s degree: ¥8,000 – ¥17,000 per year (₦2M–₦3.4M)
Master’s degree: ¥10,000 – ¥55,000 per year (₦2M–₦11M)

“At the current exchange rate, you can get a solid education here for much less than what UK or US universities charge,” Chioma says.

Perks of Studying in China

“Exposure is the biggest perk I enjoy here. You’ll meet people from all over the world and probably end up speaking fluent Chinese.”

Other perks include:

Scholarship stipends (many cover living expenses).
Business opportunities because international students can register a business in China.
Part-time work: Students can now legally work up to 20 hours per week.
Ease of life

How to Apply for a Scholarship in China

Chioma recommends starting early. “Applications open in October and close between March and May, depending on the school.”

Her step-by-step guide:

Enrol in a Confucius Institute (if required for your scholarship).
Work toward getting your Chinese language certificate (for language-based programs).
Apply for the scholarship through the Confucius Institute or the university’s portal.
Prepare all necessary documents (passport, transcripts, reference letters, and proof of language proficiency).
Attend interviews or exams as required.

What to Expect as a Nigerian Student in China

“The first few months were tough. The food, the weather, and even the grading system shocked me. In Nigeria, 70% is an ‘A’. In China, that’s a ‘C’.”

Chioma says she also had to get used to stares and strangers taking photos of her. Culturally, she describes China as highly digital and fast-paced. “People walk around glued to their phones. You can order anything online and get it delivered, even if you don’t leave the house for a week.”

Her Favourite Thing About Living in China

Chioma says her favourite thing about China is the convenience, which she enjoys.“If you miss a bus, another comes in five minutes. Trains are even easier to navigate. Groceries, food, anything you need is one app away, too,” she explains.

Family Reactions

While it may seem like a decision she made on her own, Chioma explains that it was her dad who suggested she study Chinese. “I was preparing for JAMB when he noticed my school had a Chinese department. We went to ask questions, and I decided to try it.”

How She Rates Her Happiness in China

“When I first got here in 2019, I’d say it was a 5/10. I was struggling with food and the weather. During COVID, it dropped lower. Lockdown was mentally exhausting. But after graduation in 2023, things started to change. I’ve built a community, started a business, and I’m genuinely happier now. I’d rate it a 7/10.”

Want to share your japa story? Please reach out to me here.

[ad]

Someone you know has left or is planning to leave. 1,000 Ways To Japa will speak to real people and explore the infinite number of reasons and paths they use to get to Japa

Ridwan’s life changed the year he secured the Erasmus Mundus scholarship. In this story, he shares the step-by-step process of the application stage and what it’s like to study in four countries.

Where do you live, and when did you move out of Nigeria?

I live in Dresden, Germany. I relocated from Nigeria in October 2023.

Amazing! How exactly did you leave Nigeria?

I got an Erasmus Mundus scholarship. I’d been applying for it for about two or three years and finally secured it in May 2023. I left Nigeria on 4th October 2023, to start my program in Munich, Germany, though I ended up studying at four universities.

Four universities?

Yes. All Erasmus programs are typically run by a consortium of at least three universities. For my program, we started at the Technical University of Munich (the host university), where we spent about six months, and then went to the Technical University of Vienna, the Technical University of Dresden, and the University of Twente in the Netherlands.

For the final thesis semester, we had the freedom to choose where to do our research. Some of my colleagues returned to Munich and Vienna, some went to the Netherlands or Italy, and a few even went to the US. Erasmus allows you to do your thesis at a university or a company. For instance, if you interned with Tesla and liked a project there, you could request to write your thesis with them. You’d have both an industry and an academic supervisor.

In my case, I initially planned to do my thesis in the Netherlands, but I decided to stay in Germany. My residence permit was expiring, and the cost of living in the Netherlands was too high compared to Dresden. So, I found a new thesis topic here in Dresden, stayed back, and completed my program.

That sounds like a lot of travelling around. How did you handle the visa process, especially as a Nigerian student?

Honestly, the day I got the email confirming I’d been selected for the scholarship was one of the happiest days of my life. But immediately after that excitement came the reality that I needed money to prepare for visas and accommodation.

They told us immediately to start searching for housing for our program because finding accommodation in Munich is very difficult. I had to take a loan to cover my expenses. When I went for my visa appointment, the embassy saw that I was an Erasmus scholar, so they waived the visa interview fee and refunded my application fee. The main expenses I had were accommodation and flights.

Some other Erasmus scholars wrote to their programs for financial help, but most programs don’t release any money until you arrive at the university. In my case, I had some savings, but I was hoping the exchange rate would drop. Unfortunately, President Tinubu was elected around that time and removed fuel subsidies, which also affected the dollar rate. It wasn’t the easiest experience.

Sounds tough. Why did you decide to choose Germany as your final destination?

I chose Germany mainly because my host university is in Germany.

Also, if you study here for at least two years, you qualify for a graduate visa, which allows you to stay back for 18 months to search for a job.

That makes sense. Let’s talk about the Erasmus scholarship itself. For someone hearing about Erasmus for the first time, how would you describe it?

Erasmus is a fully funded master’s scholarship sponsored by the European Union. It covers several master’s programs across Europe. One thing to note is that these programs don’t always have the typical names you’d expect. For instance, someone with a finance background might not find a program called “Master’s in Finance.” The programs are designed to address specific global or regional challenges, so they have unique names.

For example, I applied to the Copernicus Digital Earth program. It’s a master’s in geospatial technology, but it’s named after the European Union’s Copernicus satellite program. There’s also another chemistry-related Erasmus program called EMOTION.

So, how can people find the right Erasmus program for them?

The easiest way to start is to go to Google and search for your interest in this format – e.g “Master’s in Chemistry Erasmus Mundus Scholarship.” Google will show you Erasmus programs that fit that field.

The official way is through the Erasmus Mundus Catalogue, which lists all the available programs, which are about 214. Not all programs are funded yearly, so it’s good to keep checking.

Once you’re on the catalogue, you can use keywords like “Finance” or “Engineering” to filter the programs. Or, if you’re serious about it, go through the entire list like I did because some programs have unusual names, and you might miss out if you only search by keywords.

When you find one that interests you, check the curriculum on the program website. That’s what helped me. The program I got into was my backup, but when I reviewed the curriculum, it turned out to be 80% similar to the one I initially wanted.

Is the Erasmus Mundus Catalogue an actual website?

Yes, exactly. Just Google “Erasmus Mundus Catalogue” and click the first link. That’s where all the programs are listed.

How can Nigerians make their applications stand out?

The first thing I’ll say is start early. Don’t wait until two weeks before the deadline. A strong application takes months to prepare. I’d also recommend creating a spreadsheet to track programs, deadlines, and requirements since each program is different. Do your research. Don’t just apply because it sounds prestigious. Make sure it aligns with your career goals. All the details you need are always on the program’s official website.

You can also email program coordinators if you have questions; they usually reply. And definitely check LinkedIn to find current or past Erasmus scholars from the program you’re interested in. Reach out to them for guidance or even feedback on your motivation letter.

For the motivation letter, be authentic. Don’t rely on AI. I know it’s tempting, but during my program’s selection process last year, almost half of the applications were disqualified in the first round because reviewers detected AI-written content.

You can use AI to help with structure, but the story must be yours. The admission committee can tell when it’s not genuine. In my program, the motivation letter counted for about 50% of the total score.

Tell your story in your own voice. Connect your past experiences to your future goals. Tailor each letter to the specific program; don’t copy and paste. And follow instructions to the letter: if they say 1000 words, don’t write 1500; if they say PDF only, don’t send a Word doc.

Also, if the program lists some documents as “optional,” like recommendation letters or a portfolio, try to include them if possible. One of the students I mentored last year created a quick online portfolio, and that helped his application stand out.

Do you have any tips for writing an academic CV?

For Erasmus, use the Europass CV format. Many programs specifically ask for it. It’s easy to build online, and you can even find tutorials on YouTube. An academic CV is different from a professional one. For academic CVs, start with your education before your work experience. Only include work experience that’s relevant to the program. For instance, I was a backend engineer before applying for cartography, but that wasn’t relevant, so I left it out.

Add volunteering, leadership roles, relevant online courses (under “Continuing Education”), and technical skills connected to the program. Skip sections like hobbies.

Some programs might ask for your date of birth, nationality, or passport details, so include them if requested. Ideally, your academic CV should not be more than two pages. Reviewers have hundreds of applications to read.

Thank you. What’s a good GPA for this scholarship?

Erasmus is merit-based, but it’s also holistic. They assess your entire profile, including your grades, experience, motivation, and recommendation letters.

I had friends with GPAs around 3.8 who were selected. So your CGPA matters, but it’s not everything.

You don’t need research publications, either. I had none when I applied. Just focus on crafting a strong, authentic motivation letter and a good CV. Review your materials multiple times before submission. I started working on mine months in advance and kept editing it until I was confident it was perfect. Your GPA only becomes a problem if it’s below the program’s minimum requirement. And when writing, emphasise your achievements. For example, mention if you were in the top 1% or 10% of your class. It makes a strong impression.

That sounds smart. What was it like studying in multiple countries at once?

It was incredible. Each city had its charm. Munich was expensive but technologically advanced; Dresden was affordable and community-oriented; Vienna was beautiful and rich in culture; and Twente was small and quiet.

The mobility part was tricky, though. You have to pack up and find new accommodation every six months, adjust to new systems, and adapt to new cultures. Just when you start making friends, it’s time to move again.

But it was worth it. I made friends from over twenty countries, experienced different teaching and research styles, and travelled a lot. One person in my cohort visited 40 countries before the end of the program, and I’ve managed to visit 20 countries, too. I also learned German; it wasn’t required, but it helped with daily life.

That sounds amazing. How would you say this scholarship has changed your life?

It’s changed my life completely. Moving to Germany was my first time ever leaving Nigeria. The experience exposed me to new cultures, systems, and a global network of people. It taught me adaptability, cultural awareness, and resilience. God bless Nigeria, but Erasmus opened doors I never imagined possible.

On a scale of one to ten, how happy are you in Germany?

Seven. I miss Nigeria. The whole point of this experience is to make the most of this opportunity and help other Nigerians reach the top, too.

Want to share your japa story? Please reach out to me here.

[ad]

Someone you know has left or is planning to leave. 1,000 Ways To Japa will speak to real people and explore the infinite number of reasons and paths they use to get to Japa

Honour (20) spent her teenage years obsessed with K-pop and K-drama. After finding out about a fully-funded Korean scholarship, she decided to turn that obsession into something more productive. In this story, she shares how she applied for and received the scholarship.

Where do you currently live, and when did you relocate from Nigeria?

I live in South Korea and I moved here in 2024.

Korea is an interesting choice. Why was it an option for you?

I started watching Korean dramas in secondary school. Like the typical Korean lover, K-dramas and K-pop became a big part of my interests. I also enjoyed watching KBS World reality shows and news. It inspired me to want to study in South Korea. But I didn’t go for that dream immediately after secondary school because I thought language would be a barrier. I wasn’t open to learning and studying in a new language. So at first, I applied for UK and US scholarships, but after those didn’t work out, I decided to try South Korea. Thankfully, it worked out.

So you received a scholarship?

Yes!

Congratulations! What was your life like in Nigeria before you received the scholarship?

After secondary school, I started studying Mechanical engineering at a university in Nigeria, but I noticed I wasn’t passionate about my course. It felt like I was just studying to get a degree. Then, during the academic strike in 2020, I got motivated to apply for scholarships. I wanted a better life because I didn’t want my university life to be full of strikes and uncertainty.

I applied for scholarships to study mechanical engineering, but later, I realised I should rather go for fashion design, which is what I truly love. I applied to some UK universities to study fashion design, got some offers, but they weren’t fully funded. Finally, I decided to face my fears, applied for the Global Korea Scholarship, and won it. It’s fully funded, so it is everything I prayed for.

Interesting. Is it a master’s scholarship, or is it for undergraduate studies?

GKS scholarship offers both, but I’m here for my undergraduate. Postgraduate students can also apply.

Can you take me back to the beginning? How did you learn about the scholarship, and what did the application process look like for you?

I found out about the scholarship back in secondary school through a WhatsApp channel sharing scholarship opportunities. Though I knew about it then, I didn’t apply right away. After the USA and UK didn’t work out, I applied for GKS (Global Korean Scholarship), and the application process was hectic.

The documents required were a lot. You need to write a study plan, personal statement, submit extracurricular activity certificates, recommendation letters, transcripts, and other documents.

It took me about four months to gather all the documents I needed, and that was a short time compared to some other applicants. For others, it can take up to a year, depending on how cooperative their secondary school is with releasing transcripts. In Nigeria, some schools charge a lot for transcripts, and some charge a reasonable amount. Luckily, mine was affordable, so I got it faster.

But in general, the process was challenging. Back then, we had to go to Abuja to submit documents and attend a physical interview (for those who applied through the embassy track). When I got the scholarship, I had to return to Abuja again to apply for my visa. It was a lot, especially since I didn’t live in Abuja. Now, thankfully, the process is online, so it’s easier.

Let’s talk about writing essays. What are some things you did right that others can replicate?

When I first wrote my personal statement, I wasn’t very detailed. I wrote the usual: “I want the scholarship because…” But when I showed it to my sisters, one of them told me she wouldn’t pick me if she were the reviewer. She said I needed to be more vulnerable.

So I decided to go deeper and be very honest about my story. I included everything—from developing my passion for fashion, running a fashion brand in Nigeria with my sisters, training people, and managing customers. When I reread it, I was impressed, and that vulnerability paid off.

My advice to anyone considering applying is to write their essay in a personal way—so personal that you might not even feel comfortable sharing it with others. That’s how real it should be.

That’s powerful. Aside from essays, are there other important things involved in the application process that people should know about?

Yes. People should be prepared to spend some money when preparing documents. It’s like they say, you use money to get money. For example, some online courses in your application portfolio might cost a little. For fashion applicants like me, building a strong portfolio also takes money; you must experiment, design, sew, or sketch.

Also, plan early. You can’t write all your essays in just two days. You need time to think, brainstorm, and refine your essays.

You mentioned earlier that there are undergraduate and master’s options. Do your tips apply to both?

Yes, they do. But for master’s applicants, one extra thing is crucial: having good relationships with your lecturers. Many of my friends here for master’s had to get recommendation letters from lecturers they worked with during their projects. Without a good relationship, it would have been more complicated.

Good point. Is there an application fee?

No, there’s no application fee. The money you spend is only for preparing the required documents.

Nice! Is there any other tip you’d like to add?

Follow instructions carefully. There’s a specific way to arrange documents and a format for personal statements and study plans. Don’t freestyle. Also, pray. Honestly, the process can be overwhelming, but God placed helpers everywhere for me, so it made the process smoother.

You mentioned you were initially worried about the language barrier. How’s that now?

The scholarship requires one year of Korean language study before starting your program. The one-year course helps, but it’s not enough. You still learn more by interacting with locals.

Learning Korean has not been so easy for me. It’s the first foreign language I’ve had to learn. If you want to apply, I’d advise you to start learning Korean before you leave Nigeria. At least learn Hangul (the alphabet) and basic conversations so that when you arrive and take a placement test, you can start studying from level 2 or 3 instead of level 1.

Do you need to know Korean before applying?

No. That’s one of the best things about this scholarship. They don’t prioritise Korean knowledge. They care more about your extracurriculars, personal statement, and study plan.

Cool. You’ve been in Korea for over a year now. How has the experience been?

Amazing overall. Koreans are nice as long as you make an effort to interact with them. But one sad reality here is how much pretty privilege matters. I’ve seen friends treated differently because of body type, while I’ve had smoother experiences. It’s not fair, but that’s how it is.

Personally, I haven’t faced major racism. My professors and classmates are nice. So my experience has been good.

Is it everything you expected as a K-drama lover?

Not everything. The biggest culture shock for me was how much people smoke. It’s so common here. That was a huge difference compared to dramas. But dramas did prepare me for a lot, though, so other things didn’t shock me that much.

Speaking of culture shocks, what else have you noticed?

Apart from smoking, I’d say the average height. Many people here are around 5’5 or 5’6. Also, when you shop, you pay for shopping bags. In Nigeria, shopping bags are free (at least here I lived), so that was new for me.

Another shock was the gossip culture. I had seen it in dramas, but experiencing it in real life was not pleasant to me. People gossip about you in your presence, in Korean, whether you understand or not, it’s a culture here.

On a scale of difficulty, how hard is Korean to learn?

I’d rate it a 4/10. The alphabet and grammar are fairly easy for me, but speaking is the hard part. For extroverts who practice a lot with locals, it’s easier. I’m introverted, so it’s harder for me.

How would you describe your social life in Korea?

I’d say I know many people, but I’m not close friends with many people. I have about three close friends here. I appear extroverted in public, try to be polite to everyone I meet, but when it comes to friendships, I prefer to have a smaller circle.

Have you found a Nigerian community there?

Yes. There’s a KakaoTalk group (like WhatsApp in Nigeria) for Nigerians in Korea. Almost every Nigerian here is on it. They host events sometimes, and one can also plan hangouts with fellow Nigerians.

Interesting. Let’s talk about dating culture in Korea. Is it like K-dramas?

Not at all. K-dramas exaggerate a lot; the falling books, elevator meetings, rich guy-poor girl love stories. In reality, dating here is different.

One big shock is how people are comfortable hugging, kissing, and holding hands in public. And couples are everywhere. People also get into relationships quickly, ideally, after three dates. They believe you get to know someone while in the relationship, not before the relationship.

Is it easy for you as a black person to date in Korea?

I’d say most Koreans prefer dating other Koreans. Of course, there are exceptions; some are open to foreigners. But I think to date here, you’d need to use dating apps or get introduced through mutual friends. For the readers, if you’re curious about my experience, follow my social media page lol.

Do you see yourself staying after your studies?

Maybe. Korea has opportunities, especially in entertainment. But I’d need to master the language more. I might stay a while, then move to an English-speaking country. Luckily, things are improving. There are better visa options and friendlier laws for foreigners. So staying is possible. I don’t know for sure, it all depends on God’s plan at the end.

On a scale of one to ten, how happy are you in Korea?

I’d say eight. I’m very happy here. But I miss my family so much and don’t have the money to visit yet.

Want to share your japa story? Please reach out to me here.

[ad]

Someone you know has left or is planning to leave. 1,000 Ways To Japa will speak to real people and explore the infinite number of reasons and paths they use to get to Japa

Bunmi spent seven years studying a five-year course in Nigeria, but the delay turned out to be a blessing, eventually leading her to a fully funded program in Canada. In this story, she shares the steps and free templates needed to study in Canada for free.

Where do you live now, and when did you leave Nigeria?

I live in British Columbia, Canada. I moved here in 2024.

Congratulations! How exactly did you move?

I had already been considering coming to Canada for over two years before I finally left. I started the process in my fifth and final year of undergraduate studies. At the time, I was the vice president of my departmental association, and we used to invite alumni to speak to us about studying abroad. That was when I got an idea of how to start.

In the first semester of my 500-level, I started reaching out to Canadian professors. Because of several academic strikes, I’d already spent about seven years in school, so it made sense to start thinking of postgraduate studies. It took about six months to land my first professor, but unfortunately, the wait wasn’t productive; she told me she didn’t have funding.

After that disappointment, I discovered I had gotten a fully funded sponsored trip to the United States (U.S). I packed my bags and moved to the U.S., where I stayed for nearly four months. I was in a much better environment and clearer state of mind, so I started emailing professors again. Most were in Canada, and a few were in the U.S.

The main thing that attracted me to Canada was the postgraduate work permit. If you study here, you can get that permit and apply for Permanent Residency (PR)within five to ten years (sometimes less). It just felt like a more straightforward path compared to other countries.

By August, I landed a professor who responded positively. I sent her a cold email and attached my CV and transcript, and she was impressed with my previous work. By September, she agreed to be my supervisor and asked me to apply to the school. The deadline was in January.

I returned to Nigeria and submitted my application before the deadline. Two weeks before my birthday in March, I got my admission approval.

From there, my supervisor told me to apply for a study permit. I felt confident since I’d already been to Canada before. However, I was refused in early August after applying in July. I was shocked because my application was solid; it contained over 60 pages, including a personal statement.

At that point, I had two options: defer my admission to January (which wasn’t allowed in my department) or travel to Canada as a visitor and reapply. After discussing with my supervisor and school, I chose the second option.

How did that work out?

I left Nigeria on August 17th, arrived Canada on the 18th, and was uncertain if I’d have to return after two weeks. When I arrived, I opened a Canadian account, moved my money, and reapplied for my study permit. By early September, it was approved. I had to travel to the US–Canada border by road to finalise it. Thankfully, I had a valid US visa and got my study permit without issues.

Congratulations. What kind of funding did you receive?

It was a full scholarship because my program is research-based. For research, you usually get full funding. I also work as a Research Assistant (RA) and Teaching Assistant (TA).

Amazing. What program falls under the research category?

I’m studying wildfires, which are very common in North America, Australia, Brazil, and other countries. Wildfires can start from high temperatures, low humidity, or even something as simple as a passing car.

The area I live in had a major wildfire two years before I arrived, and a few decades ago. Driving past the blackened landscapes really intrigued me. So, my research focuses on assessing the long-term impacts of wildfires, not just immediate damage, but also how communities recover socially and economically over time.

Interesting. How can people who want to explore this opportunity figure out their research interests and find professors with similar interests?

I realised I wasn’t cut out for a 9–5 during my fourth year of undergraduate studies. So, I started analysing my strengths and researching areas related to meteorology and climate science.

I made a list of about 40 possible research areas, filtered what excited me, and narrowed it to sustainability, environment, and climate change.

When searching for professors, I’d check their school profiles and past research publications to see if their interests aligned with mine. That’s how I reached out.

Because I know how confusing it can be, I now share my experience on YouTube, including templates, tips, and even study permit application processes.

Is there still hope to come to Canada through research for people not in science-related fields?

My background is in physical sciences, but my supervisor is a social scientist. Since my program is interdisciplinary, I transitioned into social science research.

There are many interesting options that are not purely science-related, such as sustainable fashion, power and conflict studies, and global studies. In my cohort, we have people from political science, math, biology, and more, all working on climate change. So, it’s not limited to STEM.

Bunmi’s Cold Pitching Template for Canadian Postgraduate Applications

That’s good to know. What are your top key tips for intending applicants?

First, don’t give up. Some people email hundreds of professors before getting a response. I emailed 31 before landing mine.

Second, be consistent. Don’t send one email and disappear for weeks.

Third, check your email often. That’s how I got the U.S opportunity I mentioned earlier.

Fourth, send emails considering the professor’s time zone. For example, Nigeria is eight hours ahead of Canada. If you send an email at 8 a.m Nigerian time, emails from other applicants might bury yours before the lecturer even gets to see it. Send your email when they’re expected to resume work.

Fifth, revamp your CV and transcript to align with their interests.

And finally, don’t get discouraged by grades. Even if you didn’t graduate with a first class, you can convince them with your experience and motivation.

Bunmi’s CV Template for Canadian Postgraduate Applications

Thanks for not gatekeeping. How would you describe life in Canada so far?

It’s different, but in a good way. It’s been wonderful, especially this past summer. I’m introverted, but I’ve experienced many new things, attended conferences, and even travelled again to the U.S.

The academic culture is also different. Professors here often want you to call them by their first names, not “Doctor” or “Sir.” That took some getting used to. In class, everyone is free to share opinions without judgment.

I’m the only Black person in my class, so people are interested in hearing Nigeria’s perspective on climate and disasters. I love it here.

On a scale of one to ten, how happy are you in Canada?

I’d say 8.5, because it’s not rosy. As an immigrant, I have to work 10 times harder than a Canadian citizen. There’s also occasional bias people have towards me because I’m Black. But as Nigerians, we don’t give up easily; we show up and show out. The journey has had good, bad, and ugly moments, but it’s been worth it overall.

ALSO READ: He Moved to Canada with His Family as Permanent Residents, and He’s Loving It

Want to share your japa story? Please reach out to me here.

[ad]

Someone you know has left or is planning to leave. 1,000 Ways To Japa will speak to real people and explore the infinite number of reasons and paths they use to get to Japa

Alero* (27) has always wanted to seek greener pastures in the United States of America, but after 10 years of rejection and disappointment, she nearly gave up. In this story, she shares how she gave her dream one last try and what she did differently to secure a full scholarship to study in the US.

Where do you currently live, and when did you move out of Nigeria?

I live in the United States of America, and I left Nigeria in 2024 for grad school.

Congratulations!

Thank you. I’ve just always wanted to move to the US. The funniest part is that I had been trying to move for nearly ten years before it finally happened. I had received rejection letters and disappointments for years, and I was this close to giving up completely.

Ten years is crazy. What did you do differently to secure the scholarship to study in the USA in 2024?

At first, I couldn’t figure out why I was constantly rejected until my friend helped me figure it out in 2023 by asking who was writing my recommendation letters to these schools. As much as some people try to underestimate those letters, they matter.

I had to re-strategise and devise a new plan. I changed how I wrote my statement of purpose and became more intentional about my recommendation letter. I made sure that those letters weren’t generic; they spoke about my journey, leadership skills, and best qualities. Then, I also edited my academic CV to stand out from other applications.

It was a tough season for me because there were people I thought I could rely on during the application process who ended up leaving my life. I lost so many friendships and experienced heartbreak, but looking back at it now, I see that God was trying to remove the relationships that were no longer serving me and teach me that He’s all the help I’d ever need.

So, if you ask me what I did differently, it’s completely changing my strategy and trusting God. After that, I applied to only one school, and I secured full funding.

I love that for you! What tips would you recommend for Nigerians who are exploring similar opportunities?

You need to focus on three major things with precision and intentionality: your statement of purpose, your CV or resume, and your letters of recommendation. For your statement of purpose, just be as intentional as possible. Talk about your background, what led you to choose that program, your work experiences, and the significant events that have shaped you to be the person you’ve become. It’s also important to talk about why you chose that school in a clear and precise way. It’s always a great idea to eliminate vagueness.

Your CV should also reflect your background, interests, research experience and the roles you’ve taken related to the course of study. It’s always an advantage to have traceable research experience. Your university thesis or final-year project can qualify as one.

Then, for your reference letter, you should be intentional about choosing people willing to write extensively about you. Going to your project supervisor for this is always a great idea. Let them talk aboutyour academic ability, your leadership experience, your publication and how you were able to solve specific problems.

Can you share some schools in the US that you’d recommend, especially for Nigerians?

If you’re up to it, I recommend Ivy League schools like Yale, Cornell, Columbia, and the University of Pennsylvania. Then there are also the R1 universities, which are really big on research. I can’t name all of them right now, but honestly, people just need to research to decide which schools tick their boxes.

What does your life look like now that you’re in your dream country?

Moving here has made me realise that I’m a person of colour. We’re all the same colour back home, but here, I find myself in class just looking at my skin and realising how different I am from everybody else.

Even things like food and spelling here are different. American English is nothing like British English. Once, I was in an Uber and asked the driver to open the boot because I wanted to put my box inside. She was so confused until I pointed at what I was referring to, and she was like, “Oh, you mean the trunk?”

Then there’s the time difference. You want to talk to friends and family back home, but it’s either too early or too late. It also gets lonely here. Even as introverted as I am, the loneliness sometimes gets too much.

Also, I live in a Predominantly White Institution (PWI). So, sometimes, I don’t feel like myself. Maybe if I lived in a city with more people of my race, I’d feel more at home.

And then there are all those annoying questions like “How did you learn to speak English so well?” It’s tiring.

I’m sorry about that. In what ways has this move changed your life?

Honestly, I wasn’t in a good mental or emotional state before I left Nigeria. I feel like God knew I wasn’t ready to move when I was rejected. You see all those stories of people who relocate and suddenly slump or crash? They are more common than you think. Mental health here is a big deal. And I believe that before I moved, God was preparing me. I started working on my mental health because I knew the transition would be hard.

So, I’d say my life even changed before I landed here. I’d already done the inner work and let go of people I didn’t need anymore, so I wasn’t too overwhelmed when the culture shocks started. I had already trained my mind to be strong overall, and I’ve changed a lot. I’m calmer, nicer, and more hopeful now.

There’s a system that guarantees that you at least have basic amenities here, so that makes life easier. The taxes here are no joke, but at least you know where the money goes. The education system is also really solid; that’s why so many Nigerians here are doctors, surgeons, and engineers. The system is designed to help you succeed if you’re focused.

On a scale of one to ten, how happy are you in your new country?

I’d say ten. I’m happy because this has been my dream since I was a child. However, I still miss home a lot.

Want to share your japa story? Please reach out to me here.

[ad]

Someone you know has left or is planning to leave. 1,000 Ways To Japa will speak to real people and explore the infinite number of reasons and paths they use to get to Japa

Betty (25) started her NYSC program and realised that law practice wasn’t for her. In this edition of 1,000 Ways to Japa, she shares how her love for entrepreneurship inspired her to apply for a fully funded Master of Business Administration (MBA) program in the US and how others can do the same.

Where do you live, and when did you move from Nigeria?

I live in the United States and moved here in the summer of 2024.

Congratulations! How did that happen?

I moved here for my MBA (Masters of Business Administration). I am a lawyer originally, but I didn’t like my day-to-day job. I also knew I didn’t want to do a master’s degree in law. Also, while practising law in Nigeria, I ran a side business, and I enjoyed being a business owner more than a lawyer. This drove me to study something that aligned with my interest in the US. That’s how I moved here. I found the perfect program and got offered a scholarship.

How did you apply for the program and scholarship?

While most schools ask you to write an essay, some schools will also ask you to take a Graduate Record Examination (GRE) or Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT) if you didn’t study engineering or something related to math as an undergraduate. I knew I didn’t want to take the GMAT or GRE because paying for it in naira was expensive. What I did instead was to target US schools that didn’t require me to sit for either of these exams.

How did your search go?

I found some schools, and I applied. During the application process, I took a course called MBA Math to help me prepare since my background is in law and we don’t do a lot of maths in law. It’s a self-paced course that can be completed in two to 12 months.

I also started reaching out to schools that I was interested in. I made it a priority to attend all the events organised by the schools and connected with some of its current students on LinkedIn. Sometimes, I’d ask them to have a coffee chat with me. The reason I went to these lengths is that most schools in the US rely on recommendations for MBA admissions. They like to hear that you have spoken to somebody in the school or attended their recruiting events.

That was a thoughtful move

I knew I didn’t have the GMAT or GRE, so I had to do everything necessary to stand out. I applied to about four schools and got interview invites for three. I prepared for the interview process and took the time to write my essays. I ensured that my essay discussed my experience as a lawyer and an entrepreneur in Nigeria and why I wanted an MBA. One of the schools offered me a 60% scholarship, the other offered me a 30% scholarship, and then one offered me a full scholarship. I took the full scholarship offer.

While applying, I ensured these schools were ranked fairly well enough in America because MBA programs are very competitive. You need a school ranked at least in the top 20 or 30 to improve your chances of getting recruited in America. I got the offer in April, and I moved in July.

Which school will you recommend to anyone else who is interested in a fully-funded MBA program?

USC Marshall and Simon Business School are great schools. They also don’t necessarily require you to write the GMAT. The best thing would be to google the top 20-30 business schools and work your way through their requirements.

I’m curious. Did you pay application fees to each of these schools?

I didn’t have to pay because I found out that these schools mostly email you a code for an application fee waiver when you attend their events. So, a pro tip is to attend the events and reach out to people. Sometimes, your application portal will show how to get a waiver during certain periods before the deadline.

You can also send the school an email for a waiver code and keep your fingers crossed that they’ll send it.

That’s smart. What made your application essay stand out?

I contacted international MBA students on LinkedIn and asked if they could share their essays or resources. I also picked up some tips from the events I attended in each school. They will tell you what they want to see in the application and what they want your essay to discuss. Most application essays will give you a specific prompt like “Tell us about a time you had to deal with adversity”. Reading people’s essays and attending school events to find out what each school wanted helped me put a structure to my story. I also asked those people to read and review my essay.

What are your recommended tips for anyone who’s applying in 2025?

Start with a sketch for your essay. If the essay is about resilience, you should have one paragraph stating what resilience means to you. The second paragraph should discuss how you’ve displayed resilience in life. The third paragraph should talk about what you learnt from it. The fourth paragraph should tell them how this resilience will benefit them in the program you’re applying for and how you intend to use resilience to get through it. The conclusion should highlight why you should be considered and how your experiences dealing with resilience have prepared you for their program. You should also find out each school’s mission statement and tie whatever you’ve written to it. Talk about how the mission statement resonates deeply with you. That kind of structure helps your essay flow better.

ALSO READ: She Knows How to Write The Perfect Statement of Purpose, And She Wants To Teach Others

Do you have to apply for the scholarship separately?

For most schools in the US, no. It’s all dependent on the school you apply to. While some schools automatically indicate that they consider you for a scholarship or funding as you apply on their website, some schools will require a separate essay for independent scholarships. They’ll highlight that you must submit an essay under a column to be considered for those scholarships.

Thank you. You’ve mentioned LinkedIn a few times. Please share some networking tips.

First, never start with a simple “Hi” that contains no context for why you’re reaching out to the person. People are very busy. When you send a message to somebody that you’re trying to connect with, your first message should contain why you’re reaching out and your contact information.

You should also mention your availability for a meeting if they are open to discussing this further. It makes it easy for them to respond. They are either going to say yes or no. You should also be polite and not ask obvious questions or things you could have easily Googled because it doesn’t make you look good. You want to present your best self when you are communicating with people that can potentially be of significant assistance to you

I hear that. How has life been since you moved?

For the first time, I moved to a place where I didn’t know anybody. When I went to law school in Nigeria, my university classmates were there.. There was always somebody I knew. But this one is different because I moved to a part of the US where I don’t have close family or friends that I know well.

I also struggled with imposter syndrome when I started the program. On the first day of class, I heard a classmate introduce themselves as an Olympic diver. Someone else introduced himself as one of the top guys at PwC, and then there’s me, who had just finished serving Nigeria. Thankfully, I have started building a community here—most MBA schools have student groups from different African countries. so I try to connect with other Africans in my school. The day I landed at the airport to resume school, someone from the African group picked me up, helped me set up my house, and helped me locate the best places to live. These were super helpful, but the first two months were still hard.

ALSO READ: 7 Nigerians on How They Made Friends After Moving to the UK

How so?

I was saying goodbye to familiar things and struggling to build friendships— I had to push myself to socialize. If you’re serious about it, you must make a real effort to make friends here. If you’re not someone who keeps in touch, you’d find it hard to make friends here. You also have to learn to speak up and participate in class. Participation grade is like 40% of your entire grade. That’s something that I had to get used to by putting myself out there.

How is your program going?

It’s going well. It’s a two-year program. I am finishing my first year in May of this year and should graduate by May 2026.

Congratulations. On a scale of one to ten, how happy are you in the US?

Good question. I’m still in school and haven’t been able to do everything I want to do, so I’ll say 8. When I graduate and get a great job, it should be higher. But I’m grateful for how patient my professors have been. They’ve never made me feel bad for needing extra time to understand or ask questions often. They are always happy to explain everything patiently till I fully understand it.

Want to to share your japa story? Please reach out to me here.

[ad]

Swedish Institute Scholarship for Global Professionals

Erasmus Mundus Scholarship

Stephen Young Global Leaders’ Scholarship

Think Big Scholarship

Where do you currently live, and when did you leave Nigeria?

So how exactly did you leave?

Was it a fully funded scholarship?

Get More Zikoko Goodness in Your Mail

Is the scholarship still available now?

Oh, interesting. Can you share more about the process? How did you apply, and how can others do the same?

Would you still recommend that people apply?

Would you say life in Russia is better than in Nigeria?

So what was it like adjusting to life in Russia, especially living in such a cold place?

On a scale of one to ten, how happy are you in Russia?

Where do you currently live, and when did you leave Nigeria?

Congratulations! How exactly did you relocate?

Can you tell me more about it? I know you’ve touched on the basics, but can you go a bit deeper?

Get More Zikoko Goodness in Your Mail

When you say five people, do you mean five from all over the world or five from Nigeria?

Wow, that’s insanely competitive.

Crazy! What was your life like in Nigeria before receiving this scholarship?

Interesting. So what inspired you to want to study in the UK?

You mentioned you’ve been trying since 2023. What happened? Were you getting rejections?

LMAO. That’s crazy

That’s an amazing story. Congratulations again. For people who might want to apply, can you walk me through the process?

Do you know when the scholarship usually opens?

What do you think made you stand out?

So now that it’s been a couple of months, what’s it been like for you studying in the UK?

Do you have any plans of ever returning to Nigeria?

Is there a reason why you weren’t able to move with your wife? I know most scholarships come with the opportunity to bring dependents.

Where do you currently live, and when did you leave Nigeria?

Oh wow! Congratulations.

What was life like for you before leaving Nigeria?

Sounds like you have a good life. What inspired you to apply for the Swedish Institute Scholarship, and how did you hear about it?

Get More Zikoko Goodness in Your Mail

That’s amazing. What helped improve your chances?

Can you walk me through the step-by-step process, especially for people who want to apply?

What advice would you give to people applying this year? Any tips you wish you had known earlier?

You got the scholarship on your first try. What do you think you did exceptionally well that made them say yes?

You’ve mentioned a few times that English isn’t their first language. What’s it like living in a country where people speak a different language?

What’s it like studying there, especially since most Nigerians go to the UK or the US?

Could you share exactly what you’re studying and how you chose it?

Do you see yourself staying in Sweden after your studies?

On a scale of one to ten, how happy are you in Sweden?

Why She Chose China

How She Got the Scholarship

Get More Zikoko Goodness in Your Mail

Cost Breakdown of Studying in China without a Scholarship

Perks of Studying in China

How to Apply for a Scholarship in China

What to Expect as a Nigerian Student in China

Her Favourite Thing About Living in China

Family Reactions

How She Rates Her Happiness in China

Where do you live, and when did you move out of Nigeria?

Amazing! How exactly did you leave Nigeria?

Four universities?

Get More Zikoko Goodness in Your Mail

That sounds like a lot of travelling around. How did you handle the visa process, especially as a Nigerian student?

Sounds tough. Why did you decide to choose Germany as your final destination?

That makes sense. Let’s talk about the Erasmus scholarship itself. For someone hearing about Erasmus for the first time, how would you describe it?

So, how can people find the right Erasmus program for them?

Is the Erasmus Mundus Catalogue an actual website?

How can Nigerians make their applications stand out?

Do you have any tips for writing an academic CV?

Thank you. What’s a good GPA for this scholarship?

That sounds smart. What was it like studying in multiple countries at once?

That sounds amazing. How would you say this scholarship has changed your life?

On a scale of one to ten, how happy are you in Germany?

Where do you currently live, and when did you relocate from Nigeria?

Korea is an interesting choice. Why was it an option for you?

So you received a scholarship?

Congratulations! What was your life like in Nigeria before you received the scholarship?

Interesting. Is it a master’s scholarship, or is it for undergraduate studies?

Get More Zikoko Goodness in Your Mail

Can you take me back to the beginning? How did you learn about the scholarship, and what did the application process look like for you?

Let’s talk about writing essays. What are some things you did right that others can replicate?

That’s powerful. Aside from essays, are there other important things involved in the application process that people should know about?

You mentioned earlier that there are undergraduate and master’s options. Do your tips apply to both?

Good point. Is there an application fee?