Best Fully Funded Scholarships in Europe for Nigerians Without IELTS in 2026/2027

Best Fully Funded Scholarships in Europe for Nigerians Without IELTS in 2026/2027

Studying in Europe on a fully funded scholarship is a major goal for many Nigerian students. Fully funded scholarships cover the entire cost of study abroad, including:

1. Tuition fees

2. Living expenses (housing, food, transportation)

3. Health insurance

4. Travel allowance

5. Research or study materials

6. Sometimes even family support

However, one of the biggest barriers for Nigerian applicants is English proficiency requirements such as IELTS or its equivalents. Fortunately, in 2026/2027, a growing number of European scholarships allow Nigerian students to apply without IELTS, provided they meet alternative criteria such as:

1. Previous English-medium instruction certificates

2. University-based English proficiency assessments

3. Alternative standardized tests accepted by the scholarship body

4. Conditional admission pathways with pre-sessional English courses

This article is written for Nigerian students, parents, advisors, and opportunity seekers to provide a practical, in-depth, fully actionable guide to securing the best fully funded scholarships in Europe that do not require IELTS.

Why Focus on Scholarships Without IELTS?

Barrier Reduction for Nigerians

Many Nigerians do not take IELTS due to its cost, scheduling limitations, and additional preparatory burden. Scholarships without an IELTS requirement:

1. Save €200–€300 in testing fees

2. Reduce application barriers

3. Allow faster preparation and submission

4. Enable greater access for candidates from underserved communities

Alternative English Proficiency Pathways

European scholarships that waive IELTS often accept:

1. Proof of English-medium instruction (secondary or tertiary certificates)

2. Letters from academic institutions attesting to English proficiency

3. Other standardized tests (TOEFL, PTE, Duolingo where accepted)

4. Conditional offers with pre-sessional English requirements

These alternatives make fully funded scholarships more accessible for qualified Nigerian students.

Understanding “Fully Funded” in the European Context

“Fully funded” typically means scholarship coverage that includes:

1. Tuition fees: €0 charged for the duration of study

2. Living stipend: €8,000–€14,000 per academic year depending on country

3. Travel support: €1,000–€3,000 per year (varies)

4. Health insurance: Full or substantial coverage

5. Research or materials allowances: Varies by programme

Acceptance into fully funded scholarships usually involves demonstrating academic excellence, leadership potential, and clear career objectives.

Key European Scholarship Schemes Without IELTS for Nigerians (Overview)

The following high-impact schemes are known to allow application without IELTS under documented alternatives and are fully funded for Nigerian students:

1. Erasmus Mundus Joint Master’s Degree Scholarships

2. DAAD Scholarships (Germany) with English medium alternatives

3. Swedish Institute Scholarships for Global Professionals

4. Orange Knowledge Programme (Netherlands)

5. Government Scholarships in Finland and Norway (with English evidence pathways)

6. University-based fully funded awards in France, Italy, and Eastern Europe

7. Multilateral funding initiatives accepting Nigerian applicants without IELTS

Below, each scholarship is profiled in detail.

Best Fully Funded Scholarships in Europe for Nigerians Without IELTS in 2026/2027

Erasmus Mundus Joint Master’s Degree Scholarships (Europe-Wide)

Overview

Erasmus Mundus Joint Master’s Degree Scholarships are among the most prestigious and comprehensive fully funded opportunities in Europe. They fund master’s level education delivered across two or more European universities.

Scholarship Coverage

1. Tuition fees: €0

2. Monthly stipend: €1,000–€1,400

3. Travel allowance: €2,000–€3,000 per academic year

4. Installation allowance: €1,000

5. Health insurance support

Why It’s Ideal for Nigerian Applicants Without IELTS

The Erasmus Mundus programme accepts alternative evidence of English proficiency such as:

1. Academic transcripts showing English-medium education

2. Statements from previous institutions confirming the language of instruction

3. University-specific assessments conducted in English

This flexibility allows Nigerians to apply without formal IELTS scores while maintaining competitiveness.

Eligibility Criteria (Common Across Programmes)

1. Nigerian citizenship

2. Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field with strong grades

3. Academic references

4. Motivation letter explaining goals and alignment with the programme

5. English proficiency demonstrated through alternatives accepted by the consortium

Application Strategy for Nigerians

1. Identify partner universities and their specific English requirements

2. Prepare evidence of English-medium education if IELTS is not available

3. Highlight leadership and community impact in motivation letters

4. Apply to multiple Erasmus Mundus programmes to increase chance of award

Career and Migration Impact

Graduates gain:

1. European degree from multiple institutions

2. Exposure to diverse academic cultures

3. High employability within European labour markets

4. Post-study work options in many countries

DAAD Scholarships (Germany) Without IELTS

Overview

The German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) provides multiple fully funded scholarships to Nigerian students. DAAD is known for rigorous academic support and extensive funding.

Scholarship Coverage

• Tuition fees: €0 (public universities in Germany)

• Monthly stipend:

  • Master’s: approximately €934

  • PhD: approximately €1,200

• Health insurance: included

• Travel allowance and research grants available

English Proficiency Alternatives Accepted

Many DAAD schemes accept:

1. Evidence of English-medium instruction at bachelor’s level

2. Academic certificates showing English as medium of instruction

3. University-specific English assessment results

4. Proof of extended English use in professional or academic contexts

Eligible Fields

1. Science and engineering

2. Development and public policy

3. Economics and business

4. Agriculture and environmental studies

5. Social sciences

Eligibility Criteria

1. Bachelor’s degree with competitive performance

2. Academic references

3. Research or study proposal (for master’s/PhD)

4. Academic transcripts and certificates

Living Costs and Relocation Support

Germany is tuition-free, but living costs must be anticipated:

1. Monthly living costs: €800–€1,200

2. Accommodation: €250–€600

3. Food: €200–€350

4. Local transport: often included in semester contributions

Nigerian Applicant Advantage

1. Opportunity to study tuition-free

2. Strong post-study work and migration pathways

3. Applications without IELTS via alternative evidence

Swedish Institute Scholarships for Global Professionals (SI)

Overview

The Swedish Institute Scholarship is a fully funded programme for international students, including Nigerians, seeking master’s degrees in Sweden.

Scholarship Coverage

1. Tuition fees: fully covered

2. Monthly stipend: approximately €1,000

3. Travel grant: approximately €1,500

4. Health insurance: covered

Best Fully Funded Scholarships in Europe for Nigerians Without IELTS in 2026/2027

English Proficiency Alternatives

Swedish Institute accepts:

1. Certificates from institutions where English was the language of instruction

2. Letters confirming extended academic use of English

3. University admission tests conducted in English

This makes it possible for Nigerians to apply without IELTS.

Eligible Fields

1. Sustainability and environment

2. Innovation and technology

3. Economics and public policy

4. Social sciences and global development

Eligibility Criteria

1. Bachelor’s degree

2. Minimum work experience requirement (varies by programme)

3. Personal and professional references

4. Clear career goals aligning with global development

Strategic Advice for Nigerians

1. Demonstrate leadership in essays

2. Show relevance of study to Nigerian development contexts

3. Prepare strong alternative evidence for English proficiency

Orange Knowledge Programme (Netherlands)

Overview

The Orange Knowledge Programme supports professionals and postgraduate students from developing countries, including Nigeria, with fully funded study opportunities.

Scholarship Coverage

• Tuition fees: fully covered

• Living allowance: provided

• Travel and visa cost support

• Accommodation subsidy

English Proficiency Flexibility

While formal tests are preferred, the programme accepts:

• Statements from academic institutions confirming English instruction

• Professional experience in English environments

• Alternative academic evidence of English ability

Target Audience

• Mid-career professionals

• Nigerian development practitioners

• NGO workers

• Educators and public sector staff

Eligible Programmes

• Public policy

• Education leadership

• Environmental management

• Health systems

Application Requirements

• Academic transcripts

• Professional CV

• Two references

• Personal statement with career impact plan

Practical Tips

• Align programme choice with professional experience

• Prepare clear evidence of English competence beyond IELTS

• Emphasize impact on Nigerian communities

Fully Funded Government Scholarships Without IELTS in Northern Europe

In addition to the Swedish Institute, other Northern European governments offer pathways to apply without formal IELTS if alternative evidence is documented.

Norway Government Scholarships

Overview

Some Norwegian public universities and government schemes admit Nigerian students with proof of English medium instruction in place of formal tests.

Scholarship Coverage

1. Tuition: typically €0–€1,000 per year in public universities

2. Living allowance or support: provided in select programmes

3. Travel and relocation subsidies: available

English Evidence Accepted

1. Certificates demonstrating instruction in English from previous institutions

2. Letters from Nigerian universities confirming English competence

3. University-conducted English tests

Strategic Value

Norway’s tuition-free access combined with English flexibility makes it increasingly attractive for Nigerian students aiming for fully funded options without IELTS.

Eligibility Considerations

1. Solid academic performance

2. Proof of English used in prior study

3. Structured study plan

Finland Government Scholarships

Overview

Finland offers tuition waivers and scholarship support through public universities to international students, and many admit students based on English-medium education proof.

Scholarship Coverage

1. Tuition fees: waived for scholarship recipients

2. Monthly allowance: varies by programme

3. Travel support: sometimes included

English Proficiency Alternatives

1. Academic certificates indicating English medium of instruction

2. Language profiles in transcripts

3. University-based English proficiency assessments

Target Areas

1. Technology and innovation

2. Health sciences

3. Business and administration

4. Public policy

Nigerian Applicant Strategy

1. Provide strong letter from previous institution confirming English use

2. If necessary, take short pre-sessional English courses provided by universities

Best Fully Funded Scholarships in Europe for Nigerians Without IELTS in 2026/2027

Central and Eastern European Fully Funded Scholarships Without IELTS

Countries such as Poland, Hungary, and the Czech Republic offer funded opportunities particularly at master’s and doctoral levels with flexibility on English requirements.

Central Europe Scholarship Structures

Common Scholarship Components

1. Tuition waivers

2. Monthly stipends (sometimes modest)

3. Accommodation support

4. Research allowances for PhD candidates

English Proficiency Pathways

1. Universities accept English medium education certificates

2. Conditional offers with English preparatory courses

3. In-house language assessments

Strategic Value for Nigerians

1. Low cost of living

2. Growing number of English programmes

3. Scholarship pools for international students

Eligibility Overview for Nigerian Applicants Without IELTS

To maximize chances of winning fully funded scholarships without IELTS, Nigerian students typically must provide:

1. Academic certificates and transcripts

2. Proof of English-medium instruction

3. Motivation or research proposal

4. Professional CV

5. Two or more academic or professional references

6. Clear career objectives aligned with scholarship mission

Scholarships may also request additional documentary evidence such as recommendation letters from employers or community leaders.

Documents to Prepare for Scholarship Applications

Nigerian applicants should compile:

1. A valid Nigerian passport

2. Bachelor’s degree certificate (with grades)

3. Academic transcripts

4. Evidence of English medium instruction

5. Motivation or personal statement

6. Research proposal (for postgraduate)

7. Curriculum vitae

8. Two or more letters of recommendation

9. Any alternative English test results where available

10. Financial or sponsorship documents if needed for visa

Common Mistakes Nigerian Applicants Must Avoid

Many qualified Nigerian students miss out due to:

1. Failing to provide clear alternative English proficiency evidence

2. Using generic motivation letters

3. Missing deadlines by preparing late

4. Ignoring specific scholarship eligibility criteria

5. Submitting inconsistent academic records

Avoiding these mistakes is essential for success.

France: Fully Funded Opportunities Without IELTS

France offers multiple fully funded scholarship programmes for international students, including Nigerians, that waive IELTS if applicants provide proof of English‑medium instruction or pass university-administered assessments.

École Normale Supérieure (ENS) Scholarships

Overview

ENS provides scholarships for master’s and PhD candidates in science, humanities, and social sciences.

Scholarship Coverage

1. Tuition fees: €0

2. Monthly stipend: €1,300–€1,500

3. Travel allowance: €1,000

4. Accommodation support: €300–€500 per month

Eligibility Without IELTS

1. Bachelor’s degree from an English-medium institution

2. Academic transcript showing English proficiency

3. Motivation letter demonstrating research or career objectives

Application Strategy

1. Highlight academic excellence and research experience

2. Provide letter confirming prior English instruction

3. Prepare for university interview in English if required

Italian Government and University Scholarships

Italy has several fully funded opportunities where IELTS is not mandatory, especially for master’s programmes.

University of Bologna Alma Mater Scholarships

Overview

The University of Bologna offers multiple fully funded scholarships for international students, including Nigerians.

Scholarship Coverage

• Tuition: €0–€3,000 per year (fully waived under scholarship)

• Monthly allowance: €800–€1,200

• Travel and relocation allowance: €1,000

English Proficiency Alternatives

• Proof of English-medium bachelor’s degree

• University-administered language assessment

• Pre-sessional English courses

Eligibility Criteria

• Academic transcripts and strong GPA

• Motivation letter

• Two academic references

Strategic Advice

• Apply early to maximize scholarship pool

• Demonstrate leadership and community engagement

Best Fully Funded Scholarships in Europe for Nigerians Without IELTS in 2026/2027

Spain: Fully Funded Scholarships Without IELTS

Several Spanish universities and government schemes accept Nigerian students without IELTS.

La Caixa Scholarship Programme

Overview

La Caixa provides scholarships for master’s studies across multiple Spanish universities.

Scholarship Coverage

1. Tuition fees fully paid (€1,500–€3,000 per year)

2. Monthly stipend: €1,000

3. Travel allowance: €1,000–€1,500

4. Health insurance included

IELTS Alternatives

1. Academic transcripts showing English-medium education

2. University-administered English assessment

Eligibility Criteria

1. Academic excellence

2. Motivation aligned with scholarship objectives

3. Professional references

Living Costs in Spain

1. Accommodation: €250–€450 per month

2. Food: €150–€300 per month

3. Transport: €20–€40 per month

Netherlands: Orange Knowledge Programme (Detailed)

The Orange Knowledge Programme supports Nigerian students who want fully funded study in the Netherlands without IELTS.

Scholarship Coverage

1. Tuition fees: fully covered

2. Living allowance: €800–€1,200 per month

3. Travel support: €1,000–€1,500

4. Accommodation support in select programmes

English Proficiency Alternatives

1. Academic transcripts indicating English as medium of instruction

2. Letters from previous institutions confirming English proficiency

3. Professional experience in English

Eligibility

1. Bachelor’s degree with relevant experience

2. Clear career goals

3. Letters of recommendation

4. CV highlighting professional impact

Austria: Fully Funded Scholarships Without IELTS

Austria’s universities and government programmes offer scholarships to Nigerians that accept alternative English evidence.

University of Vienna Scholarships

Overview

1. Fully funded master’s programmes available in science, technology, business, and social sciences

2. Tuition waived under scholarship

3. Monthly allowance: €800–€1,200

English Proficiency Alternatives

1. Certificates of English-medium instruction

2. University-administered assessment

Living Costs

1. Accommodation: €300–€600 per month

2. Food: €200–€300 per month

3. Transport: €30–€50 per month

Application Strategy

1. Provide strong academic transcripts

2. Submit detailed motivation letters

3. Emphasize professional and community impact

Eastern Europe: Hungary, Poland, and Czech Republic

Eastern European universities increasingly offer fully funded scholarships without IELTS for Nigerian students.

Hungary: Stipendium Hungaricum Scholarship

1. Tuition fully covered (€2,000–€4,000 per year)

2. Monthly stipend: €300–€500

3. Accommodation support included

4. Accepts proof of English-medium instruction instead of IELTS

Poland: Visegrad Scholarships

1. Tuition fully covered

2. Monthly allowance: €500–€800

3. English proficiency alternatives accepted

4. Focus on social sciences, engineering, and environmental studies

Czech Republic: Czech Government Scholarships

• Tuition fully covered for English or Czech-taught programmes

• Living allowance provided

• Accepts prior English-medium education certificates in lieu of IELTS

Best Fully Funded Scholarships in Europe for Nigerians Without IELTS in 2026/2027

Step‑by‑Step Application Strategy for Nigerians

Step 1: Identify Suitable Scholarships

• Prioritize fully funded programmes

• Check English proficiency requirements

• Confirm whether IELTS is waived

Step 2: Prepare Academic Documents

• Transcripts and certificates

• Letters confirming English-medium education

• Motivation letter tailored to each scholarship

Step 3: Prepare Professional Documents

• CV

• Two or more letters of recommendation

• Research proposal (for postgraduate programmes)

Step 4: Submit Applications Early

• Scholarships are competitive

• Meeting deadlines significantly increases chances

Step 5: Interview Preparation

• Some scholarships require interviews

• Focus on clarity of career goals, study motivation, and community impact

Case Scenarios: Nigerians Winning Fully Funded Scholarships Without IELTS

Case Scenario 1: Erasmus Mundus

1. Nigerian student awarded €1,400 monthly stipend

2. Tuition fully covered

3. Travel allowance provided

4. Applied with proof of English-medium bachelor’s degree

Case Scenario 2: DAAD Scholarship

1. Master’s in Engineering

2. Tuition-free university in Germany

3. €934 monthly stipend

4. IELTS waived due to prior English-medium instruction

Case Scenario 3: Swedish Institute Scholarship

1. Fully funded master’s in Global Development

2. Stipend €1,000/month

3. Proof of English alternative accepted

4. Travel allowance included

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Using generic motivation letters for multiple scholarships

2. Failing to provide verifiable alternative English evidence

3. Submitting late applications

4. Ignoring scholarship-specific eligibility requirements

5. Weak CV highlighting only academic credentials

Professional Tips for Nigerian Applicants

1. Start preparation at least 12 months before programme start

2. Apply to multiple scholarships to increase chances

3. Document English-medium instruction clearly

4. Maintain consistent academic records

5. Focus on leadership, community service, and impact

Final Conclusion

Nigerian students aiming for fully funded scholarships without IELTS in 2026/2027 should prioritize:

1. Erasmus Mundus Joint Master’s Degrees

2. DAAD Scholarships (Germany)

3. Swedish Institute Scholarships

4. Orange Knowledge Programme (Netherlands)

5. Stipendium Hungaricum (Hungary)

6. La Caixa and French Government Scholarships

7. Czech, Polish, and other Eastern European government scholarships

These opportunities combine tuition coverage, living allowance, travel support, and health insurance, making them ideal for Nigerian students who cannot take IELTS. With early planning, strategic document preparation, and strong motivation letters, Nigerian students can fully access European higher education without the barrier of IELTS while gaining global academic credentials and career opportunities.