Scholarships to Study in Canada for Nigerian Students and Nurses (2026)

Updated October 2026.

Canada is one of the most popular destinations for Nigerian students, and for nurses it can also lead to permanent residence. But studying there is expensive for international students, so funding matters. Here are the main options, and how they differ for school leavers, graduates and registered nurses.

For secondary school leavers

Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship (University of Toronto)

One of the most generous undergraduate awards in the world. About 37 students a year receive full tuition, books, incidental fees and residence support for four years.

• You must be in your final year of secondary school (or have graduated no earlier than June 2026) and start at U of T in September 2027.
• Your school must nominate you. Ask your principal early.
• 2027 deadlines: school nomination by 9 October 2026, U of T application by 16 October 2026, Pearson application by 6 November 2026.

University entrance scholarships

Many Canadian universities give international students automatic or competitive entrance awards based on grades. These are usually partial, reducing fees rather than covering them. Check the international scholarships page of each university you apply to.

For African students with financial need

The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program funds talented African students with financial need at partner universities, which in Canada have included the University of Toronto and the University of British Columbia. It covers undergraduate and, at some partners, graduate study. Each university runs its own application and deadline.

For graduates: master’s and PhD

• Research funding: research master’s and PhD students are often funded through supervisor grants, teaching or research assistantships, and university fellowships. Contact potential supervisors before you apply.
• Federal doctoral scholarships: Canada’s government funds top doctoral students through its research councils. The programme has recently been restructured, so check the official Tri-Agency (CIHR, NSERC, SSHRC) website for the current scheme and dates.
• University graduate awards: many universities offer international master’s and doctoral awards. Search each graduate school’s funding page.

Already a registered nurse?

You may not need to study in Canada at all. Internationally educated nurses can apply for registration through the National Nursing Assessment Service (NNAS) and the provincial regulator, and Canada now holds Express Entry draws just for healthcare workers. Read how Canada is fast-tracking African nurses and our NCLEX guide.

Read also: 2026–2027 calendar of fully funded scholarships · Easiest countries for Nigerian nurses

Sources: Opportunity Desk: Lester B. Pearson Scholarships 2027; University of Toronto: Pearson Scholarships; India Scholarships: Vanier/CGRS status. Always check deadlines on official university websites.