If you’re dreaming of studying abroad but worried about costs, merit-based scholarships are a powerful way to turn your ambition into reality. These scholarships are awarded for strong academic performance (and often leadership or special skills), and they can significantly reduce your financial burden. Let’s explore some of the top countries where international students can access excellent merit-based scholarship opportunities.
What Are Merit-Based Scholarships?
Merit-based scholarships are financial awards given to students based largely on their academic excellence, achievements, leadership, or special talents not just on financial need. These make studying abroad more accessible when you bring strong grades and commitment.
Top Countries to Consider
Turkey
The Türkiye Scholarships is a major example: it opens to international students, is competitive and merit-based, and covers tuition and other expenses in many cases. Read more about it.
For Nigerian and African students, Turkey offers a vibrant cultural setting, English-taught programmes and relatively low cost of living.
Germany
Germany is well-known for affordable higher education and strong scholarship options. The country’s merit-based awards, such as those from Deutscher Akademischer Austauschdienst (DAAD), facilitate studies for international students with excellent performance.
Ireland
Ireland provides merit scholarships for international students, including those from non-EU countries. Financial support might come in the form of tuition waivers, stipends and other benefits.
Netherlands
The Orange Tulip Scholarship programme is one example: it awards talented students from selected countries (including many outside Europe) based on merit to study in Dutch universities. Read More
Australia
Australia offers scholarship programmes for international students that focus on academic excellence, leadership and potential. You’ll find many merit-based grants here.
United States of America
While U.S. tuition can be high, many American universities offer generous merit-based scholarships to international students—especially for outstanding candidates with strong records.
How to Maximise Your Chances
Here are practical ways to boost your likelihood of winning a merit-based scholarship:
- Maintain strong academic records (e.g., high grades, top in your class)
- Demonstrate leadership or special achievements, such as community service, extracurriculars or research
- Submit a compelling Statement of Purpose (SOP) explaining your goals and how the scholarship helps
- Apply early: many scholarships have early deadlines and limited slots
- Tailor your application: mention why you chose that country/university and how you’ll contribute as a global student
FAQs
Q1. Are merit-based scholarships only for postgraduate students?
No. They’re available for undergraduate, masters and even doctoral levels in many countries.
Q2. Do I still need to show financial need to get a merit scholarship?
Typically, no. The key criteria are academic performance and achievements. However, some awards might combine merit with need.
Q3. Can Nigerian students apply for these scholarships?
Yes, Nigerian students are eligible if they meet the scholarship’s criteria.
Q4. Do merit scholarships cover living expenses?
It depends. Some cover full tuition plus living costs; others may cover only tuition or provide a stipend. Always check the scholarship details.
Q5. How do I keep the scholarship after being awarded?
You’ll often need to maintain a certain grade, engage in approved activities and follow the host institution’s rules. Make sure you understand the conditions.
