How to Find Fully Funded Short Courses Abroad

Are you looking to boost your career without committing to a full degree program? Fully funded short courses abroad can help you do just that, offering world-class training, international exposure, and valuable professional certifications in just a few weeks or months.

For many African students, these programs are golden opportunities to learn new skills, build global connections, and strengthen their CVs: all without breaking the bank.

If you’ve ever wondered how to find these short, fully funded study programs abroad, this guide breaks it all down for you.

Why Choose Short Courses Abroad?

Short courses are intensive training programs that focus on specific skills or industries such as leadership, business management, public policy, healthcare, technology, and education.

Here’s why they’re worth your time:

• They’re flexible – lasting anywhere from a few weeks to a few months.
• Career-focused – they help you gain practical, job-ready skills.
• Globally recognized – many are hosted by top universities and organizations.
• Fully funded options available – covering tuition, accommodation, and even travel.

For Nigerian students especially, short courses abroad can be a cost-effective way to gain international experience and open doors to global career opportunities.

Top Platforms and Programs Offering Fully Funded Short Courses

Here are some reliable ways to find fully funded short courses around the world:

1. Chevening Short Courses (UK)

The Chevening Fellowship offers short-term, fully funded training opportunities for professionals across Africa.
Duration: 3–6 months
Covers: Tuition, travel, and living expenses.
Fields: Leadership, public policy, governance, and more.

2. DAAD Short-Term Research Grants (Germany)

The DAAD (German Academic Exchange Service) funds short research visits and specialized training programs for international students and researchers.
Covers: Tuition, monthly stipend, accommodation, and airfare.
Eligibility: Open to African professionals and postgraduate students.

3. Erasmus+ Short Courses (Europe)

Under the Erasmus+ Programme, students and professionals can apply for short training, workshops, or exchange programs across European universities.
Covers: Travel, accommodation, tuition, and living allowance.
Focus Areas: Innovation, education, and youth development.

4. YALI Regional Leadership Centers (Africa)

The Young African Leaders Initiative (YALI), launched by the U.S. government, offers fully funded leadership and entrepreneurship programs across its regional centers in Nigeria, Ghana, Kenya, and South Africa.
Covers: Tuition, housing, and meals.
Duration: 5–6 weeks.
Best For: Young professionals aged 18–35 passionate about leadership and community impact.

5. Commonwealth Professional Fellowships (UK)

These fellowships allow mid-career professionals from developing Commonwealth countries to undertake short-term learning and networking in the UK.
Covers: Full travel costs, living allowance, and tuition fees.
Duration: 6 weeks to 3 months.
Best For: Public sector and NGO professionals.

6. Australian Awards Short Courses

Funded by the Australian government, these short courses are designed for professionals seeking leadership and technical training.
Covers: Full tuition, travel, visa, and living expenses.
Fields: Agriculture, governance, environment, and development.

7. UNESCO and UN Training Programs

UNESCO, UNDP, and other UN agencies offer free and funded training courses in areas like peacebuilding, sustainable development, and digital education.
Format: Online and in-person options.
Covers: Most are fully funded with travel and accommodation support for in-person programs.

How to Find Fully Funded Short Courses

Finding these programs is easier than you might think. Here’s where to start:

1. Visit Official Scholarship Websites:
   • Chevening.org
   • DAAD.de
   • Commonwealthfellowships.org
   • Australiaawardsafrica.org
2. Use Scholarship Portals:
   • OpportunitiesForAfricans.com
   • YouthOpportunitiesHub.com
   • ScholarshipPositions.com
3. Follow Embassy and University Websites:
   Many embassies in Nigeria (UK, Canada, Germany, and Australia) post short course opportunities on their official websites or social media.
4. Join Online Communities:
   Telegram, Facebook, and LinkedIn groups often share daily updates on funded programs and fellowships for African students.

Benefits of Fully Funded Short Courses

• Gain international experience without a long-term commitment.
• Network with global professionals and open career doors abroad.
• Add global certifications to your CV. A huge plus in competitive job markets.
• Develop leadership and research skills relevant to both local and global contexts.

Tips for Successful Applications

1. Apply early – Most fully funded courses have strict deadlines.
2. Tailor your motivation letter – Clearly explain how the course aligns with your career goals.
3. Highlight leadership and community work – Many programs prefer candidates with a social impact record.
4. Keep your documents ready – CV, passport, transcripts, and references should be up-to-date.
5. Follow up – Some institutions may require interviews or additional essays.

Fully funded short courses abroad are perfect for ambitious Nigerian and African students looking to upgrade their skills, expand their global exposure, and accelerate career growth without the cost of a full degree.

From the UK’s Chevening Fellowship to Germany’s DAAD and Australia’s leadership programs, opportunities are everywhere : you just need to take the first step.

FAQs