Nigerian Government Scholarships for Tourism Studies exposes students to world-class education, diverse cultures, and practical industry experience. However, securing funding is the biggest hurdle for most Nigerian students. That’s where government scholarships come in.
The global tourism industry is one of the largest employers worldwide, offering career opportunities in:
- Hospitality Management (Hotels, Resorts, Restaurants)
- Travel Agencies & Tour Operations
- Aviation & Cruise Management
- Eco-Tourism & Cultural Heritage Management
- Event Planning & Destination Marketing
Top Nigerian Government Scholarships for Studying Abroad
Several Nigerian government programs provide scholarships for students looking to study tourism and related fields abroad.
1. Federal Government Bilateral Education Agreement (BEA) Scholarship
This program offers fully funded scholarships to Nigerian students who want to study abroad in partner countries, including Russia, China, Hungary, and Turkey. The scholarship covers:
- Tuition fees
- Accommodation
- Stipend for living expenses
- Travel expenses (in some cases)
Eligibility:
- Minimum of 5 distinctions in WASSCE/NECO
- Strong academic background in relevant fields
- Age limit: 18-23 years for undergraduate applicants
2. PTDF Overseas Scholarship Scheme
Although primarily for oil and gas studies, the Petroleum Technology Development Fund (PTDF) also funds programs related to tourism, hospitality, and environmental management.
Coverage:
- Tuition and accommodation
- Flight tickets
- Health insurance
Eligibility:
- First-class or second-class upper degree
- Strong research proposal (for postgraduate applicants)
3. Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund) Scholarships
TETFund sponsors Nigerian lecturers and postgraduate students in various fields, including tourism studies.
Coverage:
- Tuition and accommodation
- Living stipend
- Conference grants and research funding
Eligibility:
- Must be a lecturer or research student in a Nigerian tertiary institution
4. State Government Overseas Scholarships
Some Nigerian states offer scholarships for students to study abroad. Examples include:
- Lagos State Scholarship Board
- Kano State Foreign Scholarship Program
- Rivers State Overseas Scholarship
These scholarships cover tuition, accommodation, and travel expenses for students pursuing relevant programs abroad.
Here is How to Apply: Visit your state’s scholarship board website or education ministry for more details through Federal Ministry of Education Scholarship Portal
Step-by-Step Guide to Securing a Government Scholarship and Travel Expenses
Step 1: Research Available Scholarships
- Visit official government websites and scholarship boards.
- Identify scholarships that support tourism studies.
- Check eligibility criteria and application deadlines.
Step 2: Prepare Required Documents
Most scholarships require:
- Academic transcripts and certificates
- A strong personal statement
- Letters of recommendation
- International passport
Step 3: Submit a Strong Application
- Write a compelling personal statement that highlights your passion for tourism.
- Showcase academic achievements and leadership experience.
- Double-check all documents before submission.
Step 4: Apply for Travel Grants & Visa Support
Some scholarships cover travel expenses, but if not, consider applying for additional funding:
- Tony Elumelu Foundation Grant (For entrepreneurial students in tourism business)
- Commonwealth Travel Grants (For students studying in the UK)
Ensure you apply for a student visa immediately after receiving an admission letter through Nigerian Federal Scholarship Board
Step 5: Prepare for Life Abroad
- Connect with Nigerian student associations in your host country.
- Research accommodation options before arrival.
- Budget wisely and understand the cost of living.
How One Scholarship Changed My Life
Growing up in Lagos, Yusuf had always been fascinated by the hospitality and tourism industry. Watching international travel documentaries made him dream of studying abroad, but financial limitations seemed like an impossible barrier. His family couldn’t afford tuition fees, let alone travel expenses. However, his story changed when he discovered a Nigerian government scholarship that covered his tuition, accommodation, and travel expenses to study tourism management in Malaysia.
Today, Yusuf is a tourism consultant, helping African destinations attract global visitors. His journey proves that government scholarships can make international education a reality.
If you’re a Nigerian student dreaming of studying tourism abroad, this guide will show you how to secure funding and cover your travel expenses.
Common Challenges and How to Overcome Them
1. Scholarship Competition
Government scholarships are highly competitive. To stand out:
- Apply to multiple scholarships
- Improve your academic records
- Strengthen your application with extracurricular activities
2. Visa and Travel Costs
If your scholarship doesn’t cover travel expenses:
- Look for additional travel grants
- Seek sponsorship from NGOs or corporate organizations
- Consider part-time work opportunities where permitted
3. Cultural Adjustment
Moving to a new country can be challenging. To adapt:
- Engage with local and international student communities
- Learn basic phrases in the local language
- Stay connected with family for emotional support
Real Stories: Nigerian Students Who Studied Abroad on Government Scholarships
Yusuf’s Journey to Malaysia
After securing the BEA Scholarship, Yusuf pursued a degree in Tourism and Hospitality in Malaysia. The government-funded scholarship covered his tuition, accommodation, and part of his travel expenses. Today, he works as a tourism consultant, helping African nations boost their hospitality industry.
Chioma’s Experience in the UK
Chioma, a tourism enthusiast from Enugu, won a Commonwealth Shared Scholarship to study International Tourism Management in the UK. Despite initial fears, she successfully completed her program and now works with a multinational travel agency.
Nigerian government scholarships provide a great opportunity for students interested in tourism studies to study abroad without financial stress. However, these opportunities are time-sensitive, and competition is high. Start researching, preparing your documents, and applying today. Your journey to studying tourism abroad could begin with just one successful application.
