Winning a $100000 fully funded scholarship to study in the United States can completely transform your academic and professional future. It can cover your tuition, housing, travel costs, and day-to-day expenses—while also giving you access to one of the world’s most respected higher education systems.
The best part is, you do not need to be rich or perfect. With strong academic performance, a powerful personal story, and the right approach to applying, you can earn a full scholarship and study at some of the most prestigious universities in the world as a Nigerian student.
In this guide, you will learn how to win a $100000 scholarship step-by-step—including what it covers, who is eligible, where to apply, and how to stand out during the application process.
What Does a $100000 Scholarship to Study in the USA Cover?
A fully funded $100000 scholarship usually includes:
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Full tuition for undergraduate or graduate study
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Accommodation and meal plans
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Health insurance and academic fees
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Books and learning materials
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Round-trip travel from Nigeria to the USA
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Monthly personal living allowance
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Mentorship, career development, and leadership training
Depending on the program, some scholarships also provide research support, internship placements, or community project funding.
Why Study in the USA?
Choosing the United States for your education opens doors to a wide range of advantages:
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Access to world-class universities with top academic rankings
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Practical and innovative teaching methods
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Career opportunities through internships and Optional Practical Training
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Exposure to a diverse and multicultural student body
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High-quality research facilities and academic support services
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Strong Nigerian and African student communities on campus
Graduates from U.S. universities are respected worldwide and often enjoy higher starting salaries and access to global career opportunities.
Who Can Win a $100000 Scholarship to the USA?
You can apply if you:
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Are a Nigerian citizen residing in Nigeria
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Have strong academic performance (WAEC, NECO, or A-Level results)
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Demonstrate leadership, community involvement, or volunteer work
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Have clear goals for how your education will benefit your community or country
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Can write and speak English fluently (English proficiency test may be required)
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Can submit recommendation letters and personal essays
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Are applying for a full-time undergraduate or graduate degree
You do not need to have perfect grades or come from a wealthy background. Many scholarship winners are chosen based on their life story, resilience, and drive to make an impact.
Step-by-Step Guide to Winning a $100000 Scholarship in the USA
Step 1: Start Researching Early
Begin searching for scholarship opportunities at least 12 to 18 months before your desired start date. Look for programs that are open to international students from Nigeria.
Helpful websites include:
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EducationUSA Nigeria
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Scholars4Dev
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Opportunity Desk
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Official university scholarship pages
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Fulbright and MasterCard Foundation websites
Step 2: Choose the Right Universities and Programs
Target universities that offer full scholarships or need-based aid. Some of the top U.S. universities known for awarding large scholarships to Nigerian students include:
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Harvard University
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Yale University
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Stanford University
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University of Pennsylvania
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Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)
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University of Notre Dame
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Berea College
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New York University Abu Dhabi (NYUAD)
Step 3: Check the Scholarship Requirements
Each scholarship has its own set of criteria. Some are based on academic merit, while others focus on financial need or leadership qualities. Carefully review each scholarship’s:
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Application deadline
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Academic requirements
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Documents needed
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Whether a separate application is required
Step 4: Prepare the Required Documents
Most applications will require:
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Academic transcripts and certificates
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A valid international passport
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Personal statement or motivation letter
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Recommendation letters
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English proficiency test scores (TOEFL or IELTS)
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Financial documents if applying for need-based aid
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SAT or GRE scores for certain programs
Step 5: Write a Strong Personal Statement
This is your opportunity to stand out. Use your personal statement to:
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Tell your story and describe your goals
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Share your passion for learning
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Explain how you overcame challenges
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Describe how the scholarship and degree will help you contribute to Nigeria
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Show why you are a good fit for the university
Be clear, honest, and specific. Your story matters.
Step 6: Submit Your Application
Some universities consider you for scholarships automatically when you apply for admission. Others require a separate scholarship application or nomination from your school. Be sure to meet all deadlines and follow every instruction carefully.
Step 7: Prepare for the Interview
If shortlisted, you may be invited to an interview. Use this time to:
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Explain your academic and career goals
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Discuss your leadership experience
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Share your ideas on how to make a positive impact
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Show confidence and gratitude for the opportunity
Practice your answers ahead of time and be professional and clear.
Top $100000 Scholarships Nigerians Can Apply For
1. MasterCard Foundation Scholars Program
Offered at schools like Stanford University, UC Berkeley, and Arizona State University
Covers full tuition, travel, housing, and personal expenses
Includes leadership training and career support
Open to African students with leadership potential
2. Fulbright Foreign Student Program for Nigerians
Funded by the U.S. government
Full scholarships for graduate degrees (Master’s or PhD)
Covers tuition, travel, living stipend, and health insurance
Highly competitive and respected globally
3. Yale University International Financial Aid
Offers full need-based scholarships to admitted international students
Average financial aid package exceeds $60000 per year
Includes tuition, accommodation, meals, and more
No separate application for aid is required
4. Harvard University International Aid Program
Provides full financial aid to admitted students based on family income
Families earning under a certain income may pay nothing at all
Covers tuition, fees, housing, and other expenses
5. Berea College Full-Tuition Scholarship
One of the few U.S. colleges that awards full tuition to every international student admitted
Also provides on-campus work opportunities and housing
Ideal for high-performing students with financial need
Tips to Improve Your Chances of Winning
Apply early—do not wait for the last minute
Tailor your personal statement to each university
Get strong recommendation letters from teachers or mentors
Join a leadership or community service project before applying
Practice for interviews with friends or mentors
Double-check all forms and deadlines
Work with EducationUSA Nigeria for free advising and support
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Submitting incomplete applications
- Using the same essay for every scholarship
- Ignoring school nomination requirements
- Applying to programs you are not eligible for
- Missing deadlines or submitting documents in the wrong format
What Happens After You Win
If selected, you will receive an official admission and scholarship offer. After that, you will:
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Apply for a student visa at the U.S. Embassy
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Receive pre-departure orientation and travel guidance
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Be assigned housing and an academic advisor
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Join a community of scholars and attend welcome programs
Some programs also offer access to alumni mentorship, job placements, and funding for summer internships or research projects.
Final Thoughts
Winning a $100000 fully funded scholarship to study in the United States as a Nigerian is not only possible—it is achievable with careful planning, hard work, and the right guidance. These scholarships can open doors to a brighter future and give you the tools to make a lasting difference in your community and beyond.