Despite ongoing economic instability, a weakened naira, and the rising cost of education worldwide, many young Nigerians remain determined to pursue academic dreams beyond the country’s borders in 2025.
AFRIPOST reports that with traditional funding sources like federal scholarships discontinued and foreign exchange access increasingly restricted, students are turning to inventive and unconventional means to finance their international education goals.
From freelancing in the global gig economy to tapping fintech platforms, diaspora support, and scholarship opportunities, Nigerian students are rewriting the rules on how to study abroad—on their own terms.
The Shift After Federal Scholarship Cuts
For years, government programs such as the Bilateral Education Agreement (BEA) offered some relief for students aiming to study overseas. But in April 2025, the Nigerian government officially terminated the BEA scheme, citing redundancy and a new focus on strengthening local universities and polytechnics.
According to a statement issued by the Ministry of Education through spokesperson Folashade Boriowo, the courses typically studied abroad under the BEA are now available at home, in institutions the government believes offer equal or superior quality.
The cancellation—which initially appeared as a five-year suspension—displaced thousands of students who were counting on public support. With no fallback options from the government, aspiring international students were forced to look elsewhere to bring their study-abroad dreams to life.
Earning in Foreign Currency from Nigeria
Freelancing has quickly become one of the most effective strategies for funding international education. Platforms such as Upwork, Fiverr, and Toptal now serve as financial lifelines for Nigerian students who offer skills like graphic design, content creation, web development, and video editing to global clients.
Dayo, a 26-year-old currently studying in Canada, shared: “During my NYSC, I started freelancing and was able to save enough for my IELTS and visa applications. Without Upwork, this wouldn’t have been possible.”
By earning in dollars, many students not only escape the effects of naira depreciation but also build a credible financial profile for visa applications and proof-of-funds requirements.
Family, Diaspora Support, and Community Networks
Despite growing independence among young people, family support remains a key factor in the international education journey. From cooperative loans to remittances sent by relatives abroad, Nigerian families are finding ways to mobilize resources.
Many students rely on family members overseas to stand as guarantors or offer temporary accommodation during their early months abroad. The Central Bank of Nigeria has also encouraged diaspora investment channels, many of which end up supporting families focused on educational advancement.
Fully Funded Scholarships Still Offer Hope
For students who meet the criteria, fully funded scholarships remain one of the most reliable ways to access international education. Though competitive, these programs cover everything from tuition and travel to accommodation and living expenses.
Popular scholarships in 2025 include the UK’s Chevening and Commonwealth scholarships, the Fulbright Program in the U.S., Germany’s DAAD initiative, and the EU’s Erasmus Mundus programs. The number of Nigerian scholars winning these awards has steadily increased due to growing awareness and improved academic competitiveness.
Fintech Bridges the Payment Gap
As traditional banks tighten lending criteria and government support dwindles, fintech startups are stepping in to meet the demand for cross-border education payments and student loans.
Apps like Pay4Me have simplified international payments for Nigerian students, enabling them to pay fees directly in USD or GBP without dealing with parallel market exchange rates. Some startups now offer income-contingent loan packages tied to confirmed university offers, allowing students to repay after graduation or employment.
The Rise of Crowdfunding and Digital Storytelling
Crowdfunding has emerged as a powerful alternative funding method. Students now leverage platforms like GoFundMe to share personal stories and appeal for help from global donors.
Sarah, a student from Anambra State, successfully raised over $12,000 in six weeks to fund her public health master’s degree in the U.S. Her campaign combined authenticity, emotional appeal, and strategic social media sharing.
Others have monetized their journeys by writing e-guides, running YouTube channels, or offering visa coaching via TikTok and Instagram, turning their personal brands into sources of income and inspiration.
Working Abroad While Studying
Many destination countries such as Canada, the UK, and Germany permit international students to work up to 20 hours per week during academic sessions. This provision allows them to offset living expenses like rent, groceries, and transport, while preserving tuition funds.
In some cases, students also support siblings or pay back loans with income earned from part-time jobs in cafes, retail stores, or university campuses.
Challenges Still Exist
Despite these innovative solutions, challenges remain. The continued slide of the naira has made overseas education increasingly difficult to sustain. In fact, several UK universities have reported a noticeable decline in enrolment from Nigeria.
In particular, Scottish institutions saw a 25.7% year-on-year drop in postgraduate taught programmes, reflecting how financial strain and visa policy shifts are affecting Nigerian applicants.
Claire McPherson, Director of Universities Scotland, noted the sudden reversal of international student growth: “Demand from Nigeria and India has fallen sharply, and the speed of this change has created serious pressure for many universities.”
The ripple effect has triggered calls for more sustainable funding models across the education sector, particularly in regions heavily dependent on international student fees.
A New Generation of Self-Made Scholars
Despite policy setbacks and economic headwinds, Nigerian students in 2025 are demonstrating remarkable resilience. From freelancing and fintech to scholarships and digital entrepreneurship, they are navigating an evolving terrain with determination and innovation.
In the face of fewer safety nets, these students are proving that where public funding ends, personal ingenuity can begin.