For many African students, especially in Nigeria and West Africa, the path to higher education abroad often seems blocked by expensive standardized exams and strict academic requirements. But did you know that some international scholarships — worth as much as $40,000 — can be earned with just your WAEC or NECO results? Yes, it’s real, and in this guide, you’ll discover the programs that accept your secondary school results and open doors to full undergraduate or pathway scholarships.
What Makes These Scholarships Unique?
- No Need for SAT, ACT, GRE, or IELTS in Some Cases
- WAEC/NECO Results Accepted as proof of academic readiness and English proficiency
- Full or Partial Funding up to $40,000
- Covers Tuition, Living, and Travel depending on the scholarship
- Opportunity to Study in the USA, UK, Canada, and Europe
- No age restrictions in many cases
- Rolling Admissions Available for certain programs
- English-taught programs open to African students
Scholarships Offering $40,000+ with WAEC or NECO
1. University of the People (UoPeople) Tuition-Free Programs (USA-Based)
- Award Value: $40,000 (tuition-free model)
- Accepts WAEC/NECO: Yes
- Details: UoPeople is accredited in the U.S. and offers online degrees in Business, Health Science, Education, and Computer Science.
- Benefits: No tuition, only low assessment fees (can be waived with scholarships)
- Bonus: No IELTS/SAT required; English Proficiency from WAEC accepted
- Flexibility: 100% online with flexible study schedule
- Application Tip: Show proof of computer access and internet to ease acceptance
2. Global Undergraduate Exchange Program (Global UGRAD)
- Award: Full funding for 1 academic year (up to $40,000 value)
- Countries: USA
- WAEC/NECO Use: Used to assess secondary education background
- Includes: Tuition, accommodation, travel, health insurance, stipend
- Requirement: Leadership potential, strong English, but standardized test not mandatory
- Selection Rate: Competitive; focus on impact and motivation letter
3. Ashesi University MasterCard Foundation Scholars Program (Ghana)
- Value: Full ride (up to $40,000 per student)
- Accepts WAEC: Yes, and it’s the main entry credential
- Benefits: Tuition, housing, meals, laptop, stipend
- Bonus: Targets West African students (Nigeria, Ghana, etc.)
- Leadership Focus: Includes leadership training, internship support, and community service expectations
4. University of Alberta International Scholarships (Canada)
- Award Value: Up to $40,000 CAD over 4 years
- Eligible With WAEC/NECO: Yes (used for admission in some faculties)
- Includes: Tuition, accommodation assistance
- Note: May require proof of English (WAEC English C6+ accepted)
- Additional Grants: International Student Scholarships, Gold Standard Scholarships
5. Humber College International Entrance Scholarships (Canada)
- Value: Up to $5,000/year, renewable for 4 years = $20,000–$40,000
- Eligibility: WAEC/NECO holders with strong grades
- Programs: Business, Media, IT, Engineering, Nursing
- Bonus: No SAT required
- Tip: Submit early to improve your chance of higher scholarship level
6. Koç University Undergraduate Scholarships (Turkey)
- Award: Full tuition + dorm + stipend – valued up to $40,000/year
- Accepts WAEC: Yes, used to assess international applicants from West Africa
- Coverage: Tuition, books, monthly living allowance, accommodation
- Bonus: English-taught programs, no SAT/ACT required
- Prestige: Top private university in Turkey; highly ranked in global education
7. Hungarian Government (Stipendium Hungaricum)
- Award: Full ride up to $40,000 value
- Eligibility: WAEC or NECO holders applying for undergraduate degrees
- Includes: Tuition, monthly allowance, accommodation, insurance
- Application: Through Nigerian Federal Ministry of Education
- Selection Criteria: Academic performance, motivation letter, government nomination
8. Cyprus West University Scholarships
- Award: 60–100% tuition scholarships for WAEC/NECO holders
- Value: Can amount to $30,000–$40,000 depending on program
- Requirement: Good grades in WAEC/NECO
- No IELTS Needed: If English grade in WAEC is C6 or above
- Study Fields: Business, Information Technology, Tourism, Engineering
9. European University of Lefke (EUL) – Northern Cyprus
- Scholarship Value: 75% to 100% tuition for WAEC holders
- Total Worth: Up to $40,000 for full duration
- Application: Direct entry using WAEC/NECO
- Programs: Includes Engineering, Architecture, Law, Arts
10. Near East University (NEU) Scholarships – Northern Cyprus
- Value: Full scholarships ($40,000+)
- Eligibility: WAEC/NECO certificate with good grades
- English Waiver: Based on WAEC English result
- Bonus: Scholarships cover full tuition + dormitory + registration fees
- Campus Life: Offers a multicultural student experience with support services
How to Apply Successfully
1. Prepare Digital Copies of WAEC/NECO Certificate
- Include scratch card number for online verification (where necessary)
- Scan in PDF format, ensuring the certificate is legible and official
2. Write a Personal Statement or Motivation Letter
- 300–500 words on your academic background, goals, and why you deserve the scholarship
- Emphasize leadership roles, challenges overcome, and future aspirations
- Avoid general statements; personalize each application
3. Secure Strong Recommendation Letters
- From your principal, subject teacher, pastor/imam, or NGO leader
- Letters should mention your character, leadership, and academic strength
- Keep copies ready in PDF or Word format
4. Apply Early
- Most deadlines are between January and April for fall intake
- Some (UoPeople, NEU) accept rolling applications year-round
- Use a spreadsheet or scholarship tracker to stay organized
5. Apply Directly or Through Partners
- Most universities have online portals
- Confirm legitimacy of any third-party agents before paying fees
- Many opportunities are free to apply — avoid scams!
Application Timeline (Suggested)
| Month | Task |
|---|---|
| October | Research and shortlist scholarships |
| November | Gather certificates and request letters |
| December | Write personal statement drafts |
| January | Apply to priority programs |
| February | Submit backup applications |
| March | Interview prep (if required) |
| April | Receive decisions, apply for visa |
| May–July | Prepare travel and transition documents |
Additional Tips for WAEC/NECO-Based Scholarships
A. Use English Proficiency in WAEC to Your Advantage
Many institutions waive IELTS if:
- You scored C6 or above in English Language
- You studied entirely in English
B. Include Extracurricular Activities
- Debate club, prefect roles, volunteering, coding classes, etc.
- Adds value to academic transcript, especially for leadership-focused scholarships
C. Research Your Program’s Curriculum
- Understand what your degree covers before applying
- Reference it in your motivation letter
D. Build Your Online Presence
- LinkedIn profile
- Email professionalism
- Be reachable and ready for interviews
Final Thoughts
You don’t need to be rich or privileged to get a $40,000 scholarship. With only your WAEC or NECO results and a powerful personal story, you can study abroad for free or almost nothing. These opportunities are real, growing, and open to determined young Africans like you.
Now is the time to act:
- Pick at least 3 programs from this list
- Start gathering your documents
- Write a powerful motivation letter
- Apply early and follow through
Your WAEC or NECO result could be the golden ticket to a life-changing education. Let this be your year.