Looking for Scholarship with a 2.2? The moment you saw your final results on the notice board (or portal), your heart probably skipped a beat, and not in a good way.
In the Nigerian academic system, the Second Class Lower (2:2) is often stigmatized.
You might feel like the “village people” have finally succeeded, or that the endless ASUU strikes and strict lecturers have clipped your wings before you could even fly.
You are probably asking: “Is my dream of studying abroad dead? Can I even find a scholarship for 2.2 graduates in this economy?”
Here is the truth, straight up: Your 2:2 is not a death sentence.
While a First Class or 2:1 makes things easier, a 2:2 does not close the door to international education or funding opportunities.
Thousands of Nigerian students with “low” CGPAs are currently smashing it in the UK, USA, and Canada. You just need a different strategy and new information.
You have to “package” yourself differently.
This detailed guide will show you exactly how to hustle your way into a Masters program with funding, even with a Second Class Lower.
READ ALSO: Top 7 Universities in UK Accepting HND for Masters
Table of Contents
Why Foreign Universities Accept 2:2
In Nigeria, we are obsessed with grades. But in the US, UK, and Canada, admissions officers often use a “Holistic Review Process.”
This means they look at the whole package. They know that life happens. They know that you might be smart but had a bad year, or perhaps you were working while schooling to support your family.
To secure a low cgpa scholarship, you need to shift the focus away from your transcript and towards your potential.
You need to prove that you are “street-smart” and academically capable, even if your certificate says otherwise.
How to “Offset” a Low CGPA
If your academic leg is weak, your other legs must be strong to carry the weight. Here is how to balance the scale:
- Work Experience: This is your biggest weapon. If you have 2 to 3 years of relevant work experience, it shows practical knowledge. Admission teams love professionals who can bring real-world value to the classroom.
- Standardized Tests (GRE/GMAT): A high score here screams, “I am intelligent, my undergrad grades were just a fluke.” This is especially powerful for US applications.
- A Killer Statement of Purpose (SOP): Do not write a boring essay. Tell a story. Explain briefly why your grades were low (illness, financial struggle, ASUU disruption) but focus 80% on what you have achieved since then.
- Post-Graduate Diploma (PGD): Doing a PGD in a Nigerian university and acing it (Upper Credit/Distinction) can redeem your academic image.
Pro Tip: Do not hide your 2:2 certificate. You need to own it, explain it, and show how you have grown past it.
READ ALSO: Swiss Government Excellence Scholarship for PhD & Postdocs
Top Scholarship Destinations for 2:2 Graduates
When looking to study abroad 2:2, geography matters a lot. Some countries are stricter than others, so take note.
1. The United Kingdom (The UK)
The UK is the holy grail for 2:2 graduates. Many British universities are more interested in your tuition fees (international student market) and your potential employability.
- Universities to check: University of Portsmouth, University of Bradford, University of Hertfordshire, Sheffield Hallam University, and Robert Gordon University.
- Funding: Many offer automatic bursaries (e.g., £2,000–£5,000 off tuition) just for being an international student.
2. The United States (USA)
The US is tricky but possible. They love the “underdog story.”
- Strategy: Look for state universities rather than Ivy League schools. If you ace the GRE, you can even get a Graduate Assistantship (GA), which covers tuition and pays you a stipend.
3. Germany
Germany is famous for tuition-free education. However, they are strict with grades.
- The Loophole: Look for courses in “University of Applied Sciences” (Fachhochschule) which value practical experience over raw theory.
READ ALSO: Singapore Scholarship (SINGA Award): Fully Funded PhD in Singapore (No GRE Required)
List of Specific Scholarships for 2.2 Graduates
Finding a scholarship for 2.2 graduates requires digging deeper than the average Google search, that’s why you should subscribe to Campus Hustle. You likely won’t get the Rhodes Scholarship, but there are plenty of others.
1. Commonwealth Shared Scholarships
These are designed for students from developing Commonwealth countries (like Nigeria). While highly competitive, they are sometimes tied to specific courses where practical impact matters more than grades.
If you have a 2:2 but a strong track record of community development or leadership, you have a shot. SEE Commonwealth Shared Scholarship: Participating UK Universities
2. University-Specific International Bursaries
This is your best bet. Universities like the University of Hull or Teesside University often have “Vice-Chancellor’s Excellence Scholarships” or “International Office Scholarships.”
- Value: Usually between £1,000 to £5,000 deduction from your school fees.
- Requirement: An offer of admission and a strong personal statement.
3. PTDF (Petroleum Technology Development Fund)
While PTDF usually requires a 2:1, there have been instances where 2:2 graduates with exceptional industry experience in Oil & Gas were considered for specific local or overseas schemes.
Always check the current year’s guidelines. SEE PTDF Overseas Scholarship (MSc): List of Strategic Courses
4. Third-Party Funding
Check organizations like the Aga Khan Foundation (offers loans/grants for Masters students from developing countries) or the OFID Scholarship.
READ ALSO: Chevening Scholarship 2026: Secrets to Winning from Nigeria
Step-by-Step: Your Masters Application Roadmap
Ready to shoot your shot? All you need to do is follow this hustle guide.
- Gather Your Documents:
- Transcript (The most annoying part of the process, start requesting this from your school NOW).
- Degree Certificate.
- CV (Revamp it to highlight achievements, not just duties).
- Two Academic References (or one academic, one professional).
- Valid International Passport.
- Research Schools:
- Look for schools listing “2:2” or “Second Class Lower” in their entry requirements.
- Need help finding schools? Check out our Masters Scholarship Cataloge for a list of UK schools accepting 2:2.
- Write the SOP:
- This is where you win or lose. Be authentic. Connect your past struggles to your future ambition.
- Apply Early:
- Funding is often “first come, first served.” Do not wait until the deadline.
- The Visa Stage:
- Once you get the offer and the funding/CAS, start your visa process immediately. The exchange rate waits for no one.
- Never pay for a scholarship application. Legitimate scholarships are free to apply for.
- Verify Agents: If you use an agent, ensure they are partnered with the university. Most UK universities list their official Nigerian agents on their websites.
- Verify Links: Always check the
.eduor.ac.ukofficial website before sending sensitive data.
FAQs About Masters Scholarship with a 2.2
Can I get a full scholarship with a 2:2?
It is difficult, but not impossible. Full scholarships usually go to First Class/2:1 students.
However, with a 2:2, you are more likely to get partial scholarships (tuition discounts) or Graduate Assistantships (in the USA) if you have high GRE scores and work experience.
Which country is easiest for a 2:2 Master’s?
The UK is generally the most welcoming for 2:2 graduates, followed by Australia. The USA is great if you are willing to take the GRE.
Do I need IELTS to study abroad with a 2:2?
Not always. Many UK universities accept a credit in WAEC/NECO English (C6 or better) if it was taken within the last 5–10 years.
However, taking IELTS increases your chances for certain competitive scholarships.
Can I do a Ph.D. directly with a 2:2?
No. You will almost certainly need to complete a Masters degree first to prove your academic ability before proceeding to a Ph.D.
READ ALSO: Commonwealth PhD Scholarships (for High Income Countries)
In Summary
So, can you get a scholarship for 2.2 graduates? Absolutely Yes! Do not let your undergraduate grade define your future.
The world is looking for problem solvers, leaders, and resilient people, qualities that a GPA cannot fully measure.
Your journey might require a bit more paperwork, a stronger SOP, and perhaps taking the GRE, but the destination is the same.
Dust off that certificate, update your CV, and start applying. The only way you definitely won’t get a scholarship is if you never apply.
What’s your biggest fear about applying with a 2:2? Let’s discuss in the comments below. Also Check out our YouTube Channel for more visuals.
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