Ongoing Scholarships for Undergraduate Students in Nigeria | 2026

Securing Nigerian scholarships for undergraduate studies can feel like searching for a needle in a haystack. With countless websites and conflicting information, many brilliant Nigerian students give up before they even start searching for ongoing opportunities.

But here is the truth I must share with you today: there are thousands of scholarships worth billions of Naira awarded to Nigerian undergraduates every single year, and there is absolutely no reason you cannot be among them. All you need is the right information and proper application strategies

Whether you are a 100-level fresher wondering how to fund your education or a returning student looking for financial relief, this guide will reveal to you every major scholarship opportunity available right now, complete with official application portals so you know exactly where to apply, plus expert tips to strengthen your application

What You Will Learn in This Article

This guide is structured to give you everything you need in one place; within it, you will discover:

• Federal Government Scholarships
• State Government Bursaries
• Oil and Gas Industry Scholarships
• Corporate and Private Sector Scholarships
• Complete Application Checklist
• Step-by-Step Application Guide
• Scholarship Scam Prevention

 

Scholarships for Undergraduates in Nigeria

Without debates, the Federal Government remains the largest single provider of undergraduate scholarships in Nigeria. These programs are administered through the Federal Ministry of Education and are open to students across all states. However, in this section, we will explore both government and private scholarship opportunities, gathering the needed information to enhance your scholarship and stand out.

Federal Government Scholarship Award

The Federal Scholarship Board (FSB) Award is the flagship Nigerian scholarship for undergraduate programs funded by the Federal Ministry of Education. This program focuses on providing financial support to Nigerian students in public and private universities, polytechnics, and colleges of education.

Key Details:

Eligibility Requirements:

• Must be a registered full-time student of a Federal or State University, Polytechnic, Monotechnic, or College of Education
• Must be in second year or above
• Minimum CGPA of 4.0 on a 5-point scale
• Must not hold another scholarship award simultaneously
• Must not change course or institution while enjoying the award

How to Apply:
Visit the Federal Ministry of Education’s website at https://www.education.gov.ng and click on the Federal Scholarship Board icon on the homepage. Ensure you read the guidelines carefully and complete the online application form.

 

Corporate and Private Sector Scholarships in Nigeria

Beyond the government-provided scholarships, numerous corporate organisations and private foundations offer scholarships to Nigerian undergraduates. These opportunities often come with additional benefits such as mentorship, internship placements, and networking potential.

1. MTN Foundation Scholarship

The MTN Foundation Scholarship, administered by MTN Nigeria’s social investment branch, is a prominent initiative supporting the educational goals of bright Nigerian students. It specifically targets undergraduates in public tertiary institutions nationwide, reinforcing MTN’s commitment to fostering youth potential and building Nigeria’s human resources. The scholarship offers an annual award of ₦300,000, renewable until graduation, provided beneficiaries maintain the required CGPA.

Eligibility Requirements:

• Must be a Nigerian citizen
• Must be a full-time undergraduate student in a recognised public tertiary institution
• Science and Technology Scholarship (STS): 300-level students studying Science and Technology-related courses with a minimum CGPA of 3.5 on a 5.0 scale
• Scholarship for Blind Students (SBS): 200 and 300-level blind students studying any course with a minimum CGPA of 2.5 on a 5.0 scale
• Top 10 UTME Scholarship: Automatically awarded to the top 10 highest-scoring candidates in the UTME as announced by JAMB

How to Apply:

1. Monitor the official MTN Foundation website for application opening announcements
2. When applications open, visit the MTN Foundation scholarship portal
3. Complete the online application form with accurate personal and academic details
4. Upload required documents
5. Submit your application before the deadline
6. Shortlisted candidates will be contacted for further screening

The scholarship amount was increased from ₦200,000 to ₦300,000 in 2024. Since its inception in 2009, the initiative has awarded 13,717 scholarships to 4,949 scholars nationwide.

2. NLNG Undergraduate Scholarship Scheme (UGSS)

The NLNG Undergraduate Scholarship Scheme (UGSS) is part of Nigeria LNG Limited’s commitment to education, human capital development, and community advancement. The scheme targets first-year students in Nigerian federal and state universities, supporting exceptionally talented young Nigerians by offering financial assistance throughout their undergraduate studies. Beneficiaries receive ₦300,000 annually for the entire duration of their undergraduate programme; however, the renewal of the scholarship depends on academic performance.

Eligibility Requirements:

To qualify for the NLNG Undergraduate Scholarship Scheme, applicants must:

• Be a Nigerian citizen residing in Nigeria
• Be a full-time first-year undergraduate student in the 2026/2027 academic session at a federal or state university
• Have a minimum of five O-Level credits, including Mathematics and English, in one sitting
• Have a minimum JAMB UTME score of 200
• Be between 18 and 25 years old at the time of application
• Have not received any other scholarship, bursary, or grant
• Not be a spouse, child, ward, or direct relation of an NLNG staff member

How to Apply:

1. Visit the NLNG Scholarship Portal at https://nlngscholarships.smapply.io/prog/ugss
2. Read all eligibility requirements carefully before applying
3. Use a valid email address and phone number for registration
4. Fill out the online application form with accurate details
5. Upload required documents: passport photograph (white background), O-Level results, UTME results, JAMB admission letter, university ID card, birth certificate, Local Government identification letter, and NIN slip
6. Submit your application before the deadline
7. Shortlisted applicants will be invited to take an online proctored computer-based selection test
8. Only those who pass the test and complete all documentation will receive the award

3. Jim Ovia Foundation Scholarship

The Jim Ovia Foundation Scholarship is a fully funded scholarship established by philanthropist Jim Ovia, the CEO of Zenith Bank. Since its inception in October 2010, Mr Ovia has invested over 100 million Naira in the program to support over 1,500 students nationwide. As a fully funded opportunity, the scholarship covers full tuition fees of selected candidates and provides a maintenance stipend of ₦250,000 per year until the completion of their programmes. The aim is to create a network of future leaders within Nigeria who can compete globally with their peers and are committed to improving the lives of people in their respective communities.

Eligibility Requirements:

To qualify for Jim Ovia’s Foundation Scholarship, the applicant must:

• Be a citizen of Nigeria
• Be currently enrolled or seeking admission into an accredited tertiary institution in Nigeria
• Have completed senior secondary school
• Achieved at least five O-Level credits and submitted certificates as proof
• Have been admitted to a Nigerian state or federal university, and provide proof of admission
• Be at least 16 years old at the time of application
• Demonstrate academic excellence, leadership capability, and a desire to contribute to society

How to Apply:

1. Visit the official Jim Ovia Foundation website at https://jimoviafoundation.org
2. Click on the “Register now” link or the “APPLY NOW – NEW APPLICANTS” link for the current cycle
3. Complete the online application form with accurate personal and academic details
4. Upload required documents
5. Submit your application before the deadline

Have in mind that the application is free. Paying an agent is at your own risk and does not guarantee an award. Multiple entries will be disqualified

4. Dangote STEM Scholars Programme

In a groundbreaking initiative announced in December 2025, the Aliko Dangote Foundation unveiled a N1 trillion scholarship scheme for 1.3 million Nigerian students. Starting in 2026, the programme commits N100 billion annually for 10 years. The Aliko Dangote STEM Scholars component will fund 30,000 undergraduate students yearly in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) across Nigeria’s public universities and polytechnics, with additional tuition support of up to N600,000 per year. The programme uses a merit-based, fully digital system for selection and disbursement.

Programme Components:

• Aliko Dangote STEM Scholars: 30,000 undergraduates in public universities and polytechnics receiving tuition support of up to N600,000 per year
• Aliko Dangote Technical Scholars: 5,000 TVET trainees receiving essential study materials and technical tools
• MHF Dangote Secondary School Girls Scholars: 10,000 girls in public schools receiving uniforms, books, and learning supplies

How to Apply:

1. The application process will be announced through official Dangote Foundation channels
2. Prospective applicants should monitor the Aliko Dangote Foundation website for updates

The scheme is implemented in partnership with NELFUND, JAMB, NIMC, NUC, NBTE, WAEC, and NECO, ensuring transparent beneficiary selection, verification, and efficient digital disbursement.

5. PAP Scholarship

If you are from any of these states: Abia, Akwa-Ibom, Bayelsa, Cross-River, Delta, Edo, Ondo, Imo, Rivers, the PAP scholarship is designed especially for you. The Office of the Special Adviser to the President on the Niger Delta offers scholarships through the Presidential Amnesty Programme (PAP), which is aimed at reintegrating ex-agitators and individuals from affected communities. The programme supports large-scale undergraduate and postgraduate studies both at home and abroad, with over 8,200 beneficiaries who have accessed educational opportunities in the past two years.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has committed to continued funding for the programme to drive socio-economic development in the Niger Delta region.

Eligibility Requirements:

For you to qualify for the PAP scholarship, you must:

• Be a registered beneficiary of the Presidential Amnesty Programme
• Come from affected communities in the Niger Delta states, which include: Abia, Akwa-Ibom, Bayelsa, Cross-River, Delta, Edo, Ondo, Imo, Rivers)
• Meet the specific academic requirements for the chosen course of study
• Maintain a minimum CGPA of 2.5 on a 5.0 scale to continue receiving the scholarship

How to Apply:

1. Visit the dedicated online portal at https://scholarship.osapnd.gov.ng
2. Create an account using your personal details
3. Fill out the application form completely and accurately
4. Upload all required documents as specified
5. Submit your application before the deadline
6. The application process is completely free

The programme has been expanded under the current administration, enabling over 8,200 beneficiaries to access educational opportunities. Over 223 beneficiaries are currently studying in the UK alone. The PAP Administrator, Dr Dennis Otuaro, has reaffirmed plans to expand both academic and vocational training

 

Oil and Gas Industry Scholarships in Nigeria

This section is dedicated to energy lovers who are passionate about contributing to this sector. You must know that the oil and gas sector remains one of the most generous sponsors of education in Nigeria. And these scholarships are highly competitive but offer substantial annual grants, often renewable until graduation. Below is a detailed breakdown of each opportunity.

1. NNPC/SEPLAT JV National Undergraduate Scholarship

This scholarship is sponsored by the NNPC and Seplat Energy Joint Venture as part of their educational Corporate Social Investment programme. Designed to promote educational development and human capacity building, the NNPC and Seplat Energy Joint Venture provides yearly grants to successful undergraduate students in federal and state universities across Nigeria. The programme is open to students in their second year or above studying a wide range of courses, from Accountancy and Engineering to Medicine and Law.

Eligibility Requirements:

To qualify for the NNPC and Seplat Energy Joint Venture Scholarship, you must:

• Be a Nigerian citizen enrolled on a full-time program in a federal or state university
• Be in the second year of study or above
• Have at least 5 O-level credit passes, including English & Mathematics, at one sitting
• Have a minimum CGPA of 3.5 and above

Eligible Courses:

• Accountancy
• Agriculture
• Architecture
• Business Administration
• Chemical Engineering, Civil Engineering
• Computer Engineering/Science
• Economics
• Electrical/Electronic Engineering
• Environmental Studies
• Geology
• Geophysics
• Law
• Mass Communication
• Mechanical Engineering
• Medicine
• Metallurgical Engineering
• Ophthalmology/Optometry
• Petroleum Engineering

How to Apply:

1. Visit the official application portal at https://seplatgrowthacademy.com/scholarship
2. Complete the online application form with accurate personal and academic details
3. Use a valid personal email address for all communications
4. Submit before the deadline
5. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for further screening

Note that applications are free. Paying any agent is at your risk, and it does not influence your chances

2. NNPC/SNEPCo National University Scholarship

The Shell Nigeria Exploration and Production Company Limited (SNEPCo), in partnership with NNPC Limited and co-venture partners, offers this merit-based scholarship to full-time second-year undergraduates in Nigerian public universities. It provides annual financial support from the second year through to graduation, helping students focus on their education without financial stress. Female candidates are strongly encouraged to apply.

Eligibility Requirements:

For you to qualify for the NNPC/SNEPCo National University Scholarship, you must:

• Be a Nigerian citizen
• Currently studying in the second year of a full-time program in a public university accredited by the NUC
• Have a minimum CGPA of 3.5 on a 5.0 scale
• Not be a recipient of any other scholarship from any oil and gas industry entity, nationally or internationally

Importantly, female candidates are strongly encouraged to apply

How to Apply:

1. Visit the Scholastica portal: https://candidate.scholastica.ng/schemes/NNPCLTDSNEPCo25
2. Click “Register Now” and create your account
3. Activate your account via the confirmation email sent to your inbox
4. Fill in your personal, academic, and contact details accurately
5. Upload required documents (passport photo, admission letter, UTME result, O’Level results, state of origin letter, CGPA transcript)
6. Submit your application and download your profile form
7. Have the profile form signed by your Head of Department and re-upload it
8. Shortlisted candidates will be invited for an online proctored aptitude test

The application is FREE. Beware of scammers who may ask for payment. SNEPCo does not work with any third party for this scholarship.

3. NNPC/Chevron JV National University Scholarship

Chevron Nigeria Limited (CNL), in collaboration with its Joint Venture partner NNPC Limited, offers this annual scholarship award to suitably qualified Nigerian students from all states of the federation. The scholarship is a major component of the company’s strategic social investment in the development of education in Nigeria.

Eligible Programmes:

• Accountancy
• Agricultural Science
• Architecture
• Business Administration/Economics
• Computer Science
• Environmental Studies/Surveying
• Geology/Geophysics/Geo Informatics
• Law
• Mass Communication/Journalism
• Engineering
• Dentistry
• Pharmacy
• Medicine/Surgery.

Eligibility Requirements:

To enable you to qualify, you must:

• Be a full-time second-year student of a recognised Nigerian tertiary institution
• Have been admitted in the 2023/2024 academic session
• Achieve a minimum CGPA of 3.5 on a 5.0 grade system or equivalent
• Have a minimum of six O-level credits in one sitting

How to Apply:

1. Visit the official application website hosted by Scholastica at https://candidate.scholastica.ng
2. Click on the “Register Now” button to create, verify, and log in to your account
3. Complete the online application form with accurate information
4. Upload all required documents as specified
5. Submit your application before the deadline

Only applications submitted through the web portal will be considered, and the application is free. So, selected applicants are not required to make any payments whatsoever

4. PTDF In-Country Undergraduate Scholarship

The Petroleum Technology Development Fund (PTDF) is a government agency within the Federal Ministry of Petroleum Resources. It offers undergraduate scholarships as part of the In-Country Scholarship Scheme (ISS), designed to help students develop expertise in oil and gas-related fields. The scholarship supports students in PTDF-approved federal universities across Nigeria

Eligibility Requirements:

To qualify for the PTDF In-Country Undergraduate Scholarship, applicants must:

• Be a Nigerian citizen with a valid National Identity Number (NIN)
• Be in the second year of study or above
• Have a minimum CGPA of 2.2 or equivalent
• Be studying an oil and gas-related course in a PTDF-approved federal university

How to Apply:

1. Visit the official PTDF scholarship portal at https://scholarship.ptdf.gov.ng
2. Register and create an account on the portal
3. Fill in the application form with personal, academic, and professional details
4. Upload required documents
5. Submit your application before the deadline

Shortlisted candidates will be invited for an interview or a computer-based test

5. NNPC/OANDO JV Tertiary Scholarship Scheme

The NNPC E&P Limited and OANDO Energy Resources Nigeria Limited (OERNL) invite suitably qualified applicants for their annual NEPL/OANDO JV Tertiary Scholarship Scheme.

The scholarship provides an annual grant of ₦200,000 to selected students from the time of selection until the end of their current degree programme. The programme features two distinct award categories: Host Communities Merit Award (for indigenes of OANDO host communities in Rivers, Bayelsa, Delta, and Imo States) and National Merit Award (for students nationwide).

Eligibility Requirements:

To qualify for this scholarship program, candidates must:

• Be registered as full-time undergraduate students in a Nigerian tertiary institution
• Be a 100-level student at the time of application (admitted in the 2024/2025 academic session)
• Be a citizen of the Federal Republic of Nigeria
• Be a beneficiary of any other scholarship from an entity operating in the oil and gas industry

1. For National Merit Award: Only applicants studying Engineering, Geology, Geosciences, and Agricultural Sciences are eligible
2. For Host Communities Merit Award: Must be an indigene of OANDO host communities in Rivers, Bayelsa, Delta, and Imo States

How to Apply:

1. Visit the official application portal at https://candidate.scholastica.ng/schemes/oandoscholarship2026
2. Create an account using a valid personal email address
3. Complete the online application form with accurate personal and academic details
4. Upload all required documents
5. Submit your application before the deadline

Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted to participate in the aptitude test, and applicants with less than 50% overall score in the aptitude test will not be considered

6. Agbami Medical and Engineering Scholarship

The Agbami Medical and Engineering Scholarship is among the largest private sector scholarships available in Nigeria. It is funded by Star Deep Water Petroleum Limited and its affiliates within the Agbami Oil Field. The award is intended to help undergraduate students studying medicine, engineering, pharmacy, and other related health sciences to strengthen Nigeria’s medical and engineering manpower pool. The scholarship provides continuous support until graduation, provided you maintain good academic performance.

Eligible Courses:

• Medicine and Surgery
• Dentistry
• Pharmacy
• Nursing and Midwifery
• Medical Laboratory Science
• Radiography
• All Engineering disciplines

Eligibility Requirements:

• Applicant must be a Nigerian citizen
• Be a full-time 100-level or 200-level undergraduate in any accredited Nigerian university
• Must be studying an eligible medical or engineering course
• 100-level students must have attained a minimum of 60% in their JAMB UTME examination
• 200-level students must have attained a minimum CGPA of 3.5 on a 5.0 scale or 60% in Cumulative Grade Point Average
• Candidates must not be a beneficiary of any other scholarship sponsored by Chevron or its affiliates

How to Apply:

1. Go to the official Scholastica portal at https://candidate.scholastica.ng/schemes/2025cnlawards
2. Register to create an account
3. After registration, you will be redirected to complete your application
4. Fill in your personal and academic details accurately
5. Upload scanned copies of the required documents
6. Submit your application before the deadline

7. Midwestern Oil and Gas Community Scholarship

Midwestern Oil & Gas Company Limited, operator of the Umusadege Field in OML 56, Delta State, and its Joint Venture Partner, SunTrust Oil Company Nigeria Limited, offer this program. The goal is to promote academic excellence and improve skill-based education among youths in its host communities and the entire Delta State. The programme has two award categories:

1. University Community Award, reserved for host communities only
2. University Merit Award, for Delta State indigenes only.

Eligibility Requirements:

For University Community Award (Host Communities Only):

• Open to 100-level and 200-level students at the time of application
• Minimum of 5 credits in SSCE or GCE, including Mathematics & English, in one sitting
• Valid JAMB result and university admission letter from an accredited Nigerian university
• Current university ID card
• Identification letter signed by the Ward Councillor or Community Accredited Contact Men Committee (CACC)

For University Merit Award (Delta State Indigenes Only):

• Open to 200-level students only
• Minimum CGPA of 3.5 at the time of application
• Minimum of 5 credits in SSCE or GCE, including Mathematics & English, in one sitting
• JAMB result and university admission letter
• Current university ID card
• Letter of identification from the Local Government Area

How to Apply:

1. Visit the official application portal at https://recruitment.dragnet-solutions
2. Select the appropriate award category based on your eligibility
3. Complete the online application form with accurate personal and academic details
4. Upload all required documents as specified
5. Submit your application before the deadline

8. Heirs Oil and Gas University Scholarship

The OML 17 Heirs of Tomorrow Scholarship Scheme (HOTSS) is a transformative educational support initiative driven by Heirs Energies and its Host Community Development Trust (HCDT). The focus of this program is to empower talented and underprivileged indigenes of the OML 17 host communities through equitable access to tertiary education. The scholarship provides ₦200,000 annually to selected candidates until graduation, provided they maintain the required academic standards.

Eligibility Requirements:

To qualify, you must:

• Be a citizen of Nigeria and an indigene of any of the OML 17 host communities
• B enrolled in an accredited Nigerian federal or state-owned university as a full-time undergraduate student
• Have at least five O-Level credits, including Mathematics and English, in WASC, SSCE or NECO in ONE sitting
• Maintain a minimum CGPA of 3.0 on a 5.0 scale (or 2.5 on a 4.0 scale) in every academic year throughout the scholarship period
• Not be a beneficiary of any other scholarship, bursary, or grant from any other organisation
• Provide a valid identification letter from the applicable host community

How to Apply:

1. Visit the official application portal at https://candidate.scholastica.ng
2. Ensure you have a valid personal email account and phone number
3. Complete the online application form with personal and educational details
4. Upload scanned copies of the required documents
5. Submit your application before the deadline
6. Note: Multiple applications will attract a disqualification penalty from the Scholarship Board

9. Shell SPDC JV University Scholarship

The Shell Petroleum Development Company of Nigeria Limited offers this scholarship scheme to promote academic excellence and improve the skills of young Nigerian students in their undergraduate studies. The scholarship has two award categories:

1. National Merit Award, which is open to all Nigerians
2. Areas of Operation Merit Award for indigenes of SPDC’s operational areas in Abia, Bayelsa, Delta, Imo, and Rivers states.

Successful recipients receive ₦150,000 annually until they graduate.

Eligibility Requirements:

To qualify for the Shell SPDC JV University Scholarship, applicants must:

• Be a citizen of Nigeria
• Be a registered full-time undergraduate in any Nigerian university
• Have a minimum of 5 credits in SSCE or its equivalent in not more than one sitting
• Currently in a 200-level with a minimum CGPA of 2.5 on a 5.0 scale
• Have a minimum of 200 in the JAMB UTME examination

How to Apply:

1. Visit the official Shell scholarship portal at https://www.spdc-jv-scholarship.shell.com
2. Use a reliable network connection and switch to desktop view using your browser
3. Ensure you have a valid personal email account
4. Complete the online application form with accurate details
5. Upload scanned copies of identification letters duly stamped and signed by the Paramount Ruler of the community or the Chairman of the Community Development or Executive Council

Shell does not demand payment from applicants and does not assign agents to assist applicants. Beware of fraudulent persons posing as agents

10. TotalEnergies National Merit Scholarship Scheme

TotalEnergies, in collaboration with NNPC Limited, offers the National Merit Scholarship Scheme (NMSS) available to undergraduate students in Nigeria. The scheme is designed to close the economic divide, support academic achievement, and build professional connections in the energy industry. TotalEnergies also offers the OML 58 Scholarship Scheme for students from specific host communities in Rivers State, covering 100% tuition fees and monthly allowances.

Eligibility Requirements (National Merit Scholarship Scheme):

• Applicant must be a Nigerian undergraduate student in a recognised tertiary institution
• Must have a good academic record with proofs
• You must demonstrate financial need
• Students of all majors are eligible to apply

Eligibility Requirements (OML 58 Scholarship):

• You must be a Nigerian citizen and a resident of Rivers State
• Be an indigene of one of the OML 58 host communities: Ekeye, Rumuekpe, Igburu, or Egi communities
• Must be enrolled in any recognised federal or state tertiary institution in Nigeria
• Complete and submit an online application within the specified period

How to Apply:

1. For OML 58 Scholarship: Visit https://oml58.aptitude.cinfo
2. For National Merit Scholarship: Monitor TotalEnergies’ official platforms for application start dates
3. Register or log in to the TotalEnergies scholarship portal
4. Complete the application form with truthful personal, academic, and professional details
5. Upload required documents
6. Submit your application before the deadline

 

Complete Application Checklist

One of the biggest reasons students fail to secure Nigerian scholarships for undergraduate studies is poor documentation. Do not wait until applications open. Start gathering these documents today:

1. O’Level Results: WAEC, NECO, or NABTEB certificates (minimum 5 credits including Mathematics and English, ideally in one sitting)
2. JAMB Result Slip: Your UTME score slip (print directly from the JAMB portal)
3. Admission Letter: Your provisional admission letter from your institution
4. Academic Transcripts: Most scholarships require your CGPA; request this early
5. Birth Certificate or Age Declaration: An affidavit will work if you lack a formal certificate
6. Local Government Identification Letter: This proves your state of origin
7. Passport Photographs: Digital copies (recent, white background)
8. Valid ID Card: National ID, driver’s license, voter’s card, or international passport
9. Personal Statement or Essay: A well-written essay explaining why you deserve the scholarship

Create a dedicated folder on your phone or laptop called “Scholarship Documents.” Scan all these documents and keep them organised. This will save you countless hours when applications open unexpectedly.

 

How to Apply for Nigerian scholarships for undergraduates

Follow these steps to submit a winning application for any Nigerian scholarship for undergraduates program.

Step 1: Find the Right Opportunities

Do not apply to every scholarship you see. You must be strategic and focused on programs where you genuinely meet the eligibility criteria.

Where to search:

• Official websites of corporate organisations
• Federal Ministry of Education portal at education.gov.ng
• Scholarship aggregators like Scholastica at candidate.scholastica.ng, which hosts applications for NNPC/Chevron and other major schemes

Step 2: Read the Guidelines Thoroughly

Read the scholarship announcement from start to finish. Pay attention to deadlines, eligibility requirements, required documents, and submission methods.

Step 3: Complete the Online Application

Visit the official scholarship portal for updated information. Many major scholarship applications are hosted on Scholastica. Therefore, fill the form carefully, using the exact name on your official documents, and double-check your email address and phone number.

Step 4: Write a Compelling Personal Statement

Your personal statement can either make or break your application. Include your academic journey and achievements, why you chose your field of study, your career aspirations, any leadership roles or community service, and your financial needs.

Avoid:

• Generic statements copied from the internet
• Exaggerations or false claims
• Grammatical errors

Step 5: Submit Before the Deadline

Do not wait until the last minute. Portals crash, internet connections fail, and power outages happen. So, you must submit at least 48 hours before the deadline. And after submission, take a screenshot or download the confirmation page.

Step 6: Prepare for the Aptitude Test (If Required)

Many scholarships require an aptitude test covering general knowledge in English, Mathematics, and logic. To enhance your performance, download past questions from reputable platforms and practice regularly.

 

Common Mistakes That Cost Students Scholarships

Learn from the mistakes of others or risk losing your opportunity as they did.

Ignoring Eligibility Criteria
If a scholarship requires a CGPA of 3.5 and you have 2.8, do not waste your time. Focus on programs that you meet the requirements.

Submitting Incomplete Applications
Applications with missing documents are automatically disqualified. So, use a checklist to confirm before hitting submit.

Using the Same Essay for Every Application
Tailor a unique essay to each program. Mention the scholarship by name and explain how your goals align with theirs.

Weak Recommendation Letters
Choose referees who know you well, lecturers who have taught you, your Head of Department, or a mentor. Give them at least two weeks’ notice.

Missing Deadlines
Mark every deadline on your calendar. Set reminders for one week before, three days before, and the day before.

 

How to Avoid Scholarship Scams

Unfortunately, fraudsters target desperate students with fake scholarship offers. Here is how to protect yourself:

Red Flags to Watch For:

• Anyone asking you to pay money to apply. Legitimate applications are always free.
• Unsolicited messages claiming you have won a scholarship you never applied for
• Requests for sensitive information like your bank account PIN or password
• Poorly written emails with grammatical errors
• Promises of guaranteed placement outside official processes

If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is. Never pay for a scholarship application.

 

FAQ About Nigerian scholarships for undergraduates

Can I apply for multiple scholarships at the same time?
Yes. Most scholarships allow you to apply to multiple programs simultaneously. However, some require you to disclose other funding sources. Always read the terms carefully.

Are there scholarships for 100-level students?
Yes. The NLNG UGSS is specifically for first-year undergraduates (100-level). The Agbami Scholarship also accepts 100-level students, as do many state government bursaries.

Do I need a connection to win a scholarship?
No. In 2026, more scholarships are being awarded on merit, motivation, and potential than ever before. Focus on building a strong application.

What CGPA do I need for most scholarships?
Most require a minimum CGPA of 3.0 on a 5.0 scale, but competitive programs like NNPC/Chevron ask for 3.5 or higher. Check each scholarship’s specific requirements.

Can international students apply for Nigerian scholarships?
Most Nigerian scholarships are for citizens only. However, some private institutions offer scholarships to international students. Check with individual universities.

 

Your Journey Starts Today

Securing Nigerian scholarships for undergraduate students requires great effort, patience, and strategy. But thousands of Nigerian students just like you win scholarships every single year. There is no reason you cannot be one of them.

Start today. Open a new document and begin drafting your personal statement. Create that scholarship tracking spreadsheet. Reach out to a lecturer for a recommendation letter. Every small step brings you closer to a tuition-free education.

Remember, every scholarship you win is not just financial relief—it is an investment in your future and a testament to your potential. The resources are out there. The opportunities are waiting. Now, go claim what is yours.

Have you won a scholarship before? Share your experience in the comments below. Your story could inspire another student to keep pushing forward.