Access to quality education is one of the most important steps toward personal and professional success — but tuition and expenses can be a major barrier. Fortunately, Nigerian students have access to local and international scholarship programs that can fully or partially fund their education. This comprehensive guide explains the most credible options, how they work, and how to apply successfully.
What Is a Scholarship?
A scholarship is a financial award given to a student to support part or all of their educational expenses. Scholarships can be merit-based, need-based, field-specific, or targeted at special groups such as women, people with disabilities, or students from particular regions. They are offered by government bodies, private companies, foundations, and international organizations.
1. Federal Government Scholarships
Federal Scholarship Board (FSB)
The Federal Scholarship Board under Nigeria’s Federal Ministry of Education administers annual scholarship awards, including local and foreign scholarship placements for undergraduate and postgraduate students. (FEDERAL MINISTRY OF EDUCATION)
What It Covers
- Tuition support
- Stipends and allowances (varies per programme)
- Awards for study both inside and outside Nigeria
Where to Apply
Visit the official Federal Scholarship Board portal:
https://fsbn.com.ng/ (fsbn.com.ng)
Types of Awards
- Nigerian Scholarship & Education Bursary Award (NSA/EBA) – for undergraduates. (FEDERAL MINISTRY OF EDUCATION)
- Federal BEA Scholarships – for study through Bilateral Education Agreements with partner countries. (FEDERAL MINISTRY OF EDUCATION)
- Commonwealth Scholarship nominations for postgraduate study abroad (UK). (FEDERAL MINISTRY OF EDUCATION)
Tips for Applicants
Always verify announcements on official government sites to avoid scams. Federal government scholarships do not require payment for application. (edutechbusiness.net)
2. State Government Scholarships
Many Nigerian states offer scholarships or bursaries to indigenes or residents:
Lagos State Scholarship Board
The Lagos State Scholarship Board provides educational assistance to graduates from Lagos State studying in accredited institutions. (Wikipedia)
Eligibility
- Proof of Lagos State residency/indigene status
- Academic achievement requirements
Check the official Lagos State Scholarship Board website for updated announcements and application forms.
Other states (e.g., Rivers, Kano, Akwa Ibom) also run scholarship and bursary programmes — search “[State Name] Scholarship Board” for direct portals. (dailyschoolnews.com.ng)
3. University-Based Scholarships
Most Nigerian universities offer scholarships or awards to high-performing students:
Common University Scholarships
- Departmental scholarships — award for excellence in specific fields
- Entrance scholarships or special awards for top examination scores
- Research grants for postgraduate students
Contact the student affairs or scholarship office of your university for internal deadlines and requirements.
4. Corporate & Private Scholarships
Nigeria has several corporate and foundation-led scholarship programmes for undergraduates and postgraduates.
Well-Known Private Scholarships
MTN Foundation Science & Technology Scholarship
- Awards annual stipends to undergraduate science/technology students. (Lessmag.net)
Agbami Medical & Engineering Scholarship (Chevron/Partners)
- Supports medical and engineering undergraduates. (Nigeria 234)
NNPC/Shell/SNEPCo Scholarship
- Targets STEM or related studies. (Okay News)
PTDF Scholarship (Petroleum Technology Development Fund)
- Supports postgraduate engineering and energy-related studies, both local and abroad. (Scholaraid)
Application Tips
- Follow the official foundation or corporate website for application windows and requirements.
- Many corporate scholarships require current enrollment and a good academic record.
5. International Scholarships Available to Nigerians
These scholarships allow Nigerian students to study abroad, fully funded or with significant support.
Chevening Scholarships (UK)
Run by the UK Government’s Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office, Chevening supports outstanding emerging leaders for master’s degrees in the UK. (chevening.org)
Coverage
- Full tuition
- Monthly stipend
- Airfare and travel allowances
- Visa cost and arrival departure support
Apply & learn more: https://www.chevening.org/ (chevening.org)
🇩🇪 DAAD Scholarships (Germany)
The German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) offers scholarships for postgraduate, doctoral, and research programmes in Germany. (DAAD)
Typical Benefits
- Tuition assistance (where applicable)
- Monthly stipends for living costs
- Travel and insurance support
Search available programmes: https://www.daad.de/en/studying-in-germany/scholarships/ (DAAD)
Other Fully Funded Scholarships
Commonwealth Scholarships, Fulbright Programs (USA), Erasmus Mundus Joint Masters, Mastercard Foundation Scholars Programme, and Erasmus+ all provide study abroad opportunities. Many of these can be found at international scholarship portals and official sponsor sites. (Okay News)
How to Submit a Strong Scholarship Application
Here are practical, actionable steps that improve your chances:
1. Research Early
Start by listing scholarships that match your level and field of study.
2. Organize Required Documents
Common requirements include:
- Academic transcripts
- Recommendation letters
- Admission letter (for study abroad)
- Statement of purpose or personal essay
3. Write a Compelling Personal Statement
Your statement should clearly explain your goals, achievements, and how the scholarship will help you contribute to your community and career.
4. Meet Deadlines
Applications are often strict — set reminders well in advance.
5. Follow Official Instructions
Only apply through official scholarship portals and do not pay anyone to “guarantee a spot.” (edutechbusiness.net)
Common Challenges and How to Overcome Them
| Challenge | Tip |
|---|---|
| Many applicants compete for limited slots | Apply to multiple scholarships and strengthen your application |
| Complex documentation | Create a checklist and begin early |
| Eligibility confusion | Always read the official guidelines before applying |
Conclusion
Scholarships in Nigeria — whether federal, state, private, or international — offer life-changing opportunities for deserving students. By understanding eligibility, preparing strong applications, and applying through official portals, you improve your chances of success. Stay organized, research thoroughly, and seek credible help from mentors or scholarship advisors.
