evidencechidozie@gmail.comTop 10 Nigerian Scholarships You Should Know About (And How to Get Them)
Let’s be honest, schooling in Nigeria isn’t cheap. Between school fees, textbooks, handouts, and even transportation, the cost can sometimes feel overwhelming. But what if I told you there are several scholarships in Nigeria that could ease your burden, and in many cases, even cover all your school expenses?
Yes, real scholarships exist ones that don’t need you to know a senator or “bring something” before you’re considered. The only thing you truly need is the right information and the willingness to apply. That’s why I’ve put together this list of the top 10 Nigerian scholarships, how they work, and how you can benefit from them.
Let’s get right into it:
MTN Foundation Scholarship
This one is among the most popular scholarships in Nigeria and for good reason. It provides financial support to students from different academic specialization as well as physically challenged students.
Who can apply? 200-level undergraduates in public universities, polytechnics, and colleges of education.
Eligibility: You must have a CGPA of 3.5 or its equivalent (2:1).
Worth: N200,000 yearly till you graduate.
Courses: Science & Technology-related fields, law students, plus a special category for blind students.
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Why it stands out: It’s consistent, generous, and open to students from across Nigeria. And yes—students like you win it every year!
LEARN MORE AND APPLY FOR THE MTN SCHOLARSHIP
NNPC/Total Energies Scholarship
Run by the Nigerian National Petroleum Company and TotalEnergies, this is one of the most respected oil-sector scholarships.
Who can apply? Full-time 100-level undergraduates in Nigerian universities.
Eligibility: Strong academic performance in WAEC and JAMB.
Worth: N150,000 per session until graduation.
Courses: Engineering, Sciences, Social Sciences.
Quick tip: The test can be tough, so practice past questions.
LEARN MORE AND APPLY FOR NNPC SCHOLARSHIP
Agbami Scholarship (Chevron)
This is for students studying health and engineering-related courses.
Who can apply? 100 & 200-level undergraduates.
Eligibility: High CGPA and full-time enrollment.
Worth: N100,000–N200,000 annually.
Courses: Medicine, Pharmacy, Nursing, Engineering.
! Don’t wait till final year to find out about this one. If you’re in the right course, apply now.
LEARN MORE AND APPLY FOR CHEVENING SCHOLARSHIP
Shell SPDC Undergraduate Scholarship
Offered by Shell Petroleum Development Company (SPDC), this scholarship supports students from oil-producing communities and the general public.
Who can apply? First-year students in accredited universities.
Eligibility: Good grades and proof of community if applying through the host community slot.
Worth: N200,000 per year.
Courses: Science, Engineering, and Geosciences.
LEARN MORE AND APPLY FOR NNPC/OANDO SCHOLARSHIP FOR UNDERGRADUATES
Important note: Make sure you apply through the correct category—either “host communities” or “national merit.”
NLNG Undergraduate Scholarship
This is another solid option for young Nigerian students.
Who can apply? First-year undergraduates in Nigerian universities.
Eligibility: Minimum of 5 credits in WAEC/NECO, good JAMB score.
Worth: N100,000 annually till graduation.
Courses: All courses welcome.
What makes it special: It’s not limited to certain courses. So, whether you are studying Theatre Arts or Microbiology, you are welcome.
LEARN MORE AND APPLY FOR THE NLNG POST PRIMARY Scholarship
Jim Ovia Foundation Leaders Scholarship
This one is a bit more competitive, but the reward is also bigger.
Who can apply? Nigerian students in accredited universities.
Eligibility: Academic excellence and leadership potential.
Worth: Full tuition and maintenance.
Courses: Open to all fields.
Special advice on this scholarship: You’ll need to write a great personal statement and attach documents. It’s not for lazy applicants but it’s life-changing.
David Oyedepo Foundation Scholarship
Faith-based but open to all Nigerians, this scholarship supports students who want to attend Covenant or Landmark University.
Who can apply? Nigerians and other African nationals.
Eligibility: Strong academic record and desire to make an impact.
Worth: Full tuition.
Courses: Offered at the two universities.
Heads-up: The scholarship is strict on behavior and academic performance, so it’s not for unserious folks.
Seplat JV Scholarship
This is offered by Seplat Petroleum and is targeted at bright students across Nigeria.
Who can apply? 200-level undergraduates.
Eligibility: Good grades (minimum of 5 O’level credits).
Worth: N150,000 annually.
Courses: Sciences and Engineering.
Why it matters: Many students are unaware of this one, which means less competition for you.
Lagos State Scholarship
If you’re a Lagos indigene, this is a great opportunity.
All indigenes of Lagos State in higher institutions can apply for this scholarship.
Eligibility: Must present proof of origin and have decent academic standing.
Worth: Varies depending on performance and level.
Courses: All courses allowed.
Please note that even if you’re not from Lagos, check if your own state offers a similar scholarship, many do!
Federal Government BEA & Local Scholarships
Every year, the Federal Ministry of Education offers two major scholarships:
BEA (Bilateral Education Agreement): For studying abroad in countries like Russia, China, and Algeria.
Local Scholarship: For university and college students studying in Nigeria.
Who can apply? Undergraduates, postgraduates, and even secondary school students in some categories.
Worth: Varies widely.
Eligibility: Usually includes writing an exam organized by the ministry.
Reality check: These ones require early application and official documents, so don’t wait till the last minute.
Final Remarks
Look, there are scholarships in Nigeria that real people like you get every year. It’s not a myth. The secret? Information and consistency. You won’t get them if you don’t apply. Some people apply for 4–5 scholarships at once and land at least one. Why not try the same?
Also, don’t look down on smaller opportunities like state or departmental bursaries. Even if it’s just N20,000, that’s one semester’s handout money solved!
So, keep your documents ready, follow
the instructions carefully, write strong essays where required, and keep showing up. Your turn is coming.
And if you found this useful, share it with a friend or classmate. Let’s help each other.
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