Paying for university education can be difficult for many Nigerian families, especially when tuition, accommodation, textbooks, transportation, technology and other academic expenses continue to add up. A scholarship can reduce that financial pressure and give a student more time to concentrate on academic work, professional development and personal growth.

The good news is that Nigerian students have access to several categories of scholarship funding. Government agencies, telecommunications companies, energy companies, foundations, universities, state governments and other organizations periodically announce awards for students at different stages of tertiary education.

However, one important warning should come first: a scholarship provider may operate a programme every year without applications being open every month. Deadlines, eligible courses, study levels, award amounts and application portals can change from one cycle to another.

This guide therefore focuses on how Nigerian undergraduates can identify legitimate opportunities, understand eligibility requirements, prepare strong applications and verify whether a particular scholarship is actually open before submitting personal information.

Last reviewed: August 2026.

 

Quick Overview of Nigerian Undergraduate Scholarship Opportunities

Scholarship or funding route	Typical target	What applicants should check	Current guidance
MTN Foundation Scholarships	Public tertiary students	Level, course, CGPA and institution	Check the official 2026 programme page
Federal Government Nigerian Scholarship Award	Nigerian tertiary students	Current FSB announcement and eligibility	Check Federal Ministry of Education
PTDF In-Country Scholarship Scheme	Selected undergraduate students	200-level status, public university, approved course and CGPA	2026/27 application cycle was officially announced
NNPC/SEPLAT JV National Undergraduate Scholarship	Undergraduate students	Year of study, CGPA, course and institution	2026 programme was announced
NLNG Undergraduate Scholarship	Nigerian undergraduates	Current annual call and eligibility	Monitor NLNG’s official scholarship information
NNPC/Chevron-related scholarship programmes	Nigerian students	Current annual announcement	Verify current cycle before applying
Shell Nigeria scholarship programmes	Nigerian students	Current programme and study level	Do not assume every Shell scholarship is undergraduate
Guinness Nigeria scholarship programme	Selected Nigerian undergraduates	Current announcement and participating institutions	Verify whether a new undergraduate cycle is open
State government scholarships	Students connected to particular states	Indigene requirements and state portal	Check the relevant state scholarship board
University scholarships	Students at participating institutions	Admission status and university rules	Check your institution
Need-based scholarships	Students with financial need	Financial evidence and provider criteria	Requirements vary
Merit scholarships	High-performing students	CGPA and academic records	Check individual provider
STEM scholarships	Science and technology students	Course and academic requirements	Many are field-specific
Disability-focused scholarships	Eligible students with disabilities	Disability documentation and programme rules	Check provider-specific conditions
International undergraduate scholarships	Nigerians planning to study abroad	Country, university and admission requirements	Check official foreign-government or university sources

The table is intended as a starting point, not a guarantee that every programme is accepting applications today. Always verify the current announcement on the provider’s official website before applying.

What Is a Nigerian Undergraduate Scholarship?

A Nigerian undergraduate scholarship is financial assistance awarded to a student pursuing tertiary education. Depending on the programme, the award may help with tuition, educational expenses, books, accommodation or other approved costs.

Scholarships can be offered by:

• Federal government agencies
• State governments
• Nigerian universities
• Private universities
• Corporate foundations
• Oil and gas companies
• Telecommunications companies
• Charitable foundations
• Community organizations
• International governments
• Foreign universities
• Non-governmental organizations

The funding structure is not identical across programmes. One award may provide a fixed annual educational grant, while another could cover specific expenses for the duration of an approved programme.

A useful distinction is the difference between a scholarship, bursary, grant and sponsorship. A scholarship usually rewards academic merit, financial need, a specific field of study or another qualifying characteristic. Bursaries are often associated more closely with financial need, while grants can support a particular educational or developmental purpose.

Why Undergraduate Scholarships Matter

University expenses involve much more than tuition.

A student may need money for:

• Registration
• Accommodation
• Textbooks
• Course materials
• Transportation
• Internet access
• Laptop or other academic equipment
• Laboratory expenses
• Professional examinations
• Feeding
• Research projects

Financial assistance can therefore have an effect beyond simply paying school fees.

A well-structured scholarship may also provide mentorship, networking, leadership development, internships or access to professional communities. Those additional benefits can become valuable when a recipient begins looking for internships, graduate opportunities or employment.

15 Nigerian Undergraduate Scholarship Opportunities and Funding Routes

The opportunities below should not all be treated as simultaneously open applications. Some have confirmed 2026 cycles, while others are recurring programmes or providers that students should monitor for an official undergraduate announcement.

1. MTN Foundation Scholarship

The MTN Foundation operates an annual scholarship programme for eligible students in Nigerian public tertiary institutions.

For 2026, MTN’s published information identifies three scholarship categories:

• MTN Science and Technology Scholarship
• MTN Scholarship for Blind Students
• MTN Top 10 UTME Scholarship

The Science and Technology Scholarship targets eligible students studying science and technology-related courses in public tertiary institutions. The published 2026 criteria cover students moving into or already in 300 level, while eligible medical students can fall under the programme at the specified level. The blind-student category supports eligible students in 200 and 300 level, subject to the programme’s conditions.

MTN states that scholarship awards are worth ₦300,000 annually and can be renewed until graduation when recipients satisfy the applicable academic and programme requirements. (MTN Nigeria)

The programme is particularly relevant to students in:

• Science
• Technology
• Engineering
• Mathematics
• Medicine
• Other approved technology-related fields

Important: eligibility depends on the specific category. A 100-level student should not assume that the general MTN scholarship is available to them simply because they are an undergraduate.

Official information: MTN Foundation Scholarships

2. Federal Government Nigerian Scholarship Award

Nigeria’s Federal Scholarship Board operates under the Federal Ministry of Education and is responsible for implementing several scholarship and fellowship programmes.

The Board’s mandate includes local and foreign scholarship awards for deserving Nigerian undergraduate and postgraduate students. Its programmes include the Nigerian Award and other scholarship arrangements. (Federal Ministry of Education)

The Federal Ministry of Education has also published revised scholarship grants across education levels. Its current information lists an undergraduate Nigerian Scholarship Award of ₦450,000 under the revised structure, alongside separate categories for education bursaries and specified undergraduate programmes. (Federal Ministry of Education)

Applicants should not rely on old social-media posts when applying for a federal scholarship. Instead, check:

• Federal Ministry of Education announcements
• Federal Scholarship Board information
• Official application portals
• Current eligibility requirements
• Published deadlines

Official source: Federal Ministry of Education – Federal Scholarships Board

3. PTDF In-Country Scholarship Scheme

The Petroleum Technology Development Fund is another important scholarship provider for Nigerian students, particularly those pursuing approved fields related to energy, engineering, science and management.

For the 2026/27 In-Country Scholarship Scheme, PTDF officially invited qualified Nigerians to apply for undergraduate, master’s and PhD awards in Nigerian public universities. (PTDF Scholarship Portal)

The undergraduate requirements are much more specific than the generic description in the original Kenbizz article suggested.

According to PTDF’s 2026/27 guidelines, undergraduate applicants must:

• Be studying in a Nigerian public university
• Have completed their first-year examinations
• Be in their second year
• Have a valid admission letter
• Study an approved course
• Meet the stated academic requirements
• Provide the required transcript
• Have a National Identification Number for the application process

The approved courses include areas such as:

• Chemical Engineering
• Civil Engineering
• Computer Engineering
• Electrical Engineering
• Mechanical Engineering
• Petroleum Engineering
• Computer Science
• Cyber Security
• Chemistry
• Mathematics
• Physics
• Geology
• Geophysics
• Accounting
• Business Administration
• Economics
• Law
• Renewable energy-related fields

The 2026/27 application window ran from April 27 to June 5, 2026, so applicants should monitor the next cycle rather than assume the current application remains open. (PTDF Scholarship Portal)

Official portal: PTDF Scholarship Management Portal

4. NNPC/SEPLAT JV National Undergraduate Scholarship

The NNPC/SEPLAT Joint Venture announced its 2026 National Undergraduate Scholarship Programme for deserving students in Nigerian federal and state universities.

The 2026 announcement specified that applicants must:

• Be in their second year or above
• Have a minimum CGPA of 3.5
• Have at least five O-level credits, including English and Mathematics, in one sitting

The programme also specified eligible courses, including:

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

The published 2026 application period was February 23 to March 13, 2026, and the application was free. (Seplat Energy)

Consequently, anyone reading this after the deadline should wait for the next official announcement rather than using an old application link.

5. NLNG Undergraduate Scholarship

Nigeria LNG has historically operated an undergraduate scholarship scheme alongside its other education initiatives.

NLNG’s published corporate information confirms that its undergraduate scholarship was established to support Nigerian students and was later expanded beyond its host communities. By 2023, thousands of Nigerian undergraduates had benefited from the programme. (nlng.com)

Because scholarship conditions can change between application cycles, applicants should verify the latest announcement before relying on:

• Award amounts
• Number of beneficiaries
• Eligible universities
• Minimum grades
• Application dates
• Required documents

Students should use NLNG’s official website and current scholarship announcement rather than third-party forms claiming to represent the company.

6. NNPC/Chevron-Related Scholarship Opportunities

Chevron and its partners have historically supported Nigerian undergraduate education through scholarship programmes, including the Agbami Medical and Engineering Professionals Scholarship and other initiatives.

Chevron’s published information confirms its long-running support for Nigerian students in medical and engineering fields. (Chevron)

Historical programme information shows that the Agbami scholarship was targeted at areas such as:

• Medicine
• Dentistry
• Pharmacy
• Engineering

Older Chevron reports provide evidence of the programme’s substantial history and impact. (Chevron)

However, an old scholarship cycle should not be presented as a currently open 2026 application.

Before applying, confirm that:

1. A current undergraduate call has been published.
2. The application portal belongs to the legitimate provider or authorized partner.
3. The current eligibility criteria match your course and level.
4. The deadline has not passed.

7. Shell Nigeria Scholarship Programmes

Shell Nigeria has a long history of supporting education through scholarship programmes.

Nevertheless, applicants need to examine the exact programme being advertised. Shell’s current scholarship page, for example, prominently features the 2026 NNPC-SNEPCo Postgraduate Scholarship, meaning readers should not automatically interpret every Shell scholarship announcement as an undergraduate opportunity. (Shell Nigeria)

That distinction is important because scholarship providers may operate several programmes at different academic levels.

If Shell announces an undergraduate programme, check:

• Eligible level
• Eligible course
• University requirements
• Nationality requirements
• Application period
• Selection process
• Official application portal

Avoid using an old Shell undergraduate application link simply because it appears in a blog post or social-media message.

8. Guinness Nigeria Undergraduate Scholarship

Guinness Nigeria has also supported undergraduate education through scholarship initiatives.

A Guinness Nigeria sustainability report documented an undergraduate scholarship programme that provided tuition and accommodation support to beneficiaries, with additional annual financial assistance reported at that time. (Global Leader in Beverage Alcohol)

Because the available official information does not establish that the same programme is currently accepting applications in August 2026, this opportunity should be treated as a programme to monitor, not as an automatically open scholarship.

Search for a fresh announcement before submitting personal information.

9. State Government Scholarships

State scholarship programmes are often overlooked because students concentrate on large corporate scholarships.

Many Nigerian states operate scholarship boards, bursary schemes or educational support programmes for eligible indigenes.

Depending on the state, applicants may need:

• Proof of indigene status
• Admission evidence
• Student identification
• Academic records
• Local government documentation
• Passport photographs
• Bank details
• Current school information

Eligibility can differ significantly from one state to another.

A student should therefore search for the official scholarship board or education ministry of their state instead of assuming that another state’s requirements apply to them.

10. University-Based Scholarships

Your own university may provide opportunities that never appear on large scholarship websites.

Possible sources include:

• Alumni associations
• University foundations
• Faculty awards
• Departmental scholarships
• Vice-Chancellor’s awards
• Need-based financial assistance
• Academic excellence awards
• Private donors

Visit the official student affairs office, bursary, scholarship unit or faculty notice board to find out whether your institution has an active programme.

Some university awards are automatically considered based on academic performance, while others require a separate application.

11. Need-Based Scholarships

Not every scholarship is designed exclusively for students with the highest grades.

Need-based financial aid may consider:

• Family income
• Number of dependants
• Financial hardship
• Household circumstances
• Educational expenses
• Academic progress

Applicants should never exaggerate their financial situation.

When evidence of need is requested, provide accurate documentation and explain the circumstances clearly.

A student with average grades may therefore find a better opportunity in a need-based programme than in a highly competitive academic-merit award.

12. Merit-Based Scholarships

Merit scholarships usually place greater emphasis on academic achievement or exceptional performance.

Selection may consider:

• CGPA
• Examination results
• Academic awards
• Competition results
• Research achievements
• Leadership
• Extracurricular accomplishments

Meeting the minimum CGPA does not necessarily mean you will win.

Scholarship committees may receive hundreds or thousands of applications from students who all satisfy the minimum requirements. A strong application therefore needs to demonstrate more than basic eligibility.

13. STEM and Field-Specific Scholarships

Certain scholarships are restricted to particular disciplines.

Common priority areas include:

• Engineering
• Medicine
• Computer Science
• Information Technology
• Mathematics
• Physics
• Chemistry
• Agriculture
• Energy
• Geology
• Environmental science

PTDF’s 2026/27 undergraduate scheme illustrates why applicants should read the course list carefully. The programme does not simply accept every undergraduate course; it identifies specific approved fields. (PTDF Scholarship Portal)

A student studying an eligible discipline should still confirm the exact course title and institutional requirements before applying.

14. Scholarships for Students With Disabilities

Students with disabilities should also look beyond general scholarship lists.

Some programmes have dedicated categories or additional provisions.

MTN’s Scholarship for Blind Students, for example, is specifically designed for eligible blind students studying in Nigerian public tertiary institutions. The 2026 information covers students at specified academic levels and includes university, polytechnic and college-of-education students. (MTN Nigeria)

Applicants should look carefully at the documentation required by each provider because disability-related eligibility may be verified through official records.

15. International Undergraduate Scholarships for Nigerians

Nigerian undergraduates do not have to limit their search to scholarships provided inside Nigeria.

International opportunities may come from:

• Foreign governments
• Universities
• International foundations
• Development organizations
• Private institutions

The Federal Ministry of Education itself publishes announcements involving foreign scholarship opportunities for Nigerians, including undergraduate programmes. Its 2026 information includes international scholarship announcements such as Morocco and Serbia opportunities. (Federal Ministry of Education)

This category is different from a Nigerian university scholarship because the applicant may need to satisfy both scholarship requirements and university admission requirements.

Students interested in studying abroad should therefore check the destination country’s official education or scholarship authority before applying.

Fully Funded vs Partial Undergraduate Scholarships

The phrase “fully funded” is frequently misunderstood.

A fully funded award may cover several major educational expenses, potentially including:

• Tuition
• Accommodation
• Living allowance
• Books
• Travel
• Health insurance
• Academic materials

The exact package depends on the provider.

A partial scholarship may instead provide:

• Tuition assistance
• A fixed annual grant
• Book allowance
• Accommodation support
• One-time educational assistance

Receiving ₦300,000, for example, does not automatically mean that the student’s entire university education is funded.

Always read the scholarship’s award description before making financial plans.

Who Can Apply for Nigerian Undergraduate Scholarships?

Eligibility varies considerably between providers.

Nigerian Citizenship

Many scholarships require applicants to be Nigerian citizens or meet a specific residency or indigene requirement.

Academic Performance

A provider may specify a minimum:

• CGPA
• Grade
• Class standing
• Examination result
• Academic average

The required standard can be different for universities, polytechnics and colleges of education.

Year of Study

Academic level is one of the most commonly overlooked requirements.

Some programmes may target:

• 100-level students
• 200-level students
• 300-level students
• Final-year students

PTDF’s 2026/27 undergraduate scheme, for instance, specifically requires applicants to have completed first-year examinations and be in their second year. (PTDF Scholarship Portal)

MTN’s 2026 scholarship criteria likewise specify particular academic levels depending on the scholarship category. (MTN Nigeria)

Course of Study

Some scholarships accept almost any course, whereas others restrict applications to areas such as engineering, medicine, science, technology, energy or management.

Institution

Read the institution requirement carefully.

One provider may accept only public universities, while another may include polytechnics or colleges of education.

Financial Need

Need-based awards may require evidence showing why financial assistance is necessary.

Leadership and Community Involvement

Some competitive awards look beyond academic grades.

Leadership positions, volunteering, community projects and measurable social impact can strengthen an application when they are genuinely relevant.

Can Students With a Low CGPA Get Scholarships?

Yes, potentially—but they should target the right type of opportunity.

A scholarship with a strict 3.5 CGPA requirement will not become suitable simply because an applicant needs financial support. Applying outside the stated eligibility criteria wastes time.

Students with lower grades can instead investigate programmes that emphasize:

• Financial need
• Leadership
• Community service
• Disability support
• Specific personal circumstances
• Talent
• Particular fields
• Local community membership

No scholarship should be described as guaranteed for applicants with low grades.

Can 100-Level Students Apply?

Some can, while others cannot.

A first-year student should check whether the scholarship requires an existing university transcript.

Programmes targeting continuing students often need evidence of academic performance after one or more semesters.

MTN’s 2026 Science and Technology Scholarship, for example, focuses on students at specified later levels, whereas its Top 10 UTME category works differently and can cover qualifying candidates from 100 level onward. (MTN Nigeria)

That difference demonstrates why students should read the specific category, rather than relying on a general statement that “undergraduates can apply.”

Documents You May Need

Prepare your documents before the application season becomes busy.

Common requirements can include:

1. Passport photograph
2. National identification details
3. Admission letter
4. Student ID card
5. Academic transcript
6. WAEC, NECO or equivalent result
7. JAMB result where applicable
8. Birth certificate or declaration of age
9. Certificate of indigene or local government documentation where required
10. Recommendation letter
11. Personal statement
12. Proof of financial need where applicable

Not every provider asks for every document.

For that reason, never upload unnecessary sensitive information merely because another scholarship requested it.

Create a dedicated scholarship folder containing clearly named digital copies of your important documents. Keep backup copies in a secure storage location and avoid sharing them with unknown individuals.

What Each Scholarship Document Does

Academic Transcript

A transcript demonstrates your university performance and may be essential for scholarships aimed at continuing students.

WAEC or NECO Result

Secondary-school results can establish academic history and satisfy O-level requirements.

Admission Letter

This confirms that you have been admitted to the institution or programme.

Student ID

A valid student identification card can demonstrate current enrollment.

Personal Statement

This gives the selection committee an opportunity to understand your goals, motivation and circumstances.

Recommendation Letter

A strong recommendation can provide independent evidence of your character, academic ability, leadership or potential.

Proof of Financial Need

Need-based programmes may request documentation supporting your financial circumstances.

How to Apply for an Undergraduate Scholarship

Step 1: Identify Suitable Scholarships

Start with official provider websites, university portals, government agencies and reputable scholarship sources.

A random WhatsApp message should never be your only source of verification.

Step 2: Check Eligibility Before Applying

Compare your:

• Age
• Nationality
• Course
• Institution
• Academic level
• CGPA
• O-level results

with the published requirements.

Step 3: Confirm the Deadline

Write the deadline somewhere you will see it.

Some applications remain open for only a few weeks.

Step 4: Verify the Application Website

Look at the domain name carefully.

A scholarship announced by a major company should normally direct applicants toward an official company website or an authorized application platform.

Step 5: Prepare Your Documents

Scan documents clearly and use the file formats requested by the provider.

Step 6: Write Your Personal Statement

Explain:

• Who you are
• What you study
• Why your course matters
• What you have achieved
• Why you need or deserve the scholarship
• What you plan to accomplish
• How the award will support your goals

Step 7: Complete the Form Carefully

Check names, dates, email addresses, academic results and identification numbers before submission.

Step 8: Review Your Uploads

Open each document before submitting.

A corrupted PDF or unreadable photograph can create an avoidable problem.

Step 9: Submit Before the Deadline

Technical problems can happen when thousands of applicants attempt to submit at the same time.

Submitting early gives you time to correct an error if the system rejects an upload.

Step 10: Save Your Confirmation

Keep a copy of:

• Application number
• Confirmation email
• Submitted form
• Uploaded documents
• Deadline
• Contact details

Step 11: Monitor Your Email

Shortlisted applicants may receive information about:

• Tests
• Interviews
• Document verification
• Additional requirements
• Award confirmation

How Scholarship Providers Select Winners

Selection criteria vary, but common factors include:

Academic performance

Strong results can demonstrate consistency and discipline.

Eligibility

An impressive application cannot compensate for failing a mandatory requirement.

Personal statement

The essay should demonstrate clear motivation instead of relying on generic statements.

Leadership

Meaningful leadership can show initiative and responsibility.

Community service

Projects that have measurable community impact may strengthen an application.

Course relevance

A field-specific scholarship may prioritize applicants whose studies align with the programme’s objectives.

Financial need

Need-based awards may assess the applicant’s financial circumstances.

Interview performance

Some competitive programmes invite shortlisted candidates for interviews or assessments.

How to Write a Strong Scholarship Personal Statement

Avoid reducing your essay to:

“I need money to pay my school fees.”

Financial need can be important, but the selection committee also needs to understand who you are and what you intend to achieve.

A stronger statement can address:

Your academic journey

Explain what you study and how you developed an interest in the field.

Your achievements

Mention relevant academic, leadership, professional or community accomplishments.

Your challenges

Where appropriate, explain obstacles that have affected your education.

Your career goal

Describe the problem you want to solve or the contribution you want to make.

Why the scholarship matters

Connect the financial support to a specific educational outcome.

Your future impact

Show how your education could benefit your community, profession or country.

For a more detailed guide, readers can continue to Kenbizz’s article on how to write a scholarship essay.

Common Reasons Scholarship Applications Fail

Applying Without Checking Eligibility

A student can have excellent grades and still be ineligible because of course, level or institution restrictions.

Using an Old Application Link

Scholarship portals can close after the application period.

Submitting Incorrect Information

Names, dates and academic results should match official documents.

Writing a Generic Essay

A personal statement copied from another application rarely demonstrates genuine motivation.

Missing the Deadline

Late submissions are generally not considered.

Uploading Poor-Quality Documents

Blurry scans can make verification difficult.

Ignoring the Course Requirement

Field-specific scholarships may reject applicants studying outside the approved disciplines.

Paying Unofficial Agents

A person claiming to have “inside access” to a scholarship should be treated with caution.

Applying Through a Fake Website

Always verify the provider and application domain.

How to Identify a Fake Scholarship

Scholarship scams can look convincing.

Watch for claims such as:

• “Guaranteed scholarship”
• “Pay to secure your scholarship”
• “Send money before your name can be shortlisted”
• “Limited slots—pay immediately”
• “No eligibility requirements”
• “Send your banking PIN”
• “Send your password”
• “Register only through WhatsApp”
• “Official scholarship” without a verifiable organization

PTDF has specifically warned the public about people claiming they can secure scholarship slots for payment and states that it does not allocate scholarship slots to individuals or third parties. (Petroleum Technology Development Fund)

The Fund has also previously warned about fake scholarship portals impersonating its programmes. (Petroleum Technology Development Fund)

A legitimate scholarship should therefore be independently verified before documents or money are sent.

For more guidance, read Kenbizz’s detailed article on how to identify fake scholarship websites.

Is It Free to Apply for a Scholarship?

Many legitimate scholarship applications are free, although the exact rules depend on the programme.

Never assume that a payment request is legitimate simply because someone claims to be an agent.

For example, the 2026 NNPC/SEPLAT undergraduate scholarship announcement explicitly stated that its application was free. (Seplat Energy)

PTDF, meanwhile, states specific requirements around NIN verification for its application process, so applicants should follow the current official instructions rather than rely on unofficial explanations. (PTDF Scholarship Portal)

The safest approach is to check the provider’s official instructions before making any payment.

When Should Nigerian Students Start Applying?

Scholarship preparation should begin before an application opens.

Six to twelve months before

Research recurring programmes and identify scholarships that match your course and academic level.

Three to six months before

Prepare transcripts, certificates, recommendations and personal statements.

One to three months before

Monitor official announcements and start completing applications that have opened.

During the final weeks

Review every field, upload the required documents and submit early.

After submission

Save confirmation details and monitor your email or applicant portal.

This approach is especially useful for scholarships that open for only a few weeks.

Scholarship Application Checklist

Before clicking the submit button, check the following:

How to Improve Your Chances of Winning

Keep Your Academic Record Strong

Academic performance remains important for many competitive scholarships.

Build Genuine Leadership Experience

Take part in student organizations, community projects, volunteering or initiatives that genuinely interest you.

Develop Relevant Skills

Technology, communication, research, entrepreneurship and professional skills can complement academic achievements.

Keep Evidence of Your Achievements

Save certificates, letters, awards, project records and other documentation.

Apply Strategically

Ten suitable applications can provide more opportunities than ten random applications.

Personalize Every Essay

A scholarship committee should be able to see why that particular programme fits your goals.

Start Early

Last-minute applications create unnecessary mistakes.

Can You Apply for More Than One Scholarship?

Yes, you can generally apply for multiple scholarships unless a particular provider prohibits simultaneous awards.

Applying to several suitable programmes can improve your overall chances.

However, honesty is essential.

If an application asks whether you currently receive another scholarship, answer accurately. Some providers may restrict recipients from holding another award at the same time.

What Happens After You Apply?

Submitting the form is not necessarily the end of the process.

Depending on the provider, you may be asked to complete:

• Aptitude tests
• Interviews
• Document verification
• Academic verification
• Identity checks
• Medical checks
• Additional essays

Some programmes notify only shortlisted applicants.

Others may publish successful candidates through their official communication channels.

Keep checking the email address and telephone number used during registration.

Where to Find Reliable Scholarship Information

The safest sources are usually the organization responsible for the scholarship.

Federal Ministry of Education

The Federal Scholarship Board publishes information about Nigerian and international scholarship programmes. (Federal Ministry of Education)

Visit the Federal Ministry of Education

MTN Foundation

MTN publishes its scholarship categories, eligibility conditions and application information on its official website. (MTN Nigeria)

Visit MTN Foundation Scholarships

PTDF

PTDF publishes its scholarship guidelines and application portal through its official scholarship platform. (PTDF Scholarship Portal)

Visit the PTDF Scholarship Portal

SEPLAT Energy

SEPLAT publishes scholarship announcements and programme documents through its official channels. The 2026 undergraduate announcement contained detailed course, CGPA and year-of-study requirements. (Seplat Energy)

Visit SEPLAT Energy

Shell Nigeria

Shell’s scholarship page provides information about its current scholarship programmes and should be checked before relying on third-party scholarship lists. (Shell Nigeria)

Visit Shell Nigeria Scholarship Information

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best scholarship for Nigerian undergraduate students?

There is no single best scholarship for everyone. The most suitable opportunity depends on your course, academic level, institution, grades, financial circumstances and the scholarship’s eligibility rules.

Can 100-level students get scholarships?

Yes, some programmes accept first-year students, while others require applicants to have completed one or more years of university study. Always check the specific scholarship.

Can 200-level students apply for scholarships?

Yes. Several scholarships specifically target continuing students. PTDF’s 2026/27 In-Country Scholarship Scheme, for example, requires undergraduate applicants to have completed their first-year examinations and be in their second year. (PTDF Scholarship Portal)

Can polytechnic students apply for scholarships?

Yes, depending on the provider. MTN’s scholarship categories include eligible students in public polytechnics, while other programmes may restrict eligibility to universities. (MTN Nigeria)

Can private university students apply?

Some scholarships accept students in private institutions, but others are restricted to public institutions. The specific eligibility rules determine the answer.

Do scholarships require JAMB results?

Not every programme does. Some providers may request JAMB information, particularly when verifying admission or UTME-related eligibility.

Do I need WAEC or NECO results?

Many Nigerian scholarships request O-level results, but the exact requirement differs between providers.

Is CGPA always required?

No. Some scholarships emphasize other factors such as financial need, disability, leadership, course, talent or specific examination performance. Field-specific programmes may nevertheless impose strict academic thresholds.

Can students with low CGPA get scholarships?

Potentially. The best strategy is to identify scholarships whose selection criteria do not impose a CGPA requirement that you cannot meet.

Are all undergraduate scholarships fully funded?

No. Some provide annual educational grants or partial assistance rather than paying every educational and living expense.

Can I apply for several scholarships?

Usually, yes, unless a provider specifically restricts multiple awards. Read the terms of each programme carefully.

Are scholarship applications free?

Many legitimate programmes do not charge applicants an application fee. Nevertheless, always check the provider’s official instructions because application processes differ.

How can I avoid scholarship scams?

Verify the organization, use the official website, check the application domain, avoid guaranteed-award claims and never give strangers passwords, banking PINs or unnecessary sensitive information.

How often should I search for scholarships?

Check official scholarship sources regularly, particularly during periods when annual scholarship programmes normally announce new calls.

What should I do if a scholarship deadline has passed?

Do not submit through an old or unofficial portal. Save the provider’s official website and monitor it for the next application cycle.

Final Thoughts

Finding a Nigerian undergraduate scholarship requires more than searching for a list of names and clicking the first application link that appears.

A successful search begins with identifying programmes that actually match your academic level, course, institution and circumstances. From there, verify the current announcement, prepare the required documents and submit a carefully reviewed application before the deadline.

Students should also remember that scholarship information changes. A programme that accepted applications last year may have different requirements this year, and a provider that offers undergraduate funding may also operate separate postgraduate programmes.

Use official sources as the final authority, particularly when checking deadlines, award amounts, eligibility requirements and application portals.

For additional preparation, Kenbizz readers can also explore the site’s guides on scholarship essays, organizing application documents, low-income scholarships, fake scholarship websites, overseas study scholarships and scholarships without IELTS.

Most importantly, do not wait until your school fees become an emergency before researching funding. Build your scholarship list early, keep your documents ready, monitor official announcements and apply only when you genuinely meet the requirements.

A scholarship is competitive, but a carefully prepared application gives you a better opportunity than an incomplete or rushed submission.

Disclaimer: Scholarship programmes, eligibility requirements, funding amounts, application dates and application portals can change. Information in this guide should be treated as educational guidance. Applicants should verify the latest details directly with the scholarship provider before submitting an application, paying any fee or sharing personal documents.