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Scholarships in Nigeria 2026are available for undergraduate, postgraduate, professional and other tertiary-level students who need financial support for their education. These opportunities come from the Federal Government, state governments, universities, oil and gas companies, banks, foundations, telecommunications companies and international organizations.
Some scholarships cover tuition and provide allowances, while others offer a fixed annual award that students can use towards their education expenses.
For students searching for funding in 2026, it is important to look beyond general scholarship advertisements and identify programmes with a recognized sponsor and an official application channel. The Federal Ministry of Education, for example, administers federal and international scholarship programmes for Nigerian students, while organizations such as PTDF, MTN Foundation and NLNG operate their own scholarship schemes.
This guide lists major scholarships in Nigeria 2026, who they are meant for, what they offer, where to apply and what applicants should know before submitting an application.
15 Scholarships in Nigeria 2026
Below are some of the major scholarship opportunities Nigerian students can consider in 2026.
1. Federal Government Scholarship Award
The Federal Government Scholarship Award is one of the main national scholarship programmes for Nigerian students.
It is administered through the Federal Ministry of Education’s Federal Scholarship Board, which handles both local and foreign scholarship programmes. The revised national scholarship structure increased award amounts by 50%.
The published revised awards include:
- Undergraduate – ₦450,000
- NCE – ₦450,000
- HND – ₦450,000
- Master’s – ₦600,000
- PhD – ₦750,000
The revised structure also gives attention to STEMM, medical and vocational education, while providing for students with disabilities.
Applicants should check the Federal Ministry of Education for current announcements and application instructions.
2. PTDF Scholarship 2026/2027
The Petroleum Technology Development Fund (PTDF) Scholarship is one of the major government-funded opportunities for Nigerians studying courses relevant to petroleum technology, energy and related fields.
For the 2026/2027 In-Country Scholarship Scheme, PTDF invited qualified Nigerians to apply for undergraduate, Master’s and PhD awards in Nigerian public universities. The sponsored disciplines include engineering, sciences, information technology, computer science, cybersecurity, renewable energy and selected management courses.
The 2026/2027 in-country application window ran from April 27 to June 5, 2026, so applicants who missed that round should watch the official portal for subsequent scholarship announcements.
For a detailed breakdown, see our PTDF Scholarship 2026/2027 guide.
3. Federal Government Bilateral Education Agreement (BEA) Scholarship
The Federal Government’s Bilateral Education Agreement scholarship gives Nigerian students access to study opportunities provided through agreements between Nigeria and other countries.
Previous and current Federal Ministry of Education announcements have included undergraduate and postgraduate opportunities in countries such as Morocco, Serbia, Hungary and others.
The requirements depend on the country, academic level and field of study.
Students should check the Federal Ministry of Education for the latest BEA announcement rather than relying on old application forms shared on social media.
Federal Ministry of Education Scholarship Updates
4. MTN Foundation Science and Technology Scholarship
The MTN Foundation Science and Technology Scholarship supports eligible students studying science and technology-related courses in Nigerian public tertiary institutions.
The 2026 programme covers eligible students in universities, polytechnics, colleges of education and teaching hospitals. The scholarship is worth ₦300,000 annually and can be renewed until graduation when recipients satisfy the required academic and other conditions.
The programme covers disciplines in areas such as:
- Science
- Technology
- Engineering
- Mathematics
- Medicine and related fields
The 2026 MTN scholarship structure expanded the number of new opportunities to 500, including additional places for medical students.
5. MTN Foundation Scholarship for Blind Students
The MTN Foundation Scholarship for Blind Students is designed for eligible blind students studying at Nigerian public tertiary institutions.
Unlike the Science and Technology Scholarship, applicants can study different disciplines.
The current MTN information states that eligible students in universities, polytechnics and colleges of education can receive ₦300,000 annually, subject to the programme’s academic requirements.
The scholarship is available to students at specified levels, so applicants should check the current eligibility conditions before applying.
6. MTN Foundation Top 10 UTME Scholarship
This scholarship is targeted at the top 10 UTME candidates announced by JAMB.
The selected candidates automatically qualify for the scholarship and can receive ₦300,000 annually from 100 level until graduation, provided they continue to meet the programme’s requirements.
One important difference is that the scholarship is not restricted to a particular course or public tertiary institution.
This makes it different from the MTN Science and Technology Scholarship, which has specific course and institution requirements.
7. NLNG Undergraduate Scholarship
Nigeria LNG Limited operates an undergraduate scholarship programme as part of its education and human-capital development initiatives.
NLNG states that its scholarship portfolio includes post-primary, undergraduate and postgraduate scholarships.
The undergraduate scheme is designed to support Nigerian students pursuing tertiary education.
Students interested in NLNG scholarships should check the company’s official channels for the latest application announcement, eligibility requirements and deadline.
8. NLNG Postgraduate Scholarship
The NLNG Postgraduate Scholarship provides another route for Nigerian graduates seeking financial support for postgraduate education.
NLNG lists postgraduate scholarship alongside its undergraduate and post-primary scholarship programmes.
Because postgraduate scholarships can have specific academic and admission requirements, applicants should read the current announcement carefully before applying.
This opportunity is particularly relevant to graduates who have already secured or are seeking admission for an eligible postgraduate programme.
9. NAE Postgraduate Scholarship
The NNPC/NAE Postgraduate Scholarship is another opportunity Nigerian graduates can investigate when looking for funding for postgraduate study.
The scholarship is associated with Nigerian Agip Exploration and has historically supported Nigerian graduates pursuing eligible Master’s programmes in relevant fields.
Applicants should check the current NAE scholarship announcement and official application platform for the applicable academic year because requirements, eligible courses and deadlines can change.
Do not rely on an old application link simply because it continues to circulate online.
10. MTN-MUSON Music Scholars Programme
Scholarships are not limited to conventional academic disciplines.
The MTN-MUSON Music Scholars Programme supports talented young Nigerians seeking professional music training through the Musical Society of Nigeria (MUSON).
MTN describes the programme as an annual scholarship supporting eligible musically talented young people for professional training. Its youth-development portfolio lists the programme among its scholarship initiatives.
This makes it a useful opportunity for applicants interested in music and performing arts rather than traditional university scholarship programmes.
11. State Government Scholarships
Many Nigerian state governments operate scholarship and bursary programmes for their indigenes.
These may support students studying in:
- Universities
- Polytechnics
- Colleges of education
- Medical schools
- Postgraduate programmes
Eligibility often depends on state of origin, academic performance and the applicant’s institution.
Students should check the scholarship board or relevant education agency in their state rather than relying on third-party websites.
12. University-Based Scholarships
Universities in Nigeria may also offer scholarships, fee reductions, bursaries and other forms of financial support.
These opportunities may be funded by:
- The university
- Alumni associations
- Foundations
- Corporate partners
- Individual donors
Some are awarded based on academic performance, while others are designed for students experiencing financial difficulties.
Students should check their institution’s official website, student affairs department or scholarship office.
13. Corporate Scholarships
Large companies operating in Nigeria sometimes provide scholarship opportunities for students.
Potential sponsors include companies in:
- Telecommunications
- Banking
- Oil and gas
- Manufacturing
- Energy
- Technology
- Consumer goods
Corporate scholarships may target specific courses, communities, states or academic levels.
Applicants should always apply through the company’s official website or the application platform identified in the company’s official announcement.
14. Foundation and NGO Scholarships
Foundations and non-governmental organisations also support Nigerian students.
These programmes may focus on:
- Academic excellence
- Financial need
- Women in education
- STEM education
- Students with disabilities
- Leadership
- Community development
- Specific professional fields
The eligibility requirements can differ considerably, so applicants should read each programme’s guidelines carefully.
15. International Scholarships for Nigerians
Nigerian students can also apply for scholarships offered by foreign governments and international organisations.
The Federal Ministry of Education publishes information about international opportunities available to Nigerian applicants.
For the 2026/2027 academic year, its published announcements included scholarship opportunities from Morocco and Serbia, among others. The Morocco programme covered tuition and a monthly stipend, while selected candidates were expected to cover expenses such as airfare, accommodation and feeding. The Serbia programme included undergraduate and postgraduate study.
The ministry has also published information about the Ireland Fellows Programme for Nigerian applicants.
This means students should not assume that an international scholarship automatically covers every expense.
Scholarships for Undergraduate Students in Nigeria
Undergraduate students have several options to explore.
Depending on their circumstances, they may qualify for:
- Federal Government scholarships
- PTDF scholarships
- MTN Foundation scholarships
- NLNG scholarships
- State government scholarships
- University scholarships
- Corporate scholarships
- International undergraduate scholarships
Your course can also determine which opportunities are available to you.
For example, the PTDF 2026/2027 In-Country Scholarship Scheme includes fields such as engineering, computer science, information technology, cybersecurity, renewable energy and selected management disciplines.
Scholarships for Postgraduate Students
Master’s and PhD students can also find funding opportunities in Nigeria and abroad.
Some major options include:
- Federal Government Scholarship Award
- PTDF Scholarship
- NLNG Postgraduate Scholarship
- NAE Postgraduate Scholarship
- Commonwealth opportunities
- Bilateral Education Agreement scholarships
- Foreign government scholarships
- University-funded scholarships
Postgraduate applicants may face additional requirements such as academic transcripts, admission letters, research proposals, publications or professional qualifications.
For PTDF’s 2026/2027 in-country postgraduate applications, selection considerations include academic merit, professional qualifications, publications and, for PhD applicants, the viability of the research plan.
Scholarships for Nigerian Students Studying Abroad
Students planning to study outside Nigeria should also investigate international scholarships.
Some are provided by foreign governments through bilateral agreements with Nigeria, while others are offered directly by universities and international organisations.
The Federal Ministry of Education’s scholarship announcements are useful starting points because they identify international opportunities communicated through the Nigerian government.
Before applying, check exactly what the scholarship pays for.
A programme may cover tuition without paying for:
- Flights
- Accommodation
- Feeding
- Visa costs
- Health insurance
- Books
- Personal expenses
This distinction is particularly important when comparing supposedly “fully funded” scholarships.
Scholarship Requirements for Nigerians
Requirements depend on the programme, but applicants may be asked to provide:
- Passport photograph
- Birth certificate or age declaration
- Academic certificates
- Academic transcript
- Admission letter
- Student identification
- NYSC certificate or exemption certificate
- Certificate of origin
- Local government identification
- Recommendation letter
- Research proposal
- Personal statement
- Valid identification document
Some scholarships also have specific requirements relating to age, CGPA, course of study, institution or state of origin.
For example, PTDF’s 2026/2027 In-Country Scholarship Scheme requires applicants to have a National Identification Number (NIN), while its postgraduate selection process considers academic merit and other factors.
How to Apply for Scholarships in Nigeria 2026
The application process differs between scholarship providers, but the following steps apply to most programmes.
Step 1: Find a Scholarship That Matches Your Profile
Check your academic level, course, institution, age and other eligibility requirements.
Step 2: Read the Full Eligibility Criteria
Do not apply simply because you saw the scholarship amount.
Make sure you actually qualify.
Step 3: Prepare Your Documents
Keep digital copies of your certificates, transcript, identification and other frequently requested documents.
Step 4: Visit the Official Application Portal
Use the website provided by the scholarship sponsor.
Step 5: Complete the Application Form
Enter your details exactly as they appear on your official documents.
Step 6: Upload the Required Documents
Check file formats and sizes before submitting.
Step 7: Submit Before the Deadline
Do not wait until the final day.
Step 8: Monitor the Application
Some programmes may invite shortlisted applicants for aptitude tests, interviews or additional screening.
How to Find Genuine Scholarships in Nigeria
Students should be careful when searching for scholarships online.
A genuine opportunity should have identifiable information about:
- The sponsor
- Eligibility requirements
- Application process
- Deadline
- Official contact information
- Selection process
The safest approach is to trace the opportunity back to the organization responsible for it.
For government scholarships, start with the Federal Ministry of Education.
For PTDF scholarships, use the PTDF Scholarship Portal.
For MTN scholarships, use MTN Foundation’s scholarship page.
For company-sponsored scholarships, go directly to the company’s official website.
Scholarship Scams Nigerian Students Should Avoid
Fake scholarship advertisements are common on social media and messaging platforms.
Be cautious when you see an opportunity that:
- Has no identifiable sponsor
- Uses an unofficial application website
- Promises guaranteed selection
- Requests your bank password or PIN
- Demands an unexplained registration fee
- Uses only a WhatsApp number for applications
- Has no clear eligibility requirements
- Claims a scholarship is still open years after its original deadline
A scholarship should not be considered genuine simply because thousands of people have shared it online.
Always verify it with the organisation responsible for the programme.
Do Scholarships in Nigeria Require Payment?
Not necessarily.
Many legitimate scholarship programmes have no application fee. Applicants should therefore be cautious when an unfamiliar website asks for money to access an application form.
The important thing is to check the sponsor’s official instructions.
Never pay an individual claiming that they can guarantee scholarship selection.
Tips for Winning a Scholarship
There is no guaranteed formula for winning a scholarship, but you can improve the quality of your applications.
Maintain Good Academic Results
Many scholarship programmes are merit-based.
Apply Early
Do not wait until the final day.
Follow Instructions
An otherwise qualified applicant can lose an opportunity by failing to submit a required document.
Prepare a Good Personal Statement
Where one is required, explain your academic goals, career plans and why the scholarship matters to you.
Keep Your Documents Ready
Having your transcript, certificates and identification documents available makes it easier to apply quickly.
Apply for Multiple Suitable Opportunities
You do not have to rely on a single scholarship.
However, only apply where you genuinely meet the requirements.
Can a Student Apply for More Than One Scholarship?
Yes, students can apply for multiple scholarships if they meet the eligibility requirements.
However, some programmes may have rules concerning applicants who already receive another scholarship.
Read the terms before accepting more than one award.
Do not provide false information simply to qualify for multiple programmes.
Are Scholarships in Nigeria Fully Funded?
No.
The term “scholarship” does not automatically mean that every educational expense will be covered.
A programme may provide:
- Tuition
- Annual educational allowance
- Monthly stipend
- Books allowance
- Accommodation
- Transportation support
- Research funding
Some only provide a fixed annual payment.
For example, the Federal Ministry of Education’s 2026/2027 Morocco scholarship announcement states that the programme covers tuition and a monthly stipend of 750 Moroccan Dirham, while selected nominees are responsible for airfare, accommodation, feeding and other expenses.
Always read the funding details before accepting an offer.
If you are looking for a specific undergraduate scholarship rather than a general list, you can also explore our detailed guides on Scholarships for Nigerian Undergraduates 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best scholarships in Nigeria in 2026?
Some major opportunities include the Federal Government Scholarship Award, PTDF Scholarship, MTN Foundation Scholarships, NLNG scholarships, NAE Postgraduate Scholarship, state government scholarships and international scholarship programmes.
The best option for you depends on your course, academic level and eligibility.
Are there scholarships for undergraduate students in Nigeria?
Yes. Undergraduate students can apply for federal, state, corporate, university and foundation scholarships.
Are there scholarships for postgraduate students?
Yes. Master’s and PhD students can explore PTDF, Federal Government, NLNG, NAE, Commonwealth, university and other postgraduate scholarship opportunities.
Can Nigerians get scholarships to study abroad?
Yes. Nigerian students can apply for international scholarships offered by foreign governments, universities and international organisations.
The Federal Ministry of Education publishes some international opportunities available to Nigerian applicants.
Which scholarship pays ₦300,000 in Nigeria?
The MTN Foundation currently lists scholarships worth ₦300,000 annually, including its Science and Technology Scholarship, Scholarship for Blind Students and Top 10 UTME Scholarship.
Does PTDF offer undergraduate scholarships?
Yes. PTDF’s 2026/2027 In-Country Scholarship Scheme includes undergraduate, Master’s and PhD awards in Nigerian public universities for approved courses.
Where can I find genuine scholarships in Nigeria?
Start with official government websites, university websites and the official websites of companies and foundations offering scholarships.
The Federal Ministry of Education, PTDF, MTN Foundation and NLNG are examples of organisations with official scholarship information available online.
Do I have to pay to apply for a scholarship?
Not always. Many scholarship programmes do not require an application fee. Always check the sponsor’s official instructions and avoid paying individuals who promise to secure selection.
More Opportunities for Students
NigeriaOpportunities.com is a trusted source of opportunities for Nigerian students, graduates and young professionals. We publish information about scholarships, SIWES placements, internships, training programmes, jobs, grantsand other opportunities that can help Nigerians develop their education and careers.
Keep checking NigeriaOpportunities.com for new opportunities and verified updates.
Conclusion
There are several Scholarships in Nigeria 2026 for students at different stages of their education. The strongest approach is to identify programmes that match your course, academic level and circumstances rather than applying for every scholarship advertisement you find online.
Federal Government scholarships, PTDF, MTN Foundation, NLNG, NAE, state governments, universities and international organisations all provide routes that Nigerian students can explore.
Start preparing your documents early, monitor official scholarship portals and keep track of application deadlines. Most importantly, verify every opportunity before submitting your personal information.
A scholarship can reduce the financial burden of tertiary education significantly, but finding a genuine opportunity requires careful research and attention to the sponsor’s official requirements.
