Scholarships for Nigerian Undergraduates 2026

Scholarships for Nigerian Undergraduates 2026

Scholarships for Nigerian Undergraduates 2026 are available from the Federal Government, private companies, foundations, universities and foreign governments. These scholarships can help eligible students pay for tuition, books, accommodation, living expenses and other costs associated with tertiary education.

Some opportunities are open to students in specific courses, while others are based on academic performance, disability, state of origin or other eligibility conditions.

For 2026, Nigerian undergraduates can explore programmes such as the Federal Government Scholarship Award, PTDF Undergraduate Scholarship, MTN Foundation Scholarships, NLNG Undergraduate Scholarship and international undergraduate awards.

This guide brings together major opportunities undergraduate students can consider, including their eligibility requirements, benefits and official application channels.

Best Scholarships for Nigerian Undergraduates in 2026

The following are some of the scholarship programmes Nigerian undergraduate students should consider in 2026.

1. Federal Government Scholarship Award

The Federal Government Scholarship Award is one of the major scholarship programmes available to Nigerian undergraduate students.

The programme is administered by the Federal Ministry of Education through its scholarship administration department. The Federal Scholarship Board’s responsibilities include implementing local and foreign scholarship awards for deserving Nigerian undergraduate and postgraduate students.

The Federal Government recently increased the value of its national scholarship awards.

For undergraduate students, the revised Nigerian Scholarship Award provides ₦450,000 annually, compared with the previous ₦300,000 award. The revised structure also includes specific support for STEMM, medical and vocational programmes.

Students should check the official Federal Ministry of Education website for the latest application announcement, eligibility requirements and deadline.

Federal Ministry of Education

2. PTDF Undergraduate Scholarship 2026/2027

The Petroleum Technology Development Fund (PTDF) operates an In-Country Scholarship Scheme for eligible Nigerian students.

For the 2026/2027 academic session, PTDF invited qualified Nigerians to apply for undergraduate, Master’s and PhD scholarships in Nigerian public universities. Applicants must have a National Identification Number (NIN), among other requirements.

The undergraduate scheme covers selected disciplines related to PTDF’s mandate, including areas such as engineering, computer science, information technology, cybersecurity, renewable energy and other approved fields.

Applications are submitted through the PTDF Scholarship Management Portal.

PTDF Scholarship Portal

If you are specifically searching for this opportunity, see our detailed PTDF Undergraduate Scholarship 2026 guide.

3. MTN Foundation Science and Technology Scholarship

The MTN Foundation Science and Technology Scholarship is one of the better-known private scholarship opportunities for Nigerian undergraduates.

The programme is available to eligible students studying science and technology-related courses in Nigerian public tertiary institutions.

The scholarship covers students in universities, teaching hospitals, polytechnics and colleges of education. The award is ₦300,000 annually and can continue until graduation when recipients satisfy the required academic and other conditions.

Eligible fields include areas within:

  • Science
  • Technology
  • Engineering
  • Mathematics
  • Medicine and related disciplines

MTN increased the number of new scholarship opportunities from 400 to 500 in 2026, with additional places allocated to medical students.

MTN Foundation Scholarships

4. MTN Foundation Scholarship for Blind Students

The MTN Foundation Scholarship for Blind Students is designed to support eligible blind students studying in Nigerian public tertiary institutions.

Unlike the Science and Technology Scholarship, this programme is not limited to science-related courses.

The current MTN scholarship information states that eligible blind students in universities, polytechnics and colleges of education can receive ₦300,000 annually. The award is renewable until graduation, subject to the required academic standards.

This provides an important funding option for students who may not qualify for course-specific scholarships.

MTN Scholarships

5. MTN Foundation Top 10 UTME Scholarship

The MTN Foundation Top 10 UTME Scholarship is targeted at the candidates who achieve the highest UTME scores as announced by JAMB.

The selected candidates automatically qualify for the scholarship.

Each recipient receives ₦300,000 annually from 100 level through graduation, subject to meeting the required conditions. The scholarship is available regardless of the student’s preferred course or whether the student attends a public or private Nigerian tertiary institution.

Unlike many undergraduate scholarships, students do not apply through the usual competitive scholarship application process. Qualification is tied to being among the top 10 UTME candidates announced by JAMB.

6. NLNG Undergraduate Scholarship

Nigeria LNG Limited operates an Undergraduate Scholarship Scheme for Nigerian students.

NLNG’s scholarship platform currently lists three main programmes:

  • Post-Primary Scholarship Scheme
  • Undergraduate Scholarship Scheme
  • Postgraduate Scholarship Scheme

The undergraduate programme is specifically relevant to students already pursuing tertiary education.

Applicants should monitor the official NLNG scholarship platform for the current undergraduate application window, requirements and selection process.

NLNG Scholarships Portal

7. Federal Government Bilateral Education Agreement Scholarship

The Federal Government also facilitates international scholarship opportunities through Bilateral Education Agreement (BEA) arrangements.

The Federal Scholarship Board is responsible for implementing Nigeria’s commitments under bilateral and multilateral scholarship agreements.

For the 2026/2027 academic year, the Federal Ministry of Education published undergraduate opportunities involving countries including Morocco and Serbia.

The requirements vary by country and programme.

Students should check the current Federal Ministry of Education announcement before preparing an application.

8. Morocco Undergraduate Scholarship 2026/2027

The Government of Morocco offered undergraduate scholarship opportunities to eligible Nigerian students for the 2026/2027 academic year.

According to the Federal Ministry of Education, the scholarship covers tuition fees and a monthly stipend of 750 Moroccan Dirham. However, selected nominees are responsible for expenses such as airfare, accommodation, feeding and other costs.

The 2026/2027 application deadline published by the ministry was 15 July 2026.

Although that deadline has passed, the programme is worth knowing about because future editions may be announced.

9. Government of Serbia Scholarship

The Government of Serbia also offered scholarships for Nigerian students for the 2026/2027 academic year.

The programme covers both undergraduate and postgraduate studies. The Federal Ministry of Education stated that tuition was covered, while selected nominees were responsible for airfare, accommodation, feeding and other expenses.

The published deadline for the 2026/2027 round was 26 June 2026.

Students interested in future editions should monitor official announcements from the Federal Ministry of Education and the Serbian authorities.

Scholarships for Different Undergraduate Courses

Not every scholarship is available to every student.

Your course can determine which programmes you qualify for.

Scholarships for Engineering Students

Engineering students can explore:

  • PTDF Undergraduate Scholarship
  • MTN Science and Technology Scholarship
  • Federal Government Scholarship
  • University scholarships
  • Corporate scholarships
  • International scholarships

PTDF’s 2026/2027 scholarship scheme includes several engineering-related disciplines among its approved areas.

Scholarships for Computer Science and IT Students

Students studying Computer Science, Information Technology and related fields can also find scholarship opportunities.

PTDF’s 2026/2027 In-Country Scholarship Scheme includes Computer Science, Information Technology and Cybersecurity among its sponsored areas.

Other options include the MTN Science and Technology Scholarship and general undergraduate awards.

Scholarships for Medical Students

Medical students should pay particular attention to scholarships that specifically recognise medical and health-related courses.

The Federal Government’s revised scholarship structure includes undergraduate awards for medicine, dentistry, surgery, nursing and physiotherapy.

MTN also increased its scholarship opportunities in 2026, with additional slots specifically allocated to medical students.

Scholarships for Science Students

Students studying science-related disciplines can consider:

  • MTN Science and Technology Scholarship
  • Federal Government Scholarship
  • PTDF, where the course appears on the approved list
  • University scholarships
  • International awards

Always check the approved course list before applying.

Undergraduate Scholarship Requirements

Requirements vary between programmes, but applicants may be asked to provide:

  • Admission letter
  • Student identification card
  • Matriculation number
  • Academic transcript or results
  • Recent passport photograph
  • Valid means of identification
  • National Identification Number
  • Certificate of origin
  • Local government identification
  • Birth certificate or age declaration
  • NYSC documents where applicable to a particular programme

Some scholarships also impose CGPA requirements.

For PTDF’s 2026/2027 In-Country Scholarship Scheme, applicants are required to have a NIN before applying.

MTN also requires scholarship recipients to maintain specified academic standards and complete required digital courses for renewal.

How to Apply for Undergraduate Scholarships in Nigeria

The process depends on the scholarship provider, but students can follow these general steps.

Step 1: Find a Suitable Scholarship

Check the course, level, institution, academic requirements and other eligibility conditions.

Step 2: Read the Guidelines

Do not rely on the scholarship title alone.

Read the official guidelines before beginning the application.

Step 3: Prepare Your Documents

Keep clear copies of your admission letter, student ID, academic records and other required documents.

Step 4: Visit the Official Portal

Apply through the website provided by the scholarship sponsor.

Avoid application links forwarded through random WhatsApp groups unless you can verify them on the sponsor’s official website.

Step 5: Complete the Form

Provide accurate information.

Your details should match your academic and identification documents.

Step 6: Upload Your Documents

Follow the specified file format and size requirements.

Step 7: Submit Before the Deadline

Keep evidence of submission after completing your application.

Step 8: Monitor Your Email and Portal

Some scholarships conduct screening tests, interviews or additional verification.

How to Find Genuine Undergraduate Scholarships

Students should verify scholarship information before submitting their personal details.

The easiest way is to trace the opportunity to the organisation responsible for it.

For Federal Government scholarships, check the Federal Ministry of Education.

Federal Ministry of Education Scholarship Information

For PTDF scholarships, use the official PTDF scholarship portal.

PTDF Scholarship Management Portal

For MTN scholarships, use MTN Nigeria’s official scholarship page.

MTN Foundation Scholarship Page

For NLNG scholarships, use the official NLNG scholarship platform.

NLNG Scholarships

Are Undergraduate Scholarships Fully Funded?

Not all of them are.

The word “scholarship” does not automatically mean that every educational expense will be paid.

Depending on the programme, an award may cover:

  • Tuition
  • Annual educational expenses
  • Books
  • Accommodation
  • Monthly stipend
  • Transportation
  • Research expenses

For example, the Morocco undergraduate scholarship published by the Federal Ministry of Education covers tuition and a monthly stipend, but selected nominees must cover airfare, accommodation, feeding and other expenses themselves.

The MTN Foundation scholarships, on the other hand, provide a fixed annual award of ₦300,000 to eligible recipients.

Always check what an award actually covers before treating it as a fully funded scholarship.

Can Nigerian Undergraduates Apply for More Than One Scholarship?

Yes, students can apply for multiple scholarships if they meet the eligibility requirements.

However, some scholarship programmes may have restrictions on applicants who already receive another scholarship.

Read the terms and conditions of each programme before accepting an award.

Do not provide false information about an existing scholarship simply to qualify for another one.

Common Mistakes Students Should Avoid

Applying Without Checking Eligibility

A scholarship may be restricted to a particular level, course, institution or CGPA.

Using an Old Application Link

Scholarship portals and deadlines change.

Always confirm that the application is for the current academic year.

Ignoring Your CGPA

Some awards require students to maintain a particular academic standard after receiving the initial scholarship.

Waiting Until the Deadline

Technical problems, incomplete documents and website traffic can affect last-minute applications.

Paying Unverified Agents

Do not pay an individual who claims they can guarantee scholarship selection.

Submitting Incorrect Information

Your application should match your official academic and identification records.

Tips for Winning an Undergraduate Scholarship

Meeting the basic requirements does not guarantee selection.

You can improve your chances by:

  • Maintaining strong academic performance
  • Applying early
  • Preparing your documents before applications open
  • Reading the guidelines carefully
  • Applying only for scholarships you qualify for
  • Preparing properly for aptitude tests
  • Providing accurate information
  • Checking your email regularly
  • Keeping evidence of your applications

For competitive scholarships, do not wait until the application opens before preparing.

If you want to see a wider range of opportunities, read our main guide on Scholarships in Nigeria 2026.

That article covers undergraduate, postgraduate, Federal Government, corporate and international scholarship opportunities, making it useful for students who want to compare different funding options.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which scholarships are available for Nigerian undergraduates in 2026?

Major opportunities include the Federal Government Scholarship Award, PTDF Undergraduate Scholarship, MTN Foundation Scholarships, NLNG Undergraduate Scholarship and selected international scholarship programmes.

Which scholarship gives Nigerian students ₦450,000?

The revised Federal Government Nigerian Scholarship Award provides ₦450,000 for eligible undergraduate students.

Which scholarship pays ₦300,000 to Nigerian undergraduates?

MTN Foundation scholarship programmes provide ₦300,000 annually to eligible recipients under its Science and Technology, Scholarship for Blind Students and Top 10 UTME categories.

Can 100-level students apply for scholarships?

Yes, depending on the scholarship. The MTN Top 10 UTME Scholarship, for example, begins from 100 level for qualifying candidates.

Other scholarships may be restricted to 200 level, 300 level or another specified academic level.

Can private university students apply for undergraduate scholarships?

It depends on the programme.

Some scholarships are restricted to public tertiary institutions, while others are open to students in both public and private institutions.

The MTN Top 10 UTME Scholarship is one example that applies regardless of whether the selected candidate attends a public or private Nigerian tertiary institution.

Can an undergraduate student apply for PTDF scholarship?

Yes. PTDF’s 2026/2027 In-Country Scholarship Scheme includes undergraduate awards in Nigerian public universities for approved courses.

Are there scholarships for Nigerian students to study abroad?

Yes. The Federal Ministry of Education publishes international scholarship opportunities for Nigerian applicants, including undergraduate programmes offered through bilateral arrangements.

Where can I find genuine undergraduate scholarships?

Start with official government websites, scholarship portals, university websites and the official websites of corporate sponsors.

Do not depend solely on scholarship lists shared on social media.

More Opportunities for Students

NigeriaOpportunities.com publishes scholarship opportunities, internships, SIWES placements, training programmes, jobs, grants and other opportunities for Nigerian students, graduates and young professionals.

Keep checking NigeriaOpportunities.com for new scholarship announcements and updates.

Conclusion

There are several Scholarships for Nigerian Undergraduates 2026, but each programme has its own eligibility requirements, award structure and application process.

Students should start with scholarships that match their course, academic level and institution. Federal Government awards, PTDF, MTN Foundation, NLNG and international programmes are some of the options worth monitoring.

Do not wait until an application deadline is close before preparing your documents. Keep your academic records available, monitor official scholarship portals and verify every opportunity before submitting your information.

Most importantly, remember that not every scholarship covers all educational expenses. Read the funding terms carefully so you know exactly what the award provides.

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