Education in Nigeria is becoming more expensive every year, and many students are struggling to pay tuition fees or buy school materials. Because of this, scholarships have become a major lifeline for students who want to further their studies without financial stress.
Scholarships are awards given to students to support their education. Some are fully funded, which means they cover all costs such as tuition, accommodation, and books. Others are partial, covering only a part of the expenses.
In Nigeria, scholarships are offered by the federal and state governments, private companies, international organizations, and NGOs. Whether you are a secondary school leaver, undergraduate, or postgraduate student, there are opportunities available if you know where to look and how to apply.
This guide explains how you can get a scholarship to study in Nigeria and lists the top 10 scholarships available for Nigerian students.
Types of Scholarships in Nigeria
Before applying, it is important to know the main types of scholarships available in Nigeria. They include:
1. Government Scholarships
The Nigerian government, through agencies like the Federal Ministry of Education, provides scholarships for students studying both in Nigeria and abroad. Many state governments also give scholarships to indigenes studying in their states or elsewhere in Nigeria.
2. Private Organization Scholarships
Many private companies like Shell, MTN, NNPC, Agbami, and Chevron provide scholarships to help Nigerian students, especially those in science, engineering, and technology-related fields.
3. NGO and Foundation Scholarships
Non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and foundations such as Jim Ovia Foundation and Tony Elumelu Foundation also sponsor scholarships to support education and youth development.
4. University Scholarships
Some Nigerian universities give scholarships or tuition discounts to their best-performing students or students from financially challenged backgrounds.
5. International Scholarships
There are also foreign scholarship opportunities that Nigerian students can benefit from, such as Commonwealth Scholarships, Chevening Scholarships, and Mastercard Foundation Scholarships.
How to Get a Scholarship to Study in Nigeria
Getting a scholarship in Nigeria requires proper planning and preparation. Here are simple steps to follow:
Step 1: Start Early
Most scholarships have strict deadlines. Begin searching for scholarship opportunities at least six months before the academic session starts.
Step 2: Maintain Good Grades
Most scholarships are based on merit. Having a strong academic record increases your chances of being selected. Try to maintain a CGPA of at least 3.5 or above if you are a university student.
Step 3: Prepare All Necessary Documents
Common documents include:
Admission letter
School ID card
Academic transcript or WAEC result
Birth certificate
State of origin certificate
Recommendation letters
Having these ready will make your application process smoother.
Step 4: Apply to Multiple Scholarships
Don’t depend on one scholarship alone. Apply to as many as you qualify for. This increases your chances of success.
Step 5: Write a Good Scholarship Essay
Many scholarship applications require you to write a personal statement or essay. Use it to tell your story — your background, achievements, and why you deserve the award. Be honest and passionate.
Step 6: Stay Updated
Follow official websites, education blogs, and scholarship platforms like Zonahub.com, Scholastica.ng, and OpportunitiesForAfricans.com to get the latest updates on scholarships.
Benefits of Getting a Scholarship in Nigeria
There are many benefits to winning a scholarship. Some of them include:
Financial relief: Scholarships reduce or remove the cost of education.
Academic motivation: Knowing that your efforts are recognized encourages you to work harder.
Career advantage: Being a scholarship recipient can make your CV stand out when applying for jobs.
Networking: Some scholarship programs connect you with mentors and professionals who can help you grow.
Access to better opportunities: Some scholarships come with internship programs, training, or study trips abroad.
Getting a scholarship does more than pay school fees — it opens doors to greater opportunities in life.
Top 10 Scholarships in Nigeria
Here are the top 10 popular scholarships Nigerian students should consider:
1. Federal Government Scholarship Awards
Offered by the Federal Ministry of Education to undergraduate and postgraduate students in Nigerian universities, polytechnics, and colleges of education.
2. NNPC/Total Energies Scholarship
This scholarship supports Nigerian undergraduate students studying in accredited universities across the country, especially in engineering, sciences, and social sciences.
3. MTN Foundation Scholarship
The MTN Foundation offers scholarships to high-performing students in science and technology-related courses in public universities, polytechnics, and colleges of education.
4. Shell Petroleum Development Company (SPDC) Scholarship
Shell provides both National Merit Awards and Areas of Operation Awards to students in Nigerian universities. It targets students from Niger Delta and other regions.
5. Agbami Medical and Engineering Scholarship
This program supports university students studying Medicine, Dentistry, Pharmacy, Engineering, and Nursing across Nigeria.
6. Jim Ovia Foundation Scholarship
Funded by philanthropist Jim Ovia, this scholarship helps bright but less privileged students across Nigeria to achieve their educational dreams.
7. Chevron Scholarship
Chevron Nigeria Limited offers scholarships to undergraduate students studying engineering, geology, and related courses.
8. SEPLAT Joint Venture Scholarship
The SEPLAT Scholarship program provides annual grants to qualified undergraduate students studying in Nigerian universities.
9. NLNG Undergraduate Scholarship
Nigeria LNG Limited supports undergraduates in Nigerian universities with financial aid for the duration of their study.
10. State Government Scholarships
Many states like Lagos, Rivers, Anambra, and Delta offer scholarships to students who are indigenes of their states. Check your state scholarship board for details.
Common Mistakes Students Make When Applying for Scholarships
Many Nigerian students lose scholarship opportunities not because they are not qualified but because of simple mistakes during the application process. Here are the most common ones you should avoid:
1. Missing Deadlines
One of the biggest mistakes is waiting until the last day to apply. Many students miss out simply because they didn’t submit on time. Always check the deadline and aim to apply at least a week before it closes.
2. Submitting Incomplete Documents
Scholarship committees usually disqualify applications that lack required documents. Before you click “submit,” make sure you have uploaded everything requested — ID, certificates, recommendation letters, or transcripts.
3. Using One Essay for All Applications
Each scholarship has its own purpose and goals. Avoid copying and pasting the same essay for every scholarship. Instead, write each essay to match what that particular organization is looking for.
4. Ignoring Instructions
Always read the scholarship guidelines carefully. Some scholarships are for specific states, courses, or levels of study. Applying for what you don’t qualify for wastes your time and may even affect future chances.
5. Lack of Proofreading
Your scholarship essay or form must be free from grammatical and spelling errors. Poor writing can make your application look careless. Always proofread or ask someone else to help you review it before submission.
Tips to Increase Your Chances of Winning a Scholarship
Winning a scholarship is competitive, but you can stand out with the right approach. Below are tested tips that can help:
1. Focus on Academic Excellence
Most scholarship programs in Nigeria are merit-based. Try to keep your grades consistently high. For undergraduates, maintaining a CGPA of 3.5 and above gives you an edge.
2. Participate in Extracurricular Activities
Some scholarship providers also consider leadership and community service. Join clubs, student associations, or volunteer projects — they show you’re responsible and motivated.
3. Build a Strong Online Profile
Organizations sometimes check your social media or LinkedIn profile. Keep your posts clean and professional. You can also create an account on platforms like Zonahub.com to stay updated and showcase your achievements.
4. Network with Former Scholarship Winners
Connecting with people who have already won scholarships can give you real insight into the process. Join student forums, Telegram groups, or Facebook pages where scholarship updates are shared.
5. Apply Consistently
Some students apply once, don’t get picked, and give up. The truth is, most successful applicants tried more than once before winning. Keep applying persistence pays off.
FAQ on Scholarships in Nigeria
Can I get a scholarship in Nigeria without high grades?
Yes, some scholarships are need-based or for specific groups like people with disabilities or those from underprivileged backgrounds. However, most scholarships still require you to show commitment and decent academic performance.
How can I find genuine scholarship opportunities?
Stick to trusted websites and platforms like:
Zonahub.com – regularly updates verified scholarship lists
Scholastica.ng – used by major organizations like NNPC and Shell
Opportunity Desk and Scholars4Dev – post both local and international scholarships
Avoid any website that asks you to pay money to get a scholarship. Genuine scholarships are always free.
Can I apply for more than one scholarship at a time?
Yes, and you should. There’s no rule stopping you from applying for multiple scholarships. If you’re lucky to win more than one, you can choose the best one for you.
Are there scholarships for postgraduate students in Nigeria?
Yes. Several scholarships support postgraduate studies, such as the Federal Government Scholarship, PTDF Scholarship, and Chevron Postgraduate Awards. You can also apply for foreign postgraduate scholarships if you plan to study abroad.
When is the best time to apply for scholarships?
The best time to start searching is between January and May, as most scholarship applications open during the first half of the year. However, some opportunities are available all year round, especially from NGOs and foundations.
Final Thoughts
Scholarships in Nigeria can change your academic journey completely. They remove financial burdens, motivate you to excel, and connect you with amazing opportunities both locally and internationally.
To succeed, you need to be intentional research regularly, keep your documents ready, maintain good grades, and never stop applying.
Websites like Zonahub.com are making it easier for students to find and apply for verified scholarship opportunities in Nigeria. So if you’re serious about studying without stress, start today — your dream scholarship might just be one click away.
