Postgraduate Scholarships in Nigeria

Postgraduate Scholarships in Nigeria

Introduction

Postgraduate education in Nigeria can open doors to advanced careers, international recognition, and research opportunities. However, one of the major challenges faced by many Nigerian students is funding. To tackle this issue, various postgraduate scholarship schemes both local and international are available to support deserving candidates. These scholarships cover tuition fees, living allowances, research grants, and sometimes international travel.

Whether you’re looking to pursue a Master’s (M.Sc, MBA, MA) or a Doctorate (PhD) degree in Nigeria or abroad, this guide will help you understand the top scholarship opportunities, eligibility requirements, how to apply, and what to expect during the process.

Postgraduate Scholarships in Nigeria

Why Postgraduate Scholarships Matter

Postgraduate scholarships offer more than just financial assistance. They:

1. Promote academic excellence

2. Support cutting-edge research

3. Encourage skill development

4. Bridge educational gaps

5. Provide global exposure and networking opportunities

For underprivileged but talented Nigerians, scholarships offer a rare chance to compete globally, advance their education, and contribute to national development.

Top Postgraduate Scholarships Available to Nigerians (2025/2026)

1. Federal Government Bilateral Education Agreement (BEA) Scholarship

1. Offered by the Federal Ministry of Education in collaboration with countries like Russia, China, Hungary, etc.

2. Open for postgraduate studies (Masters and PhD).

3. Covers full tuition, feeding, living allowances, and travel.

Eligibility:

1. Nigerian citizenship

2. Minimum of Second Class Upper (2:1)

3. Age: typically below 35 years

2. PTDF Postgraduate Scholarship Scheme

The Petroleum Technology Development Fund (PTDF) offers scholarships for postgraduate studies both in Nigeria and abroad in Oil and Gas-related fields.

Categories:

1. Local Postgraduate Scholarship (LPS)

2. Overseas Postgraduate Scholarship (OPS)

Eligibility:

1. First Degree with at least Second Class Upper

2. NYSC certificate

3. Admission to a recognized institution

3. NNPC/Shell Postgraduate Scholarship (UK)

The Shell Nigeria Exploration and Production Company (SNEPCo) offers scholarships for Nigerian students to pursue Master’s degrees in top UK universities.

Coverage:

1. Tuition fees

2. Living expenses

3. Travel costs

4. Agbami Medical and Engineering Professionals Scholarship

Focused on postgraduate students in Medicine, Pharmacy, Engineering, and Sciences.

Eligibility:

• Must be a Nigerian student in a recognized Nigerian university

• Postgraduate level in relevant fields

5. TETFund Academic Staff Training and Development (AST&D)

Targeted at university and polytechnic lecturers for postgraduate training within Nigeria or abroad.

Eligibility:

1. Must be a staff of a government-owned institution

2. Strong academic and research proposal

6. MTN Foundation Scholarships

While popularly known for undergraduate scholarships, MTN also offers postgraduate scholarships under certain programs in technology, computing, and STEM fields.

7. Seplat Energy Postgraduate Scholarship

Offered by Seplat Petroleum Development Company for postgraduate students in Oil and Gas and other STEM-related fields.

Benefits:

1. Covers full tuition for local or international study

2. Offers research support

How to Apply for Postgraduate Scholarships in Nigeria

Step-by-Step Application Guide:

1. Research Available Scholarships:

   • Look for programs that match your field of study.

   • Visit official portals of scholarship providers (like PTDF, FSB, Shell).

2. Meet the Eligibility Requirements:

   • Ensure you have the minimum academic qualification (often 2:1 and above).

   • Get a valid admission letter if required.

3. Prepare Required Documents:

   • Academic transcripts

   • Statement of purpose

   • Recommendation letters

   • Proof of admission (if applicable)

   • Research proposal (for PhD)

4. Apply Online:

   • Fill the application form on the official scholarship website.

   • Upload all required documents.

   • Submit before the deadline.

5. Follow Up:

   • Monitor your email and scholarship portal for updates or interview invitations.

Postgraduate Scholarships in Nigeria

Common Fields Covered in Nigerian Postgraduate Scholarships

1. Engineering and Technology

2. Medicine and Health Sciences

3. Law and Political Science

4. Agriculture and Environmental Sciences

5. Oil & Gas and Energy Studies

6. Economics and Business Management

7. Science and Innovation

8. Education and Humanities

Tips to Secure a Postgraduate Scholarship in Nigeria

1. Start early: Most applications open between January and April.

2. Get strong academic references.

3. Craft a compelling personal statement and research proposal.

4. Apply to multiple scholarships for better chances.

5. Stay updated on official announcements via newspapers or Federal Ministry of Education platforms.

Testimonials from Previous Beneficiaries

Uduak Johnson – PhD in Petroleum Engineering (PTDF Scholar):

“Without PTDF, my PhD dream would’ve been impossible. I completed my program at Imperial College London, fully funded. My family and I are grateful for this opportunity.”

Grace Olawale – Masters in Public Health (Federal BEA Scholar):

“I studied in China under the BEA program. It was life-changing. The cultural exchange, exposure, and academic resources shaped my career forever.”

Chinedu Okafor – MTN Foundation Scholarship Recipient:

“MTN Foundation gave me a second chance after I lost my sponsor. I now work as a data scientist with a multinational in Lagos.”

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I get a scholarship with a Second Class Lower degree?

Some scholarships accept 2:2, especially with strong work or research experience, but most prefer a 2:1 or First Class.

2. Do I need an admission letter before applying?

Yes, for many postgraduate scholarships, an admission letter (especially for international programs) is required.

3. Are these scholarships renewable yearly?

Most are renewable annually upon meeting academic performance benchmarks.

4. Can I apply for more than one scholarship at the same time?

Yes, you can apply for multiple scholarships. If selected for more than one, you’ll choose the best fit.

5. What’s the best time to apply?

Start preparing by November of the previous year. Application periods typically run from January to April, depending on the provider.

Conclusion

Pursuing a postgraduate degree doesn’t have to be an unachievable dream for Nigerians. With the right information, preparation, and persistence, students can access fully funded scholarships that cover everything from tuition to living costs.

The 2025/2026 academic year offers an abundance of opportunities for determined Nigerians ready to advance their education. Whether it’s through the PTDF, BEA, Shell, or Seplat, there’s a scholarship out there for you. Stay focused, apply early, and never give up. Your academic journey could be fully funded.