We bring to you undergraduate scholarships because every year, many Nigerian students give up their dreams of going to university because they cannot afford it. Some people have the talent and the admission, but not the money. This is why scholarships are so important. They help students who are serious about school but don’t have enough funds.
When I finished secondary school, I saw how many of my friends could not go further because of money. Some had to pause and work small jobs to gather school fees. Others were waiting for someone to sponsor them. But what many people don’t know is that there are so many scholarships available for Nigerian students every year.
The problem is that most students either don’t hear about them or they apply wrongly.
So, in this post, we want to talk about undergraduate scholarships for Nigerian students for the 2025 and 2026 academic sessions. We will also share what you need to know, how to prepare and how to apply.
Table of Contents
Why Scholarships Are Important
I always tell people that a scholarship can change a person’s life completely. Imagine a student who comes from a poor home, who has to struggle to pay rent, buy textbooks, or even feed well. When that person gets a scholarship, it lifts a big burden off their shoulders. They can focus on studying instead of thinking about money all the time.
Scholarships also encourage hard work. Many programs look at your results before picking you, so it pushes students to do better in school. Another reason scholarships are good is that they give equal chances. Even if you don’t know anyone in government or have rich parents, your good result can still take you far.
Different Types Of Scholarships
Not all scholarships are the same. Before you apply, it’s good to understand the different types available so you know which one fits you best.
• Federal Government Scholarships: These are given by the Nigerian government through the Federal Scholarship Board. They sometimes send students abroad to study or help them in Nigerian universities.
• State Government Scholarships: Some states in Nigeria also give scholarships to students from their state. You can check your state’s scholarship board to know if they are currently giving out forms.
• Private Company Scholarships: Many companies like oil companies, banks, and telecommunication firms sponsor students as part of their community support. Examples are NNPC, Shell, MTN, Agbami, and Seplat.
• University Scholarships: Some schools offer scholarships to their best students, especially those with high CGPA.
• International Scholarships: These are from foreign universities and organizations that allow Nigerian students to study abroad with full or partial funding.
Once you understand these categories, you can easily choose where to focus your effort.
Top Undergraduate Scholarships For Nigerian Students 2025/2026
Now let’s talk about some popular scholarship opportunities you can apply for this 2025/2026. Some are already open, while others open soon.
Federal Government Scholarship
This one is handled by the Federal Scholarship Board under the Ministry of Education. Every year, they announce scholarships for Nigerian students. Some are for local universities, while others are under the Bilateral Education Agreement (BEA), which allows students to study abroad.
If you want to apply for the BEA program, you can study in countries like Russia, Hungary, Egypt, Algeria, and Morocco. You must have good WAEC results, usually with distinctions in major subjects. The age limit is often around 17 to 20 years for undergraduates.
This scholarship is one of the most respected because it is handled by the government. It usually covers tuition, accommodation, and sometimes stipends for living expenses. The only thing is that it is very competitive. You must prepare early, read the advert properly, and meet all the requirements.
Beyond Education Scholarship By Sterling Bank
Sterling Bank started this program to help young Nigerians get full tuition funding for their university education. It is called Beyond Education, and the goal is to support brilliant students who want to further their studies.
The scholarship partners with Miva Open University, a digital university in Nigeria. So, it’s perfect if you don’t want to travel abroad but still want a standard education. They are funding up to 600 undergraduate students with a budget of over 2 billion naira.
The good thing about this scholarship is that it is full tuition, meaning you won’t pay school fees at all. If you love online learning or hybrid classes, this is a great opportunity.
MTN Foundation Scholarship
This is one of the biggest and most popular scholarships in Nigeria. Every year, MTN Foundation selects hundreds of students from Nigerian universities and polytechnics and gives them funding support.
To qualify, you must be studying in an accredited institution and must have a good CGPA, usually 3.5 or above. It is mainly for students in science, technology, and related fields, but they sometimes include other courses too.
The MTN Foundation pays a fixed amount every year to help you cover your fees and other expenses until you graduate. If you maintain your grades, you can continue getting it every year.
NNPC/Seplat Undergraduate Scholarship
This scholarship is sponsored by Seplat Petroleum and the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation. It is open to students in Nigerian universities who are studying specific courses like Engineering, Geology, and other related fields.
You must be a second-year student or above and have a good CGPA. It is a yearly scholarship that covers part of your fees and other costs. It is one of the trusted ones because Seplat has been consistent with it for many years.
Agbami Medical And Engineering Scholarship
This one is for students studying Medicine, Pharmacy, Nursing, and Engineering. It is sponsored by Chevron through its Agbami partners. It has helped thousands of Nigerian students since it started.
If you are studying any of those courses and you maintain a good result, you can apply. The Agbami scholarship covers a good amount every year, and it continues until you finish school if you keep your grades.
Aella Credit Foundation Scholarship
Aella Foundation started giving scholarships to help students from poor homes continue their education. Even though Aella is known for lending services, their foundation arm helps young students with educational grants.
This scholarship may not cover full tuition, but it gives a decent amount that helps with books, fees, or other expenses. It’s easy to apply online and usually requires your admission letter, ID, and school result.
NNPC/SNEPCo National University Scholarship
This is another strong scholarship that many students apply for every year. It is organized by the Shell Nigeria Exploration and Production Company in partnership with NNPC.
The scholarship is open to second-year undergraduates in Nigerian universities studying specific courses like Engineering, Geology, and other science-related programs. You must have a minimum CGPA and be a Nigerian citizen.
The benefit includes yearly financial support throughout your studies, as long as you keep your academic performance strong.
Federal And State Government Bursaries
Apart from national scholarships, many states in Nigeria also offer bursaries or scholarships to their indigenes. For example, states like Lagos, Rivers, Delta, Akwa Ibom, and others have state scholarship boards.
If you are a student from a particular state, you can check your state’s official scholarship board website or office. These bursaries may not be huge, but they help reduce your school expenses.
Common Eligibility Requirements
Most scholarships have similar requirements. So it’s good to know them early before applying.
- You must be a Nigerian citizen.
- You must have good academic performance, usually shown through your CGPA or WAEC results.
- You must be enrolled in an accredited university or have an admission letter.
- Some scholarships focus on specific courses like Engineering, Medicine, or Science.
- Some are only for students in certain levels like 200 or 300 level.
- You must not be enjoying another scholarship at the same time.
- Some may require you to show proof of financial need.
- You must submit all required documents before the deadline.
How To Apply For Scholarships
The process of applying is usually simple, but you must be careful and patient. Here are steps you can follow.
- First, find out which scholarships are open and which ones fit your situation.
- Visit the official website of the scholarship provider. Avoid fake links or social media pages.
- Read the requirements carefully before applying.
- Gather your documents early. This can include WAEC or NECO result, admission letter, passport photograph, student ID, and recommendation letters.
- Write a good personal statement or essay. This is where you tell your story, why you deserve the scholarship, and what you plan to achieve.
- Fill the application form correctly. Make sure your details match your documents.
- Submit before the deadline. Late applications are not accepted.
- After submitting, keep checking your email or the scholarship website for updates.
When writing your personal statement, be honest and simple. You can talk about your background, challenges, dreams, and how the scholarship will help you achieve them. Don’t try to sound too perfect. Just be real.
What Scholarships Usually Cover
Not all scholarships cover the same things. Here’s how they usually differ.
- Some cover only tuition fees.
- Some cover tuition plus books and accommodation.
- Fully funded scholarships cover tuition, living allowance, travel, and everything you need.
- Some also give mentorship or internship opportunities.
When you read the scholarship advert, check what the benefits include so you can plan yourself properly.
FAQs
Can I Apply For More Than One Scholarship?
Yes, you can. But make sure the terms do not stop you from holding more than one at a time.
What If I Don’t Have Admission Yet?
Some scholarships allow students who have just finished secondary school and are waiting for admission. Always check the requirements.
Can I Apply If I Am Already In 200 Level?
Yes. In fact, most scholarships in Nigeria target 200 level and above.
How Will I Know If I Am Chosen?
If you are selected, they will contact you through your email, phone, or the scholarship website. Always check your messages.
Is It Hard To Get A Scholarship?
It can be competitive, but if you apply correctly, write a good essay, and have good results, you have a good chance.
Do I Need To Pay Money To Apply?
No, never. Real scholarships are free to apply for.
Conclusion
Getting a scholarship as a Nigerian student is one of the smartest things you can do for yourself. It helps reduce your financial burden and gives you peace of mind to focus on your studies. Whether it’s a government scholarship, private company, or international one, the opportunity is there if you look for it. Start preparing early. Keep your documents ready. Maintain a good result. Write your essay in your own words. Apply before deadlines. And don’t give up even if you don’t get one the first time. Many people try multiple times before they finally win.
