Paying for higher education in Nigeria can be challenging, especially with rising tuition fees and living expenses. Fortunately, several scholarship opportunities are available in 2025 for students across various disciplines and levels of study.
Whether you're an undergraduate, postgraduate, or seeking international study support, this guide will walk you through the latest verified scholarship programs in Nigeria for 2025, their eligibility criteria, and how to apply.
1. Federal Government Bilateral Education Agreement (BEA) Scholarship
- Sponsor: Federal Ministry of Education
- Level: Undergraduate & Postgraduate
- Destination Countries: Russia, China, Hungary, Egypt, and more
- Eligibility: 5 Distinctions in WAEC/NECO, age 18–35
- Application Deadline: Usually January–March
This scholarship offers Nigerian students the chance to study abroad under international partnerships.
2. NNPC/TotalEnergies National Merit Scholarship
- Sponsor: TotalEnergies in collaboration with NNPC
- Level: Undergraduate
- Fields: All disciplines
- Amount: N150,000 per academic session
- Eligibility: 100-level students in Nigerian universities with excellent O’Level and UTME results
- Deadline: October 2025 (tentative)
3. MTN Foundation Scholarship Scheme
- Sponsor: MTN Nigeria
- Level: Undergraduate
- Fields: Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM)
- Amount: N200,000 annually until graduation
- Eligibility: 2nd-year students with a minimum CGPA of 3.5/5 or its equivalent
- Deadline: Usually between May–July
4. Agbami Medical & Engineering Professionals Scholarship
- Sponsor: Chevron Nigeria Limited
- Level: Undergraduate
- Fields: Medicine, Engineering, and related courses
- Amount: Up to N200,000
- Eligibility: First or second-year students in eligible fields
- Application Opens: Q2 2025
5. Jim Ovia Foundation Scholarship
- Sponsor: Jim Ovia Foundation
- Level: Undergraduate
- Coverage: Full tuition and maintenance allowance
- Eligibility: Academic excellence and leadership potential
- Available to: All Nigerian students in tertiary institutions
6. Shell Nigeria University Scholarship Program
- Sponsor: Shell Petroleum Development Company
- Level: Undergraduate
- Benefit: Annual financial support
- Eligibility: First-year students in accredited Nigerian universities
- Application Period: Usually August–September
7. SEPLAT JV National Scholarship
- Sponsor: SEPLAT Petroleum Development Company
- Level: Undergraduate
- Eligibility: 200-level students in Nigerian universities
- Value: N150,000 annually
- Fields: Science and Engineering preferred
8. NLNG Undergraduate Scholarship
- Sponsor: Nigeria LNG Limited
- Level: Undergraduate
- Amount: N300,000 per session
- Eligibility: Full-time year-one students in public universities with excellent academic records
9. PTDF Overseas Scholarship Scheme
- Sponsor: Petroleum Technology Development Fund
- Level: Master’s & PhD
- Countries: UK, Germany, France, Malaysia
- Eligibility: Academic excellence and relevance to oil and gas sector
- Deadline: Announced annually via PTDF portal
10. DAAD Scholarships for Nigerians
- Sponsor: German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD)
- Level: Postgraduate (Master’s & PhD)
- Eligibility: Nigerian graduates with first-class or second-class upper degrees
- Destination: German universities
How to Apply for Scholarships in Nigeria (2025 Tips)
- Start early – Applications open months in advance.
- Maintain good grades – Most require a strong academic record.
- Prepare supporting documents – Transcripts, ID, recommendation letters.
- Apply to multiple programs – Increases your chances.
- Use official portals only – Avoid scams.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Are there scholarships for SSCE graduates in Nigeria?
Yes. Scholarships like the BEA offer opportunities immediately after WAEC or NECO, especially for international study.
2. Can I apply for more than one scholarship?
Absolutely. Students are encouraged to apply for multiple scholarships to maximize opportunities.
3. Do scholarships cover all my expenses?
Some are full scholarships (covering tuition, accommodation, and allowance), while others are partial.
4. Are private university students eligible?
Some scholarships are exclusive to public institutions, but a few, like Jim Ovia and MTN, may include private universities.
5. What is the best website to find Nigerian scholarships?
Most updates are available on official sponsor websites, the Federal Ministry of Education site, and reliable educational blogs.
Conclusion
2025 is filled with scholarship opportunities for determined Nigerian students. Whether you're studying at home or aspiring to go abroad, there’s a scholarship tailored for you. With the right academic performance and timely application, you can fund your education and achieve your dreams without financial stress.
Stay informed, stay prepared, and apply early. Your journey to a tuition-free academic future could start today.
