Merit-Based Scholarships for Nigerian Students in 2025

Merit-based scholarships remain one of the most prestigious forms of financial aid awarded to students in Nigeria, who demonstrate outstanding academic performance, leadership skills, and dedication.

If you’re a Nigerian student aiming for a scholarship in 2025, several Merit-based scholarships in 2025 such as the MTN foundation scholarship, NNPC & Federal Government scholarships, Chevron scholarships await you!

Merit-based scholarships for Nigerian students are your chance to shine based on your academic, leadership, and extracurricular achievements, no financial need is required.

Unlike need-based scholarships, these scholarships do not consider the financial background of applicants but focus on rewarding excellence.

Let’s explore everything you need to know about merit-based scholarships for Nigerian students in 2025.

What Are Merit-Based Scholarships?

Merit-based scholarships are financial aids awarded to students based on academic performance, leadership, and community contributions. They are highly competitive and help students who excel in specific areas.

These scholarships reward you for your hard work. If you’ve been excelling in school and getting involved in different activities, you’ve got a good shot at these scholarships.

Eligibility of Merit-Based Scholarships for Nigerian Students

Here’s the deal: to qualify, most merit-based scholarships for Nigerian students require:

• Solid Grades: A CGPA of 3.5/4.0 or above (depending on the scholarship).
• Leadership Experience: Ever been a class rep or led a school project? That counts!
• Extracurricular Activities: Sports, volunteering, or community projects show that you’re well-rounded.

The better your grades and involvement, the stronger your application.

How to Apply for Merit-based Scholarships for Nigerian Students

No stress, the application process is straightforward! Here’s how to go about it:

1. Find Scholarships You’re Eligible For: Research the Top 10 Merit-Based Scholarships for Nigerian Students. If you meet the criteria, go for it!

2. Prepare Your Documents: You’ll need your WAEC results, transcripts, letters of recommendation, and a personal statement. Gather these early.

3. Fill Out the Application: Be detailed and make sure to follow every instruction.

4. Submit on Time: Missing a deadline can cost you, so stay ahead of the game!

Top Merit-Based Scholarships for Nigerian Students in 2025

Here are some of the best merit-based scholarships you should consider in 2025:

1. Federal Government Scholarship for Undergraduate Students

1. • What’s Covered: Full tuition, accommodation, and even a stipend.
   • Who Can Apply: Nigerian Undergraduate students in public universities with a minimum of Second Class Upper.
   • Why It’s Great: It’s fully funded and takes care of your major expenses!
   • Where to apply: Click Here

2. MTN Foundation Scholarship

1. • What’s Covered: Full tuition and an annual stipend.
   • Who Can Apply: Nigerian STEM students (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics).
   • Why It’s Great: Great for those wanting to pursue careers in tech and engineering.
   • Where to apply: Click Here

3. Shell Nigeria Scholarship Scheme

1. • What’s Covered: Full tuition and living expenses.
   • Who Can Apply: Nigerian Students in STEM fields (Science, Technology, Engineering,& Mathematics).
   • Why It’s Great: Shell’s scholarship can open the door to amazing career opportunities.
   • Where to apply: Click Here

4. Agbami Medical and Engineering Professionals Scholarship

• • What’s Covered: Full tuition and living support.
  • Who Can Apply: Nigerian Medical and engineering students.
  • Why It’s Great: If you’re pursuing a career in healthcare or engineering, this is the perfect fit!
  • Where to apply: Click Here

5. NNPC Scholarship

• • What’s Covered: Full tuition and financial support.
  • Who Can Apply: Nigerian Students in oil and gas-related fields.
  • Why It’s Great: A solid option for those looking to work in the energy sector.
  • Where to apply: Click Here

Example:

“Chuka, a student from Enugu, received the MTN Foundation Scholarship for his CGPA of 4.5/5.0 and leadership role as the tech club president. This scholarship covered his tuition and allowed him to attend a prestigious tech conference.”

International Scholarships for Nigerian Students in 2025

Dreaming of studying abroad? Here are some amazing merit-based scholarships for Nigerian students who want to study overseas:

1. Chevening Scholarships (UK)

• • What’s Covered: Tuition, travel costs, and a living stipend.
  • Who Can Apply: Nigerian Students with leadership potential and excellent academic records.
  • Why It’s Great: Studying in the UK with all expenses covered is a fantastic opportunity.
  • Where to apply: Click Here

2. Commonwealth Scholarships

• • What’s Covered: Full tuition, airfare, and a living allowance.
  • Who Can Apply: Nigerian Graduate students looking to study in Commonwealth countries.
  • Why It’s Great: You’ll get to experience life in countries like the UK, Canada, and Australia.
  • Where to apply: Click Here

3. Erasmus Mundus Joint Masters Scholarship (EU)

• • What’s Covered: Tuition fees, travel expenses, and living costs.
  • Who Can Apply: Nigerian Postgraduate students looking to study in Europe.
  • Why It’s Great: It’s one of the top European scholarships and provides a unique international experience.
  • Where to apply: Click Here

Tips for Securing a Merit-Based Scholarship in Nigeria

Getting a scholarship isn’t easy, but it’s definitely possible if you approach it the right way. Here are some tips to increase your chances:

1. Maintain Good Grades: Solid grades are key to standing out in any scholarship application.

2. Be Active in School: Leadership and extracurricular activities make your application more competitive. Volunteer or take on roles that show you’re a leader.

3. Apply Early: Don’t wait until the last minute. The earlier you apply, the better your chances of being considered.

4. Craft a Strong Personal Statement: This is your chance to tell your story. Highlight your achievements, goals, and why you deserve the scholarship.

CONCLUSION

Merit-based scholarships are more than just financial aid, they are a recognition of your academic excellence and leadership abilities.

These scholarships provide opportunities for Nigerian students to pursue higher education without the burden of tuition fees.

To secure one, focus on maintaining a high GPA, actively engaging in extracurriculars, and submitting a well-prepared application.

Whether you’re aiming for prestigious programs like the MTN Foundation Scholarship, the Shell Nigeria Scholarship, or the Federal Government Scholarship, your hard work and achievements can open doors to brighter academic and professional futures.

Actionable Tip: Start researching and preparing for these scholarships early to maximize your chances of success in 2025. Keep striving for excellence, and the right scholarship will be within reach.

FAQs on Merit-Based Scholarships for Nigerian Students

1. What GPA do I need to qualify for a merit-based scholarship?

A GPA of 3.5/4.0 is usually required for most scholarships. But some scholarships may have slightly lower requirements if you’re involved in extracurriculars.

2. Do I need WAEC results to apply for scholarships?

Yes, most merit-based scholarships in Nigeria ask for your WAEC results. However, some may prioritize your university performance or achievements.

3. Can I get a scholarship without JAMB?

It’s possible, but most Nigerian scholarships will ask for your JAMB scores. However, many international scholarships don’t require it.

4. How can I stand out in my scholarship application?

Submit your application early, get strong recommendation letters, and make sure your personal statement shines by highlighting your achievements.

5. How can I increase my chances of winning a scholarship?

Focus on maintaining excellent academic records, gaining leadership experience, and applying early with well-prepared documents.

6. Which country gives scholarships to Nigerian students?

Most countries in Europe give scholarships to Nigerian students but the moat predominants areUSA, Canada, UK.

7. How can I get a scholarship to study in the USA from Nigeria?

Apply for ‘The Fulbright Foreign Student Program’ The program allows young professionals, artists, and graduate students from other countries to do research and study in the USA.

8. Which organization gives scholarships in Nigeria?

Shell Scholars, Cheveron, MTN, NNPC etc.

9. Which country is easiest to get full scholarship?

Germany, Greece, Japan, China, Switzerland, the Netherlands, and Korea, are the nations that offer full scholarships to international students easily.

10. How much is a MTN scholarship?

Starting in 2024, the annual award amount has increased from N200,000 to N300,000.