Getting a university education in Nigeria can be expensive. Many students struggle to pay for school fees, textbooks, accommodation, and other costs. But there is good news. Scholarships can help students pay for their education.
Scholarships are free money given to students. You do not have to pay them back. Many organizations, government bodies, and private companies give scholarships to help students. Some scholarships cover full tuition, while others provide partial funding.
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This blog post will explain everything you need to know about undergraduate scholarships in Nigeria in 2025. You will learn about different types of scholarships, who can apply, how to apply, and tips to increase your chances of winning.
Types of Scholarships for Nigerian Undergraduates
There are different types of scholarships available for undergraduate students in Nigeria. These scholarships are given based on different factors.
1. Merit-Based Scholarships: These scholarships are given to students with high academic performance. If you have excellent results in WAEC, NECO, or JAMB, you can apply for these scholarships.
2. Need-Based Scholarships: These scholarships are for students from poor backgrounds. If your parents cannot afford to pay for your education, you can apply for this type of scholarship.
3. Government Scholarships: The Nigerian government and state governments provide scholarships for students. Some are fully funded, while others cover only tuition fees.
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4. Private and Company Scholarships: Many big companies in Nigeria offer scholarships to students. These include oil companies, banks, and telecommunications companies.
5. International Scholarships: Some international organizations and foreign governments offer scholarships to Nigerian students. Some allow students to study in Nigeria, while others offer opportunities to study abroad.
Top Undergraduate Scholarships in Nigeria 2025
Many scholarships are available for Nigerian students in 2025. Below are some of the best scholarships you can apply for.
1. Federal Government Scholarship
The Nigerian Federal Government offers scholarships to students through the Federal Ministry of Education. The scholarship covers tuition fees, accommodation, and a small allowance for books and other expenses.
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Who can apply: Nigerian students in any public university, polytechnic, or college of education.
How to apply: Visit the website of the Federal Scholarship Board and fill out the application form online.
2. State Government Scholarships
Many state governments offer scholarships to students from their states. Each state has different requirements and application processes. Some states give full scholarships, while others give partial funding.
Who can apply: Students who are indigenes of the state offering the scholarship.
How to apply: Check the official website of your state government or visit the state scholarship board office.
3. NNPC/Total Scholarship
TotalEnergies, in partnership with NNPC, offers scholarships to Nigerian undergraduate students. The scholarship covers tuition and other expenses.
Who can apply: Full-time students in Nigerian universities, especially those studying engineering, medicine, and science courses.
How to apply: Visit the TotalEnergies website and complete the online application form.
4. MTN Foundation Scholarship
MTN Nigeria gives scholarships to outstanding students in science and technology courses. The scholarship covers tuition and other expenses.
Who can apply: 300-level students in public universities, polytechnics, and colleges of education with a CGPA of 3.5 and above.
How to apply: Apply on the MTN Foundation website when applications open.
5. Agbami Medical and Engineering Scholarship
This scholarship is for students studying medicine, nursing, pharmacy, and engineering. It is sponsored by Chevron and its partners.
Who can apply: Full-time students in medical and engineering fields in Nigerian universities.
How to apply: Visit the Agbami scholarship website and apply online.
6. Shell Scholarship (SPDC)
Shell Nigeria offers scholarships to undergraduate students in Nigeria. The scholarship covers tuition and other expenses.
Who can apply: Students in public universities studying engineering, geosciences, and related courses.
How to apply: Apply on the Shell scholarship website.
7. Jim Ovia Foundation Scholarship
The Jim Ovia Foundation provides scholarships to bright students across Nigeria. The scholarship covers tuition and other expenses.
Who can apply: Nigerian students in accredited universities.
How to apply: Visit the Jim Ovia Foundation website and apply online.
8. NLNG Scholarship
Nigeria LNG Limited (NLNG) offers scholarships to high-performing Nigerian students. The scholarship covers full tuition and other academic expenses.
Who can apply: Full-time undergraduate students in Nigerian universities.
How to apply: Apply through the NLNG website when applications open.
9. Seplat JV Scholarship
Seplat Petroleum, in partnership with NNPC, offers scholarships to students in Nigerian universities.
Who can apply: Undergraduate students in Nigerian universities, especially those studying engineering and science-related courses.
How to apply: Visit the Seplat Petroleum website and apply online.
10. Guinness Nigeria Scholarship
Guinness Nigeria offers scholarships to students in Nigerian universities and polytechnics. The scholarship covers tuition fees.
Who can apply: Students in Nigerian universities and polytechnics.
How to apply: Apply through the Guinness Nigeria website.
How to Apply for Scholarships in Nigeria
Applying for scholarships requires careful planning and attention to detail. Below are the steps to apply successfully.
1. Research Available Scholarships: Look for scholarships that match your course of study and academic qualifications.
2. Check Eligibility: Each scholarship has different requirements. Make sure you meet the requirements before applying.
3. Prepare Required Documents: Common documents needed include:
• WAEC/NECO result
• JAMB result
• Admission letter
• School ID card
• Birth certificate
• Local government identification
• Academic transcript (if required)
4. Fill the Application Form: Visit the scholarship website and complete the online application form correctly.
5. Write a Strong Personal Statement: Some scholarships require a personal statement or essay. Write about your achievements, goals, and why you deserve the scholarship.
6. Submit Before the Deadline: Ensure you apply before the deadline to avoid missing the opportunity.
7. Prepare for Scholarship Exams or Interviews: Some scholarships require an exam or interview. Study hard and be ready.
How To Win a Scholarship In Nigeria
Many students apply for scholarships, but only a few get selected. Follow these tips to improve your chances.
1. Apply for Many Scholarships: Do not apply for only one scholarship. Apply for as many as possible to increase your chances.
2. Maintain Good Grades: Most scholarships require excellent academic performance. Study hard and get good grades.
3. Write a Strong Essay: If an essay is required, make it unique and compelling. Show why you deserve the scholarship.
4. Follow Instructions: Read and follow all instructions carefully when applying. Mistakes can lead to disqualification.
5. Apply Early: Do not wait until the deadline to apply. Early applications have a better chance of being reviewed properly.
6. Get Good Recommendations: Some scholarships require recommendation letters. Ask your teachers or mentors for strong recommendations.
7. Be Honest: Do not provide false information. If you are caught, you will be disqualified.
8. Check Your Email Regularly: Scholarship providers may contact you through email. Always check your inbox for updates.
Frequently Questions About Undergraduate scholarships in Nigeria 2025
Who can apply for undergraduate scholarships in Nigeria?
Most scholarships are for Nigerian students studying in universities, polytechnics, or colleges of education. Some scholarships are based on academic performance, while others are for students from low-income families.
Are there scholarships for students in private universities?
Yes, some scholarships are open to students in private universities, such as the Jim Ovia Foundation Scholarship.
How do I know if I am eligible for a scholarship?
Each scholarship has its own requirements. Some look at your academic performance, while others check your financial background. Read the scholarship guidelines carefully before applying.
How can I apply for a scholarship?
Most scholarship applications are done online. Visit the scholarship provider’s website, fill out the application form, and upload the required documents before the deadline.
Do I need to write an exam for a scholarship?
Some scholarships require an exam or interview, while others are awarded based on your academic results and documents.
Can I apply for more than one scholarship?
Yes, you can apply for multiple scholarships to increase your chances. However, some scholarships do not allow students to hold more than one award at a time.
Conclusion
Scholarships are a great way to get financial support for your university education in Nigeria. Many scholarships are available for undergraduate students in 2025.
To increase your chances of winning, research available scholarships, meet the requirements, apply early, and submit strong applications.
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