Ongoing Scholarships for Nigerian Students and How to Apply
Are you a Nigerian student who wants to be awarded as a beneficiary of a scholarship to study in 2025? Whether you are planning to study locally or internationally, this latest and exhaustive guide to both known and current available scholarships as well as the process to apply has been done and how to apply successfully. As the price of education and living increases, the scholorship is also getting more important.
In this step, you will learn national and international scholarships that are now available to Nigerian students, eligibility criteria, deadlines and some other practical advice in order to enhance your successive rates. The guide can be used by undergraduates, postgraduates as well as secondary school students.
Why Scholarships Matter in 2025
In Nigeria, economic constraints, inflation, and reduced public funding for education have made scholarships an essential lifeline for many students. Scholarships can provide:
- Full or partial tuition coverage
- Living stipends
- Travel and visa support
- Networking and career advancement opportunities
- Global exposure through exchange programs
Most importantly, scholarships offer equal access to quality education regardless of your financial background.
Top Ongoing Scholarships for Nigerian Students in 2025
Let’s explore the major ongoing local and international scholarships open to Nigerian students in 2025:
1. MTN Foundation Scholarship (STEM & Blind Students)
Deadline: August 15, 2025
Level: Undergraduate
Eligibility:
- Nigerian students studying in public tertiary institutions
- Minimum CGPA of 3.5 (2nd year and above)
- Blind students must be in 200 level and above (any discipline)
Benefits:
- ₦200,000 annually until graduation
How to Apply:
- Visit www.mtn.ng/scholarships
- Create an account
- Upload your admission letter, student ID, and transcript
- Submit before the deadline
2. NNPC/SEPLAT Undergraduate Scholarship
Deadline: August 30, 2025
Level: Undergraduate (Second year only)
Eligibility:
- Full-time students in Federal or State universities
- Studying Engineering, Medicine, Accounting, Law, or Sciences
Benefits:
- ₦150,000 annually throughout undergraduate study
How to Apply:
- Visit www.seplatscholarship.com
- Fill out the online form
- Upload valid ID, admission letter, and passport photo
3. Chevron JV National University Scholarship
Deadline: September 10, 2025
Level: Undergraduate
Eligibility:
- Nigerian university students in 200 level
- Minimum CGPA of 3.5 on a 5.0 scale
Benefits:
- Annual scholarship of ₦200,000
How to Apply:
- Apply through scholastica.ng
- Provide academic documents and student ID
International Scholarships for Nigerian Students (Fully Funded)
Many international organizations and governments offer fully funded scholarships to Nigerian students. Here are some top ongoing ones:
4. Chevening UK Government Scholarship
Deadline: November 5, 2025
Level: Master’s Degree
Eligibility:
- Nigerian graduate with 2 years’ work experience
- Strong academic record
- Must return to Nigeria after program
Benefits:
- Full tuition, living stipend, airfare, visa fees
How to Apply:
- Visit www.chevening.org
- Submit personal statement, references, and admission offers
5. DAAD Scholarship (Germany)
Deadline: Varies (September – December 2025)
Level: Master’s and PhD
Eligibility:
- Excellent academic records
- Must have a Bachelor’s degree in related field
- Commitment to return to Nigeria after studies
Benefits:
- Full tuition, monthly stipend, health insurance, travel grants
How to Apply:
- Visit www.daad.de/en
- Find a course and apply with CV, transcript, motivation letter
6. Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program
Deadline: Varies by partner university
Level: Undergraduate & Postgraduate
Eligibility:
- Academically talented but economically disadvantaged students
- Leadership potential
Benefits:
- Full tuition, living allowance, mentorship, and internship opportunities
How to Apply:
- Apply through partner institutions like University of Cape Town, McGill University, or Sciences Po
- Visit mastercardfdn.org/scholarship
7. Fulbright Foreign Student Program (USA)
Deadline: May 2025 (Annually)
Level: Master’s and PhD
Eligibility:
- Bachelor’s degree holder
- Strong academic and leadership skills
Benefits:
- Tuition, airfare, living stipend, and health insurance
How to Apply:
- Visit ng.usembassy.gov/education-culture/fulbright
- Complete online application and upload necessary documents
Scholarships for Secondary School Students in Nigeria
8. NNPC/SNEPCo National Cradle to Career Scholarship
Level: Secondary School (JSS1 – SS3)
Eligibility:
- Outstanding students from low-income backgrounds
Benefits:
- Full boarding tuition in top Nigerian secondary schools
How to Apply:
- Visit Shell Nigeria’s official site during the annual announcement (usually April – June)
9. NLNG Post Primary Scholarship Scheme
Level: Junior Secondary School
Eligibility:
- Indigent pupils with exceptional performance in the National Common Entrance Exam
Benefits:
- Full tuition and accommodation in approved secondary schools
Tips to Win Scholarships: What Every Nigerian Student Should Know
1. Apply Early
Begin your search and application process as early as possible. Some scholarships open 6-12 months before the academic year begins.
2. Focus on Eligibility Criteria
Carefully read each scholarship’s eligibility requirements. Avoid applying for scholarships you clearly don’t qualify for.
3. Tailor Your Personal Statement
Use your personal essay to tell your story, share your goals, and explain how the scholarship will help you give back to Nigeria.
4. Get Strong References
Choose referees who know your academic or leadership strengths. Give them time to write thoughtful recommendations.
5. Keep All Documents Ready
Scan and organize:
- School transcripts
- ID cards
- Admission letters
- CV/resume
- Passport photos
6. Practice for Interviews
Some scholarships, like Chevening, require interviews. Practice commonly asked questions and present yourself confidently.
Common Documents Required for Scholarship Applications
- Academic Transcripts
- Admission Letter
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Personal Statement/Essay
- Recommendation Letters
- Passport Photograph
- Means of Identification (NIN, Voter’s Card, Passport)
Where to Find Legitimate Scholarship Opportunities
- Official Scholarship Websites (e.g., Chevening, DAAD, Fulbright)
- MySchoolInsight.com and other Nigerian education blogs
- University websites (Check the ‘Financial Aid’ section)
- Telegram/WhatsApp Groups for students
- Social Media Pages of embassies and international NGOs
Scholarships Without IELTS for Nigerian Students
Some scholarships allow you to apply without IELTS, especially if your previous education was in English. These include:
- DAAD (for programs that waive IELTS)
- Chinese Government Scholarship
- Turkish Government Scholarship
- Russian Open Doors Scholarship
Conclusion
With dozens of ongoing scholarships available in 2025, now is the best time to apply. Whether you’re an undergraduate, postgraduate, or high school student, there are opportunities out there that match your academic journey and career goals. Don’t let financial barriers stop your dreams.
