Tuition fees for Nigerian tertiary institutions may not always break the bank or our pockets, but affordability remains a pressing concern for a number of undergraduates and their parents as the minimum wage is 33,000 naira. Apart from the tuition fee, there are other fees required for accommodation, upkeep, dues, and purchase of educational materials.
Nobody would say no to a little financial help to ease the burden of tuition and daily expenses while pursuing educational dreams. But is venturing into student loans -thanks to this new administration- the best bet? Normally taking loans from online apps can cause nightmares, and many are discouraged from taking government loans.
That is enough to make anyone rethink their choices but again, why tread the treacherous path of loans when there are free Nigerian scholarships available? Yes, you heard it right – there are Nigerian scholarships, especially for ambitious undergraduate students like you.
In this article, we have meticulously curated a selection of some Nigerian scholarships that can pave the way to your academic success. Keep reading.
Read Also: Google offers 1,000 scholarships to Africans to celebrate International SMB Month
Oil and Gas Nigerian Scholarships
In Nigeria, the allure of the oil and gas industry goes hand in hand with its undeniable profitability, captivating the dreams of countless ambitious students. Recognizing the importance of nurturing talent and supporting the next generation of industry leaders, numerous oil and gas companies are stepping up by offering scholarships to aspiring and undergraduate Nigerian students.
Prestigious names like Chevron, NNPC, Exxon Mobile, Shell, PTDF, NLNG, and more proudly extend their generosity through scholarship opportunities.
Who is eligible?
Students who are currently enrolled in an accredited and approved university in Nigeria, ideally at the second-year level (200 level), with an average scholarship value of 100,000- 200,000 Naira are eligible for many of these scholarships. Also, applicants must have gained admission during the academic session and be pursuing a first-degree program.
Furthermore, they must possess a minimum of seven O-level credits, including Mathematics and English. Citizenship of Nigeria is a prerequisite, and applicants should maintain a minimum grade point average of 3.0 and 3.5, demonstrating their commitment to academic excellence.
Although most of these Nigerian scholarships are for students in both Engineering and Geosciences there are still available opportunities for students in other fields.
MTN Science and Technology Scholarship (STS) Nigerian Scholarship
MTN has a scholarship program, MTN Science and Technology Scholarship (STS) that it started in 2010. The flagship program has been a beacon of opportunity for dedicated 300-level students pursuing Science & Technology-related courses in universities, polytechnics, and colleges of education.
This prestigious initiative awards 300 deserving scholars with annual scholarships valued at N200,000.00 until graduation, contingent upon their maintenance of the required academic standards.
Who is eligible?
The MTN Science and Technology Scholarship (STS) specifically targets 300-level students pursuing Science & Technology courses in Nigerian Public Tertiary Institutions. So, whether you are transitioning from your second semester 200 level examinations or already progressing through your 300 level, you can apply.
University Students must have a minimum Cumulative Grade Point Average (CGPA) score of 3.0/4 or 3.5/5 (second-class upper credit), while STEM Students in Public Polytechnics must have a minimum Cumulative Grade Point Average (CGPA) of 3.0 (upper credit) from the Ordinary National Diploma (OND) Program and must have secured admission into the Higher National Diploma (HND) Program.
Direct Entry level STEM students must have a minimum CGPA of 3.0 (upper credit) from the Ordinary National Diploma (OND) program and must have secured admission into 300 level/3rd year in a Public University.
Guinness Nigeria Undergraduate Scholarship Program
The primary objective of the Guinness Nigeria Undergraduate Scholarship Program is to empower Nigerian students by offering tangible assistance to undergraduates and recent graduates. This program presents a valuable opportunity for individuals to delve into their passions, develop their skills, and cultivate their professional abilities and will in fact provide full tuition for students who are currently studying in Public Nigerian Universities.
Who is eligible?
The Nigerian scholarship is available to students who are currently in public Nigerian universities. Candidates must be 1st (100 level) or 2nd-year (200 level) students in Public Nigeria Universities. They also must be studying in these fields;
- STEM Courses (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics)
- Humanities
- Administration
- Law
- Medicine
NGO Nigerian scholarships
Many of these NGO Nigerian scholarships are focused on just a certain group of people. It could be focused on a certain tertiary institution or a particular group of people but most importantly, they are Africans and
David Oyedepo Foundation Scholarship Scheme: Full academic fees covered for up to 5 years at Covenant and Landmark University, Nigeria. Requirements: 20 points above JAMB cut-off or 80% average (4.0 GPA/5.0) in Secondary/High School Transcript. Open to applicants with ongoing admission applications to Covenant or Landmark University.
Jim Ovia Foundation Scholarship: The scholarship opportunity is available to 100 Nigerian citizens studying in Nigerian institutions. Scholarships with a value of 150,000 naira are granted based on various factors including individual intellectual prowess, leadership qualities, and a genuine aspiration to make a positive impact on society, ultimately enhancing the well-being of others.
There are other foundation scholarships like the WAAW scholarship, Gani Fawehinmi scholarship, etc.
State scholarships
Certain states and local governments provide scholarships specifically for their residents. It would be advisable to reach out to your respective state authorities and gather information regarding the specific criteria, as each state has its own distinct qualification process.
Ensure to make adequate research before applying for any of these Nigerian scholarships. However, unlike the student loan bills being passed around, these scholarships are free and do not need to be repaid.
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