Did you know nearly half of all qualified Nigerian students never attend university? It's not because they lack ambition or intelligence; it's because they can't afford it. The cost of tuition, books, and living expenses can be overwhelming for many families.
But here's the good news: you don't have to let money stand in the way of your dreams. There are dozens of scholarships available in Nigeria, just waiting to be discovered. These scholarships can cover everything from tuition fees to accommodation and even living expenses, giving you the financial freedom to focus on your studies and achieve your full potential.
In this guide, we'll take you through the top 17 undergraduate scholarships in Nigeria for 2024. We'll cover everything you need to know, from eligibility requirements and application deadlines to the benefits each scholarship offers.
What Are Undergraduate Scholarships?
An undergraduate scholarship is a financial award given to students to help them pay for their bachelor's degree. It's like a gift – you don't have to pay it back! Scholarships can cover a wide range of expenses, from tuition fees and books to accommodation and even living costs.
They're designed to make higher education more accessible, especially for students who might not otherwise be able to afford it. Think of them as a helping hand, giving you the financial freedom to focus on your studies and achieve your full potential.
17 Undergraduate Scholarships in Nigeria
Bet9ja Foundation Nigeria Undergraduate Scholarship
MTN Scholarship
Nigeria Agip Scholarship
NNPC scholarship for undergraduate
Chevron Undergraduate Scholarship
ExxonMobil Undergraduate Scholarship
Reverend Tony Akinyemi Scholarship Foundation 2024
UK Scholarships for Nigerian students
SEPLAT Scholarship
FATE Scholarship
Guinness scholarship
Monday Onyeme Scholarship Programme 2024
NLNG scholarship
Shell Undergraduate Scholarship
Jim Ovia Scholarship
Lagos State Scholarship Award
PTDF scholarship
1. Bet9ja Foundation Nigeria Undergraduate Scholarship
As part of our commitment to empowering Nigerian youth, the Bet9ja Foundation offers a scholarship program designed to help you achieve your academic dreams. We believe in the transformative power of education and want to support bright minds who are passionate about making a difference in Nigeria.
Provider: Bet9ja Foundation
Eligibility:
Currently enrolled in your 3rd or 4th year at a public Nigerian university.
Pursuing a degree in STEM, Humanities, Administration, Law, or Medicine.
Have a CGPA of 4.0 or above.
Submit a 200-word essay on "The Transformative Power of Education."
Benefits: Full tuition coverage for the remainder of your undergraduate studies.
Application Deadline: Varies – check our website for the latest information.
Additional Information: We're looking for students with a strong academic track record, a passion for their chosen field, and a desire to give back to their communities.
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2. MTN Foundation Scholarship
MTN Foundation, the Corporate Social Responsibility arm of MTN Nigeria, is a strong advocate for youth education. Their scholarship scheme aims to support high-performing students across various disciplines.
Provider: MTN Foundation
Eligibility:
Full-time 300-level students in public tertiary institutions (universities, polytechnics, and colleges of education).
Minimum CGPA of 3.5 or its equivalent (2nd Class Upper/Upper Credit).
Open to students studying Science & Technology, Engineering, and other disciplines.
Benefits: Financial support for tuition, book allowance, and stipend.
Application Deadline: Varies – check the MTN Foundation website for updates.
3. Nigeria Agip Exploration (NAE) Scholarship
NAE, a subsidiary of Eni, is committed to promoting education and human capital development in Nigeria. Their scholarship scheme targets undergraduate students from their host communities.
Provider: Nigerian Agip Exploration (NAE) Limited
Eligibility:
Applicants must be from NAE host communities.
Must have gained admission into a Nigerian university.
Open to students studying Engineering, Geosciences, or Agricultural Science.
Benefits: Financial support for tuition, accommodation, and living expenses.
Application Deadline: Varies – check the NAE website or local newspapers for announcements.
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4. NNPC Undergraduate Scholarship
The Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) is a major player in the oil and gas industry. It's committed to investing in the future of Nigerian students through various scholarship programs. NNPC offers both national and joint venture scholarships in partnership with other companies.
Provider: Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC)
Eligibility: Varies depending on the specific scholarship program. Generally, applicants must be Nigerian citizens, have excellent academic records, and be enrolled in a relevant undergraduate program at a Nigerian university.
Benefits: Scholarships typically cover tuition fees, accommodation, and other living expenses. Some programs may also offer additional benefits like internship opportunities.
Application Deadline: Deadlines vary depending on the specific program. Check the NNPC website or Scholastica platform for the latest information.
5. Chevron Undergraduate Scholarship
Chevron Nigeria Limited, a leading energy company, recognizes the importance of education in developing the next generation of leaders. Their scholarship program aims to support talented Nigerian students pursuing undergraduate studies in various disciplines.
Provider: Chevron Nigeria Limited
Eligibility:
Must be a Nigerian citizen.
Have gained admission into a Nigerian university.
Open to students studying Engineering, Sciences, Social Sciences, and Law.
Have a minimum of 5 O'level credits (including Mathematics and English) in one sitting.
Benefits: Financial support for tuition, accommodation, and other academic expenses.
Application Deadline: Varies – check the Chevron Nigeria website or scholarship platforms for announcements.
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6. ExxonMobil Undergraduate Scholarship
ExxonMobil, a global energy leader, is committed to supporting educational development in Nigeria. Their undergraduate scholarship program aims to provide financial assistance to outstanding students pursuing various fields of study.
Provider: ExxonMobil Nigeria
Eligibility:
Must be a Nigerian citizen.
Enrolled in a recognized Nigerian university.
Open to students in various disciplines, including Engineering, Sciences, Social Sciences, and Management.
Must have a strong academic record.
Benefits: Financial support for tuition, accommodation, and other academic expenses.
Application Deadline: Varies – check the ExxonMobil Nigeria website or scholarship platforms for updates.
7. Reverend Tony Akinyemi Scholarship Foundation 2024
The Reverend Tony Akinyemi Scholarship Foundation (RTAF) is a faith-based organization dedicated to supporting the educational aspirations of young Nigerians. Their scholarship program aims to empower academically gifted students who demonstrate financial need.
Provider: Reverend Tony Akinyemi Scholarship Foundation (RTAF)
Eligibility:
Must be a Nigerian citizen.
Have gained admission into a Nigerian university.
Open to students studying various disciplines, with a focus on Medicine, Law, and Engineering.
Demonstrate financial need.
Benefits: Financial support for tuition, accommodation, and other educational expenses.
Application Deadline: Varies – check the RTAF website or social media channels for announcements.
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8. UK Scholarships for Nigerian Students
Studying in the UK can be a life-changing experience, but it often comes with a hefty price tag. Fortunately, several scholarship programs are available to help Nigerian students pursue their academic dreams in the UK. Here are a few notable options:
Chevening Scholarships: Funded by the UK government, Chevening Scholarships are awarded to outstanding emerging leaders to pursue a one-year master's degree in any subject at a UK university.
Commonwealth Scholarships: These scholarships are for students from developing Commonwealth countries, including Nigeria, who want to pursue Master's and PhD studies in the UK.
GREAT Scholarships: The British Council offers GREAT Scholarships in partnership with UK universities for one-year postgraduate courses.
University-Specific Scholarships: Many UK universities offer scholarships specifically for international students, including Nigerians.
To find the right UK scholarship for you, explore the websites of individual universities, the British Council, and other scholarship platforms.
9. SEPLAT Undergraduate Scholarship
SEPLAT Petroleum Development Company Plc, a leading indigenous oil and gas company, is committed to investing in the education of young Nigerians. Their scholarship scheme aims to support students pursuing undergraduate degrees in various fields relevant to the oil and gas industry.
Provider: SEPLAT Petroleum Development Company Plc
Eligibility:
Must be a Nigerian citizen.
Have gained admission into a federal or state university in Nigeria.
Open to students studying Engineering, Geosciences, Medicine, and other relevant disciplines.
Must have a minimum of 5 O'level credits (including Mathematics and English) in one sitting.
Benefits: Financial support for tuition, accommodation, and other academic expenses.
Application Deadline: Varies – check the SEPLAT website or scholarship platforms for announcements.
10. FATE Foundation Scholarship
The FATE Foundation is a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting entrepreneurship and economic development in Nigeria. Their scholarship program aims to support young entrepreneurs who are passionate about starting and growing their businesses.
Provider: FATE Foundation
Eligibility:
Must be a Nigerian citizen between the ages of 18 and 35.
Must have a viable business idea or an existing business.
Open to entrepreneurs from all sectors.
Benefits: Financial support for business development, mentorship, and training.
Application Deadline: Varies – check the FATE Foundation website for updates.
Additional Information: This scholarship is not for traditional academic studies. It's designed for aspiring entrepreneurs who want to turn their business ideas into reality.
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11. Guinness Nigeria Undergraduate Scholarship
Guinness Nigeria, a renowned beverage company, is committed to fostering youth development through their scholarship program. This scholarship provides full tuition coverage for undergraduate students studying in public Nigerian universities.
Provider: Guinness Nigeria
Eligibility:
Must be a 3rd or 4th-year student in a public Nigerian university.
Open to students studying STEM courses, Humanities, Administration, Law, or Medicine.
Students from Guinness host communities are encouraged to apply.
Benefits: Full tuition coverage for the remainder of your undergraduate studies.
Application Deadline: Varies – check the Guinness Nigeria website or careers portal for the latest information.
12. Monday Onyeme Scholarship Programme 2024
The Monday Onyeme Scholarship Programme is a private initiative aimed at supporting indigent students in Delta State who have demonstrated academic excellence.
Provider: Monday Onyeme Foundation
Eligibility:
Must be an indigene of Delta State.
Must have gained admission into a Nigerian university.
Must be in need of financial assistance.
Benefits: Financial support for tuition and other educational expenses.
Application Deadline: Typically announced in the first quarter of the year.
Additional Information: This scholarship prioritizes students from Delta State who have financial challenges but demonstrate strong academic potential.
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13. NLNG Undergraduate Scholarship
The Nigeria LNG Limited (NLNG) scholarship scheme is a highly sought-after opportunity for young Nigerians aspiring to study Engineering or Medicine.
Provider: Nigeria LNG Limited (NLNG)
Eligibility:
Must be a Nigerian citizen.
Have obtained a minimum of six credits at the Senior Secondary School Certificate Examination (SSCE) including English Language and Mathematics.
Must have gained admission into a Nigerian university to study Engineering or Medicine.
Benefits: Financial support covering tuition, accommodation, book allowance, and other living expenses.
Application Deadline: Typically opens in the second quarter of the year.
Additional Information: The NLNG scholarship is highly competitive, so a strong academic record and a compelling personal statement are essential.
14. Shell Undergraduate Scholarship
Shell Nigeria, a global leader in the energy industry, is dedicated to investing in the future of Nigerian students. Their undergraduate scholarship program offers financial assistance to students pursuing various fields of study.
Provider: Shell Nigeria
Eligibility:
Must be a Nigerian citizen.
Have gained admission into a Nigerian university.
Open to students studying Engineering, Sciences, Social Sciences, and Medical Sciences.
Must have a strong academic record.
Benefits: Financial support for tuition, accommodation, and other educational expenses.
Application Deadline: Varies – check the Shell Nigeria website or scholarship platforms for announcements.
15. Jim Ovia Foundation Scholarship
The Jim Ovia Foundation is a philanthropic organization dedicated to empowering young Nigerians through education. Their scholarship program aims to support undergraduate students who demonstrate academic excellence and financial need.
Provider: Jim Ovia Foundation
Eligibility:
Must be a Nigerian citizen.
Have gained admission into a Nigerian university.
Open to students studying any undergraduate course.
Must demonstrate financial need.
Benefits: Full tuition coverage, book allowance, and stipend.
Application Deadline: Varies – check the Jim Ovia Foundation website for the latest information.
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16. Lagos State Scholarship Award
The Lagos State Scholarship Board offers various scholarship awards to support Lagos State indigenes and residents pursuing undergraduate and postgraduate studies.
Provider: Lagos State Scholarship Board
Eligibility:
Must be an indigene or resident of Lagos State.
Have gained admission into a recognized university or polytechnic.
Open to students studying various disciplines.
Benefits: Financial support for tuition and other educational expenses.
Application Deadline: Varies – check the Lagos State Scholarship Board website for announcements.
Additional Information: The Lagos State Scholarship Board offers scholarships for both undergraduate and postgraduate studies. They also have special scholarship programs for students with disabilities.
17. PTDF Undergraduate Scholarship
The Petroleum Technology Development Fund (PTDF) is a government agency responsible for developing indigenous human capacity in the oil and gas industry. Their undergraduate scholarship scheme aims to support students pursuing relevant courses in Nigerian and overseas universities.
Provider: Petroleum Technology Development Fund (PTDF)
Eligibility:
Must be a Nigerian citizen.
Have obtained a minimum of five (5) credits in SSCE/WAEC (including English Language and Mathematics) at not more than two (2) sittings.
Must have gained admission to study an oil and gas-related course in a Nigerian or overseas university.
Benefits: Full funding for tuition, accommodation, travel, and other living expenses.
Application Deadline: Varies – check the PTDF website for the latest information.
Additional Information: The PTDF scholarship is highly competitive. A strong academic record, relevant work experience (if any), and a well-written personal statement are crucial for a successful application.
Apply for Undergraduate Scholarships in Nigeria Today
We encourage you to carefully research each opportunity and apply for those that best align with your academic goals and financial needs. Don't be discouraged if you don't succeed at first. Keep trying, and remember that persistence pays off.
At the Bet9ja Foundation, we're passionate about empowering young Nigerians through education. We believe every student deserves the chance to succeed, regardless of background or financial circumstances. That's why we offer a range of scholarship programs designed to support talented and ambitious students like you.
So, what are you waiting for? Visit our website to learn more about our scholarship opportunities, and start your application today.