Fully Funded Undergraduate Scholarships in Nigeria for Students

Fully Funded Undergraduate Scholarships in Nigeria for Students

For many young Nigerians, gaining admission into a university feels like the easy part – the real challenge begins when it’s time to pay for it.

Between skyrocketing tuition fees, the cost of accommodation, books and everyday living expenses, higher education in Nigeria is a steep hill that many can’t climb without support. But that’s exactly where fully funded undergraduate scholarships come in – not just as financial lifelines, but as tools for rewriting futures.

The truth is, talent is everywhere, but opportunity is not. Every year, thousands of bright, driven students miss out on their dreams simply because they don’t have the money to stay in school.

Others give up before even trying, not realizing there are dozens of scholarship programs designed specifically for students just like them. Whether funded by oil companies, state governments, or philanthropic foundations, these scholarships aren’t just for the top 1%. With the right information and a well-planned application, almost anyone can win.

Beyond covering school fees, many of these scholarships offer something even more valuable – access. Access to mentorship, to career opportunities and to networks that can shape your entire future. From MTN to Chevron, from Jim Ovia to David Oyedepo, organizations are quietly investing in the next generation of Nigerian leaders, tech innovators, medical professionals and policy-makers.

But if you don’t know where to look – or how to apply – you risk being left out of life-changing opportunities that could be yours.

For students coming from low-income families, underserved communities, or conflict-affected zones, the stakes are even higher. Scholarships can be the one and only bridge between poverty and progress, between surviving and thriving.

Yet many of these fully funded programs go unclaimed, either because of misinformation or lack of awareness. That’s why this guide exists: to break everything down, clearly and simply, so you can take your shot without guessing or second-guessing.

Types of Undergraduate Funding Available in Nigeria

Not all financial aid is created equal. Understanding the different types of funding available can help you tailor your application strategy and improve your chances of success.

Below are the main categories of undergraduate scholarships in Nigeria, along with their defining features and who they best serve.

Merit-Based Awards

These scholarships reward academic brilliance and high performance. If you’re consistently one of the top performers in your department or scored well in UTME and WAEC, this is the category to focus on.

• Awarded based on CGPA, UTME scores or class ranking

• Often renewable annually if academic performance is maintained

• Typically require proof of academic excellence (transcripts, reference letters)

• Examples: MTN Foundation Scholarship, NNPC/Total Undergraduate Scholarship

Need-Based Scholarships

For students who may not be academic stars but have genuine financial need, need-based scholarships level the playing field. These awards assess your economic background to determine eligibility.

• Require income statements or proof of hardship

• Prioritize students from low-income or marginalized communities

• May or may not require a minimum CGPA

• Examples: Gani Fawehinmi Scholarship, Sir Emeka Offor Foundation

State and Federal Government Scholarships

Many state and federal agencies offer annual education grants and bursaries to promote access to education. These are often targeted at students from specific geographic areas or studying high-need subjects.

• Often reserved for indigenes of the state or region

• Require a local government identification or certificate of origin

• Some may include full tuition, while others offer partial bursaries

• Examples: Federal Scholarship Board Awards, Lagos State Bursary, Kano State Scholarship Scheme

Private Sector and Corporate Sponsorships

Corporate bodies in Nigeria play a huge role in funding education. Companies in the oil, banking and telecom industries offer well-structured scholarships for undergraduate students in strategic disciplines.

• Usually focused on STEM (science, tech, engineering, math) courses

• Require aptitude tests and strict documentation

• Provide generous funding (up to N200,000 annually or more)

• Examples: Shell SPDC, Chevron/Agbami, Seplat JV and Stanbic IBTC University Scholarship

NGO-Funded Awards

Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) often fund scholarships to support specific causes, such as girls in tech, health sciences or students from conflict zones. These are usually niche but impactful.

• Targeted to specific demographics (gender, course, location)

• May come with mentorship, networking or leadership training

• Less competitive compared to big corporate scholarships

• Examples: Jim Ovia Foundation, WAAW Foundation, TY Danjuma Scholarship

International Institutions with Nigerian Undergraduate Funding

Certain global institutions also offer support for Nigerian undergraduates who intend to study within Nigeria or abroad under select partnerships.

MTN Foundation Scholarship

This is one of the most sought-after undergraduate scholarships in Nigeria. MTN awards N200,000 annually to top-performing science and technology students in public tertiary institutions.

Eligibility Criteria:

• 200 level student in a Nigerian public university, polytechnic or college

• Minimum CGPA of 3.5 or its equivalent

• Courses in science, engineering, technology or mathematics

Why It Stands Out:

It’s renewable every year until graduation-provided you keep your grades up.

Shell Nigeria Undergraduate Scholarship

Shell’s annual scholarship has helped thousands of Nigerian students across the country. The application is online, free and straightforward.

Key Facts:

• Open to students in universities only (no polytechnics)

• Available to all states, but preference given to Niger Delta indigenes

• Around 3,000 applicants get shortlisted for aptitude tests each year

Pro tip: Always upload clear documents and apply early. This is one of the most competitive undergraduate scholarships in Nigeria.

Agbami Medical & Engineering Scholarship (Chevron & Star Deep)

If you’re studying medicine, pharmacy, engineering or health sciences, this one’s for you.

What You Should Know:

• Covers students from 100 to 500 level

• Amount varies between N100,000 to N200,000 per year

• Requires JAMB admission letter, school ID and a passport photograph

Other Company-Funded Scholarships Worth Applying For

• NNPC/Total Scholarship – Open to science and social science students in public universities.

• Seplat JV Scholarship – N150,000 for selected 200-level students annually.

• Addax Petroleum Scholarship – Available for students across all disciplines.

• Jim Ovia Scholars Program – Not limited to one field; also supports students in private universities.

Fully Funded State and Federal Government Scholarship Opportunities

You don’t always have to wait for a big oil company. Many state governments offer annual bursaries and funding for indigenes, especially those in public institutions.

Federal Ministry of Education Scholarship

Managed by the Federal Scholarship Board, this covers education for students in public tertiary institutions.

Basic Requirements:

• Minimum CGPA of 3.0

• Full-time enrollment in a recognized Nigerian university or college

• Annual renewal based on performance

You can find announcements in national dailies or the ministry’s official site.

State-Based Undergraduate Scholarships in Nigeria

Here are a few states that offer ongoing scholarship support:

• Lagos State Scholarship Board
  Offers both bursary and merit awards for Lagos State indigenes.

• Rivers State Government Scholarship Scheme
  Focused on STEM students in federal universities.

• Kano State Government Foreign and Local Scholarship
  Covers select undergraduates and often extends support to postgraduate study.

Scholarship Opportunities No One Talks About

While most students rush toward big names like MTN and Shell, there’s a goldmine of lesser-known undergraduate scholarships in Nigeria that often fly under the radar. These hidden gems tend to have fewer applicants, increasing your chances of success-especially if you meet their niche requirements.

They’re not just generous; they’re life-changing for students who are aware and intentional. Below are some standout opportunities you should not ignore:

Sir Emeka Offor Foundation Scholarship

This scholarship focuses on creating educational opportunities for students from economically disadvantaged backgrounds. It rewards both academic merit and financial need, making it ideal for students who are smart but financially constrained.

• Open to undergraduates in public universities and polytechnics

• Applicants must be from low-income families or underserved communities

• Covers full tuition and may include additional support for study materials

• Encourages applications from all disciplines

• Selection is based on academic performance and verified financial need

David Oyedepo Foundation Scholarship

Funded by the founder of Living Faith Church, this program supports students seeking quality private education with strong moral and leadership backing. It’s one of the few scholarships covering students in private universities.

• Open to students admitted into Covenant University and Landmark University

• Covers full tuition fees for the entire duration of study

• Includes feeding, accommodation and access to leadership training programs

• Prioritizes students with a strong spiritual and academic foundation

• Selection process involves essay writing and interviews

Gani Fawehinmi Annual Scholarship

Established in honor of the late human rights activist, this annual scholarship is designed to support poor but academically sound students across Nigeria. Though only about 20 candidates are selected yearly, it remains one of the most impactful scholarships for the underserved.

• Awarded to students from financially challenged backgrounds

• Open to students in all accredited tertiary institutions in Nigeria

• Applicants must demonstrate strong academic records and integrity

• Covers a reasonable portion of tuition fees and sometimes additional allowances

• Focus is on social justice, activism and meritocracy

These hidden scholarships may not have billboards or flashy ads, but they provide real support with a strong track record of transforming the lives of young Nigerians. Applying for them gives you a major edge-fewer applicants, targeted criteria and the chance to stand out where others aren’t even looking.

Step-by-Step Process to Applying for Scholarships in Nigeria

Step 1: Start with Self-Assessment

Ask yourself: What are my academic strengths? What are my career goals? These answers guide which scholarships suit you best.

Step 2: Build an Application Arsenal

Prepare all necessary documents in advance:

• WAEC/NECO results
• JAMB admission letter
• University admission letter
• Valid ID (NIN, Voter’s card)
• Reference letters
• Academic transcripts
• Recent passport photograph

Step 3: Know Where to Look

Reliable places to find undergraduate scholarships in Nigeria include:

• Official scholarship websites (e.g., MTN Foundation, Shell)
• University financial aid offices
• Local newspapers and job listing blogs
• Government education portals (e.g., Federal Ministry of Education)
• NGO websites

Step 4: Apply Early and Strategically

Don’t wait till the deadline. Early applicants often get priority attention. Also, tailor each application and cover letter to the scholarship body’s specific values.

Step 5: Ace the Tests and Interviews

Some scholarships require aptitude tests or panel interviews. Practice past questions and be honest about your goals.

Step-by-Step Process to Winning This Scholarship

Let’s get tactical now. Here’s how to actually go about landing undergraduate scholarships in Nigeria.

Step 1: Create a Scholarship-Ready Profile

Prepare the following:

• Recent passport photograph (white background preferred)

• JAMB admission letter

• School ID card

• Admission letter

• CGPA or transcript (if above 100 level)

• State of Origin certificate

• Valid email address and phone number

Step 2: Follow Active Scholarship Channels

Some reliable sources include:

• Scholarship blog sites (like zhus.xyz)

• Telegram/WhatsApp scholarship groups

• Official websites of NNPC, MTN, Shell, etc.

• Social media pages of educational NGOs

Step 3: Apply Early and Keep Copies

Don’t wait until deadlines. Late applications are rarely considered. Create a folder on your device for all submissions, screenshots of application confirmation pages and email acknowledgments.

Step 4: Prepare for Online Tests

Most corporate undergraduate scholarships in Nigeria involve aptitude tests. Practice quantitative reasoning, logical puzzles and reading comprehension. Use test prep apps like TestDriller and MySchool.

Step 5: Don’t Fake Documents

Submitting doctored credentials will get you blacklisted. Once you’re caught, that’s the end of all future opportunities.

Why You’re Not Winning Scholarships (Yet)

Here are common errors to fix:

• Poor email formatting: Use a simple Gmail address (avoid nicknames or slang).

• Generic application essays: Always tailor your answers to the specific scholarship prompt.

• Inconsistent CGPA reporting: Make sure your stated CGPA matches your transcript.

• Lack of community service: Some foundations value volunteering and leadership roles.

Top 5 Undergraduate Scholarships in Nigeria for Female Students

Female students are often underrepresented in technical fields. Some programs are designed to close this gap:

• NLNG Women in STEM Scholarship

• WAAW Foundation Scholarship

• TechGirls Nigeria

• Peace Corps Scholarship for Girls

• She Leads Africa Fund

If you’re a woman in engineering, science or medicine, your chances of getting picked may be higher in such targeted offers.

What Makes Your Application Stand Out

In a sea of thousands, your documents are your only voice. Here’s what makes you shine:

• Neatly scanned documents (JPEG or PDF under 1MB)

• Well-written essays (where required)

• Accurate personal info

• Proven academic performance

• Evidence of leadership or volunteering

How to Keep Track of All Opportunities

Use a spreadsheet. Columns should include:

• Name of Scholarship

• Application Deadline

• Required Documents

• Status (Applied/Shortlisted/Test)

• Outcome

This keeps you organized, focused and timely-crucial for applying to multiple undergraduate scholarships in Nigeria.

What Happens After You’re Shortlisted

Once selected, here’s what typically happens:

1. Email Notification: Keep checking your spam folder too.

2. Aptitude Test: Usually within a few weeks.

3. Document Verification: You may be asked to re-upload or present originals.

4. Final List & Disbursement: Some pay directly into your account, others use third-party providers.

Best Time to Apply for Undergraduate Scholarships in Nigeria

• March to July: Peak season for oil and gas scholarships.

• September to November: MTN, NNPC/Total and other telecom-based programs.

• December to February: Perfect for state government and private foundation scholarships.

Set calendar reminders so you don’t miss deadlines.

In today’s Nigeria, where education is often out of reach for many, undergraduate scholarships provide a beacon of hope. With the right strategy, diligence and awareness, you can unlock financial aid that will transform your academic journey.

Stay alert, stay prepared and keep applying. That life-changing email could land in your inbox any day now. Let your dreams be bigger than your limitations-and let scholarships pave the way.

Frequently Asked Questions