Undergraduate Scholarships for Nigerian Students 2026: Complete Guide

Funding higher education remains a challenge for many Nigerian students and families. Scholarships provide crucial financial support that can make the difference between attending university or not. This guide covers major scholarship opportunities available to Nigerian undergraduates in 2026.

Nigerian Scholarships

Jim Ovia Foundation Scholarship

The Jim Ovia Foundation Scholarship is one of Nigeria's most comprehensive undergraduate scholarships. It provides full funding covering tuition, accommodation, and living expenses for students at selected Nigerian universities.

Eligibility:

• Nigerian citizens admitted to partner universities
• Strong academic record (typically first class or strong 2.1 potential)
• Demonstrated financial need
• Leadership potential and community involvement

Coverage: Full tuition, accommodation, textbooks, and monthly stipend

Applications typically open early in the year. Monitor the Jim Ovia Foundation website for 2026 application dates.

NLNG Undergraduate Scholarship Scheme

Nigeria LNG Limited offers merit-based scholarships to Nigerian undergraduates studying engineering, geosciences, and related disciplines at Nigerian universities.

Eligibility:

• Nigerian students in 100-level or 200-level
• Studying engineering, geosciences, or related courses
• Minimum CGPA of 3.5 on a 5.0 scale (or equivalent)
• Not currently receiving other scholarships

Coverage: Tuition fees and annual book allowance

NLNG scholarship applications typically open in the second quarter. Check their official careers portal for announcements.

Bridge Foundation Scholarship

The Bridge Foundation commits approximately ₦700 million annually to supporting Nigerian students. The scholarship targets students from disadvantaged backgrounds who demonstrate academic excellence.

Eligibility:

• Nigerian students from low-income families
• Strong academic performance
• Currently enrolled in Nigerian tertiary institutions
• Demonstrated leadership and community service

The foundation operates across multiple Nigerian universities. Contact your institution's student affairs office to learn about Bridge Foundation opportunities at your school.

State Government Scholarships

Several Nigerian states offer scholarships to their indigenes. For 2026, notable state scholarship programmes include:

Lagos State Scholarship: Available to Lagos indigenes studying in approved institutions. Applications typically open mid-year through the Lagos State Scholarship Board.

Enugu State Scholarship: The Enugu State Government provides scholarships to indigenes in Nigerian and some international universities.

Sokoto State Scholarship: Available to Sokoto indigenes pursuing undergraduate and postgraduate studies.

Check with your state's ministry of education or scholarship board for current opportunities and application procedures.

Corporate and Industry Scholarships

Several Nigerian companies offer scholarships as part of their CSR initiatives:

• MTN Foundation Scholarship: For students in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics
• Shell Nigeria Scholarship: For students in engineering and related fields
• Agbami Scholarship: For students studying medical, engineering, and geoscience courses
• Total Scholarship: For engineering and science students

Monitor company websites and university notice boards for application announcements.

International Scholarships for Nigerian Students

Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship (Canada)

The University of Toronto offers 37 full scholarships annually through the Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship Program. This is one of the most prestigious international scholarships available to Nigerian students.

Coverage:

• Full tuition for four years
• Books and incidental fees
• Full residence support

Eligibility:

• International students (including Nigerians)
• Currently in final year of secondary school or have graduated within the last year
• Exceptional academic achievement
• Creativity and leadership in school and community

Application: Students must be nominated by their school. Speak to your principal or guidance counselor about nomination. The application deadline is typically in November for admission the following September.

University of Manchester Global Futures Scholarship (UK)

The University of Manchester offers scholarships worth up to £30,000 for international students from developing countries including Nigeria.

Coverage: Up to £10,000 per year for three years (undergraduate)

Eligibility:

• Citizens of developing countries
• Received an offer to study at University of Manchester
• Demonstrated academic excellence
• Can demonstrate financial need

Applications typically open after receiving an offer of admission. Check the University of Manchester international scholarships page for current deadlines.

University of Bristol Think Big Scholarship (UK)

The University of Bristol offers Think Big Scholarships to international students. For 2026 entry, the application deadline is April 10, 2026.

Coverage: Scholarships range from £5,000 to £20,000

Eligibility:

• International fee-paying students
• Holding an offer from University of Bristol
• Strong academic record
• Demonstrated leadership and extracurricular involvement

Gates Cambridge Scholarship

While primarily for postgraduate study, exceptional Nigerian students pursuing graduate programmes should consider the Gates Cambridge Scholarship, which provides full funding for study at Cambridge University.

Coverage: Full cost of studying at Cambridge including tuition, maintenance, and travel

Eligibility:

• Outstanding academic record
• Reasons for choice of course
• Evidence of leadership potential
• Commitment to improving lives of others

Chevening Scholarship (UK)

Chevening Scholarships are the UK government's global scholarship programme, funded by the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office. While primarily for postgraduate study, it is worth noting for students planning ahead.

Coverage: Full tuition, monthly stipend, travel costs, and other allowances

How to Strengthen Your Scholarship Application

Academic Excellence

Most scholarships require strong academic performance. If you are still in school:

• Maintain the highest possible grades
• Take challenging courses when available
• Seek extra help in subjects where you struggle
• Use resources like Ulearngo to supplement classroom learning

Leadership and Extracurricular Activities

Scholarships look beyond grades. Demonstrate leadership through:

• School clubs and organizations (especially leadership positions)
• Community service and volunteering
• Sports teams or cultural groups
• Religious or youth organization involvement

Strong Personal Statement

Your personal statement or essay can make or break your application:

• Start drafting early and revise multiple times
• Be specific about your goals and how the scholarship helps
• Share genuine experiences, not what you think they want to hear
• Have teachers or mentors review your drafts

Secure Strong Recommendations

Choose recommenders who know you well:

• Ask teachers who have seen your best work
• Give recommenders plenty of time (at least 4 weeks)
• Provide them with your CV and goals to help them write

Common Application Mistakes to Avoid

1. Missing deadlines - Set reminders weeks before due dates
2. Incomplete applications - Double-check all required documents
3. Generic essays - Tailor each application to the specific scholarship
4. Ignoring eligibility requirements - Only apply if you genuinely qualify
5. Poor presentation - Proofread everything; errors suggest carelessness
6. Applying to too few - Cast a wide net; apply to multiple scholarships

Scholarship Scam Warning

Unfortunately, scholarship scams target Nigerian students. Protect yourself:

• Never pay to apply - Legitimate scholarships do not charge application fees
• Verify through official sources - Check university or organization websites directly
• Be wary of guarantees - No one can guarantee you a scholarship
• Research the organization - Unknown organizations offering large sums should be investigated
• Protect personal information - Do not share bank details or BVN for scholarship applications

Planning Your Scholarship Timeline

For 2026 scholarships, plan ahead:

• January-March: Research scholarships, gather documents, start essays
• April-June: Submit applications for scholarships with mid-year deadlines
• July-September: Apply for scholarships with autumn deadlines
• October-December: Submit applications for following academic year

Start early. Strong applications take time to prepare. Begin your scholarship search now and apply to multiple opportunities to maximize your chances of success.

Resources for Finding More Scholarships

Stay informed about scholarship opportunities:

• Your school's guidance counselor or student affairs office
• University scholarship portals
• Nigerian education news websites
• Official embassy websites for study abroad opportunities
• Professional associations in your field of study

Funding your education requires effort, but scholarships exist for students who seek them out. Start your search early, apply widely, and present your best self in every application. Good luck with your scholarship applications in 2026.