How to Apply for Federal Government Scholarships in Nigeria is one of those resonable question every students who wants support for their education shoukld ask.
You may be looking for ways to reduce school stress, take care of your fees, or make your parents happy by getting a scholarship that covers your studies.
The Federal Government gives different scholarships every year to help students in secondary school, college, polytechnic, and university. These scholarships are free, and you do not need to know anybody to apply. You only need the right information, simple guidance, and confidence to follow the steps.
In this guide, you will learn everything you need to know concerning the requirements, the age limits, how to apply online, and how to avoid mistakes that stop many students from getting selected.
If you follow this guide carefully, your chance of winning a Federal Government scholarship will increase.
Disclaimer Notice: This is a general educational blog, giving out information concerning scholarship, school fees, Cut off marks, student results, admission form, and other school news guides. We are not affiliated with the Government or any educational institution.
How to Apply for Federal Government Scholarships in Nigeria: A Complete Guide
Federal Government scholarships in Nigeria are given through the Federal Ministry of Education under the Federal Scholarship Board (FSB).
These scholarships support students in Nigerian schools and students who want to study abroad under special government programs. Below is the easiest step-by-step method to apply and succeed.
Types of Federal Government Scholarships in Nigeria
Before you apply, you need to know the type of scholarship you want. This helps you prepare the right documents and meet the right requirements.
1. Nigerian Scholarship Award (NSA)
This scholarship is for students studying in Nigerian public tertiary institutions (universities, polytechnics, and colleges of education). It covers tuition support and sometimes includes a small monthly allowance.
2. Bilateral Education Agreement (BEA) Scholarship
This one is for students who want to study in other countries under government partnership. Countries usually include Russia, China, Serbia, Morocco, and others.
It covers tuition, accommodation, and sometimes feeding depending on the host country.
3. Nigeria Award for Postgraduate Students
This is for master’s and PhD students studying in Nigeria.
4. Secondary School Scholarship
Some scholarships are available for outstanding secondary school students, especially those in Unity Schools.
Eligibility Requirements for Federal Government Scholarships
To apply for any Federal Government scholarship in Nigeria, you must meet certain requirements. These may change slightly each year, but the main ones include:
General Requirements
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You must be a Nigerian citizen.
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You must have valid school documents (admission letter, school ID card, result, etc.).
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You must not be older than the maximum age limit for your category.
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Undergraduate: usually 25 years or below
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Master’s: usually 35 years or below
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PhD: usually 40 years or below
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You must have good grades.
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Undergraduate applicants must have at least CGPA of 4.0/5.0 or its equivalent.
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BEA candidates must have at least 5 distinctions in WAEC/NECO.
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You must be willing to write a CBT exam if required.
Documents You Need Before You Apply
To make your application smooth, prepare all your documents early. Most students fail because they rush or upload wrong files.
Here are the important documents:
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Birth certificate or declaration of age
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Local government identification letter
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School admission letter
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JAMB admission letter (for tertiary students)
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WAEC/NECO result
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Transcript or statement of result
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Passport photograph
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National Identity Number (NIN)
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Email address and phone number
Always make sure your details match—same name in all documents.
Step-by-Step Guide on How to Apply for Federal Government Scholarships in Nigeria
Follow these steps one by one. They are simple, clear, and written for anyone to understand.
STEP 1: Visit the Official Scholarship Portal
The Federal Scholarship Board uses a secure website for all applications.
Each year, they announce the link on the Federal Ministry of Education website.
You must only apply through the official portal. Do not pay anybody. The application is free.
STEP 2: Read the Instructions Carefully
Students make many mistakes because they skip instructions. Read every line on the page before you start.
Make sure you check:
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Eligibility
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Required documents
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Deadline
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Age limit
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Exam details (if any)
STEP 3: Create an Account
You will need:
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Your full name
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A working email
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Password
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Phone number
Make sure you write down your login details so you do not forget.
STEP 4: Fill Out the Application Form
Provide correct information such as:
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Your name (same as documents)
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Date of birth
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School details
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Course of study
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CGPA or result
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Local government
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Contact address
Do not rush. One wrong detail can disqualify you.
STEP 5: Upload Your Documents
Scan your documents clearly.
Ensure they are not blurry, cropped, or too dark.
Upload them one by one in the correct format (PDF or JPEG).
STEP 6: Submit and Print Your Slip
After checking your details, click submit.
Print out your confirmation slip.
This slip is important for exam verification if needed.
STEP 7: Prepare for the Scholarship Exam
Most Federal Government scholarships require a simple CBT exam.
The exam often covers:
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English
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Mathematics
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Current Affairs
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General Knowledge
You do not need to fear the exam. Just practice past questions and stay calm.
STEP 8: Check Result and Follow Up
If you pass, your name will appear on the shortlist.
Always check your email and the official website for updates.
Tips to Increase Your Chances of Winning a Federal Government Scholarship
Here are special tips many people do not know:
1. Apply Early
Do not wait for the deadline. Early applicants face fewer technical problems.
2. Use Clean and Clear Documents
Blurred documents make the reviewing officer skip your file.
3. Use a Good Email
Use a simple email like [email protected].
Avoid nicknames.
4. Keep Your Phone Active
Successful candidates receive SMS or calls.
5. Maintain Good Grades
Many scholarships are grade-based.
If you keep your CGPA high, your chances grow.
6. Avoid Double Applications
If you apply twice, the system may block you.
7. Follow Official Channels Only
Ignore random Telegram or WhatsApp groups claiming they can “help you secure the scholarship.”
Common Mistakes Students Make and How to Avoid Them
1. Incorrect Names
Your name must match across all documents.
2. Wrong Age Information
Never fake your age. If found out, you will be banned.
3. Incomplete Documents
Even one missing file can disqualify your application.
4. Using Someone Else’s Email
Use your own email. This is very important.
Benefits of Federal Government Scholarships in Nigeria
When you apply the right way, you can enjoy amazing benefits like:
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Payment of tuition fees
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Monthly allowance
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Reduced financial stress
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Chance to study abroad
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Motivation to study harder
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Better opportunities
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Respect and recognition
A scholarship can change your entire life.
FAQs
1. Is the application free?
Yes, it is completely free.
2. Do I need a high CGPA?
Yes. Higher grades increase your chances.
3. Can part-time students apply?
No, only full-time students.
4. When do applications open?
Usually once every year, mostly early in the year.
5. Can I apply without NIN?
No. NIN is now required.
Conclusion
Federal Government scholarships in Nigeria are real and available for students who follow the right steps. You do not need to be afraid or confused. You only need correct information, clean documents, good grades, and early preparation. If you follow everything explained in this guide, you will be ahead of other applicants.
This article was written in simple, clean English to help you understand everything without stress. Use it well, share it with others who need help, and take the next bold step toward securing your scholarship.