Applications for the 2026 Petroleum Technology Development Fund Overseas Scholarship Scheme, which gives Nigerian postgraduate students the chance to study in the UK, Germany, France, and Malaysia, have opened, according to the Federal Government.
The program targets MSc and PhD applicants in fields related to the oil and gas industry, according to a statement on the scholarship board website. Benefits include tuition, return airfare, living and housing allowances, health insurance, and, if appropriate, bench fees.
“The 2026 Overseas MSc and PhD Scholarships provide access to world-class training, research facilities, and global expertise while developing indigenous capacity in Nigeria’s oil and gas industry,” the PTDF announcement stated.
Scholarships for PhD candidates in the UK will be split-site, enabling research to be carried out between the College of Petroleum and Energy Studies, Kaduna (CPESK) and a few UK partner universities, such as Robert Gordon University, the University of Strathclyde, and the University of Portsmouth.
The scholarships are extremely competitive, the organization emphasized. According to the statement, “only candidates who demonstrate outstanding merit and suitability will be considered.” Candidates will be assessed on the basis of their academic background, research projects, professional body membership, and the applicability of their studies to the oil and gas sector.
A minimum of Second Class Lower (2.2) in a first degree (or 2.1), completion of the NYSC program, computer proficiency, and five O’Level credits, including English Language and Mathematics, are prerequisites for MSc applicants. A five-page study proposal detailing the goals, methods, and data collection strategies must also be submitted by PhD candidates.
The PTDF statement went on, “All applicants must ensure their National Identity Number (NIN) is verified prior to application, and multiple applications or submission of falsified documents will result in automatic disqualification.”
For authorized programs at PTDF partner institutions, interested individuals are encouraged to apply online at scholarship.ptdf.gov.ng. Applications must be submitted by February 27th.
