Federal Government Scholarship 2025 for Nigerian Students: Complete Guide

Introduction

Education is a cornerstone for national development, yet many Nigerian students struggle to afford quality tertiary education. Recognizing this challenge, the Federal Government of Nigeria, through the Federal Ministry of Education and its agencies, provides multiple scholarship opportunities to support students at home and abroad. Among them, the Federal Government Scholarship 2025 is one of the most inclusive and impactful schemes available.

This article offers a detailed look at the Federal Government Scholarship, focusing on the local (undergraduate and postgraduate) awards facilitated by the Federal Scholarship Board (FSB), as well as bilateral education agreements (BEA) for studying abroad.

🏛️ About the Federal Government Scholarship Scheme

The Federal Government Scholarship is administered by the Federal Scholarship Board (FSB), under the Federal Ministry of Education. It provides funding to eligible Nigerian students to pursue undergraduate and postgraduate studies in accredited institutions within Nigeria and abroad.

The scheme is divided into two broad categories:

1. Local Scholarships

   • For students studying in Nigerian public tertiary institutions.

   • Covers undergraduate, HND, NCE, and postgraduate levels.

2. Bilateral Education Agreement (BEA) Scholarships

   • For students seeking to study abroad through educational agreements Nigeria has with other countries such as Russia, China, Hungary, Romania, Serbia, and Algeria.

📋 Overview of the 2025 Federal Government Scholarship

🎯 Eligibility Criteria (2025)

A. Local Scholarships

• Must be a Nigerian citizen.

• Must be enrolled full-time in a recognized Nigerian tertiary institution (university, polytechnic, or college of education).

• For undergraduate scholarships:

  • Must have completed 100 level (1st year).

  • Must have a minimum CGPA of 4.0 (out of 5.0) or 3.5 (out of 4.0) for university students.

  • For polytechnic or NCE students, minimum of 3.5 CGPA (upper credit).

• For postgraduate scholarships:

  • Must have a minimum of first-class or second-class upper undergraduate degree.

B. BEA (Foreign) Scholarships

• Must be a Nigerian citizen.

• Must have:

  • For undergraduates: 7 distinctions (A or B) in WAEC/NECO in relevant subjects including English and Mathematics, obtained in one sitting.

  • For postgraduates: First-class or second-class upper in relevant fields.

• Age requirements:

  • Undergraduate: 17–20 years old.

  • Postgraduate: Not above 35 years (Masters) and 40 years (PhD).

• Must be ready to undertake required language training (e.g., Russian, Chinese) where applicable.

🌍 Countries Covered Under BEA

• Russia

• China

• Hungary

• Serbia

• Romania

• Algeria

• Morocco

• Egypt

• Ukraine (depends on geopolitical updates)

📝 Note: All BEA scholarships are tuition-free and sometimes include accommodation, stipends, and travel, depending on the host country agreement.

📚 Fields of Study Supported

• Engineering

• Sciences and Technology

• Medicine

• Agriculture

• Education

• Law

• Social Sciences

• Arts and Humanities

• Environmental Sciences

🧾 Documents Required

For Local Awards:

• Admission letter from institution.

• Current school ID card.

• Statement of result (showing CGPA).

• National Identification Number (NIN).

• Passport photograph.

• Birth certificate or age declaration.

• State of origin certificate.

For BEA Awards:

• WAEC/NECO certificates (for undergrads).

• University degree + transcript (for postgrads).

• International passport (recommended).

• Birth certificate.

• Medical fitness certificate.

• NYSC discharge/exemption certificate (for postgraduates).

🖥️ How to Apply (Step-by-Step)

Local Scholarship Application

1. Visit the official website
   https://fsbn.com.ng

2. Register and log in
   Create an account with a valid email and phone number.

3. Fill the application form
   Provide accurate academic and personal details.

4. Upload required documents

5. Submit and print confirmation slip

6. Wait for screening/aptitude test notification (for shortlisted candidates).

BEA Scholarship Application

1. Visit: https://education.gov.ng

2. Click on the BEA Scholarship Application Portal.

3. Complete the online form.

4. Submit and await invitation for a proficiency and aptitude test conducted in major cities.

📅 Timeline (Tentative for 2025)

💰 Scholarship Benefits

Local Awards:

• Annual stipends for tuition, maintenance, and books.

• Renewable yearly based on academic performance.

• Recognition from the Federal Government.

BEA Scholarships:

• Full tuition covered by host countries.

• Stipends for living expenses (amount varies).

• Accommodation support.

• Opportunity to study in top global universities.

📌 Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Submitting incomplete applications.

• Using incorrect academic details or forged documents.

• Missing deadlines.

• Ignoring eligibility criteria.

• Skipping the screening test (if shortlisted).

📢 FAQs

Q: Can private university students apply?
A: No. Only students in public institutions are eligible.

Q: Are postgraduate students eligible for local awards?
A: Yes, if they meet the minimum academic criteria.

Q: Can I apply for both BEA and local scholarship?
A: Yes, if you meet the requirements for both.

Q: How will I know if I am shortlisted?
A: You will be contacted via email/SMS or see updates on the FSB portal.

Q: Is the application completely free?
A: Yes. Do not pay anyone to apply or to secure the award.

🧠 Tips for Success

• Keep your NIN and academic details ready.

• Check your email regularly after applying.

• Practice general aptitude tests (verbal, quantitative, current affairs).

• Watch for updates on the official FSB or Ministry of Education websites.

• Seek help only from trusted sources — beware of scams.

✅ Conclusion

The Federal Government Scholarship 2025 represents one of the most accessible and prestigious ways Nigerian students can fund their education locally or abroad. Whether you’re a first-degree seeker, HND holder, or aspiring international student, this scholarship provides a critical lifeline for academic success.

If you meet the criteria, start preparing now. These opportunities are highly competitive — but with diligence, the support of the Federal Government can take you one step closer to your dreams.