The Federal Government has officially commenced the application process for the 2026 cycle of its prestigious Petroleum Technology Development Fund (PTDF) Overseas Scholarship Scheme. This initiative offers Nigerian postgraduate students a fully-funded opportunity to pursue advanced studies in key global destinations.
Scholarship Details and Host Countries
The announcement was made public on Monday, January 19, via a post on the social media platform X by the Office of the Special Adviser to the President on Social Media, handled by Dada Olusegun. The scholarship is designed for both Master of Science (MSc) and Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) candidates whose fields of study are directly relevant to the oil and gas industry.
Successful applicants will gain admission to institutions in the United Kingdom, Germany, France, and Malaysia. The PTDF emphasizes that the programme provides world-class training and access to advanced research facilities, aiming to develop high-level indigenous expertise for Nigeria's energy sector.
Comprehensive Benefits and Unique PhD Model
The scholarship package is extensive, covering all major expenses to ensure scholars can focus on their academics. Full support includes tuition fees, return economy class air tickets, accommodation, a living allowance, health insurance, and bench fees for research where applicable.
A distinctive feature is outlined for PhD candidates opting to study in the United Kingdom. Their programme will follow a split-site arrangement. This model allows scholars to conduct part of their research at the College of Petroleum and Energy Studies in Kaduna (CPESK) and the remainder at selected partner universities in the UK, such as Robert Gordon University, the University of Strathclyde, and the University of Portsmouth.
Eligibility Criteria and Competitive Selection
The PTDF has stated that the scholarship is highly competitive, with selection based strictly on merit and relevance to national needs. The agency warned that only candidates demonstrating outstanding academic records and a suitable research focus will be shortlisted.
For the MSc scholarship, applicants must possess a minimum of a Second Class Lower (2.2) division in their first degree, must have completed the mandatory National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) programme, be computer literate, and have a minimum of five O'Level credits, including English Language and Mathematics.
PhD applicants must meet similar standards and are additionally required to submit a concise research proposal not exceeding five pages. This proposal must clearly outline the study's objectives, methodology, and data collection plan.
A critical mandatory requirement for all applicants is the verification of their National Identity Number (NIN) before applying. The PTDF also issued a stern warning that submitting multiple applications or falsified documents will lead to automatic and immediate disqualification.
How and When to Apply
All applications must be submitted electronically through the official PTDF scholarship portal at scholarship.ptdf.gov.ng. Applicants are advised to apply only for programmes approved at PTDF's partner institutions listed on the website.
The window for submission is short, as the application deadline is set for Thursday, February 27, 2026. Prospective candidates are urged to prepare their documents and complete the online forms well ahead of the closing date to avoid last-minute technical issues.
