Ekiti State Opens Scholarship & Bursary Awards 2026: How Nigerian Students can Apply for up to ₦750,000
Ekiti State 2026 Scholarship & Bursary Awards Now Open
The Ekiti State Government has officially opened applications for the 2026 Ekiti State Scholarship and Bursary Awards, providing financial support of up to ₦750,000 to eligible Nigerian students across undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral levels.
Announced through the Ekiti State Scholarship Board (ESSB), the initiative underscores the state government’s commitment to academic excellence, inclusivity, and financial empowerment for students pursuing higher education in Nigeria. Applications opened on Monday, February 9, 2026, and will close on Friday, February 27, 2026.
Ekiti State Scholarship and Bursary Awards 2026: Key Overview
The 2026 scholarship scheme targets students currently enrolled in universities, polytechnics, colleges of education, and other recognized tertiary institutions across Nigeria. It is open to undergraduates, HND students, master’s and PhD candidates, as well as physically challenged students.
Under the administration of Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji, the program is designed to reduce the growing cost of education while rewarding students who demonstrate strong academic performance and verified Ekiti State origin.
Who Is Eligible for the Ekiti State Scholarship 2026?
To qualify for the Scholarship Awards, applicants must meet strict academic and institutional criteria depending on their level of study.
Undergraduate and HND Applicants
- Must be in 200 level or above
- Minimum CGPA of 4.0 (universities) or 3.50 (polytechnics/NCE)
- Must possess WASSCE/NECO with at least five credits, including English and Mathematics, in one sitting
Master’s Degree Applicants
- Must have obtained a Second Class Upper Division (2:1) at undergraduate level
PhD Applicants
- Must have a Distinction at Master’s level
- Minimum of Second Class Upper Division at undergraduate level
- A letter of recommendation from the university is required
Physically Challenged Students
Physically challenged students enrolled in NCE, ND, HND, Colleges of Health Technology, Schools of Nursing/Midwifery, and postgraduate programs are also eligible for scholarship consideration.
Students on part-time or sandwich programs are not eligible for the scholarship awards.
Ekiti State Bursary Awards: Who Can Apply?
In addition to scholarships, the ESSB is offering Bursary Awards, which are open to all students, including physically challenged postgraduate students. This bursary is jointly funded by the State and Local Governments on a 50:50 basis.
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Scholarship Value and Financial Benefits
The 2026 Ekiti State Scholarship and Bursary Awards provide the following financial support:
- PhD Award: ₦750,000
- Master’s Degree Award: ₦250,000
- Law School Bursary: ₦150,000
- Undergraduate / HND / NCE / OND Awards: ₦60,000
- Physically Challenged Award: ₦60,000
- State–Local Government Bursary: ₦10,000
These funds are designed to offset tuition costs, accommodation, research expenses, and other academic needs.
Required Documents for Application
Applicants must upload certified copies of the following documents to prevent impersonation and fraud:
- School fees payment receipt
- Institution ID card
- Letter of identification from Head of Department
- Certified academic transcript
- Academic credentials
- Certificate of Local Government origin
- Parent’s 3-year tax clearance and development levy receipts
How to Apply for Ekiti State Scholarship and Bursary 2026
Interested candidates should apply online via the Ekiti State Scholarship Board (ESSB) portal by completing the application form and uploading all required documents.
Applications must be submitted between February 9 and February 27, 2026. Late submissions will not be accepted.
FAQ
What is the Ekiti State Scholarship and Bursary Awards 2026?
It is a financial aid program by the Ekiti State Government that supports eligible Nigerian students with scholarships and bursaries of up to ₦750,000.
Who can apply for the Ekiti State Scholarship 2026?
Undergraduate, HND, master’s, PhD, and physically challenged students of Ekiti State origin studying in Nigerian tertiary institutions.
What is the deadline for Ekiti State Scholarship 2026?
The application deadline is February 27, 2026.
How much is the Ekiti State PhD Scholarship worth?
Successful PhD applicants receive ₦750,000.
Can part-time students apply?
No. Students enrolled in part-time or sandwich programs are not eligible.
Is the Ekiti State Bursary different from the scholarship?
Yes. The bursary is open to all students and offers smaller financial support compared to merit-based scholarships.
How do I apply for the Ekiti State Scholarship?
Applications must be submitted online via the Ekiti State Scholarship Board (ESSB) website.
Is the Ekiti State Scholarship legitimate?
Yes. It is officially administered by the Ekiti State Government through the ESSB.