PTDF Overseas Scholarship 2026 opens: How Nigerians can Apply for Fully Funded MSc & PhD Opportunities

Applications have officially opened for the 2026/2027 PTDF Overseas Scholarship Scheme, offering Nigerian graduates a rare opportunity to pursue fully funded MSc and PhD programmes at leading institutions in the United Kingdom, Germany, France, Malaysia, and Nigeria.

Managed by the Petroleum Technology Development Fund (PTDF), the scholarship is one of Nigeria’s most competitive government-backed postgraduate funding programmes, designed to strengthen local capacity in the oil and gas industry while expanding access to world-class education.

The deadline for applications is February 27, 2026.

What Is the PTDF Overseas Scholarship Scheme?

The PTDF Overseas Scholarship Scheme was established to develop indigenous human capacity and petroleum technology expertise in line with Nigeria’s long-term energy and industrial needs.

Since its inception, the programme has enabled thousands of Nigerian students to gain advanced training at top global universities. The scheme has now been restructured to balance overseas exposure with domestic capacity development, particularly at the doctoral level.

Countries and Institutions Covered in 2026

Under the 2026/2027 revised structure, PTDF will fund postgraduate studies as follows:

• MSc Scholarships:
  United Kingdom, Germany, France, Malaysia
• PhD Scholarships:
  Germany, France, Malaysia
• UK PhD (Split-Site Programme):
  Conducted at the PTDF College of Petroleum & Energy Studies, Kaduna (CPESK) in collaboration with:
  
  
  
  • Robert Gordon University
  • University of Strathclyde
  • University of Portsmouth

This restructuring aims to strengthen research capacity within Nigeria while maintaining international academic standards.

Who Is Eligible for the PTDF Overseas Scholarship?

MSc Eligibility Requirements

Applicants must:

• Hold a minimum of Second Class Upper (2:1) degree
  (or Second Class Lower with relevant industry experience)
• Have completed NYSC
• Possess five O’Level credits, including English and Mathematics
• Be computer literate
• Submit a 500-word statement of purpose
• Have a valid and verified National Identity Number (NIN)

PhD Eligibility Requirements

Applicants must:

• Hold a minimum of Second Class Lower (2:2) and a strong postgraduate degree
• Submit a research proposal relevant to the oil and gas sector
• Have completed NYSC
• Possess five O’Level credits, including English and Mathematics
• Provide NIN verification
• Lecturers must submit a letter confirming no other scholarship awards

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What Does the PTDF Scholarship Cover?

The PTDF Overseas Scholarship 2026 is fully funded, covering:

• Full tuition fees
• Accommodation and living allowances
• Return airfare
• Health insurance
• Bench and research fees (where applicable)

This makes it one of the most comprehensive postgraduate scholarships available to Nigerians.

Required Documents for Application

Applicants must upload scanned copies of:

• Academic certificates or statements of result
• NYSC discharge certificate
• WAEC/NECO/GCE results with verification PINs
• Passport photograph
• Local Government identification
• Master’s degree certificate (PhD applicants)
• Evidence of professional membership (if applicable)

How to Apply for PTDF Overseas Scholarship 2026

Applications must be submitted online through the official PTDF application portal. Interested candidates are advised to complete their applications early to avoid last-minute technical issues.

Application Deadline: February 27, 2026

Why the PTDF Overseas Scholarship Matters

With rising global tuition costs and limited local funding options, the PTDF Overseas Scholarship remains a critical pathway for Nigerian graduates seeking advanced education in energy, engineering, and petroleum-related fields.

Beyond funding, the programme supports national development, technology transfer, and long-term workforce sustainability in Nigeria’s oil and gas sector.

FAQ: PTDF Overseas Scholarship 2026

What is the PTDF Overseas Scholarship Scheme?

The PTDF Overseas Scholarship Scheme is a Nigerian government-funded programme that supports MSc and PhD studies in petroleum, energy, and related fields at selected local and international institutions.

Is the PTDF Scholarship fully funded?

Yes. The scholarship covers tuition, accommodation, living expenses, airfare, health insurance, and research costs where applicable.

Who can apply for the PTDF Scholarship 2026?

Only Nigerian citizens who meet the academic, NYSC, and NIN requirements are eligible to apply.

Which countries are covered under the 2026 PTDF Scholarship?

The scholarship covers study in the UK, Germany, France, Malaysia, and Nigeria, depending on the programme level.

Can I apply for both MSc and PhD under PTDF?

No. Applicants must apply for one programme only, based on their highest academic qualification.

What is the deadline for PTDF Scholarship 2026?

The application deadline is February 27, 2026.

Is work experience required for the PTDF MSc scholarship?

Work experience is not mandatory for candidates with a Second Class Upper degree but is required for those with a Second Class Lower.

Where is the UK PhD programme conducted?

The UK PhD is offered as a split-site programme at the PTDF College of Petroleum & Energy Studies, Kaduna, in partnership with selected UK universities.

How competitive is the PTDF Scholarship?

The PTDF Scholarship is highly competitive, with selection based on academic merit, relevance to national development, and research potential.