JAMB, WAEC, and admissions guides for Nigerian students
State Government Scholarships in Nigeria 2026: Full Guide
The process varies between states. Some run fully online portals; others use physical forms collected at the state Ministry of Education or LGEA office. The typical flow:
Watch for the application window announcement. Most states open scholarship windows once a year, often during the second school term (January to April) or the long holiday (July to September).
Get the application form. Online download or physical collection. Some states charge a token form fee (N500 to N2,000); others issue forms free.
Fill the form. Personal details, course details, current institution, CGPA, sponsor or guardian details, sometimes essay or statement of need.
Attach required documents. LGA certificate, current institution ID, latest transcript, JAMB result and admission letter, SSCE result, passport photographs, bank account details for disbursement.
Submit. Online upload or physical submission at the state Ministry of Education or designated LGEA office.
Sit any required exam or interview. Some states run qualifying exams or interviews for shortlisted applicants. The exam is typically general knowledge plus course-relevant questions.
Await award decision. Successful candidates are notified by SMS, email, or formal letter. Award disbursement follows.
Sample state scholarship schemes
The framework below summarises common state scholarship schemes. Verify current details with your state Ministry of Education before applying.
Lagos State Scholarship Board. Annual undergraduate bursary for Lagos indigenes at Nigerian universities. Award typically N50,000 to N150,000 per session. Application opens around April. Selection based on CGPA, course, and family income.
Rivers State Scholarship Board. Both Nigerian and overseas scholarship schemes. Overseas scheme highly competitive; covers tuition and living expenses for Master’s and PhD studies abroad. Applications open in stages through the year.
Akwa Ibom State Scholarship. Undergraduate bursary and overseas postgraduate scholarship. Annual application window typically in Q1 of each year.
Delta State Bursary. Annual bursary for Delta indigenes at Nigerian tertiary institutions. Application around June-July.
Bayelsa State Scholarship. Strong overseas scholarship history. Selective; targets Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine. Application timing varies.
Cross River State Scholarship. Undergraduate bursary and select overseas scholarships. Application opens around Q2 each year.
Anambra, Imo, Enugu, Ebonyi, Abia State Scholarships. Each runs annual indigenous scholarship schemes. Application windows usually in Q1 to Q3 each year. Award amounts vary; some schemes cover full school fees for indigent students.
Kaduna State Scholarship. Annual undergraduate bursary plus targeted scholarship for medical, dental, and engineering students.
Kano State Scholarship. Annual undergraduate bursary plus overseas scholarship via the Kano State Scholarship Board.
How to position your application competitively
Apply as soon as the window opens. Early applications get cleaner reviewer attention. Late applications often fall in piles at the back.
Provide clean documents. Verify your name, date of birth, and LGA spelling are consistent across all documents. Discrepancies are the most common disqualification reason.
Write a strong statement of need or motivation if the form asks for one. Be specific about your career goals and how the scholarship will help. Avoid generic statements like “I want to help my country”; specify how and in what role.
Maintain a strong CGPA. Even the lowest-tier state bursaries usually require some academic minimum. A CGPA of 4.00 and above puts you in a much stronger position for selection.
Apply to your LGA scholarship if available. Some local governments also run small scholarships in addition to the state scheme. Check at your LGEA office.
Follow up. If you do not hear back within the announced timeframe, follow up at the state Ministry of Education or scholarship board office. Personal follow-up often clears stuck applications.
Frequently asked questions
Can I apply for both state and federal scholarships in the same cycle?
In most cases yes. State and federal scholarships are administered separately and do not have an explicit prohibition on dual application. Many students apply for both each cycle to maximise their chances. However, some state schemes prohibit recipients of other large scholarships from receiving the state award; check the specific state terms. If awarded both, you may need to choose one based on the terms of each scheme.
What if my state does not run a scholarship scheme?
All 36 states plus FCT have scholarship boards on paper, but some are more active than others. If your state’s scheme is dormant or its current cycle is closed, focus on federal scholarships (FSB), private scholarships (MTN Foundation, Shell, Chevron, NLNG, AGSP), and university-internal scholarships. Many Nigerian universities run their own academic-excellence bursaries for top performers; ask at your university’s student affairs office.
How much do state scholarships typically pay?
The award amount varies widely. Undergraduate bursaries in most states fall in the N50,000 to N200,000 per session range. Some states pay more for sciences and engineering than for arts. Overseas scholarship schemes from oil-producing states can cover full tuition plus living expenses (worth millions of naira per year). Verify the specific amount when you apply; some schemes have moved to higher payouts in recent years due to inflation adjustments.
Do I need to be in school to apply?
For undergraduate scholarships, yes: you must be enrolled at a recognised tertiary institution at the time of application. Most states do not run scholarships for fresh secondary school leavers awaiting admission. For postgraduate scholarships, you typically need to have completed (or be about to complete) your previous degree and have admission to the next programme.
How long does state scholarship processing take?
Most state schemes take three to six months from application close to award disbursement. The processing includes shortlisting, qualifying exam (if any), document verification, and final committee decision. Award disbursement follows after the committee approves the list. Some states disburse on a single date; others spread disbursements over months. Track your application status through the scholarship board’s portal or by following up at the state office.
Can I lose a state scholarship after winning it?
Yes, in two ways. First, by failing to renew (annual scholarships require renewal applications with updated transcripts each session). Second, by falling below the academic threshold; most state schemes withdraw funding if your CGPA drops below the required minimum. Some schemes also withdraw funding if you change course or institution without prior approval. Read the scholarship terms carefully and notify the scholarship board of any changes to your academic situation.
State Ministry of Education portals; state scholarship board bulletins; press releases from state governors’ offices.
Each state’s scholarship board has different naming conventions and contact details. To find yours:
Search for your state’s Ministry of Education website. The scholarship board section is usually linked from the ministry homepage. Examples: lagosstate.gov.ng, riversstate.gov.ng, akwaibomstate.gov.ng.
Visit the state Ministry of Education physically. If the online portal is hard to find or appears outdated, the physical office can confirm the current scholarship framework and application windows.
Contact your Local Government Education Authority. LGEAs often have notices about state and federal scholarships and can direct you to the right office.
Follow the state Ministry of Education on social media. Most states announce scholarship windows on the official Twitter or Facebook account before formal website updates.
For example, Lagos State runs scholarship applications through the Lagos State Scholarship Board (lagosstate.gov.ng/scholarship). Rivers State runs through the Rivers State Scholarship Board. Akwa Ibom runs through the Akwa Ibom State Scholarship Board. The naming is consistent but URLs and contact details change between cycles; verify the current address before applying.
How to apply
The process varies between states. Some run fully online portals; others use physical forms collected at the state Ministry of Education or LGEA office. The typical flow:
Watch for the application window announcement. Most states open scholarship windows once a year, often during the second school term (January to April) or the long holiday (July to September).
Get the application form. Online download or physical collection. Some states charge a token form fee (N500 to N2,000); others issue forms free.
Fill the form. Personal details, course details, current institution, CGPA, sponsor or guardian details, sometimes essay or statement of need.
Attach required documents. LGA certificate, current institution ID, latest transcript, JAMB result and admission letter, SSCE result, passport photographs, bank account details for disbursement.
Submit. Online upload or physical submission at the state Ministry of Education or designated LGEA office.
Sit any required exam or interview. Some states run qualifying exams or interviews for shortlisted applicants. The exam is typically general knowledge plus course-relevant questions.
Await award decision. Successful candidates are notified by SMS, email, or formal letter. Award disbursement follows.
Sample state scholarship schemes
The framework below summarises common state scholarship schemes. Verify current details with your state Ministry of Education before applying.
Lagos State Scholarship Board. Annual undergraduate bursary for Lagos indigenes at Nigerian universities. Award typically N50,000 to N150,000 per session. Application opens around April. Selection based on CGPA, course, and family income.
Rivers State Scholarship Board. Both Nigerian and overseas scholarship schemes. Overseas scheme highly competitive; covers tuition and living expenses for Master’s and PhD studies abroad. Applications open in stages through the year.
Akwa Ibom State Scholarship. Undergraduate bursary and overseas postgraduate scholarship. Annual application window typically in Q1 of each year.
Delta State Bursary. Annual bursary for Delta indigenes at Nigerian tertiary institutions. Application around June-July.
Bayelsa State Scholarship. Strong overseas scholarship history. Selective; targets Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine. Application timing varies.
Cross River State Scholarship. Undergraduate bursary and select overseas scholarships. Application opens around Q2 each year.
Anambra, Imo, Enugu, Ebonyi, Abia State Scholarships. Each runs annual indigenous scholarship schemes. Application windows usually in Q1 to Q3 each year. Award amounts vary; some schemes cover full school fees for indigent students.
Kaduna State Scholarship. Annual undergraduate bursary plus targeted scholarship for medical, dental, and engineering students.
Kano State Scholarship. Annual undergraduate bursary plus overseas scholarship via the Kano State Scholarship Board.
How to position your application competitively
Apply as soon as the window opens. Early applications get cleaner reviewer attention. Late applications often fall in piles at the back.
Provide clean documents. Verify your name, date of birth, and LGA spelling are consistent across all documents. Discrepancies are the most common disqualification reason.
Write a strong statement of need or motivation if the form asks for one. Be specific about your career goals and how the scholarship will help. Avoid generic statements like “I want to help my country”; specify how and in what role.
Maintain a strong CGPA. Even the lowest-tier state bursaries usually require some academic minimum. A CGPA of 4.00 and above puts you in a much stronger position for selection.
Apply to your LGA scholarship if available. Some local governments also run small scholarships in addition to the state scheme. Check at your LGEA office.
Follow up. If you do not hear back within the announced timeframe, follow up at the state Ministry of Education or scholarship board office. Personal follow-up often clears stuck applications.
Frequently asked questions
Can I apply for both state and federal scholarships in the same cycle?
In most cases yes. State and federal scholarships are administered separately and do not have an explicit prohibition on dual application. Many students apply for both each cycle to maximise their chances. However, some state schemes prohibit recipients of other large scholarships from receiving the state award; check the specific state terms. If awarded both, you may need to choose one based on the terms of each scheme.
What if my state does not run a scholarship scheme?
All 36 states plus FCT have scholarship boards on paper, but some are more active than others. If your state’s scheme is dormant or its current cycle is closed, focus on federal scholarships (FSB), private scholarships (MTN Foundation, Shell, Chevron, NLNG, AGSP), and university-internal scholarships. Many Nigerian universities run their own academic-excellence bursaries for top performers; ask at your university’s student affairs office.
How much do state scholarships typically pay?
The award amount varies widely. Undergraduate bursaries in most states fall in the N50,000 to N200,000 per session range. Some states pay more for sciences and engineering than for arts. Overseas scholarship schemes from oil-producing states can cover full tuition plus living expenses (worth millions of naira per year). Verify the specific amount when you apply; some schemes have moved to higher payouts in recent years due to inflation adjustments.
Do I need to be in school to apply?
For undergraduate scholarships, yes: you must be enrolled at a recognised tertiary institution at the time of application. Most states do not run scholarships for fresh secondary school leavers awaiting admission. For postgraduate scholarships, you typically need to have completed (or be about to complete) your previous degree and have admission to the next programme.
How long does state scholarship processing take?
Most state schemes take three to six months from application close to award disbursement. The processing includes shortlisting, qualifying exam (if any), document verification, and final committee decision. Award disbursement follows after the committee approves the list. Some states disburse on a single date; others spread disbursements over months. Track your application status through the scholarship board’s portal or by following up at the state office.
Can I lose a state scholarship after winning it?
Yes, in two ways. First, by failing to renew (annual scholarships require renewal applications with updated transcripts each session). Second, by falling below the academic threshold; most state schemes withdraw funding if your CGPA drops below the required minimum. Some schemes also withdraw funding if you change course or institution without prior approval. Read the scholarship terms carefully and notify the scholarship board of any changes to your academic situation.
State Ministry of Education portals; state scholarship board bulletins; press releases from state governors’ offices.
Eligibility varies between states but the typical baseline includes the following.
Indigeneship of the state. Confirmed by Local Government of Origin certificate. You must be an indigene of the state administering the scholarship; residency alone is usually insufficient.
Currently enrolled at a recognised tertiary institution. Nigerian university, polytechnic, or college of education for undergraduate; Nigerian or accredited foreign institution for postgraduate.
Academic standing. Most states require minimum CGPA of 3.00 on 5.0 scale (or 2.50 on 4.0 scale) for renewable awards. Excellence awards typically require 4.00 and above.
Course of study. Most state schemes are open to all courses, with priority sometimes given to Sciences, Engineering, Medicine, and Education.
Age limit. Generally under 30 for undergraduate, under 40 for postgraduate.
Not already on another state-funded scholarship. Some states bar double-dipping across state schemes; check the specific terms.
How to find your state’s scholarship board
Each state’s scholarship board has different naming conventions and contact details. To find yours:
Search for your state’s Ministry of Education website. The scholarship board section is usually linked from the ministry homepage. Examples: lagosstate.gov.ng, riversstate.gov.ng, akwaibomstate.gov.ng.
Visit the state Ministry of Education physically. If the online portal is hard to find or appears outdated, the physical office can confirm the current scholarship framework and application windows.
Contact your Local Government Education Authority. LGEAs often have notices about state and federal scholarships and can direct you to the right office.
Follow the state Ministry of Education on social media. Most states announce scholarship windows on the official Twitter or Facebook account before formal website updates.
For example, Lagos State runs scholarship applications through the Lagos State Scholarship Board (lagosstate.gov.ng/scholarship). Rivers State runs through the Rivers State Scholarship Board. Akwa Ibom runs through the Akwa Ibom State Scholarship Board. The naming is consistent but URLs and contact details change between cycles; verify the current address before applying.
How to apply
The process varies between states. Some run fully online portals; others use physical forms collected at the state Ministry of Education or LGEA office. The typical flow:
Watch for the application window announcement. Most states open scholarship windows once a year, often during the second school term (January to April) or the long holiday (July to September).
Get the application form. Online download or physical collection. Some states charge a token form fee (N500 to N2,000); others issue forms free.
Fill the form. Personal details, course details, current institution, CGPA, sponsor or guardian details, sometimes essay or statement of need.
Attach required documents. LGA certificate, current institution ID, latest transcript, JAMB result and admission letter, SSCE result, passport photographs, bank account details for disbursement.
Submit. Online upload or physical submission at the state Ministry of Education or designated LGEA office.
Sit any required exam or interview. Some states run qualifying exams or interviews for shortlisted applicants. The exam is typically general knowledge plus course-relevant questions.
Await award decision. Successful candidates are notified by SMS, email, or formal letter. Award disbursement follows.
Sample state scholarship schemes
The framework below summarises common state scholarship schemes. Verify current details with your state Ministry of Education before applying.
Lagos State Scholarship Board. Annual undergraduate bursary for Lagos indigenes at Nigerian universities. Award typically N50,000 to N150,000 per session. Application opens around April. Selection based on CGPA, course, and family income.
Rivers State Scholarship Board. Both Nigerian and overseas scholarship schemes. Overseas scheme highly competitive; covers tuition and living expenses for Master’s and PhD studies abroad. Applications open in stages through the year.
Akwa Ibom State Scholarship. Undergraduate bursary and overseas postgraduate scholarship. Annual application window typically in Q1 of each year.
Delta State Bursary. Annual bursary for Delta indigenes at Nigerian tertiary institutions. Application around June-July.
Bayelsa State Scholarship. Strong overseas scholarship history. Selective; targets Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine. Application timing varies.
Cross River State Scholarship. Undergraduate bursary and select overseas scholarships. Application opens around Q2 each year.
Anambra, Imo, Enugu, Ebonyi, Abia State Scholarships. Each runs annual indigenous scholarship schemes. Application windows usually in Q1 to Q3 each year. Award amounts vary; some schemes cover full school fees for indigent students.
Kaduna State Scholarship. Annual undergraduate bursary plus targeted scholarship for medical, dental, and engineering students.
Kano State Scholarship. Annual undergraduate bursary plus overseas scholarship via the Kano State Scholarship Board.
How to position your application competitively
Apply as soon as the window opens. Early applications get cleaner reviewer attention. Late applications often fall in piles at the back.
Provide clean documents. Verify your name, date of birth, and LGA spelling are consistent across all documents. Discrepancies are the most common disqualification reason.
Write a strong statement of need or motivation if the form asks for one. Be specific about your career goals and how the scholarship will help. Avoid generic statements like “I want to help my country”; specify how and in what role.
Maintain a strong CGPA. Even the lowest-tier state bursaries usually require some academic minimum. A CGPA of 4.00 and above puts you in a much stronger position for selection.
Apply to your LGA scholarship if available. Some local governments also run small scholarships in addition to the state scheme. Check at your LGEA office.
Follow up. If you do not hear back within the announced timeframe, follow up at the state Ministry of Education or scholarship board office. Personal follow-up often clears stuck applications.
Frequently asked questions
Can I apply for both state and federal scholarships in the same cycle?
In most cases yes. State and federal scholarships are administered separately and do not have an explicit prohibition on dual application. Many students apply for both each cycle to maximise their chances. However, some state schemes prohibit recipients of other large scholarships from receiving the state award; check the specific state terms. If awarded both, you may need to choose one based on the terms of each scheme.
What if my state does not run a scholarship scheme?
All 36 states plus FCT have scholarship boards on paper, but some are more active than others. If your state’s scheme is dormant or its current cycle is closed, focus on federal scholarships (FSB), private scholarships (MTN Foundation, Shell, Chevron, NLNG, AGSP), and university-internal scholarships. Many Nigerian universities run their own academic-excellence bursaries for top performers; ask at your university’s student affairs office.
How much do state scholarships typically pay?
The award amount varies widely. Undergraduate bursaries in most states fall in the N50,000 to N200,000 per session range. Some states pay more for sciences and engineering than for arts. Overseas scholarship schemes from oil-producing states can cover full tuition plus living expenses (worth millions of naira per year). Verify the specific amount when you apply; some schemes have moved to higher payouts in recent years due to inflation adjustments.
Do I need to be in school to apply?
For undergraduate scholarships, yes: you must be enrolled at a recognised tertiary institution at the time of application. Most states do not run scholarships for fresh secondary school leavers awaiting admission. For postgraduate scholarships, you typically need to have completed (or be about to complete) your previous degree and have admission to the next programme.
How long does state scholarship processing take?
Most state schemes take three to six months from application close to award disbursement. The processing includes shortlisting, qualifying exam (if any), document verification, and final committee decision. Award disbursement follows after the committee approves the list. Some states disburse on a single date; others spread disbursements over months. Track your application status through the scholarship board’s portal or by following up at the state office.
Can I lose a state scholarship after winning it?
Yes, in two ways. First, by failing to renew (annual scholarships require renewal applications with updated transcripts each session). Second, by falling below the academic threshold; most state schemes withdraw funding if your CGPA drops below the required minimum. Some schemes also withdraw funding if you change course or institution without prior approval. Read the scholarship terms carefully and notify the scholarship board of any changes to your academic situation.
State Ministry of Education portals; state scholarship board bulletins; press releases from state governors’ offices.
Each state operates its scholarship scheme through a State Scholarship Board (sometimes called Scholarship Committee or Bursary Board) under the state Ministry of Education. The board sets eligibility criteria, runs application windows, processes applications, and disburses awards. Funding comes from the state government’s annual education budget, supplemented in some cases by partnerships with state-owned development agencies.
Common award categories across most states include: undergraduate bursary (one-off or annual award for students at Nigerian universities); postgraduate scholarship (for master’s and PhD students at Nigerian or foreign universities); medical and engineering scholarship (priority awards for specific disciplines); indigent scholarship (need-based for students from low-income backgrounds); and merit scholarship (for top-performing students).
Common eligibility requirements
Eligibility varies between states but the typical baseline includes the following.
Indigeneship of the state. Confirmed by Local Government of Origin certificate. You must be an indigene of the state administering the scholarship; residency alone is usually insufficient.
Currently enrolled at a recognised tertiary institution. Nigerian university, polytechnic, or college of education for undergraduate; Nigerian or accredited foreign institution for postgraduate.
Academic standing. Most states require minimum CGPA of 3.00 on 5.0 scale (or 2.50 on 4.0 scale) for renewable awards. Excellence awards typically require 4.00 and above.
Course of study. Most state schemes are open to all courses, with priority sometimes given to Sciences, Engineering, Medicine, and Education.
Age limit. Generally under 30 for undergraduate, under 40 for postgraduate.
Not already on another state-funded scholarship. Some states bar double-dipping across state schemes; check the specific terms.
How to find your state’s scholarship board
Each state’s scholarship board has different naming conventions and contact details. To find yours:
Search for your state’s Ministry of Education website. The scholarship board section is usually linked from the ministry homepage. Examples: lagosstate.gov.ng, riversstate.gov.ng, akwaibomstate.gov.ng.
Visit the state Ministry of Education physically. If the online portal is hard to find or appears outdated, the physical office can confirm the current scholarship framework and application windows.
Contact your Local Government Education Authority. LGEAs often have notices about state and federal scholarships and can direct you to the right office.
Follow the state Ministry of Education on social media. Most states announce scholarship windows on the official Twitter or Facebook account before formal website updates.
For example, Lagos State runs scholarship applications through the Lagos State Scholarship Board (lagosstate.gov.ng/scholarship). Rivers State runs through the Rivers State Scholarship Board. Akwa Ibom runs through the Akwa Ibom State Scholarship Board. The naming is consistent but URLs and contact details change between cycles; verify the current address before applying.
How to apply
The process varies between states. Some run fully online portals; others use physical forms collected at the state Ministry of Education or LGEA office. The typical flow:
Watch for the application window announcement. Most states open scholarship windows once a year, often during the second school term (January to April) or the long holiday (July to September).
Get the application form. Online download or physical collection. Some states charge a token form fee (N500 to N2,000); others issue forms free.
Fill the form. Personal details, course details, current institution, CGPA, sponsor or guardian details, sometimes essay or statement of need.
Attach required documents. LGA certificate, current institution ID, latest transcript, JAMB result and admission letter, SSCE result, passport photographs, bank account details for disbursement.
Submit. Online upload or physical submission at the state Ministry of Education or designated LGEA office.
Sit any required exam or interview. Some states run qualifying exams or interviews for shortlisted applicants. The exam is typically general knowledge plus course-relevant questions.
Await award decision. Successful candidates are notified by SMS, email, or formal letter. Award disbursement follows.
Sample state scholarship schemes
The framework below summarises common state scholarship schemes. Verify current details with your state Ministry of Education before applying.
Lagos State Scholarship Board. Annual undergraduate bursary for Lagos indigenes at Nigerian universities. Award typically N50,000 to N150,000 per session. Application opens around April. Selection based on CGPA, course, and family income.
Rivers State Scholarship Board. Both Nigerian and overseas scholarship schemes. Overseas scheme highly competitive; covers tuition and living expenses for Master’s and PhD studies abroad. Applications open in stages through the year.
Akwa Ibom State Scholarship. Undergraduate bursary and overseas postgraduate scholarship. Annual application window typically in Q1 of each year.
Delta State Bursary. Annual bursary for Delta indigenes at Nigerian tertiary institutions. Application around June-July.
Bayelsa State Scholarship. Strong overseas scholarship history. Selective; targets Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine. Application timing varies.
Cross River State Scholarship. Undergraduate bursary and select overseas scholarships. Application opens around Q2 each year.
Anambra, Imo, Enugu, Ebonyi, Abia State Scholarships. Each runs annual indigenous scholarship schemes. Application windows usually in Q1 to Q3 each year. Award amounts vary; some schemes cover full school fees for indigent students.
Kaduna State Scholarship. Annual undergraduate bursary plus targeted scholarship for medical, dental, and engineering students.
Kano State Scholarship. Annual undergraduate bursary plus overseas scholarship via the Kano State Scholarship Board.
How to position your application competitively
Apply as soon as the window opens. Early applications get cleaner reviewer attention. Late applications often fall in piles at the back.
Provide clean documents. Verify your name, date of birth, and LGA spelling are consistent across all documents. Discrepancies are the most common disqualification reason.
Write a strong statement of need or motivation if the form asks for one. Be specific about your career goals and how the scholarship will help. Avoid generic statements like “I want to help my country”; specify how and in what role.
Maintain a strong CGPA. Even the lowest-tier state bursaries usually require some academic minimum. A CGPA of 4.00 and above puts you in a much stronger position for selection.
Apply to your LGA scholarship if available. Some local governments also run small scholarships in addition to the state scheme. Check at your LGEA office.
Follow up. If you do not hear back within the announced timeframe, follow up at the state Ministry of Education or scholarship board office. Personal follow-up often clears stuck applications.
Frequently asked questions
Can I apply for both state and federal scholarships in the same cycle?
In most cases yes. State and federal scholarships are administered separately and do not have an explicit prohibition on dual application. Many students apply for both each cycle to maximise their chances. However, some state schemes prohibit recipients of other large scholarships from receiving the state award; check the specific state terms. If awarded both, you may need to choose one based on the terms of each scheme.
What if my state does not run a scholarship scheme?
All 36 states plus FCT have scholarship boards on paper, but some are more active than others. If your state’s scheme is dormant or its current cycle is closed, focus on federal scholarships (FSB), private scholarships (MTN Foundation, Shell, Chevron, NLNG, AGSP), and university-internal scholarships. Many Nigerian universities run their own academic-excellence bursaries for top performers; ask at your university’s student affairs office.
How much do state scholarships typically pay?
The award amount varies widely. Undergraduate bursaries in most states fall in the N50,000 to N200,000 per session range. Some states pay more for sciences and engineering than for arts. Overseas scholarship schemes from oil-producing states can cover full tuition plus living expenses (worth millions of naira per year). Verify the specific amount when you apply; some schemes have moved to higher payouts in recent years due to inflation adjustments.
Do I need to be in school to apply?
For undergraduate scholarships, yes: you must be enrolled at a recognised tertiary institution at the time of application. Most states do not run scholarships for fresh secondary school leavers awaiting admission. For postgraduate scholarships, you typically need to have completed (or be about to complete) your previous degree and have admission to the next programme.
How long does state scholarship processing take?
Most state schemes take three to six months from application close to award disbursement. The processing includes shortlisting, qualifying exam (if any), document verification, and final committee decision. Award disbursement follows after the committee approves the list. Some states disburse on a single date; others spread disbursements over months. Track your application status through the scholarship board’s portal or by following up at the state office.
Can I lose a state scholarship after winning it?
Yes, in two ways. First, by failing to renew (annual scholarships require renewal applications with updated transcripts each session). Second, by falling below the academic threshold; most state schemes withdraw funding if your CGPA drops below the required minimum. Some schemes also withdraw funding if you change course or institution without prior approval. Read the scholarship terms carefully and notify the scholarship board of any changes to your academic situation.
State Ministry of Education portals; state scholarship board bulletins; press releases from state governors’ offices.
Many Nigerian states run their own scholarship schemes for indigenes studying at tertiary institutions within the state or elsewhere in Nigeria. State scholarships are typically less competitive than federal awards because the applicant pool is restricted to indigenes of the state, and award amounts are usually smaller than federal or international scholarships. However, state scholarships are real money in the hands of students who win them and can cover a meaningful chunk of school fees and living expenses each session.
Last updated: May 2026 The states that consistently run scholarship schemes include Lagos, Rivers, Akwa Ibom, Delta, Bayelsa, Cross River, Edo, Ogun, Oyo, Osun, Ondo, Ekiti, Kaduna, Kano, Sokoto, Borno, Plateau, Anambra, Imo, Enugu, Ebonyi, and Abia. Other states run periodic schemes or sponsor specific cohorts. This guide covers the standard state scholarship framework, how to find your state’s programme, eligibility, application timing, and how to position your application.
How state scholarships work
Each state operates its scholarship scheme through a State Scholarship Board (sometimes called Scholarship Committee or Bursary Board) under the state Ministry of Education. The board sets eligibility criteria, runs application windows, processes applications, and disburses awards. Funding comes from the state government’s annual education budget, supplemented in some cases by partnerships with state-owned development agencies.
Common award categories across most states include: undergraduate bursary (one-off or annual award for students at Nigerian universities); postgraduate scholarship (for master’s and PhD students at Nigerian or foreign universities); medical and engineering scholarship (priority awards for specific disciplines); indigent scholarship (need-based for students from low-income backgrounds); and merit scholarship (for top-performing students).
Common eligibility requirements
Eligibility varies between states but the typical baseline includes the following.
Indigeneship of the state. Confirmed by Local Government of Origin certificate. You must be an indigene of the state administering the scholarship; residency alone is usually insufficient.
Currently enrolled at a recognised tertiary institution. Nigerian university, polytechnic, or college of education for undergraduate; Nigerian or accredited foreign institution for postgraduate.
Academic standing. Most states require minimum CGPA of 3.00 on 5.0 scale (or 2.50 on 4.0 scale) for renewable awards. Excellence awards typically require 4.00 and above.
Course of study. Most state schemes are open to all courses, with priority sometimes given to Sciences, Engineering, Medicine, and Education.
Age limit. Generally under 30 for undergraduate, under 40 for postgraduate.
Not already on another state-funded scholarship. Some states bar double-dipping across state schemes; check the specific terms.
How to find your state’s scholarship board
Each state’s scholarship board has different naming conventions and contact details. To find yours:
Search for your state’s Ministry of Education website. The scholarship board section is usually linked from the ministry homepage. Examples: lagosstate.gov.ng, riversstate.gov.ng, akwaibomstate.gov.ng.
Visit the state Ministry of Education physically. If the online portal is hard to find or appears outdated, the physical office can confirm the current scholarship framework and application windows.
Contact your Local Government Education Authority. LGEAs often have notices about state and federal scholarships and can direct you to the right office.
Follow the state Ministry of Education on social media. Most states announce scholarship windows on the official Twitter or Facebook account before formal website updates.
For example, Lagos State runs scholarship applications through the Lagos State Scholarship Board (lagosstate.gov.ng/scholarship). Rivers State runs through the Rivers State Scholarship Board. Akwa Ibom runs through the Akwa Ibom State Scholarship Board. The naming is consistent but URLs and contact details change between cycles; verify the current address before applying.
How to apply
The process varies between states. Some run fully online portals; others use physical forms collected at the state Ministry of Education or LGEA office. The typical flow:
Watch for the application window announcement. Most states open scholarship windows once a year, often during the second school term (January to April) or the long holiday (July to September).
Get the application form. Online download or physical collection. Some states charge a token form fee (N500 to N2,000); others issue forms free.
Fill the form. Personal details, course details, current institution, CGPA, sponsor or guardian details, sometimes essay or statement of need.
Attach required documents. LGA certificate, current institution ID, latest transcript, JAMB result and admission letter, SSCE result, passport photographs, bank account details for disbursement.
Submit. Online upload or physical submission at the state Ministry of Education or designated LGEA office.
Sit any required exam or interview. Some states run qualifying exams or interviews for shortlisted applicants. The exam is typically general knowledge plus course-relevant questions.
Await award decision. Successful candidates are notified by SMS, email, or formal letter. Award disbursement follows.
Sample state scholarship schemes
The framework below summarises common state scholarship schemes. Verify current details with your state Ministry of Education before applying.
Lagos State Scholarship Board. Annual undergraduate bursary for Lagos indigenes at Nigerian universities. Award typically N50,000 to N150,000 per session. Application opens around April. Selection based on CGPA, course, and family income.
Rivers State Scholarship Board. Both Nigerian and overseas scholarship schemes. Overseas scheme highly competitive; covers tuition and living expenses for Master’s and PhD studies abroad. Applications open in stages through the year.
Akwa Ibom State Scholarship. Undergraduate bursary and overseas postgraduate scholarship. Annual application window typically in Q1 of each year.
Delta State Bursary. Annual bursary for Delta indigenes at Nigerian tertiary institutions. Application around June-July.
Bayelsa State Scholarship. Strong overseas scholarship history. Selective; targets Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine. Application timing varies.
Cross River State Scholarship. Undergraduate bursary and select overseas scholarships. Application opens around Q2 each year.
Anambra, Imo, Enugu, Ebonyi, Abia State Scholarships. Each runs annual indigenous scholarship schemes. Application windows usually in Q1 to Q3 each year. Award amounts vary; some schemes cover full school fees for indigent students.
Kaduna State Scholarship. Annual undergraduate bursary plus targeted scholarship for medical, dental, and engineering students.
Kano State Scholarship. Annual undergraduate bursary plus overseas scholarship via the Kano State Scholarship Board.
How to position your application competitively
Apply as soon as the window opens. Early applications get cleaner reviewer attention. Late applications often fall in piles at the back.
Provide clean documents. Verify your name, date of birth, and LGA spelling are consistent across all documents. Discrepancies are the most common disqualification reason.
Write a strong statement of need or motivation if the form asks for one. Be specific about your career goals and how the scholarship will help. Avoid generic statements like “I want to help my country”; specify how and in what role.
Maintain a strong CGPA. Even the lowest-tier state bursaries usually require some academic minimum. A CGPA of 4.00 and above puts you in a much stronger position for selection.
Apply to your LGA scholarship if available. Some local governments also run small scholarships in addition to the state scheme. Check at your LGEA office.
Follow up. If you do not hear back within the announced timeframe, follow up at the state Ministry of Education or scholarship board office. Personal follow-up often clears stuck applications.
Frequently asked questions
Can I apply for both state and federal scholarships in the same cycle?
In most cases yes. State and federal scholarships are administered separately and do not have an explicit prohibition on dual application. Many students apply for both each cycle to maximise their chances. However, some state schemes prohibit recipients of other large scholarships from receiving the state award; check the specific state terms. If awarded both, you may need to choose one based on the terms of each scheme.
What if my state does not run a scholarship scheme?
All 36 states plus FCT have scholarship boards on paper, but some are more active than others. If your state’s scheme is dormant or its current cycle is closed, focus on federal scholarships (FSB), private scholarships (MTN Foundation, Shell, Chevron, NLNG, AGSP), and university-internal scholarships. Many Nigerian universities run their own academic-excellence bursaries for top performers; ask at your university’s student affairs office.
How much do state scholarships typically pay?
The award amount varies widely. Undergraduate bursaries in most states fall in the N50,000 to N200,000 per session range. Some states pay more for sciences and engineering than for arts. Overseas scholarship schemes from oil-producing states can cover full tuition plus living expenses (worth millions of naira per year). Verify the specific amount when you apply; some schemes have moved to higher payouts in recent years due to inflation adjustments.
Do I need to be in school to apply?
For undergraduate scholarships, yes: you must be enrolled at a recognised tertiary institution at the time of application. Most states do not run scholarships for fresh secondary school leavers awaiting admission. For postgraduate scholarships, you typically need to have completed (or be about to complete) your previous degree and have admission to the next programme.
How long does state scholarship processing take?
Most state schemes take three to six months from application close to award disbursement. The processing includes shortlisting, qualifying exam (if any), document verification, and final committee decision. Award disbursement follows after the committee approves the list. Some states disburse on a single date; others spread disbursements over months. Track your application status through the scholarship board’s portal or by following up at the state office.
Can I lose a state scholarship after winning it?
Yes, in two ways. First, by failing to renew (annual scholarships require renewal applications with updated transcripts each session). Second, by falling below the academic threshold; most state schemes withdraw funding if your CGPA drops below the required minimum. Some schemes also withdraw funding if you change course or institution without prior approval. Read the scholarship terms carefully and notify the scholarship board of any changes to your academic situation.
Lagos-based education writer covering JAMB, WAEC and NECO, and tertiary admissions across Nigeria. Chinedu tracks cut-off marks, admission lists, and school portal updates so students and parents do not have to.
