Written by Are you a Nigerian student aspiring to pursue a fully funded Master’s or PhD abroad? The PTDF Overseas Scholarship Scheme 2026 offers an exceptional opportunity to study at top universities in the United Kingdom, France, Germany, and Malaysia.
This prestigious, fully funded scholarship is designed for Nigerians seeking advanced training in oil and gas–related disciplines, helping to build indigenous expertise critical to the development of Nigeria’s energy sector.
If you are searching for overseas scholarships for Nigerian students or fully funded PhD programmes in Europe, this opportunity is for you.
As a trusted platform for Nigerian scholarships and study-abroad opportunities, iCanStudent.com provides this comprehensive guide to help you understand the programme and improve your chances of success—whether you’re in Lagos, Abuja, or anywhere across Africa.
About the Opportunity
The Petroleum Technology Development Fund (PTDF) Overseas Scholarship Scheme 2026 is a Federal Government of Nigeria initiative aimed at developing human capacity and advancing technology within the nation’s oil and gas industry.
The scheme supports MSc and PhD studies at carefully selected, PTDF-approved universities in the UK, Germany, France, and Malaysia, ensuring world-class training aligned with national development goals.
For the 2026 cycle, PhD candidates applying to UK institutions will undergo a split-site programme, spending part of their studies at the College of Petroleum and Energy Studies, Kaduna (CPESK) and the remainder at partner UK universities such as Robert Gordon University, University of Strathclyde, and University of Portsmouth.
This scholarship is ideal for African students seeking international funding in energy-related fields, with strong relevance to Nigeria’s petroleum industry.
Scholarship Benefits
The PTDF Overseas Scholarship 2026 is fully funded, allowing scholars to focus entirely on their academic and research goals. Benefits include:
- Return flight tickets to and from the study destination
- Comprehensive health insurance coverage
- Full tuition and bench fees, including research costs where applicable
- Accommodation and living allowances, paid as monthly stipends
This makes PTDF one of the top fully funded scholarships for Nigerians, eliminating financial barriers to studying abroad. Imagine completing a Master’s degree in Germany or a PhD in the UK without financial stress—this is the PTDF advantage.
Eligibility Criteria
PTDF scholarships are highly competitive and awarded based on academic excellence and relevance to the oil and gas sector.
For MSc Applicants
- Minimum of Second Class Upper (2:1), or Second Class Lower (2:2) with relevant industry experience
- Completion of National Youth Service Corps (NYSC)
- Computer literacy
- At least five O’Level credits, including English Language and Mathematics
- A 500-word Statement of Purpose explaining academic goals, relevance to oil and gas, and national impact
- Valid National Identity Number (NIN) (verification required; charges apply)
For PhD Applicants
- Completion of NYSC
- Computer literacy
- At least five O’Level credits, including English and Mathematics
- Minimum of Second Class Lower (2:2) in first degree and a strong postgraduate qualification
- A five-page research proposal related to oil and gas, covering introduction, objectives, methodology, and data approach
- Verified NIN
Academic staff (lecturers) must provide a letter confirming they are not beneficiaries of other scholarships. All applicants must be Nigerian citizens, and proposed studies must align with prior academic background.
Required Documents
Applicants are advised to prepare and upload clear, legible copies of the following documents:
- First Degree Certificate or Statement of Result
- NYSC Discharge Certificate
- WAEC/GCE/SSCE/NECO results (with verification PINs)
- Recent passport photograph
- Local Government Identification Letter
- Master’s Degree Certificate (PhD applicants only)
- Evidence of professional body membership (where applicable)
Note: Falsified, incomplete, or illegible documents will result in disqualification. PhD applicants to Germany under the PTDF/DAAD pathway must secure a supervisor before applying.
How to Apply (Step-by-Step)
Follow these steps to apply for the PTDF Overseas Scholarship 2026:
- Visit the Application Portal: Click Apply Here and create an applicant account
- Review Guidelines: Carefully read the official guidelines and list of approved courses and universities
- Verify Your NIN: Ensure your NIN is verified through NIMC (fees apply)
- Complete the Application Form: Select your preferred programme and institution
- Upload Required Documents: Attach all documents as specified
- Submit Your Application: Review carefully and submit before the deadline (multiple applications lead to disqualification)
- Prepare for Interview: Shortlisted candidates will be invited for interviews—ensure you have all original transcripts
For PhD applicants, strong alignment between your research proposal and oil and gas industry challenges will significantly boost your chances.
Deadline: February 27,2026