Applying for jobs and scholarships in Nigeria can be really stressful, competitive, and sometimes confusing. Every year, thousands of qualified Nigerians miss out on life-changing opportunities — not because they are not good enough, but because of avoidable mistakes during the application process.
This post serves as a guide for intending Nigerians applying for jobs and scholarships.
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If you have ever applied for a job or scholarship and never received a response, this article is for you. In this guide, we break down the most common mistakes Nigerians make when applying for jobs and scholarships and how you can avoid them to improve your chances of success.
1. Not Reading the Application Instructions Properly
One of the biggest mistakes applicants make is rushing through the application without carefully reading the instructions.
Some recruiters and scholarship boards automatically disqualify applications that:
- Use the wrong email subject
- Are sent to the wrong email address
- Miss required documents
- Ignore application guidelines
How to avoid this:
Before applying, read the job or scholarship details at least twice. Pay attention to:
- Required qualifications
- Documents needed
- Application deadline
- Mode of application (email, portal, Google form, etc.)
Missing one instruction can cost you the opportunity.
2. Using a Poorly Written or Generic CV
Many Nigerians use the same CV for every job or scholarship. This is a major red flag for recruiters.
Common CV issues include:
- Spelling and grammatical errors
- Outdated information
- No clear job responsibilities
- Too long or poorly structured CV
How to avoid this:
Always tailor your CV to the opportunity you are applying for. Your CV should:
- Be clear and professional
- Highlight relevant experience
- Be no longer than 2–3 pages
- Match the role or scholarship focus
A good CV alone can increase your chances significantly.
3. Sending Unprofessional Emails
For applications sent via email, your email message matters more than you think.
Common mistakes include:
- Empty email body
- Informal language like “Good day sir” with no structure.
- Wrong subject line
- Attaching files without explanation
How to avoid this:
Write a short, polite, and professional email.
Include:
- A proper greeting
- The position or scholarship name
- A brief introduction
- A clear mention of attached documents
Professional communication leaves a strong first impression.
4. Ignoring Eligibility Requirements
Many applicants apply for opportunities they are clearly not eligible for — wrong age range, wrong qualification, wrong course, or wrong location.
This wastes your time and reduces your confidence when you get rejected.
How to avoid this:
Check eligibility criteria carefully:
- Age limits
- Academic qualifications
- Required experience
- Nationality or state of origin
If you don’t qualify, focus on opportunities that truly match your profile.
5. Submitting Fake or Inconsistent Documents
Some applicants submit altered certificates, fake experience letters, or inconsistent information across documents.
This is extremely risky.
Most organizations verify:
- Certificates
- NYSC details
- Referees
- Academic records
How to avoid this:
Always submit genuine and consistent documents.
If you lack experience, focus on:
- Volunteer work
- Internships
- Online certifications
Honesty protects your reputation long-term.
6. Applying Late or Waiting Until Deadline Day
Late applications are usually ignored. Even applications sent minutes after the deadline may not be considered.
Also, applying on deadline day increases:
- Network issues
- Website crashes
- Upload errors
How to avoid this:
Apply early.
Aim to submit at least 2–5 days before the deadline whenever possible.
Early applications often get better attention.
7. Not Proofreading Before Submission
Small errors can ruin a strong application.
Common issues include:
- Wrong phone number
- Incorrect email address
- Misspelled names
- Broken attachments
How to avoid this:
Before submitting:
- Re-read everything
- Open attached files to confirm they work
- Ask someone to review your application if possible
Attention to detail matters.
8. Falling for Fake Job and Scholarship Offers
Scammers take advantage of desperate applicants.
Red flags include:
- Requests for payment
- Unofficial email addresses
- Poorly written job descriptions
- Urgent pressure to “act fast”
How to avoid this:
Only apply through:
- Official websites
- Verified emails
- Trusted platforms
Never pay money to secure a job or scholarship.
9. Not Following Up or Tracking Applications
Many applicants apply and forget where or when they applied.
This leads to:
- Missed interview emails
- Confusion
- Poor organization
How to avoid this:
Create a simple application tracker:
- Opportunity name
- Date applied
- Contact email
- Deadline
This keeps you organized and professional.
📋 Quick Application Review Checklist
Run through these 5 points before you hit "Send" on any job or scholarship application:
- ☐ The "Two-Read" Rule: Have I read the instructions twice to ensure I didn't miss a specific email subject or document?
- ☐ File Format Check: Are all my documents (CV, ID, Certificates) saved as PDF and clearly named? (e.g., David_Dung_CV.pdf)
- ☐ Eligibility Scan: Do I truly meet the age, location, and grade requirements for this specific role?
- ☐ Contact Info: Is my phone number and email address spelled correctly on my CV?
- ☐ Professional Body: If sending an email, did I write a clear introduction instead of leaving the body empty?
Final Thoughts
Applying for jobs and scholarships in Nigeria is competitive, but avoiding these common mistakes can put you ahead of thousands of applicants.
Success is not only about qualifications — it is about strategy, attention to detail, and professionalism.
If you apply smarter, your chances will improve.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Why do I keep applying for jobs but never get a response?
Most times, it is due to poor CV structure, wrong email subject, missing documents, or not meeting eligibility requirements.
2. Is it okay to use one CV for all job applications?
No. You should always tailor your CV to match the job or scholarship you are applying for.
3. Should I pay anyone to help me secure a job or scholarship?
No legitimate job or scholarship requires payment. Requests for money are usually scams.
4. How early should I apply for opportunities?
Apply as early as possible, preferably several days before the deadline.
5. What is the most important part of an application?
Following instructions correctly, submitting genuine documents, and presenting yourself professionally.
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