The Petroleum Technology Development Fund (PTDF), a Federal Government agency responsible for developing indigenous human capacity for Nigeria's oil and gas sector, has officially invited applications for the 2026 Overseas MSc and PhD Scholarship Scheme.
This fully funded opportunity targets high-achieving Nigerian graduates who wish to study at world-class partner universities in the United Kingdom, Germany, France, and Malaysia. For the 2026 cycle, PTDF is emphasizing strategic partnerships that align with Nigeria's national energy priorities.
Scholarship Benefits: What is Included?
The PTDF scholarship is one of the most comprehensive awards for Nigerians. It covers:
- Full Tuition Fees: Paid directly to the international host university.
- Return Flight Tickets: Economy class travel to and from the study destination.
- Monthly Stipend: A generous allowance for accommodation and daily living expenses.
- Health Insurance: Comprehensive coverage for the duration of the program.
- Bench Fees: Specific research-related costs (mainly for PhD students).
Detailed Eligibility Criteria for 2026
For MSc Applicants:
- Academic Merit: Minimum of Second Class Upper (2.1). Candidates with a Second Class Lower (2.2) may apply ONLY if they have significant and relevant industry experience.
- National Service: Must have completed the NYSC and possess a discharge certificate.
- NIN: A National Identity Number is mandatory and must be verified before the application deadline.
- Literacy: Candidates must be computer literate.
- O'Level: Minimum of 5 credits, including English Language and Mathematics.
For PhD Applicants:
- Prior Degrees: Must have at least a 2.2 in their first degree and a solid postgraduate (Master's) degree.
- Research Focus: A 5-page research proposal that is highly relevant to the Nigerian oil and gas industry.
- PhD in Germany: Applicants targeting Germany must secure a research supervisor before the interview stage.
The 2026 UK "Split-Site" PhD Model
A major change for 2026 is that all PhD scholarships in the United Kingdom are now split-site. Successful scholars will divide their time between the College of Petroleum and Energy Studies, Kaduna (CPESK) and their chosen UK partner university.
Partner UK Universities for 2026:
- University of Strathclyde
- Robert Gordon University
- University of Portsmouth
This model is designed to strengthen local institutional capacity while providing scholars with global exposure.
Approved Fields of Study
PTDF only sponsors courses directly related to its mandate. Key fields include:
- Engineering: Petroleum, Chemical, Subsea, and Renewable Energy Engineering.
- Geosciences: Geology, Geophysics, and Environmental Science.
- Technology: Data Science, Cybersecurity, and AI for Energy Systems.
- Management: Energy Economics and International Petroleum Law.
How to Write a Winning Statement of Purpose (SoP)
MSc applicants must submit a 500-word Statement of Purpose. To stand out in the 2026 selection, your SoP should address:
- Rationale: Why this specific course and university?
- Industry Relevance: How does your study benefit the oil and gas sector?
- National Development: What is your plan to contribute to Nigeria upon your return?
> Expert Tip: Avoid generic language. Mention specific industry challenges, such as "decarbonization" or "enhanced oil recovery," to show you are an expert in your field.
Dateline: February 27, 2026
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Can I apply for PTDF if I already have an Erasmus Mundus scholarship?
No. PTDF rules state that candidates previously sponsored by the Fund or currently benefiting from another scholarship are ineligible.
2. Is there an application fee?
No. The PTDF scholarship application is completely free. Beware of scammers asking for payment to "process" your application.
3. Do I need IELTS or TOEFL?
Generally, for PTDF, your O'Level English credit is often sufficient for the application, but individual partner universities in the UK or Malaysia may still ask for English proficiency scores during the admission stage.
4. When is the deadline?
The portal closes on February 27, 2026. Multiple applications will result in automatic disqualification.
5. Must I be an oil and gas professional to apply?
No, but your prior academic background must be consistent with the energy-related course you are applying for.
Official Portal & How to Apply
Interested and qualified candidates should visit the official management portal:
👉 https://scholarship.ptdf.gov.ng
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