The Federal Government has invited qualified Nigerian university graduates to apply for the 2027/2028 Commonwealth Scholarships and Fellowship Plan, with applications closing on October 20, 2026.
The scholarship opportunity, which is tenable in the United Kingdom, covers a one-year taught Master’s programme or doctoral studies lasting up to three years.
The notice was issued by the Federal Ministry of Education through its Department of Scholarship Awards, formerly known as the Federal Scholarship Board. It was signed by the Director Overseeing the Office of PSE, Dr Folake Olatunji-David, on behalf of the Minister of Education.
The scholarship notice was also shared by the Lagos State Scholarship Board.
Who can apply
For the Master’s programme, applicants must hold a first degree with at least a Second Class Upper Division.
Applicants for doctoral studies must have a relevant Master’s degree and at least a Second Class Lower Division in their first degree.
Candidates applying for either category must have secured admission into at least two UK institutions.
Doctoral applicants must also provide a supporting statement from a prospective supervisor at their chosen UK institution.
The ministry listed evidence of participation in the National Youth Service Corps among the eligibility requirements.
Applications will be assessed based on three criteria: academic merit, development impact on completion and the quality of the proposed study plan.
“Applications will be assessed on Academic merit, Development impact on completion and Quality of Study plan,” the notice stated.
How to apply
The ministry said applications must be submitted through the Electronic Application System.
Applicants are required to register on the EAS portal and complete the application form online. They must also upload scanned copies of their passport photographs, university academic transcripts, birth certificates and admission letters from a UK institution listed in the application form.
Completed applications must be submitted online on or before October 20, 2026.
After submitting their applications, candidates must create a PDF version of the completed form, download and print one hard copy for submission at the interview venue.
Applicants with foreign certificates must provide official translations and evaluations of the documents.
Areas of study
The ministry advised applicants to consider Nigeria’s development priorities when preparing their study proposals and ensure that their proposed programmes align with the country’s development needs.
The listed priority areas include education; health; economic growth and the private sector; governance and conflict; climate and environment; water and sanitation; engineering; science and technology; food and nutrition; and humanitarian disasters and emergencies.
Prospective applicants were advised to consult the Commonwealth Scholarship Commission for further information on the scholarship and selection criteria.
Further enquiries may be directed to the Director, Department of Scholarship Awards, through fsb@education.gov.ng, 09124516750 or 09082454557.
Application deadline: October 20, 2026.
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