Study for free with the PTDF Overseas Postgraduate Scholarship 2025-2026. Learn about the benefits, who can apply, and how to submit a strong application. Keep reading to find all the details and important dates.
The Petroleum Technology Development Fund invites applications for the Overseas Postgraduate Scholarship for the 2025-2026 academic session.
The programme aims to grow local skills for the oil and gas industry through study at top schools abroad.
Candidates can apply for MSc and PhD programmes at selected universities under the Overseas Scholarship Scheme.
Selected scholars will study in the United Kingdom, Germany, France, Malaysia or at the College of Petroleum and Energy Studies, Kaduna.
Get Full Scholarship Support
The scholarship covers many key costs to make study easier.
Support includes:
- Flight tickets for travel
- Health insurance cover
- Full tuition fees and bench fees where needed
- Allowance for living and housing expenses
Study at Top Partner Institutions
Applications for the 2025-2026 session are only for PTDF partner universities.
These are based in the United Kingdom, Germany, France and Malaysia.
Only partner universities are allowed to make sure standards are kept.
All PhD programmes in the United Kingdom will follow a Split-Site plan.
Scholars will split time between the College of Petroleum and Energy Studies, Kaduna, and a partner university.
The College of Petroleum and Energy Studies, Kaduna, gives strong energy education at home.
It also supports the oil and gas sector by offering postgraduate degrees locally.
Know the Partner Universities
Three UK universities partner with PTDF and CPESK for postgraduate energy studies:
- Robert Gordon University, Aberdeen approved courses
- University of Strathclyde, Glasgow approved courses
- University of Portsmouth approved courses
Each university offers courses that match Nigeria’s energy needs and global trends.
Follow the Selection Process and Criteria
PTDF scholarships are highly competitive.
Top candidates are picked based on points from submitted documents.
Those with highest points from each state will be invited to an interview.
Selection is based on:
- Degree quality, full transcripts, and other qualifications
- Relevant published works (PhD applicants only)
- Membership in professional bodies
- Strong study or research plans
- Link between past studies and oil and gas work
Apply for MSc in the United Kingdom
PTDF partners with eighteen universities in the United Kingdom.
The programme focuses on oil and gas fields to meet PTDF’s goals.
MSc studies are open in these chosen universities only.
Apply for MSc or PhD in Germany, France, or Malaysia
PTDF also funds full MSc and PhD studies in Germany, France, and Malaysia.
Any public university in Germany is accepted for the scholarship.
Meet the Requirements to Apply
MSc Applicants must:
- Hold at least a Second-Class Upper degree or a Second-Class Lower degree with oil and gas industry experience
- Complete the National Youth Service (NYSC)
- Know how to use a computer
- Have five O’Level credits including English and Mathematics
- Write a short statement of purpose (up to 500 words)
- Have a verified National Identity Number (NIN)
PhD Applicants must:
- Complete the National Youth Service (NYSC)
- Know how to use a computer
- Have five O’Level credits including English and Mathematics
- Hold a Second-Class Lower first degree and a strong postgraduate degree
- Submit a research plan (not more than five pages) covering topic, aim, method and data collection
- Have a verified National Identity Number (NIN)
Note Key Rules Before Applying
- Scholarships are for the 2025/2026 academic session
- Only PTDF-approved courses at partner universities are funded
- Courses must link to the oil and gas field
- Previous studies must match the chosen new course
- Multiple applications will lead to disqualification
- Those already funded for MSc or PhD by PTDF cannot reapply for the same or a lower level
- Candidates already holding other scholarships cannot apply
- Lecturers must submit letters from Vice-Chancellors confirming no other scholarship is held
Prepare Required Documents
Applicants must upload scanned copies of:
- First Degree Certificate or Statement of Result
- NYSC Discharge Certificate
- WAEC / GCE / SSCE / NECO results with PINS
- Recent Passport Photograph
- Local Government Identification Letter
- Master’s Degree Certificate (PhD applicants only)
- Evidence of professional body membership
Shortlisted candidates will need to bring transcripts to the interview.
It is wise to get transcripts ready early.
Know the Deadline and How to Apply
The application closes on 4 June 2025.
Start the application through the PTDF Scholarship Application Portal.
Full guidelines can be found at the PTDF Scholarship Guidelines page.
Prepare well, follow the instructions, and meet the deadline for a strong chance.
The PTDF Overseas Postgraduate Scholarship offers a way to grow skills and knowledge in the oil and gas sector.
Ready to take the next step? The path to international study starts now.