The rising cost of private university education in Nigeria is one of the biggest barriers to higher education for many families.
While private institutions boast modern facilities, smaller class sizes, and more stable academic calendars compared to public institutions, the average Nigerian family struggles to afford their tuition fees.
Scholarships have become a vital solution, offering a much-needed bridge between ambition and opportunity. These scholarships are awarded based on academic merit, financial need, or even special talents and affiliations.
This article explores the types, sources, eligibility, application processes, and real-world strategies for obtaining private university scholarships in Nigeria.
Why Scholarships Matter for Nigerian Students
In a country with a high youth population, where access to quality education remains a challenge, scholarships do more than just pay fees; they change lives.
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Scholarships help reduce educational inequality by supporting students who have the talent but not the means. They also improve academic performance, as students can focus more on learning rather than juggling part-time work to pay bills.
Scholarships enhance motivation, provide a sense of accomplishment, and often come with additional support like mentoring and internship opportunities.
Furthermore, organizations that fund scholarships often have community development goals, which means they are investing in the future leaders of Nigeria.
Types of Scholarships in Nigerian Private Universities
Merit-Based Scholarships
These are offered to students with exceptional academic records. Many private universities in Nigeria automatically assess students based on their UTME scores, WAEC/NECO results, or internal academic assessments.
For instance, a student with 7 A1s in WAEC might be eligible for a 50% tuition discount at institutions like Afe Babalola University.
Need-Based Scholarships
These scholarships are aimed at students from economically disadvantaged backgrounds. Applicants typically need to submit documentation such as parents’ tax returns, income statements, or affidavits of financial hardship.
For example, the David Oyedepo Foundation evaluates family financial history alongside academic performance to determine eligibility.
Religious/Denominational Scholarships
Many private universities in Nigeria are affiliated with religious organizations. These schools often support members of their denominations.
For example, Redeemer’s University offers partial or full scholarships to outstanding students who are active members of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG). Similarly, Bowen University supports Baptist Convention members.
State or Region-Based Scholarships
These programs target students from specific areas, especially educationally disadvantaged states like Zamfara, Kebbi, or Yobe.
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Some private universities offer discounts or fee waivers for students from these regions, either directly or through partnerships with state governments or regional NGOs.
Talent or Sports-Based Scholarships
Students who show exceptional talent in athletics, music, visual arts, or drama may qualify for scholarships that cover part or all of their tuition.
For instance, Nile University has been known to offer scholarships to outstanding basketball players who also meet academic criteria.
Top Private Universities in Nigeria Offering Scholarships
Covenant University (CU)
Covenant University is one of the leading private institutions in West Africa. It partners with the David Oyedepo Foundation to offer full-ride scholarships covering tuition, accommodation, and living expenses.
Students must demonstrate academic excellence, leadership potential, and financial need. The scholarship is open to both Nigerian and international students.
Babcock University
This faith-based university offers scholarships to high-achieving students and members of the Seventh-day Adventist Church.
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Their Work-Study Programme also allows students to work part-time on campus in exchange for tuition discounts.
Afe Babalola University (ABUAD)
ABUAD awards scholarships to students with top-tier UTME scores and outstanding secondary school results.
The university offers both full and partial tuition waivers, renewable annually based on academic performance.
Bowen University
Bowen’s scholarship program rewards top performers and active church members. The university also offers postgraduate scholarships, making it one of the few institutions supporting education beyond the undergraduate level.
American University of Nigeria (AUN)
Located in Yola, AUN is known for its American-style curriculum and social impact mission. Scholarships are offered to students from conflict-affected states in the North and to academically outstanding students nationwide. Some packages include housing and textbook allowances.
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Redeemer’s University
The university has merit- and faith-based scholarship options. They also run various fee discount programs for students with siblings in the school or those referred by RCCG members.
Nile University of Nigeria
Nile offers an extensive scholarship scheme that covers from 10% to 100% of tuition, based on student performance in entrance exams, WAEC/UTME, and their first-year GPA. Sports scholarships are also available.
Most Popular Scholarship Programs in Nigerian Private Universities
David Oyedepo Foundation Scholarship
Covers tuition, accommodation, and other expenses for students at Covenant University and other partner institutions. It targets African students and focuses on developing future leaders.
NNPC/SNEPCo National University Scholarship
Open to first-year students in accredited Nigerian universities, this program includes private universities. It provides ₦200,000 annually for the duration of the program, renewable upon good academic standing.
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MTN Foundation Scholarship
Primarily for science and technology students with top academic results. Covers tuition and provides a stipend of ₦200,000 annually. Available in selected private universities.
Stanbic IBTC University Scholarship
Stanbic IBTC selects 100 Nigerian students annually to receive a scholarship of ₦200,000 each, renewable every year. Open to both public and private university students.
Shell Nigeria University Scholarship
Shell awards these scholarships to first-year students with strong academic backgrounds. It is highly competitive and valued at ₦200,000 per session, renewable for up to four years.
General Eligibility Criteria for Private University Scholarships
To increase your chances, you should meet the following:
- Minimum of 5 credits in WAEC/NECO including Mathematics and English
- UTME score above national cut-off (often 200+)
- Admission letter from the university
- Proof of low family income (for need-based scholarships)
- Strong recommendation letters from teachers or religious leaders
- Clean disciplinary record and evidence of good character
How to Apply for Scholarships in Private Universities
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- Research Early: Some scholarships open 6–12 months before academic sessions begin. Bookmark scholarship portals and university websites.
- Gather Your Documents: These include transcripts, UTME/WAEC results, ID, passport photographs, and sometimes essays or videos.
- Write a Personal Statement: Clearly explain your goals, challenges, and why you deserve the scholarship.
- Follow Instructions Carefully: Submit all required documents before the deadline. Incomplete applications are often discarded without notice.
Tips to Increase Your Chances of Winning a Scholarship
- Apply early and to multiple scholarships.
- Keep your grades high and participate in extracurricular activities.
- Build a track record of community service.
- Customize your application for each scholarship. Don’t send generic personal statements.
- Stay updated via official school pages, social media, and scholarship portals like scholarship.ng.
What to Do After Receiving a Scholarship
Receiving a scholarship is a huge win, but it comes with responsibilities:
- Maintain the required GPA every semester.
- Attend mentorship or training programs organized by scholarship sponsors.
- Submit academic progress reports regularly.
- Renew your scholarship if it’s not a one-time grant.
Failing to meet these conditions could mean losing your funding.
Alternatives if You Don’t Get a Scholarship
- Work-Study Programs: Many private universities let students work part-time as lab assistants, library staff, or administrative aides.
- Education Loans: Some microfinance institutions and banks like LAPO, Access Bank, and Sterling Bank offer student-friendly loans.
- Skill Monetization: Students can start side hustles, graphic design, tutoring, writing, or YouTube channels; to raise money.
Challenges Students Face With Scholarships
While scholarships are beneficial, they’re not always perfect. Common issues include:
- Delayed disbursement of funds due to bureaucratic hurdles
- Complicated renewal processes that discourage students
- Lack of transparency from some institutions or sponsors
- Difficulty tracking multiple application deadlines
These issues highlight the need for careful planning and proactive follow-up.
Conclusion
Private university scholarships in Nigeria are more than just financial aid, they are lifelines to thousands of brilliant but financially constrained students.
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With numerous opportunities available for merit, need, sports, or religious affiliation, your academic journey doesn’t have to stop because of financial barriers. From Covenant University to AUN, every private institution has something to offer.
All it takes is diligence, preparation, and timely application. If you’re dreaming of higher education at a private university, start your scholarship search today. The path to your future might just be a click or an essay away.
FAQs on Private University Scholarships in Nigeria
1. Are private university scholarships in Nigeria fully funded?
Some are fully funded (like the David Oyedepo Foundation), while others offer partial tuition discounts.
2. Can I apply for a scholarship without admission yet?
It depends. Some require proof of admission, while others allow conditional applications before admission is finalized.
3. Are there scholarships for postgraduate studies in private universities?
Yes, but they’re less common and often tied to research or teaching assistant roles.
4. How do I know if a scholarship is genuine?
Check the official university website or reputable scholarship portals. Avoid offers that ask for money upfront.
5. Do scholarship recipients get priority in job placements after graduation?
Some scholarships, especially corporate ones like MTN or Shell, include internship and job placement opportunities.
