Top 10 Universities In Nigeria That Offer Scholarship Opportunities In 2025

Getting a quality university education in Nigeria can be expensive, but it doesn’t have to be — especially if you attend a university that offers scholarships. In 2025, several universities across the country continue to support students with merit-based and need-based scholarships.

Here are the top 10 universities in Nigeria that offer genuine scholarship opportunities to help students reduce the financial burden of higher education.

1. University of Lagos (UNILAG)

UNILAG offers a variety of scholarship options to support brilliant students. From internal faculty awards to donor-funded scholarships, students with high CGPAs and good character can benefit yearly.

• Notable Scholarships: UNILAG Endowment Awards, Lagos State Bursary, and private donor grants.

2. University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN)

UNN supports indigent and high-performing students with academic scholarships. Some departments also partner with organizations to fund scholars.

• Types of Scholarships: Faculty merit awards, alumni scholarships, and departmental excellence awards.

3. Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU)

OAU offers internal scholarships to outstanding students and collaborates with both national and international bodies to support students financially.

• Scholarship Types: Merit-based awards, hostel accommodation waivers, and NGO-sponsored scholarships.

4. Covenant University

This private university provides generous scholarships for both new and returning students. Most are performance-based but some support financially disadvantaged students.

• Scholarship Options: Covenant Scholarship Scheme, leadership scholarships, and partner NGO awards.

5. Ahmadu Bello University (ABU), Zaria

ABU’s scholarship opportunities are accessible to students from all faculties. Scholarships may be tied to performance, financial need, or state-based quotas.

• Common Awards: ABU Chancellor’s Scholarship, state scholarships, and Zazzau Emirate sponsorships.

6. University of Ibadan (UI)

As Nigeria’s oldest university, UI maintains an impressive record of supporting students through scholarships, bursaries, and research grants.

• Popular Scholarships: UI Scholars Program, department-funded scholarships, and external aid opportunities.

7. Babcock University

This private university has a structured scholarship program targeted at first-class students, orphans, and those from low-income families.

• Scholarship Programs: Babcock Full Ride, tuition discounts, and donor-backed funds.

8. University of Ilorin (UNILORIN)

UNILORIN encourages academic excellence with various scholarships and has one of the best reputations for consistent academic calendars.

• Available Options: UNILORIN VC’s Prize, merit-based awards, and local government-funded support.

9. Federal University of Technology, Akure (FUTA)

FUTA’s scholarship ecosystem supports tech-savvy and science-oriented students. Performance and research ability are key criteria.

• Scholarships Offered: FUTA Tech Grants, SIWES support scholarships, and merit awards.

10. Lagos State University (LASU)

LASU offers a wide range of scholarships for students who are residents of Lagos and those from other parts of Nigeria. LASU also benefits from Lagos State’s bursary schemes.

• Funding Sources: Lagos State Government Bursary, LASU Academic Excellence Awards, and NGO partnerships.

Tips to Secure a University Scholarship in Nigeria (2025)

1. Maintain a strong CGPA.

2. Apply early and meet all deadlines.

3. Write compelling essays or personal statements if required.

4. Stay informed through your university’s scholarship office.

5. Seek both internal and external opportunities.

Final Thoughts

Scholarships can make your academic dreams a reality without the burden of debt or financial pressure. Whether you’re an undergraduate or postgraduate student in Nigeria, these top universities in 2025 offer pathways to fund your education through various scholarship opportunities.

Stay focused, apply early, and don’t miss out on financial support that can transform your academic journey.