Are you a Nigerian graduate seeking fully funded postgraduate study opportunities abroad in the energy sector? The Petroleum Technology Development Fund (PTDF) 2026/2027 Overseas Postgraduate (Masters & PhD) Scholarship Scheme has been established to support outstanding candidates who wish to pursue advanced studies in oil and gas–related disciplines in leading universities across the United Kingdom, Germany, France, and Malaysia.
Through this highly competitive program, beneficiaries are equipped with world-class education, advanced research exposure, and global expertise, all of which are strategically aligned with Nigeria’s long-term petroleum and energy development goals.
Petroleum Technology Development Fund (PTDF) 2026/2027 Overseas Postgraduate (Masters & PhD) Scholarship Scheme
The Petroleum Technology Development Fund (PTDF) 2026/2027 Overseas Postgraduate (Masters & PhD) Scholarship Scheme is a flagship human capacity development initiative of the Federal Government of Nigeria.
The program is administered by the PTDF, a statutory agency mandated to develop indigenous technical manpower and promote petroleum technology for Nigeria’s oil and gas industry. Under this scheme, successful applicants are sponsored to pursue carefully selected master’s and doctoral programs at PTDF-approved partner universities abroad.
These institutions have been chosen based on academic excellence, research strength, and their ability to deliver training that meets the strategic needs of Nigeria’s energy sector. Consequently, scholars are exposed to cutting-edge facilities, internationally recognized faculty, and research environments that encourage innovation and industry relevance.
Petroleum Technology Development Fund (PTDF) 2026/2027 Scholarship Summary
| Category | Details |
| Host Countries | United Kingdom, Germany, France, Malaysia |
| Scholarship Type | Overseas Postgraduate Scholarship |
| Degree Levels | Master’s (MSc) and Doctorate (PhD) |
| Funding Status | Fully Funded |
| Sponsored By | Petroleum Technology Development Fund (PTDF) |
| Eligible Applicants | Nigerian Graduates |
| Partner Institutions | PTDF-Approved Universities Only |
| Application Deadline | 27 February 2026 |
| Academic Session | 2026/2027 |
| Study Mode | Full-Time |
| Selection Method | Competitive Screening and Interview |
What Is the PTDF Overseas Scholarship All About?
The PTDF Overseas Postgraduate Scholarship Scheme was designed to address critical skill gaps within Nigeria’s oil and gas sector by investing in high-level education and research. Rather than offering generalized funding, the scheme focuses on priority disciplines that directly support upstream, midstream, downstream, and emerging energy technologies.
For the 2026/2027 academic session, applications are restricted to PTDF partner universities in the United Kingdom, Germany, France, and Malaysia. This restriction has been introduced to ensure that academic standards are maintained and that the Fund’s objectives are achieved effectively. As a result, scholars are trained in institutions where program quality, research infrastructure, and industry linkages have already been assessed and approved by the Fund.
In addition, the scholarship emphasizes national development. Scholars are expected to return to Nigeria upon completion of their studies and contribute meaningfully to capacity building, policy development, research advancement, and industry practice.
Special Arrangement for UK PhD Candidates (Split-Site Model)
In line with PTDF’s strategy to strengthen domestic institutions, PhD scholarships in the United Kingdom are structured as split-site programs. Under this arrangement, doctoral candidates divide their research residency between the College of Petroleum and Energy Studies, Kaduna (CPESK), and selected UK partner universities.
CPESK has been developed as a center of excellence for postgraduate education and high-impact research in petroleum and energy studies. Through the split-site model, local research capacity is enhanced while international collaboration is sustained. For the 2026 academic year, UK PhD split-site programs are conducted in partnership with:
- Robert Gordon University
- University of Strathclyde
- University of Portsmouth
This approach ensures that global best practices are integrated into local academic and research environments.
Who Can Apply? (Eligibility Criteria)
The PTDF scholarship is highly competitive, and only candidates who meet the eligibility requirements and demonstrate strong potential are considered.
Eligibility for MSc Applicants
Applicants for the master’s category must satisfy the following conditions:
- A minimum of Second Class Upper (2:1) in a relevant first degree, or Second Class Lower (2:2) with substantial industry experience
- Completion of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) program
- Demonstrated computer literacy
- At least five O-Level credits, including English Language and Mathematics
- Submission of a well-structured Statement of Purpose (not exceeding 500 words), clearly outlining academic motivation, industry relevance, and national contribution
- Possession of a valid and verified National Identity Number (NIN)
Eligibility for PhD Applicants
Applicants for the doctoral category must meet the following criteria:
- Completion of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC)
- Evidence of computer literacy
- At least five O-Level credits, including English Language and Mathematics
- A minimum of Second Class Lower (2:2) in the first degree and a strong postgraduate qualification
- Submission of a detailed research proposal (maximum of five pages) relevant to the oil and gas industry
- Possession of a valid and verified National Identity Number (NIN)
Additionally, academic staff applying for the scholarship are required to submit a formal confirmation from their vice-chancellors indicating that they are not benefiting from any other scholarship.
Selection Process and Assessment Criteria
Following the submission of applications, an initial screening is conducted based on academic qualifications and compliance with eligibility requirements. Subsequently, top candidates from each state are shortlisted and invited for interviews.
During the selection process, candidates are assessed using several criteria, including:
- Academic excellence and transcript quality
- Relevance of prior studies to the proposed program
- Professional qualifications and memberships
- Research output and publications (for PhD applicants)
- Quality, feasibility, and industry relevance of the study plan or research proposal
Only applicants who demonstrate exceptional merit and alignment with PTDF’s mandate are selected.
Scholarship Benefits
The PTDF Overseas Postgraduate Scholarship Scheme is fully funded, allowing scholars to focus entirely on their academic and research pursuits. Although specific financial details vary by country and institution, the scholarship generally covers:
- Tuition fees at PTDF-approved universities
- Living expenses and stipends
- Accommodation support
- Health insurance
- Travel costs
Through this comprehensive support structure, financial barriers to high-quality education are effectively removed.
Required Documents
Applicants must upload clear and legible copies of the following documents during the online application process:
- First Degree Certificate or Statement of Result
- NYSC Discharge Certificate
- WAEC/NECO/GCE results with verification PINs
- Recent passport photograph
- Local Government Identification Letter
- Master’s Degree Certificate (for PhD applicants)
- Evidence of professional body membership
All documents are carefully verified, and submission of falsified or unclear documents results in automatic disqualification.
Step-by-Step Procedure to Apply
- Visit the PTDF Scholarship Portal
Access the official application platform at scholarship.ptdf.gov.ng to review sponsored courses and guidelines. - Complete the Online Application
Fill out the application form accurately and upload all required documents. - Submit Before the Deadline
Ensure submission is completed on or before 27 February 2026. - Prepare for the interview.
Shortlisted candidates are invited for interviews and required to present original transcripts.
Because multiple applications are not allowed, applicants are advised to apply carefully and only once.
Why Choose the PTDF Overseas Scholarship?
The PTDF Overseas Postgraduate Scholarship Scheme stands out due to its strategic focus on national development, industry relevance, and academic excellence. By studying in top institutions abroad while remaining aligned with Nigeria’s energy priorities, scholars gain both global exposure and local relevance. Furthermore, the program strengthens the country’s technical workforce and supports sustainable growth in the petroleum and energy sectors.
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