How Can I Get a Scholarship in Nigeria Without Connections? [2025 Guide]
How Can I Get a Scholarship in Nigeria Without Connections? [2025 Guide]
If you’re a Nigerian student wondering how to get a scholarship without knowing anyone in high places, you’re not alone. Many students believe scholarships are only for those with political ties, wealthy families, or insider connections. But that’s not true. In 2025, thousands of scholarships are available to deserving students—no connection needed.
In this article, you’ll learn proven steps to secure a scholarship in Nigeria based purely on merit, strategy, and preparation. Whether you’re in secondary school, a university undergraduate, or aiming for postgraduate studies, these tips will guide you toward free or fully funded educational opportunitiesIs It Really Possible to Get a Scholarship in Nigeria Without Knowing Anyone?
Yes, absolutely. Many reputable organizations, including multinational companies, NGOs, and government institutions, award scholarships based solely on academic potential, financial need, or leadership qualities—not personal networks.
“I won the MTN Foundation Scholarship in 2023, and I didn’t know a single person in the company.” – Chidinma E., UNILAG Student
10 Actionable Steps to Get a Scholarship in Nigeria Without Connections
1. Know Where to Look
You don’t need a godfather—you need the right information. These websites regularly post authentic and updated scholarship opportunities:
- www.scholarshipair.com
- www.myschool.ng
- www.opportunitiesforafricans.com
- www.pastquestionsforum.com
- Official websites of companies like MTN, NNPC, NLNG, and Shell
Tip: Set up Google Alerts like “Nigeria scholarships 2025” to get email notifications.
2. Apply Early and Apply Often
Don’t wait until you “feel ready.” Apply early—the earlier, the better.
- Many scholarships open in March–July.
- Keep a scholarship tracker (Google Sheet or notebook) with deadlines.
📌 Most students miss out on scholarships simply because they apply too late.
3. Focus on Merit-Based and Need-Based Scholarships
Some scholarships in Nigeria do not require CGPA or connections, such as:
| Scholarship | CGPA Required? | Connection Needed? | Deadline |
|---|---|---|---|
| MTN Foundation Scholarship | No | No | Usually July |
| Addax Petroleum/NNPC | No | No | June–August |
| Guinness Nigeria Scholarship | No | No | Varies |
| Ingressive For Good (Tech) | No | No | Rolling basis |
| Shell Undergraduate Scholarship | Yes (minimal) | No | June–September |
Proof: These organizations have open application portals—anyone can apply.
4. Build a Strong Personal Statement
Your personal statement or essay is your connection—it speaks for you.
What to include:
- Why you need the scholarship
- Your academic goals and dreams
- Past challenges and how you overcame them
- How you plan to give back to society
Pro Tip: Use specific examples. Don’t say “I love science.” Say, “In 2019, I built a water filtration model for my community using local materials.”
5. Collect and Organize Your Documents
Most scholarships ask for:
- WAEC/NECO result
- Admission letter or proof of studentship
- ID card/passport photograph
- Letter of recommendation (from school or religious leader)
- Local Government of Origin Certificate
📂 Create a digital folder (e.g., Google Drive or Dropbox) to store all your scholarship materials.
6. Use Free Tools to Polish Your Application
No mentor? No problem.
Use these free tools to refine your documents:
- Grammarly – for grammar and tone correction
- ChatGPT – to structure your essays
- Canva – to create simple academic CVs
- Google Docs – for templates and feedback sharing
Also, ask friends to review your essays before submitting.
7. Apply for Less Competitive Scholarships Too
Everyone knows about MTN and NNPC—but what about smaller, lesser-known opportunities?
Examples:
- LearnPally Undergraduate Scholarship
- Florence Bamidele Makanjuola Scholarship
- Ingryd Tech Scholarship
- WAAW Foundation for Women in STEM
- Local church and community development programs
These often have fewer applicants, meaning better chances of winning.
8. Join Student Scholarship Communities
Many students share real-time opportunities in online groups and forums:
- Facebook: “Scholarships for Nigerians,” “Study Abroad without Agents”
- Telegram: “Scholarship Hub Nigeria”
- WhatsApp groups: Join via education blogs or campus bulletins
These communities often post deadlines, past questions, and success stories.
9. Practice Past Questions If There’s a Test
Some scholarships, like NNPC/Total or Agbami, require aptitude tests.
Use websites like:
⏱ Practice under timed conditions to build your confidence.
10. Don’t Get Scammed – Watch Out for Red Flags
Avoid scholarship scams that:
- Ask for money or “processing fees”
- Use free email addresses (like Gmail or Yahoo)
- Don’t have an official website or contact info
🛑 Never pay for a scholarship application. Legit scholarships are 100% free to apply for.
Scholarships to Apply for in 2025 (No Connections Required)
| Scholarship Name | Open To | Link |
|---|---|---|
| MTN Foundation Scholarship | Undergraduates | mtn.ng |
| Guinness Nigeria Scholarship | 100/200 level | guinness-nigeria.com |
| LearnPally Undergraduate Program | All disciplines | learnpally.com |
| NLNG Undergraduate Scholarship | 100 level students | nlng.com |
| DAAD Scholarship (Germany) | Graduates | daad.de |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Can I win a scholarship without knowing anyone at all?
Yes. Most reputable scholarships are awarded based on merit, need, or academic potential—not personal connections.
Q2: What kind of GPA or results do I need?
Some scholarships require at least 5 credits in WAEC/NECO. Others may ask for a minimum CGPA (2.5 or above), but many do not.
Q3: How do I know a scholarship is real?
Always check:
- Official website
- Contact details
- Free application process
Avoid any scholarship that asks for money or feels too vague.
Q4: How many scholarships can I apply for at once?
As many as you qualify for! There’s no limit to how many scholarships you can apply for or win—just ensure you’re honest and eligible.
Q5: I’m in secondary school. Can I apply for scholarships?
Yes. Programs like the NNPC/SNEPCo National Cradle-to-Career and some state-based schemes offer support starting from SS1.
Final Thoughts
You don’t need political influence or insider connections to get a scholarship in Nigeria in 2025. What you do need is:
- Determination
- Good information
- Solid preparation
- Smart timing
Remember, thousands of students just like you win scholarships every year. You can be one of them—with or without a “connection.”