The Petroleum Technology Development Fund (PTDF) – Nigeria’s premier agency for building indigenous capacity for the oil and gas sector – has announced the call for applications for its 2025 Overseas Postgraduate Scholarship Scheme. This fully funded scholarship offers eligible Nigerians the chance to pursue MSc and PhD programs in top institutions across the United Kingdom, Germany, France, Malaysia, and at the College of Petroleum and Energy Studies, Kaduna (CPESK), Nigeria.
About the PTDF Overseas Scholarship Scheme
The scholarship is designed to support highly qualified Nigerians seeking advanced degrees in disciplines related to the oil and gas industry. Through strategic international partnerships, PTDF ensures scholars receive world-class education and exposure to global best practices in energy and petroleum studies.
What the Scholarship Covers
This is a comprehensive, fully funded scholarship covering:
- Tuition fees
- Return airfare
- Health insurance
- Bench fees (where applicable)
- Accommodation & living allowances
- Travel stipend for study-related expenses
Eligibility & Application Guidelines
To be considered, applicants must:
- Apply to PTDF-approved courses at partner institutions.
- Choose a program relevant to their academic background and the oil and gas sector.
- Not have received a PTDF scholarship before for the same (or lower) category.
- Avoid submitting multiple applications, which leads to disqualification.
- Ensure no other active scholarship is being received. University lecturers must provide a letter from their Vice-Chancellor confirming this.
PTDF 2025 Scholarship Options
1. Strategic International Partnerships
Study opportunities are available in select universities in the UK, Germany, France, and Malaysia, chosen for their alignment with PTDF’s academic and research goals.
2. Split-site PhD Program (UK Only)
Beginning in 2025, all PTDF PhD scholarships in the UK will follow a split-site model. Scholars will:
- Conduct research both in Nigeria (at CPESK) and a UK partner university.
- Gain mentorship, hands-on experience, and strengthen academic collaboration.
UK Partner Universities include:
- Robert Gordon University
- University of Strathclyde
- University of Portsmouth
3. MSc Programs in the UK
In collaboration with 18 top UK universities, PTDF offers industry-relevant MSc programs that help build technical and managerial expertise for Nigeria’s oil and gas sector.
4. Scholarships in Germany, France & Malaysia
MSc and PhD opportunities are also available at top public institutions in these countries. For Germany, all public universities are eligible under this scheme.
5. CPESK, Kaduna
The College of Petroleum and Energy Studies, Kaduna offers specialized postgraduate education focused on the energy sector’s evolving needs.
Selection Criteria
Selection is merit-based and applicants will be assessed based on:
- Academic qualifications and certifications
- Research publications (PhD applicants)
- Relevance of proposed study/research to oil and gas
- Professional memberships
- Industry experience and prior academic background
Application Requirements
For MSc Applicants
- Second-Class Upper (2.1) OR Second-Class Lower (2.2) with relevant work experience
- NYSC completion
- 5 O’level credits (including English & Math)
- Verified NIN (National Identification Number)
- Statement of purpose (max. 500 words)
For PhD Applicants
- Completed NYSC
- Master’s degree (minimum 2.2 in first degree)
- Research proposal (max. 5 pages) focused on oil and gas
- Relevant publications
- Verified NIN
- Strong computer literacy
Required Documents (All Applicants)
- Degree certificate(s)
- NYSC discharge certificate
- SSCE/WAEC/NECO results with PIN for verification
- Passport photograph
- Local Government Identification Letter
- Evidence of professional body membership (if any)
- Master’s degree certificate (for PhD)
Application Deadline
All applications must be submitted on or before Wednesday, May 28, 2025. Late applications will not be considered.
Ready to Take the Leap?
If you are a Nigerian postgraduate seeking to build a global career in the oil and gas industry, the PTDF Overseas Scholarship 2025 is your gateway. Seize this fully funded opportunity to study abroad and contribute to Nigeria’s energy future.
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