How to Apply for NDDC Post-Graduate Master’s Degree Scholarships for 2025/2026

How to Apply for NDDC Post-Graduate Master’s Degree Scholarships for 2025/2026

Introduction to the NDDC Post-Graduate Scholarship

The Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) offers fully funded scholarships to qualified candidates from the Niger Delta region of Nigeria to pursue master’s degree programs abroad. The goal of this initiative is to develop human resources in the region and equip beneficiaries with global-standard education to contribute to regional development.

For the 2025/2026 academic year, the NDDC will provide funding to students who have excelled academically and demonstrate leadership potential. If you are a graduate from the Niger Delta and wish to further your studies internationally, this scholarship is a golden opportunity.

Benefits of the NDDC Post-Graduate Scholarship

The scholarship provides financial support, covering:

1. Full tuition fees for the master’s degree program

2. Living allowances, including accommodation and feeding

3. Health insurance for the duration of the program

4. Return economy-class flight tickets

5. Research and study materials allowance

With this comprehensive funding, selected scholars can focus on their studies without financial burdens.

Eligibility Criteria for the NDDC Master’s Scholarship 2025/2026

To qualify for the NDDC Post-Graduate Scholarship, applicants must:

1. Be an indigene of one of the Niger Delta states: Abia, Akwa Ibom, Bayelsa, Cross River, Delta, Edo, Imo, Ondo, and Rivers.

2. Have a first-class or second-class upper bachelor’s degree from a recognized university.

3. Have secured admission to an international university for a full-time master’s degree program in fields relevant to the development of the Niger Delta.

4. Not be older than 35 years at the time of application.

5. Possess a valid international passport and medical fitness certificate.

6. Have completed the mandatory National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) program.

Candidates who meet these requirements will proceed to the selection stage.

Fields of Study Covered

The scholarship is targeted at courses that align with the developmental needs of the Niger Delta. These include:

1. Engineering (Petroleum, Civil, Mechanical, Electrical, etc.)

2. Geosciences and Environmental Studies

3. Information Technology and Computer Science

4. Medicine and Health Sciences

5. Law and International Relations

6. Renewable Energy and Sustainable Development

7. Economics, Finance, and Business Administration

8. Agricultural Sciences

Applicants should ensure their chosen course aligns with these priority areas.

How to Apply for NDDC Post-Graduate Master’s Degree Scholarships for 2025/2026

Application Process for the NDDC Post-Graduate Scholarship

Step 1: Online Application

Interested candidates must apply through the official NDDC scholarship portal. The application requires:

1. Personal details (name, address, date of birth, etc.)

2. A scanned copy of your undergraduate degree certificate and transcript

3. NYSC discharge/exemption certificate

4. Admission letter from a foreign university

5. Valid identification (passport, NIN, or driver’s license)

6. A recent passport photograph

Step 2: Online Test

Shortlisted candidates will be required to take a computer-based test (CBT). The test covers general knowledge, current affairs, and subject-specific questions.

Step 3: Oral Interview

Successful candidates from the CBT stage will be invited for an interview and document verification. This may be conducted virtually or at designated NDDC offices.

Step 4: Final Selection and Award Notification

Candidates who pass the interview stage will receive the final award letter and instructions for visa processing and travel arrangements.

Application Deadline

The deadline for applications is usually announced on the NDDC portal. For the 2025/2026 cycle, applications will likely open between March and June 2025. Interested candidates should check the official website regularly for updates.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Applying

1. Submitting incomplete documents – Ensure all required materials are uploaded.

2. Ignoring the eligibility criteria – Make sure you qualify before applying.

3. Missing the application deadline – Apply early to avoid system crashes.

4. Not preparing for the CBT test – Study past questions and be ready.

5. Using an invalid email or phone number – Ensure your contact details are correct.

Avoiding these mistakes can improve your chances of securing the scholarship.

Past Beneficiaries’ Success Stories

1. Esther E., United Kingdom

“Winning the NDDC scholarship changed my life. I studied Renewable Energy at the University of Leeds, and now I work with an international organization tackling climate change.”

2. David A., Canada

“Thanks to the NDDC, I earned a master’s degree in Petroleum Engineering at the University of Calgary. Today, I am employed with a multinational oil company.”

3. Chika O., United States

“I had the dream of studying abroad but no funds. The NDDC scholarship took me to Harvard, where I completed my master’s in Public Health. Now, I work with WHO.”

4. Emmanuel I., Germany

“With NDDC’s support, I completed my master’s in Mechanical Engineering in Berlin. Today, I contribute to innovation in Nigeria’s manufacturing sector.”

These testimonies highlight how the NDDC scholarship transforms lives and creates global professionals.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I apply if I have a second-class lower degree?

No, only candidates with first-class or second-class upper degrees are eligible.

2. Is the scholarship available for PhD programs?

No, the 2025/2026 NDDC scholarship is for master’s degree programs only.

3. Can I apply if I do not have an international passport yet?

Yes, but you must ensure you obtain one before the final selection process.

4. What happens if I fail the CBT test?

Applicants who fail the CBT test will not proceed to the interview stage and will be disqualified.

5. Do I need to submit proof of admission before applying?

Yes, an admission letter from a recognized foreign university is required.

6. Can I change my course after being awarded the scholarship?

No, beneficiaries must stick to the approved course of study stated in their application.

7. Will the scholarship cover travel costs?

Yes, the scholarship includes a return economy-class flight ticket.

8. How can I check my application status?

Applicants can check their status by logging into the NDDC scholarship portal and monitoring updates.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Applying

1. Submitting incomplete documents – Ensure all required materials are uploaded.

2. Ignoring the eligibility criteria – Make sure you qualify before applying.

3. Missing the application deadline – Apply early to avoid system crashes.

4. Not preparing for the CBT test – Study past questions and be ready.

5. Using an invalid email or phone number – Ensure your contact details are correct.

Avoiding these mistakes can improve your chances of securing the scholarship.

Conclusion

The NDDC Post-Graduate (Master’s Degree) Scholarship 2025/2026 is an excellent opportunity for bright students from the Niger Delta region to study abroad fully funded. With financial support covering tuition, living expenses, and travel, this scholarship opens doors for professional and academic growth.

If you meet the eligibility requirements, start preparing now and apply as soon as the portal opens. Your future could be transformed with this life-changing opportunity.

For official updates, visit the NDDC website https://scholarship.nddc.gov.ng/login