For postgraduate students targeting a world-class education in the petroleum and energy sector, a premier, fully-funded international scholarship is now open. The Petroleum Technology Development Fund (PTDF) Overseas Postgraduate Scholarship Scheme 2026 offers ambitious MSc and PhD candidates the chance to study at prestigious partner universities across the United Kingdom, Germany, France, and Malaysia.
This highly competitive, government-funded program is designed to build global expertise, advanced technical skills, and research capacity for the evolving energy industry. If you aim to gain an internationally recognized qualification with comprehensive financial backing and strong industry alignment, this guide details everything you need for a successful application.
Key Details at a Glance
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Scholarship Name | Petroleum Technology Development Fund (PTDF) Overseas Postgraduate Scholarship Scheme |
| Host | Petroleum Technology Development Fund (PTDF), Nigeria |
| Host Countries | United Kingdom, Germany, France, Malaysia |
| Level of Study | Masters (MSc) and Doctorate (PhD) |
| Funding Type | Fully Funded (Tuition, Stipend, Flights, Insurance) |
| Application Deadline | 27 February 2026 |
What is the PTDF Overseas Scholarship Scheme?
The PTDF Overseas Scholarship is a flagship capacity-building initiative designed to develop highly skilled professionals, engineers, and researchers for the petroleum and energy sector. Selected scholars pursue specialized postgraduate programs at PTDF’s network of top-tier partner universities, gaining access to advanced research facilities and global industry knowledge.
A key feature for the 2026 UK cohort is the split-site PhD model. Doctoral candidates will conduct research partly at the College of Petroleum and Energy Studies, Kaduna (CPESK), Nigeria, and partly at designated UK partner universities like Robert Gordon University and the University of Strathclyde. This innovative model strengthens local research capacity while ensuring international academic rigor and exposure.
Why Apply? Benefits & Program Value
This scholarship is a comprehensive investment in your future, removing all financial barriers to world-class education. Successful awardees receive:
- Full Tuition Coverage: Complete payment of university tuition and bench fees.
- Monthly Living Allowance: A stipend for accommodation and living expenses.
- Travel Costs: Round-trip international flight tickets from Nigeria to the host country.
- Health Insurance: Comprehensive medical coverage for the scholarship duration.
- Research & Development Support: Access to state-of-the-art laboratories and academic resources.
- Global Network: Integration into an elite alumni network and international professional circles.
- Industry Relevance: Training explicitly aligned with high-demand areas in the global energy sector.
Eligibility Criteria: Who Can Apply?
The scholarship is targeted at academically outstanding candidates with a clear career focus on the oil, gas, and energy industries.
For MSc Applicants:
- Hold a minimum of a Second Class Upper (2:1) Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field. Candidates with a Second Class Lower (2:2) and relevant post-graduation experience may be considered.
- Have completed the mandatory National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) scheme.
- Possess strong academic records and basic computer literacy.
- Must apply only to PTDF-approved courses at partner institutions.
For PhD Applicants:
- Hold a minimum of a Second Class Lower (2:2) Bachelor’s degree and a strong Master’s degree in a relevant field.
- Submit a compelling research proposal (max. 5 pages) aligned with PTDF’s strategic focus areas and oil/gas industry priorities.
- Provide evidence of academic excellence and research potential.
- For Germany (DAAD route): Securing a research supervisor at a German university is mandatory before the final interview stage.
General Requirement: All candidates must demonstrate a clear commitment to the development of Nigeria’s energy sector.
How to Apply: Step-by-Step Guide
The application is submitted online via the official PTDF portal. Follow these steps carefully.
Step 1: Review Guidelines & Prepare Documents.
Visit the official PTDF scholarship portal and thoroughly read the 2026 guidelines. Prepare these core documents:
- Online Application Form: Complete all sections accurately.
- Academic Certificates & Transcripts: For Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees (where applicable).
- NYSC Discharge/Exemption Certificate.
- Recent Passport Photograph.
- Statement of Purpose (MSc) or Research Proposal (PhD): This is critical. Clearly articulate your academic goals, research interests, and the program’s relevance to your career and national sector development.
- University Admission Letter (if available at the time of application).
- Professional Certificates and CV/Resume.
Step 2: Submit Before the Deadline.
Ensure all materials are uploaded correctly and submit your application through the official portal well before 11:59 PM WAT on 27 February 2026. Incomplete or late applications will not be considered.
Tips for a Strong Application
1. Align Your Proposal with PTDF’s Focus: Your research proposal or statement of purpose must clearly connect to PTDF’s priority areas (e.g., exploration, renewables, gas utilization, environmental management).
2. Demonstrate Relevance: Explicitly link your past academic work and future career plans to the needs of the energy sector.
3. Secure Supervision Early (PhD – Germany): For the DAAD route, proactively reach out to potential supervisors at German universities as this is a prerequisite.
4. Proofread Extensively: A polished, error-free, and professionally presented application reflects your seriousness.
5. Choose Your Course Wisely: Apply only to the approved courses listed by PTDF for the 2026 cycle.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Can I apply to any university in the listed countries?
A: No. You must apply only to PTDF’s pre-approved partner universities and specific courses listed for the 2026 scheme.
Q: What is the split-site PhD model for the UK?
A: It means PhD scholars will spend part of their research period in Nigeria at CPESK, Kaduna, and part at their UK partner university. This blends local and international research exposure.
Q: Is work experience required for MSc applicants?
A: While not mandatory for those with a 2:1, relevant post-graduation experience strengthens an application, especially for candidates with a 2:2 degree.
Q: When will interview shortlists be announced?
A: Shortlisted candidates are typically contacted a few weeks after the application deadline closes for the next stage, which includes interviews.
