The Petroleum Technology Development Fund (PTDF) aims to develop local expertise for Nigeria’s oil and gas industry by offering opportunities to study at top international institutions.
Programme Overview
Through the Overseas Scholarship Scheme, eligible candidates can apply for fully funded MSc and PhD programmes at selected partner universities abroad.
Study Destinations
Selected scholars will pursue their studies in:
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United Kingdom
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Germany
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France
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Malaysia
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College of Petroleum and Energy Studies (CPES), Kaduna
Comprehensive Scholarship Support
The scholarship package includes full financial coverage to ease the burden of international study. Benefits include:
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Round-trip flight tickets
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Health insurance
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Full tuition and bench fees (where applicable)
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Living and accommodation allowances
Partner Institutions
For the 2025/2026 academic year, applications are restricted to PTDF-approved partner universities located in the UK, Germany, France, and Malaysia. This ensures academic standards and programme relevance are maintained.
Split-Site PhD Programme (UK Only)
All UK-based PhD scholars will follow a Split-Site model, dividing their time between their UK university and the College of Petroleum and Energy Studies (CPES), Kaduna.
UK Partner Universities for MSc and PhD
Three UK universities are approved in collaboration with CPESK:
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Robert Gordon University, Aberdeen
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University of Strathclyde, Glasgow
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University of Portsmouth
Each offers specialised programmes aligned with Nigeria’s energy sector priorities and global industry trends.
Selection Process
PTDF scholarships are highly competitive. Candidates are shortlisted based on a scoring system that evaluates:
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Academic qualifications and transcripts
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Quality and relevance of research proposals (PhD only)
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Membership in relevant professional bodies
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Statement of purpose and career alignment
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Relevance of past studies to the oil and gas industry
Top scorers from each state will be invited for an interview.
Eligibility Criteria
For MSc Applicants:
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Minimum of Second-Class Upper degree OR Second-Class Lower with relevant industry experience
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Completed NYSC
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Proficient computer skills
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Five O’Level credits including English and Mathematics
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Statement of purpose (max 500 words)
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Verified National Identity Number (NIN)
For PhD Applicants:
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Completed NYSC
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Proficient computer skills
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Five O’Level credits including English and Mathematics
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Minimum of Second-Class Lower first degree and a relevant postgraduate degree
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Research proposal (max 5 pages) including topic, objectives, methodology, and data sources
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Verified NIN
Key Application Rules
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Scholarships apply only to the 2025/2026 academic year
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Only PTDF-approved programmes and institutions are eligible
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Chosen courses must relate to the oil and gas sector
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Previous and proposed studies must align
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Multiple applications will lead to disqualification
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Candidates previously awarded PTDF MSc/PhD funding are not eligible to reapply for the same or lower level
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Candidates with existing scholarships are ineligible
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Academic staff must submit proof from their Vice-Chancellors confirming no other sponsorship is held
Required Documents
Applicants must upload clear, scanned copies of the following:
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First degree certificate or statement of result
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NYSC discharge certificate
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O’Level results with verification PINs
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Recent passport photograph
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Local government identification letter
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Master’s certificate (PhD applicants only)
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Proof of professional body membership
Shortlisted applicants must present official transcripts during the interview. Early preparation of these documents is advised.
How to Apply
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Deadline: 4 June 2025
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Apply via the PTDF Scholarship Application Portal
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Refer to the full Scholarship Guidelines for detailed instructions
This scholarship offers a valuable opportunity to advance your education and contribute meaningfully to Nigeria’s oil and gas industry.
Are you ready to take the next step in your academic and professional journey? Apply today.
