Scholarships for 100 Level Students in Nigeria (2026 Updated Guide)
Discover available scholarships for 100 level students in Nigeria for 2026. Includes NLNG, Jim Ovia, FATE Scholar, and more with award amounts, eligibility, and how to apply successfully.
Are you a new undergraduate looking for scholarships in Nigeria? Good news: several reputable organizations now offer scholarships for 100 level students in public and private universities.
These awards can cover your tuition fees, textbooks, accommodation, and even a yearly allowance. However, most students miss out simply because they don’t know which scholarships are open to first-year students or how to apply correctly.
This 2026 guide lists all available scholarships for 100 level students in Nigeria, their benefits, requirements, and how to increase your chances of winning.
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Why 100-Level Scholarships Matter
Starting university comes with heavy financial responsibilities like acceptance fees, hostel rent, and school materials. Many corporate, government, and foundation scholarships now target fresh undergraduates to ease this burden early.
Most of these scholarships open between April and September every year and are based on O-level and JAMB performance, not CGPA (since you are still in 100 level).
List of Scholarships for 100 Level Students in Nigeria (2026)
| Scholarship Name | Award Amount (per year) | Eligibility / Notes |
|---|---|---|
| NLNG Undergraduate Scholarship | ₦300,000 | For 100-level students in accredited federal or state universities. Requires 5 O’level credits, minimum UTME score of 200, and age 18–25. NLNG portal: https://nlngscholarships.smapply.io/. Next expected opening: November to December 2026 |
| MTN Foundation Top 10 UTME Scholarship | ₦300,000 | Automatically awarded to the top 10 UTME scorers nationwide as announced by JAMB. Covers from 100 level through graduation if grade requirements are maintained. No application required. Open to all courses and both public and private universities. |
| Jim Ovia Foundation Scholarship | Tuition + ₦150,000 | For brilliant but indigent students in public universities. Open to all courses. Renewable yearly based on performance. |
| FATE Scholar Programme | Full tuition + mentorship | Targets 100-level students studying STEAM (Science, Tech, Engineering, Arts, Math) fields in public universities. Includes leadership and entrepreneurship training. |
| The Bridge Scholarship | ₦200,000 | Supports bright and financially challenged students in Nigerian public universities. Open to all fields of study. |
| NNPC/Mobil JV Scholarship | Not specified | For 100 or 200-level students in science, engineering, and geoscience fields. Must be a full-time student in an accredited university. |
| Addax Petroleum/NNPC Scholarship | Not specified | Open to 100-level undergraduates with at least 5 O’level credits (including English and Mathematics) in one sitting. Must be a full-time student. |
| NAOC (Agip) National Merit Award | Not specified | For 100-level Engineering and Medicine students with a JAMB score of 275 or above. Awarded under the National Merit category. |
| Julius Berger Nigeria Scholarship | Not specified | Specifically for outstanding female undergraduates studying engineering, building, or construction-related courses in public universities. |
| NCDMB Annual Essay Competition | ₦1,000,000 (1st prize) | Open to 100–200 level students. Students write essays on energy and development topics. Cash prizes and recognition for winners. |
| TotalEnergies National Merit Scholarship (NMSS) | Not specified | For deserving undergraduates at Nigerian universities. Focused on academic excellence and social impact. Free to apply. Visit csr-ngscholarship.totalenergies.com for details. |
💡 Note:
The MTN Foundation Top 10 UTME Scholarship does not require an application.
Only the ten highest-scoring candidates in the JAMB UTME examination each year are automatically selected and awarded ₦300,000 annually from 100 level through graduation, provided they maintain good academic standing.
This award is based on JAMB results, not a separate scholarship application.
General Eligibility Requirements
To qualify for most 100-level scholarships, students must meet these basic requirements:
- Admission Status: Must be a full-time undergraduate (100 level) in a recognized Nigerian university.
- Academic Records: At least 5 O’Level credits (including English & Mathematics) at one sitting and a competitive JAMB score (usually 200 or higher).
- Identification Documents:
- University admission letter
- JAMB result slip
- O’Level result
- Passport photograph
- Birth certificate
- Local government area ID
- Financial Need: Some scholarships, like Jim Ovia and The Bridge, favor students from low-income backgrounds.
- No Fees Required: Legitimate scholarships never ask you to pay an application or “processing” fee.
💡 Application Tips to Boost Your Chances
- Apply to multiple scholarships: Do not limit yourself to just one because competition is high.
- Prepare documents early: Scan and organize your credentials before deadlines.
- Start checking from April: Most scholarships open between April and September each year.
- Follow official portals only: Avoid links shared on social media that do not match the official domain.
- Check your email frequently: Shortlisted candidates are usually contacted via email.
Example Spotlight: NLNG Undergraduate Scholarship (UGSS)
The NLNG Undergraduate Scholarship is one of the most popular for 100-level students.
Eligibility Highlights:
- Nigerian citizen, full-time 100-level student in a federal or state-owned university.
- Minimum UTME score of 200.
- At least 5 O’level credits including Mathematics and English.
- Aged between 18 and 25.
- Must not be a beneficiary of any other scholarship or an NLNG staff relative.
How to Apply:
- Visit https://nlngscholarships.smapply.io/.
- Select Undergraduate Scholarship Scheme (UGSS).
- Fill out the application and upload required documents (passport photo, admission letter, O-level and JAMB results, ID, etc.).
- Check NLNG’s official social media pages or newspapers for application deadlines. For 2026, the application window is expected to run between November and December.
Award: ₦300,000 annually (renewable for the duration of your study if you maintain good academic performance).
Wrap Up
As a 100-level student, the key is to start early and stay consistent.
Do not wait till second year before applying because many top scholarships begin right from your first semester.
Remember:
- Keep your grades up.
- Check official websites only.
- Apply to as many as you qualify for.
Even a ₦200,000 scholarship can ease your financial stress and set you up for success throughout university.
FAQs
1. Can I apply for scholarships as a 100-level student?
Yes. Many scholarships such as NLNG, FATE Scholar, Jim Ovia, and The Bridge Scholarship are open to first-year students.
2. Do I need a CGPA to apply?
No. Most 100-level scholarships rely on O’level and JAMB results, not university CGPA.
3. Are there scholarships for female students only?
Yes. The Julius Berger Scholarship and NWAG Scholarship focus on supporting Nigerian female students.
4. Can I apply while awaiting matriculation number?
Yes, as long as you have an admission letter and proof of acceptance from your university.
5. What’s the best scholarship for 100-level students in 2026?
The NLNG Undergraduate Scholarship and FATE Scholar Programme offer the best combination of funding and renewal benefits.
