Are you a Nigerian student looking for a scholarship to pursue your academic dreams? Do you want to study in some of the best universities in the world and gain valuable skills and experience? If yes, then you might want to consider applying for a federal scholarship through the Federal Scholarship Board (FSB).
The Federal Scholarship Board is a government agency under the Ministry of Education that is responsible for implementing and managing various scholarship schemes for Nigerian students at home and abroad. The Federal Scholarship Board aims to promote educational excellence, international cooperation, and national development through its scholarship programs.
In this article, we will provide you with a comprehensive guide to the Federal Scholarship Board and the Nigerian scholarships it offers. We will also explain the eligibility criteria, the application process, and the benefits of studying abroad with a federal scholarship. By the end of this article, you will have a clear understanding of what the FSB is, what it does, and how you can apply for a scholarship through it.
What is the Federal Scholarship Board?
The Federal Scholarship Board was established in 1959 as a unit under the Federal Ministry of Education. Its main function was to administer scholarships awarded by foreign governments to Nigerian students. Over the years, the Federal Scholarship Board has expanded its scope and mandate to include the following activities:
- Implementing and managing various scholarship schemes for Nigerian students at all levels of education, both locally and internationally.
- Supervising and monitoring the activities of federal government scholars in tertiary institutions locally and abroad.
- Advising and coordinating state scholarship policies and programs through annual meetings of secretaries of federal and state scholarship boards.
- Liaising and collaborating with foreign governments, international organizations, and donor agencies on scholarship matters.
- Conducting scholarship examinations and interviews for prospective candidates.
- Disbursing scholarship funds and allowances to beneficiaries.
- Providing guidance and counseling services to scholars and applicants.
- Maintaining a database of scholars and alumni.
The Federal Scholarship Board operates under the supervision of a director who reports to the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Education. The FSB has four departments: Bilateral Education Agreement (BEA), Nigerian Award (NA), Commonwealth Scholarship and Fellowship Plan (CSFP), and General Duties. Each department is headed by a deputy director and has various units and sections.
The Federal Scholarship Board has its headquarters in Abuja and six zonal offices in Lagos, Enugu, Port Harcourt, Sokoto, Bauchi, and Ibadan. The zonal offices are responsible for the coordination and administration of scholarship programs within their respective zones. They also conduct scholarship examinations and interviews for candidates in their zones.
Types and Categories of Scholarships Offered by the FSB
The FSB offers two main types of scholarships for Nigerian students: the Nigeria Award Scholarship (NA) and the Bilateral Education Agreement (BEA) Scholarship. Each type has different categories and sub-categories depending on the level and field of study, as well as the country of destination. Here is a brief overview of each type and category of scholarship offered by the FSB:
Nigeria Award Scholarship (NA)
The NA scholarship is for Nigerian students who are studying in Nigerian tertiary institutions, such as universities, polytechnics, and colleges of education. The NA scholarship has three categories: undergraduate, postgraduate, and HND. The undergraduate category is for students who are pursuing their first degree in any field of study.
The postgraduate category is for students who are pursuing their master’s or doctoral degree in any field of study. The HND category is for students who are pursuing their higher national diploma in any field of study.The NA scholarship covers the tuition fees, maintenance allowance, and book allowance of the beneficiaries. The NA scholarship is awarded annually and renewable subject to satisfactory academic performance and availability of funds.
Bilateral Education Agreement (BEA) Scholarship
The BEA scholarship is for Nigerian students who want to study abroad in countries that have signed a bilateral education agreement with Nigeria. The BEA scholarship has two categories: undergraduate and postgraduate. The undergraduate category is for students who want to pursue their first degree in any of the following fields of study: engineering, geology, agriculture, sciences, mathematics, languages, environmental sciences, sports, law, social sciences, biotechnology, architecture, medicine, etc.
The postgraduate category is for students who want to pursue their master’s or doctoral degree in any of the following fields of study: engineering, geology, agriculture, sciences, mathematics, languages, environmental sciences, sports, law, social sciences, biotechnology, architecture, medicine, etc.The BEA scholarship covers the tuition fees, accommodation, health insurance, and airfare of the beneficiaries. The BEA scholarship is awarded for the duration of the program and renewable subject to satisfactory academic performance and availability of funds.
Nigeria Award (NA)
The NA is a merit-based scholarship scheme that aims to support Nigerian students who have excelled academically and are pursuing higher education in various fields of study. The NA covers the following categories of students:
- Undergraduate students in Nigerian universities
- Postgraduate students in Nigerian universities
- Undergraduate students in Nigerian colleges of education
- Undergraduate students in Nigerian polytechnics and monotechnics
- Undergraduate students in Nigerian law schools
- Undergraduate students in Nigerian maritime academies
- Undergraduate students in Nigerian aviation colleges
The NA is open to students who are studying in any of the following fields:
- Science and Technology
- Medicine and Para-medicals
- Education
- Agriculture
- Liberal Arts/Social/Management Sciences
- Entrepreneurial Studies
- Law
- Environmental Sciences
- Sports
- Arts and Culture
The NA is also open to students who are physically challenged or from less privileged backgrounds.
Eligibility criteria for the NA
The eligibility criteria for the NA vary depending on the category and level of study. Generally, applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Be Nigerian citizens
- Have a minimum of five credits in SSCE/NECO/GCE/NABTEB, including English and Mathematics
- Have a minimum of second class upper division or upper credit in their first degree or diploma (for postgraduate applicants)
- Have a valid admission letter from an accredited institution of higher learning in Nigeria
- Not be more than 25 years old for undergraduate applicants and 35 years old for postgraduate applicants
- Not be in receipt of any other scholarship award from any source
Application process for the NA
The application process for the NA involves the following steps:
- Visit the FSB website at fsbn.com.ng and click on “View Available Scholarships”
- Select the NA category and read the instructions carefully
- Fill in the online application form and upload the required documents, such as passport photograph, admission letter, academic transcripts, etc.
- Submit the application form and print out a copy for reference
- Wait for the announcement of the shortlisted candidates and the date and venue of the scholarship examination or interview
- Attend the scholarship examination or interview and present the printed copy of the application form and other relevant documents
- Wait for the announcement of the successful candidates and the award letter
Benefits of the NA
The benefits of the NA include the following:
- Full payment of tuition fees and other charges by the federal government
- Monthly stipend of N100,000 for undergraduate students and N150,000 for postgraduate students
- Annual book allowance of N20,000 for undergraduate students and N30,000 for postgraduate students
- Thesis allowance of N50,000 for postgraduate students
- Laptop allowance of N50,000 for all students
- Special allowance for physically challenged students
Duration of the NA
The duration of the NA depends on the category and level of study. Generally, the NA covers the following periods:
- Four years for undergraduate students in Nigerian universities
- Two years for postgraduate students in Nigerian universities
- Three years for undergraduate students in Nigerian colleges of education
- Two years for undergraduate students in Nigerian polytechnics and monotechnics
- One year for undergraduate students in Nigerian law schools
- Two years for undergraduate students in Nigerian maritime academies
- Three years for undergraduate students in Nigerian aviation colleges
The NA is renewable annually subject to satisfactory academic performance and good conduct of the scholars.
Bilateral Education Agreement (BEA)
The BEA is a scholarship scheme that is based on the bilateral agreements between Nigeria and some foreign countries. The BEA aims to foster international cooperation, cultural exchange, and mutual understanding through the provision of scholarships for Nigerian students to study in selected countries. The BEA covers the following categories of students:
- Undergraduate students in foreign universities
- Postgraduate students in foreign universities
- Undergraduate students in foreign colleges of education
- Undergraduate students in foreign polytechnics and monotechnics
The BEA is open to students who are studying in any of the following fields:
- Science and Technology
- Medicine and Para-medicals
- Education
- Agriculture
- Liberal Arts/Social/Management Sciences
- Entrepreneurial Studies
- Law
- Environmental Sciences
- Sports
- Arts and Culture
The BEA is also open to students who are physically challenged or from less privileged backgrounds.
Eligibility criteria for the BEA
The eligibility criteria for the BEA vary depending on the category, level, and country of study. Generally, applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Be Nigerian citizens
- Have a minimum of five credits in SSCE/NECO/GCE/NABTEB, including English and Mathematics
- Have a minimum of second class upper division or upper credit in their first degree or diploma (for postgraduate applicants)
- Have a valid admission letter from an accredited institution of higher learning in the country of choice
- Not be more than 18 years old for undergraduate applicants and 35 years old for postgraduate applicants
- Not be in receipt of any other scholarship award from any source
- Have a minimum of 180 in UTME (for undergraduate applicants)
- Have a minimum of 60% in FSB aptitude test (for undergraduate applicants)
- Have a valid international passport
Application process for the BEA
The application process for the BEA involves the following steps:
- Visit the Federal Scholarship Board website at fsbn.com.ng and click on “View Available Scholarships”
- Select the BEA category and read the instructions carefully
- Fill in the online application form and upload the required documents, such as passport photograph, admission letter, academic transcripts, etc.
- Submit the application form and print out a copy for reference
- Wait for the announcement of the shortlisted candidates and the date and venue of the scholarship examination or interview
- Attend the scholarship examination or interview and present the printed copy of the application form and other relevant documents
- Wait for the announcement of the successful candidates and the award letter
Benefits of the BEA
The benefits of the BEA include the following:
- Full payment of tuition fees and other charges by the host country
- Monthly stipend of $500 for undergraduate students and $700 for postgraduate students
- Annual book allowance of $200 for all students
- Thesis allowance of $500 for postgraduate students
- Laptop allowance of $500 for all students
- Special allowance for physically challenged students
- Return air ticket for all students
- Medical insurance for all students
Duration of the BEA
The duration of the BEA depends on the category, level, and country of study. Generally,
The BEA covers the following periods:
- Four years for undergraduate students in foreign universities
- Two years for postgraduate students in foreign universities
- Three years for undergraduate students in foreign colleges of education
- Two years for undergraduate students in foreign polytechnics and monotechnics
The BEA is renewable annually subject to satisfactory academic performance and good conduct of the scholars.
What are the Benefits of Studying Abroad with a Federal Scholarship?
Studying abroad with a federal scholarship can offer you many benefits, such as:
- Exposure to different cultures, languages, and perspectives
- Access to quality education and world-class facilities
- Development of critical thinking, problem-solving, and communication skills
- Enhancement of career prospects and employability
- Networking opportunities with peers, mentors, and experts
- Personal growth and confidence
- Contribution to national development and global citizenship
However, studying abroad with a federal scholarship also comes with some challenges, such as:
- Adapting to a new environment and culture
- Coping with academic pressure and expectations
- Managing finances and living expenses
- Dealing with visa and immigration issues
- Facing discrimination and stereotypes
- Balancing social and academic life
- Maintaining contact with family and friends
Therefore, you need to prepare yourself well before applying for a federal scholarship and embarking on your study abroad journey. You need to do your research, plan your budget, choose your course and institution wisely, apply early, and follow the instructions and guidelines of the FSB and the host country.
Federal scholarship board login
If you want to log in to the Federal Scholarship Board online application portal, you need to follow these steps:
- Visit the Federal Scholarship Board website at fsbn.com.ng and click on “View Available Scholarships”.
- Select the scholarship category you are interested in and read the instructions carefully.
- Fill in the online application form and upload the required documents, such as passport photograph, admission letter, academic transcripts, etc.
- Submit the application form and print out a copy for reference.
- Wait for the announcement of the shortlisted candidates and the date and venue of the scholarship examination or interview.
- Attend the scholarship examination or interview and present the printed copy of the application form and other relevant documents.
- Wait for the announcement of the successful candidates and the award letter.
To log in to your account, you need to enter your email address and password that you used to register on the portal. If you forgot your password, you can click on the “Forgot Password” link and follow the instructions to reset it. If you have any problems or questions, you can contact the Federal Scholarship Board or the zonal office in charge of your zone for assistance.
How to Qualify for a Federal Scholarship
Securing a federal scholarship requires a strategic approach and a clear understanding of the qualification criteria. Here’s a step-by-step guide to increase your chances of being awarded a scholarship from the Federal Scholarship Board.
1. Academic Excellence
- Maintain a strong academic record throughout your educational journey.
- Highlight any notable achievements, awards, or extracurricular activities in your application.
2. Thoroughly Review Eligibility Criteria
- Carefully read and understand the eligibility requirements for each scholarship program.
- Ensure that you meet the specific criteria, including academic qualifications, age limits, and other relevant conditions.
3. Prepare a Stellar Application
- Craft a compelling personal statement that outlines your educational goals, achievements, and why you deserve the scholarship.
- Pay attention to the details and guidelines provided in the application form.
4. Letters of Recommendation
- Obtain well-written letters of recommendation from teachers, professors, or professionals who can vouch for your academic abilities and character.
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FAQs about Federal Scholarship Board
How can I contact the FSB?
You can contact the FSB through the following channels:
- Phone: +234-9-523-4694, +234-9-523-4695
- Email: info@fsbn.com.ng
- Website: [fsbn.com.ng]
- Address: Federal Scholarship Board, Plot 245 Samuel Ademulegun Street, Central Business District, Abuja, Nigeria
How can I check the status of my scholarship application?
You can check the status of your scholarship application by logging into your account on the Federal Scholarship Board website and clicking on “View Application Status”. You can also contact the FSB or the zonal office in charge of your zone for updates.
How can I renew my scholarship award?
You can renew your scholarship award by submitting your academic transcripts and progress reports to the Federal Scholarship Board or the zonal office in charge of your zone. You also need to maintain a minimum CGPA of 3.5 for undergraduate students and 4.0 for postgraduate students.
Are there scholarships for undergraduate and postgraduate students?
Yes, the Federal Government Scholarship Awards cater to both undergraduate and postgraduate students pursuing various academic disciplines.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Federal Scholarship Board stands as a beacon of hope for Nigerian students seeking financial assistance to pursue their educational aspirations. Whether through the Federal Government Scholarship Award or other programs, the Federal Scholarship Board is committed to fostering academic excellence and empowering the future leaders of Nigeria.
As you embark on your scholarship journey, remember to stay informed, adhere to deadlines, and showcase your academic prowess. The Federal Scholarship Board is not just an institution; it’s a gateway to educational opportunities that can shape your future.
If you are interested in applying for a federal scholarship through the Federal Scholarship Board, you can visit the FSB website at [fsbn.com.ng] and follow the instructions and guidelines. You can also contact the FSB or the zonal office in charge of your zone for more information and assistance. We wish you all the best in your academic endeavors and hope that you will make Nigeria proud with your achievements.