NDDC Postgraduate Scholarship 2026/2027: Portal, Eligibility, Requirements and How to Apply

The Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) is running two postgraduate scholarship programmes for the 2026/2027 session. The NDDC postgraduate scholarship 2026/2027 portal for the Local Postgraduate Scholarship is open until 8 November 2026, while the Foreign Postgraduate Scholarship closed on 19 April 2026. This guide covers who can apply, what documents you need, how the selection process works and how to avoid scams.

NDDC Scholarship 2026/2027 at a Glance

Who Is the Scholarship For?

The programme targets young people from the Niger Delta region. Its aim, according to the commission, is to develop skills for the region’s socio-economic growth and for the Federal Government’s Local Content Programme. Since the NDDC may update requirements, always confirm the details on its official website before you apply.

Approved Fields of Study (Local Programme)

• Agricultural Sciences
• Architecture
• Engineering
• Environmental Sciences
• Geosciences
• Humanities
• Information Technology
• Law
• Management and Social Sciences
• Medical Sciences
• Education
• Biotechnology/Biomedical Science

Eligibility Requirements (Local Programme)

Applicants must:

• Be indigenes of the Niger Delta region.
• Be no older than 40 years.
• Hold a relevant bachelor’s degree from a recognised university with at least a Second Class Lower Division. HND holders need at least an Upper Credit and a relevant Postgraduate Diploma (PGD) where applicable.
• Hold a valid admission letter for a Master’s programme at a recognised Nigerian university.
• Hold a valid NYSC Discharge or Exemption Certificate.
• Meet any other requirements set by the commission.

Preference is given to qualified candidates from oil-producing host communities and local government areas, as long as they meet the approved criteria.

Documents You Need

1. Recent passport photograph
2. Local Government Identification Letter
3. Master’s admission letter from a recognised conventional Nigerian university
4. Relevant academic certificates and qualifications
5. NYSC Discharge or Exemption Certificate
6. Birth certificate or valid statutory age declaration
7. Any additional documents the commission requires

The preliminary screening also looks at your WAEC/NECO results, undergraduate qualifications, valid local government identification and NIN slip, so have all of them ready as clear scans.

How to Apply

1. Visit the official NDDC website at www.nddc.gov.ng and go to the scholarship section or portal.
2. Create an account or log in and fill in the application form accurately.
3. Choose your preferred CBT zone on the registration portal.
4. Upload clear copies of all required documents.
5. Submit before 8 November 2026 and save your registration details.

Applying is free. Submitting an application is not a guarantee of an award.

Selection Process

1. Online application through the official portal.
2. Preliminary screening against the approved criteria.
3. Computer-Based Test (CBT) for shortlisted candidates at designated centres in Akwa Ibom, Edo and Rivers states.
4. Minimum score: candidates need at least 70% in the CBT to remain in contention, but passing does not guarantee a scholarship.
5. Further shortlisting and possibly an oral interview.
6. Final verification of admission status with the university, academic credentials, indigene status through the local government and, where applicable, the Community Development Committee.

About the Foreign Postgraduate Scholarship

For readers who missed the foreign window, the 2026/2027 scheme covered eight disciplines: agricultural sciences/biotechnology, engineering, environmental sciences, geosciences, information technology/artificial intelligence, medical sciences, architecture/building technology and law. Reports describe the award as covering tuition, air travel, living stipends and study allowances, with the amount based on the prevailing naira exchange rate. Applications closed on 19 April 2026. Keep an eye on the NDDC website for the next call.

Important Conditions

• Deferment, change of institution or change of course is not allowed unless the commission approves it.
• All information and documents must be accurate and verifiable, otherwise your application can be rejected.
• Scholarship communications come through official NDDC channels only.

Scam Warning

Do not pay anyone for an NDDC scholarship form, CBT slot, selection or award. The commission says the process is free and advises applicants not to make payments to individuals or organisations. Report any such request to the NDDC.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the deadline for the NDDC local postgraduate scholarship?

8 November 2026.

Is the NDDC foreign scholarship still open?

No. The 2026/2027 foreign scholarship portal closed on 19 April 2026.

Do I need an admission letter before applying?

Yes. For the local programme you need a valid Master’s admission letter from a recognised Nigerian university.

What class of degree do I need?

At least a Second Class Lower for the local scholarship. The foreign scholarship required a First Class or Second Class Upper.

Is there an age limit?

Yes. Applicants must not be older than 40.

Is there an application fee?

No. The process is free of charge.