Getting a university education in Nigeria can be financially challenging, especially for students at top institutions like the University of Lagos (UNILAG) and Lagos State University (LASU). Thankfully, several scholarship opportunities are available in 2025 to support brilliant and deserving students who are struggling with tuition and other academic expenses.
This article highlights some of the best scholarships open to UNILAG and LASU students this year, including their eligibility, how to apply, and deadlines to watch out for. If you’re a student or a parent looking for ways to ease the burden of school fees, this is for you.
Lagos State Scholarship Scheme
The Lagos State Scholarship Board offers both bursary and merit-based scholarships to students of Lagos State origin. LASU students often benefit from this scheme, and UNILAG students who meet the state indigene criteria are also eligible.
The bursary is open to all Lagos State indigenes, while the merit award is based on academic performance. To qualify for the merit award, a student must be in at least their second year with a strong CGPA (usually 3.5 and above).
Application is usually done online via the Lagos State Scholarship Board website. It’s important to check regularly, as the portal opens once a year.
NNPC/TotalEnergies National Merit Scholarship
This is one of the most popular scholarships for Nigerian undergraduates. It’s open to full-time first or second-year students in any accredited Nigerian university, including UNILAG and LASU.
To qualify, students must be studying a recognized course, have excellent academic records, and pass a computer-based test. The scholarship covers tuition, accommodation, and some personal expenses until graduation, provided the student maintains good academic standing.
Applications usually open around September each year.
MTN Foundation Scholarship
MTN offers a scholarship scheme for Nigerian students in public tertiary institutions, including UNILAG and LASU. It is open to 200-level students who have maintained a CGPA of 3.5 or higher (second class upper or its equivalent).
This scholarship is targeted at science and technology students, but MTN also runs a scholarship for blind students regardless of their course of study. Beneficiaries receive N200,000 annually until graduation.
Application is through the MTN Foundation portal, and shortlisted candidates take an aptitude test.
Agbami Medical and Engineering Scholarship
Funded by the Agbami partners (Chevron and others), this scholarship supports students in the medical and engineering fields. UNILAG and LASU students studying medicine, pharmacy, dentistry, and engineering are eligible.
This scholarship is very competitive and provides substantial financial aid to help cover tuition, books, and other academic-related costs. Application is done online and includes submitting scanned documents and taking a computer-based test.
Jim Ovia Foundation Leaders Scholarship
The Jim Ovia Foundation provides scholarships to outstanding Nigerian students with leadership potential. Although not limited to any specific university, many students from UNILAG and LASU have benefited from this program.
Students must demonstrate financial need, academic excellence, and leadership skills. The scholarship can cover full tuition and living expenses for the entire duration of the course. Application is online through the foundation’s website.
Shell Nigeria University Scholarship
Shell Petroleum Development Company (SPDC) awards scholarships to qualified Nigerian students in public universities. UNILAG and LASU students in 100 level (first year) are usually eligible to apply.
This scholarship is aimed at supporting academically excellent students and easing the financial burden on their families. Applicants must have five credits in SSCE, including Mathematics and English, and pass the Shell-administered test.
It’s important to have your documents ready, including admission letters, school ID, and passport photograph.
NLNG Undergraduate Scholarship
Nigeria LNG Limited offers annual scholarships to high-performing undergraduates. Students from any course of study in UNILAG and LASU can apply, provided they meet the academic and personal requirements.
The scholarship amount is around N300,000 per year and continues throughout the student’s academic program as long as academic performance is maintained. Applications open in the first quarter of the year, and the process is entirely online.
How to Improve Your Chances of Winning a Scholarship
- Maintain a strong CGPA. Most scholarships have a minimum academic requirement, usually 3.5 or second class upper.
- Apply early. Don’t wait till the deadline. Submit your application and documents as soon as the portal opens.
- Write a strong personal statement or essay if required. Highlight your goals, challenges, and why you deserve the scholarship.
- Stay updated. Follow scholarship platforms, student forums, or your school’s notice boards to know when applications open.
Closing Thoughts
Whether you’re at UNILAG or LASU, these scholarships can ease your academic journey and help you focus on your studies without financial stress. Many students miss out simply because they didn’t apply or weren’t aware.