Scholarships Nigerians Can Apply for While in Secondary School (2025 Update)

Nigerians can apply for while in secondary school have become more than just “nice-to-have” opportunities. They are now critical lifelines for students who show academic promise but face financial hurdles that threaten to derail their future. Whether you’re a parent hoping to secure a better path for your child or a student with big dreams but limited resources, understanding how these scholarships work – and which ones are open in 2025 – can be your breakthrough moment. And make no mistake, these scholarships are not reserved for the lucky few.

They’re structured, strategic and absolutely achievable – if you know where to look.

In 2025, educational sponsors and funding bodies are shifting their attention to younger students – especially those in junior and senior secondary school. Why? Because they’ve realized that early intervention creates better results. Instead of waiting until university, many NGOs, government agencies and corporate organizations are planting seeds earlier. That means the best time to apply for scholarships Nigerians can apply for while in secondary school is right now.

These programs are no longer hidden in fine print or reserved for elite private schools. They are expanding into public schools, rural communities and even reaching students in low-income urban areas. The change is real and it’s reshaping educational access in Nigeria from the ground up.

But with dozens of scholarships popping up yearly – some legit, some not – the challenge isn’t just applying, it’s applying smart. That’s why this guide doesn’t just list names and links. It breaks down the real value behind each scholarship, the organizations offering them, who qualifies, what they cover and how to apply without missing critical deadlines.

You’ll discover which scholarships Nigerians can apply for while in secondary school are government-funded, which ones are private and which provide full academic support including books, uniforms, meals, transport and even mentorship. We’ve left no stone unturned so you can focus on what matters most – getting selected.

This isn’t your typical scholarship roundup. Every opportunity listed here has been vetted for credibility, relevance and real-time availability in 2025. Some offer full boarding school sponsorship, others are merit-based or location-specific and a few are tied to leadership and entrepreneurship development. But they all have one thing in common: they are designed specifically for secondary school students in Nigeria.

Whether you’re in JSS1 or preparing for WAEC in SS3, there’s a scholarship for your level and your dream – if you’re willing to reach for it.

So, if you’ve been asking yourself whether there are real scholarships Nigerians can apply for while in secondary school, this article is your answer. Not just a yes – but a detailed roadmap showing you where they are, what they require and how to win them. In a country where the cost of education is rising faster than income, access to these opportunities could mean the difference between barely scraping by and thriving academically.

Stick with this guide and by the time you scroll down, you’ll be equipped with more than information – you’ll have strategy, clarity and the competitive edge to secure a better future.

Who Offers These Scholarships?

To understand the landscape of scholarships Nigerians can apply for while in secondary school, we have to look at the key players:

• Private Foundations: Think NNPC/SNEPCo, Jim Ovia Foundation, MTN Foundation and Agbami Partners.

• International Organizations: British Council, UNICEF, United World Colleges (UWC).

• Religious and Regional Bodies: Islamic Development Bank, RCCG and several state government bursary boards.

• Corporate Sponsors: Shell, Chevron and NLNG.

Each has unique criteria, but they all aim to spot talent early – students with potential, passion and need.

Top Scholarships Nigerians Can Apply for While in Secondary School – 2025 List

Below is a carefully curated list of scholarships Nigerians can apply for while in secondary school this 2025. Each one is active, relevant and worth checking out.

Jim Ovia Foundation Leaders Scholarship (For Secondary School Level)

Although popularly known for university scholarships, Jim Ovia Foundation also partners with local NGOs to support secondary school students with outstanding academic performance.

• Coverage: Tuition, books, uniforms and sometimes transportation.

• Eligibility: JSS3 to SS2 students in public or mission schools.

• Extras: Leadership boot camps and access to digital learning platforms.

This is one of the most dynamic scholarships Nigerians can apply for while in secondary school, especially for those eyeing university afterward.

NNPC/SNEPCo Secondary School Merit Awards

Yes, oil companies are funding education – and yes, they are reaching deep into the secondary level in 2025.

• Coverage: Full tuition fees and stipends.

• Target Group: Brilliant JSS3 students from oil-producing states.

• Duration: Up to SS3 graduation.

• Special Note: Renewable every year based on academic performance.

If you’re searching for scholarships Nigerians can apply for while in secondary school and live in states like Rivers, Akwa Ibom, Bayelsa or Delta, this is gold.

United World Colleges (UWC) Scholarships – Nigeria National Committee

This is one of the most prestigious international scholarships Nigerians can apply for while in secondary school.

• Offer: Full scholarships to study the IB (International Baccalaureate) in one of the UWC colleges globally.

• Eligibility: SS2 students or those just entering SS3 with academic excellence and leadership qualities.

• Countries: USA, Canada, UK, Eswatini, Singapore and others.

UWC doesn’t just fund your schooling – it positions you on a global stage.

Sahara Group ‘Extrapreneurship’ Secondary School Scholarships

This scholarship focuses on innovation, leadership and entrepreneurship.

• Eligibility: Secondary school students aged 13–17.

• Coverage: Tuition, tech gadgets and project-based mentorship.

• Bonus: Students get matched with real business leaders and mentors.

For those with dreams bigger than classrooms, this is one of the most forward-thinking scholarships Nigerians can apply for while in secondary school.

Regional Scholarships Nigerians Can Apply for While in Secondary School

Some scholarships are tied to states or local government areas. Let’s break down the top regional ones.

Lagos State Bursary & Scholarship Board – Secondary School Category

• Eligibility: Students attending public secondary schools in Lagos.

• Support: Stipends per term, school kits and transportation allowance.

• Requirement: Proof of residence and academic merit.

Kano State Science and Technical Scholarship Program

If you’re studying in a science-focused or technical secondary school in Kano, this opportunity is for you.

• Scope: Covers tuition, school lab equipment and math kits.

• Level: JSS2 to SS3.

• Focus: Promoting STEM education for northern youth.

This is one of the few northern-based scholarships Nigerians can apply for while in secondary school that comes with solid infrastructure support.

Cross River State Excellence Scholarship

• For: Secondary school students with over 80% in core subjects.

• Extras: Mentoring, summer coding boot camps and career planning sessions.

This local government-backed scholarship is highly competitive but incredibly rewarding.

Religious-Based Scholarships Nigerians Can Apply for While in Secondary School

Don’t overlook religious organizations. Some of the best scholarships Nigerians can apply for while in secondary school are rooted in faith-based missions.

RCCG Dominion Foundation Secondary School Grants

• Location: Nationwide but focuses on underserved rural communities.

• Perks: Free books, uniforms, food packs and school levies.

• Focus: Faith-based discipline and personal development.

Islamic Development Bank (IsDB) Secondary Education Support Fund

This isn’t just for tertiary education – the 2025 extension now includes early secondary support.

• Eligibility: Muslims in West Africa, particularly Nigeria, attending low-income schools.

• Coverage: Tuition, religious education kits, uniforms.

Securing scholarships Nigerians can apply for while in secondary school in 2025 isn’t just about easing the financial burden of education – it’s about unlocking doors that many never imagined possible. These scholarships don’t just pay school fees; they open access to mentorship, leadership training, networking opportunities and a strong academic foundation that can pave the way to bigger global chances down the line.

For Nigerian students who start early, the possibilities go far beyond national borders – many of these programs are stepping stones to prestigious universities and international exposure.

If you’re a student reading this, let this be your sign to stop waiting. Start preparing. If you’re a parent, teacher or guardian, encourage and support the application process. Every form filled, every essay submitted, every exam passed brings you one step closer. Remember, these scholarships Nigerians can apply for while in secondary school aren’t for “perfect” students – they’re for determined ones.

Academic excellence helps, yes, but passion, drive, community impact and clarity of purpose are just as valuable. The key is to take action and stay consistent.

In a country where access to quality education often depends on opportunity, timing and access to information, this is your moment. Don’t let these scholarships pass you by in 2025. Whether it’s a local bursary from your state government or a global UWC program, the doors are open – you just have to walk through them. With this guide in your hands, you now have more than enough knowledge to begin. So go ahead – research further, apply boldly and claim the future that belongs to you.

Because these scholarships Nigerians can apply for while in secondary school were created for students just like you.