Ekiti State Scholarship And Bursary Award 2026 | Study in Nigeria — Ekiti State Government, Ekiti State Scholarship Board
⚠️ This scholarship's deadline has passed and it's no longer accepting applications.
Ekiti State indigenes studying anywhere in Nigeria, from first degree students to doctoral candidates, can tap into one of the most structured state award systems in the South West.
About the Scholarship
The Ekiti State Scholarship Board runs the state government’s yearly scholarship and bursary programme, covering a wide span of academic levels from NCE and OND students through to PhD candidates. The scheme is notable for setting out clear award amounts for each category rather than a single blanket figure, which makes it easier for applicants to know roughly what to expect before they apply. Funding is approved directly by the state governor’s office each session.
Scholarship Benefits
- Physically Challenged Award of ₦120,000 for qualifying students
- NCE, OND, HND, and Bachelor’s degree award of ₦100,000
- Law School Bursary Award of ₦300,000
- Master’s Degree Award of ₦250,000
- PhD Award of ₦750,000
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must be indigenes of Ekiti State enrolled in an accredited tertiary institution, and undergraduate applicants must generally be in their second year of study or above to qualify for the award. Separate categories exist for physically challenged students, Law School candidates, and postgraduate students at Master’s or PhD level, each with its own documentation expectations alongside proof of Ekiti State indigeneship.
Fields of Study Covered
The programme is open across disciplines and institution types, including universities, Colleges of Education, polytechnics (for OND and HND holders), and Law School, since the award categories are built around qualification level rather than a specific field of study.
Required Documents
- Certificate of Ekiti State indigeneship
- Current student identification or admission letter
- Academic transcript or result summary appropriate to the award category
- Evidence of physical disability, where applicable
- Valid means of identification
- Passport photograph
How to Apply (Step-by-Step)
1. Watch for the official announcement from the Ekiti State Scholarship Board, usually published early in the year.
2. Access the application form through the Board’s designated portal within the stated window.
3. Select the correct award category matching your current level of study.
4. Complete the form and attach all required supporting documents.
5. Submit before the closing date, since the Board enforces a strict cutoff each session.
Selection Process
The Ekiti State Scholarship Board verifies indigene status and confirms that each applicant’s documentation matches the award category selected. Validated applications are compiled into a beneficiary list that requires approval before the state governor’s office releases funds for disbursement through the Board.
Tips to Improve Your Chances
Select the award category that precisely matches your current level of study, since applying under the wrong category is a common reason for rejection. Gather your indigeneship certificate and academic records early, well before the short window between form release and the closing date. Students also interested in South South alternatives can compare this scheme with the Rivers State Government Scholarship Scheme to understand how award structures differ by state.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can first-year undergraduates apply?
Generally no, the scheme typically requires undergraduate applicants to be in their second year of study or above.
Is there a specific award for Law School students?
Yes, a dedicated Law School Bursary Award of ₦300,000 exists separately from the general undergraduate category.
How much does the PhD award provide?
The PhD Award is set at ₦750,000, the highest amount among the listed categories.
Do polytechnic students qualify?
Yes, OND and HND holders are included under the same award bracket as NCE and Bachelor’s degree students.
Is there a special category for physically challenged students?
Yes, a Physically Challenged Award of ₦120,000 is available for qualifying applicants.
How often is this scholarship awarded?
The Ekiti State Scholarship Board runs this programme once every academic session.
Do I need to be studying in Ekiti State to qualify?
No, the fund supports Ekiti State indigenes studying at accredited institutions across Nigeria.
What happens if I apply after the deadline?
Late applications are typically not accepted, so candidates should apply as early as possible within the stated window.
Can I apply if I previously received an Ekiti State bursary?
Yes, as long as you still meet the eligibility requirements for your current level of study, previously receiving support does not automatically disqualify a fresh application in a new session.
Does the award cover students in private universities?
The programme is generally structured around accredited institutions regardless of ownership type, but applicants should confirm their specific institution is recognised when the Board releases its yearly guidelines, since accreditation status can occasionally change between sessions.