Focus Key Phrase: NNPC/NAE PSC Postgraduate Scholarship Scheme 2026/2027
Every year, thousands of Nigerian graduates dream of advancing their education abroad or in top local universities but are held back by funding. The NNPC/NAE PSC Postgraduate Scholarship Scheme 2026/2027 is changing that story. Launched under the Production Sharing Contract between NNPC Limited and Nigerian Agip Exploration Limited, this fully funded programme empowers high-achieving Nigerian graduates to pursue one-year Master’s degrees in critical oil, gas, energy, and environmental fields. In addition, the scheme directly addresses Nigeria’s skills gap in deep offshore operations while building a pipeline of leaders for the energy transition. If you’re under 28, have a Second Class Upper degree, and completed NYSC, this could be your ticket to tuition-free postgraduate study. So, let’s break down everything you need to know to win the NNPC/NAE PSC Postgraduate Scholarship Scheme 2026/2027.
Background of the NNPC/NAE PSC Postgraduate Scholarship Scheme
CSR Commitment to Human Capital Development
Nigerian Agip Exploration Limited operates Nigeria’s deep offshore assets on behalf of NNPC/NAE PSC. As part of its Corporate Social Responsibility, NAE launched the Postgraduate Scholarship Scheme in 2007 to promote knowledge acquisition and bridge skills gaps in specialized fields relevant to deep offshore oil and gas operations. Consequently, the initiative targets manpower development for Nigeria’s energy sector.
Statistics of Beneficiaries Since Inception
Since 2007, the scheme has made a measurable impact. To date, 350 graduates have benefitted* from the postgraduate scholarship schemes. More recently, 320 graduates had benefitted as of the 2024/2025 awards, and 290 graduates had been reached by the 2023/2024 cycle. Furthermore, the programme awards 30 scholarships annually: 10 for overseas study worth USD 50,000 each and 20 for local study worth ₦5 million each. Thus, the NNPC/NAE PSC Postgraduate Scholarship Scheme 2026/2027 continues a legacy of investing in over 350 Nigerian professionals.
What the NNPC/NAE PSC Postgraduate Scholarship Scheme 2026/2027 Is About
First, the NNPC/NAE PSC Postgraduate Scholarship Scheme 2026/2027 offers fully funded one-year Master’s study for exceptional Nigerian graduates. Second, the award comes in two categories:
1. Overseas Category – For study in a reputable overseas university
2. Local Category – For study in a recognized Nigerian university.
Moreover, the scheme is merit-based and targets disciplines that strengthen Nigeria’s energy sector. Therefore, if you already hold an admission offer for a one-year Master’s in an approved field, you should apply.
Available Fields of Study for NNPC/NAE PSC Postgraduate Scholarship 2026/2027
Only candidates with an offer of admission in disciplines related to the following areas should apply:
– Geosciences
– Engineering: Petroleum – Mechanical, Civil, Subsea, Electrical/Electronics, Marine, Chemical, Offshore, Environmental, Renewable
– Petroleum Economics
– Law: Oil and Gas/Petroleum (law).
– Environmental Sciences Management Sciences, and Social Sciences in specific disciplines.
As a result, the NNPC/NAE PSC Postgraduate Scholarship Scheme 2026/2027 aligns with Nigeria’s energy transition and deepwater development goals.
Benefits of the NNPC/NAE PSC Postgraduate Scholarship Scheme 2026/2027
The NAE scholarship award is comprehensive. Specifically, it applies to:
1. Full tuition fees for the one-year programme.
2. Books and learning materials.
3. Field trips or research-related travel.
4. Accommodation throughout the program.
5. Living expenses to help you focus without financial stress.
6. Return economy flight ticket* for overseas scholars.
For overseas awards, the value is USD 50,000 each, while local awards are worth ₦5 million each. Hence, the NNPC/NAE PSC Postgraduate Scholarship Scheme 2026/2027 removes financial barriers completely.
Eligibility Requirements for NNPC/NAE PSC Postgraduate Scholarship 2026/2027
To qualify, applicants MUST meet all criteria below:
1. Academic: Possess a minimum of Second Class Upper Bachelor’s degree from a recognized Nigerian university.
2. Admission: Have secured admission into a Nigerian or Overseas university for a one-year Master’s Degree programme in approved disciplines.
3. Age Limit: Not above 28 years of age by December 31st, 2026.
4. NYSC: Have completed the one-year National Youth Service Corps programme.
5. Passport: Possess an international passport valid for travel at least one year from September 2026, for overseas category.
Additionally, employees of NAE and other affiliate companies and their dependents are not eligible. Current and past beneficiaries of similar awards are also ineligible.
Scholarship Duration
The NNPC/NAE PSC Postgraduate Scholarship Scheme 2026/2027 funds a one-year Master’s degree programme. Therefore, your admission letter must be for a one-year course. The award covers only the approved duration.
Required Application Documents
Before starting the application, scan these documents clearly:
1. Passport photograph 450 × 450 pixels, white background, not more than 6 months old.
2. Provisional admission letter for 2025/2026 session into any reputable university – Local/Overseas
3. First Degree Certificate
4. NYSC Discharge Certificate
5. Valid ID card: Driver’s license, Voter’s card, or National Identity card
6. International Passport Data Page valid for at least one year from.September 2026, for overseas only.
7. Birth Certificate from local government.
8. NAE Compliance Declaration Form.
Label documents correctly to avoid mix-up during upload.
Selection Process for NNPC/NAE PSC Postgraduate Scholarship 2026/2027
First, ONLY shortlisted candidates will be contacted for the aptitude test. Next, shortlisted candidates receive test details via SMS and Email, so provide valid contacts. Then, successful candidates from the application stage will write a Computer Based Test on 30th May 2026 using Remote Online Proctoring. In some cycles, the CBT was scheduled for 17th May 2025. Finally, selection is based on academic merit, documentation, and test performance.
How to Apply for NNPC/NAE PSC Postgraduate Scholarship Scheme 2026/2027
Applications are submitted online through the official Scholastica portal below: https://candidate.scholastica.ng/schemes/NNPCNAE2026
SCHOLASTICA is the official platform.
Step-by-step guide:
1. Visit the official application page on Scholastica with this link: https://candidate.scholastica.ng/schemes/NNPCNAE2026
2. Create an account on the Scholastica platform.
3. Log in and complete your profile.
4. Fill out the scholarship application form.
5. Upload all required documents.
6. Submit before the deadline May 7 2026.
Important: Application is completely free. Multiple applications may lead to disqualification. Only applications submitted through the web portal will be considered. E-mail applications are NOT accepted.
Application Deadline
The application deadline for the NNPC/NAE PSC Postgraduate Scholarship Scheme 2026/2027 is 7th of May 2026. Because the window is short, apply early.
Tips to Be Ahead of Other Applicants
To stand out in the *NNPC/NAE PSC Postgraduate Scholarship Scheme 2026/2027*, use these strategies:
1. Apply Early: Due to the short window, submit weeks before 7th May 2026.
2. Secure Admission First: You need a provisional admission letter before applying. Target UK, Canada, and Nigerian universities with one-year MSc programs.
3. Perfect Your Documents: Ensure your passport photo is 450x450px with a white background and all scans are clear.
4. Prepare for CBT: Shortlisted candidates write a Computer Based Test. Practice quantitative, verbal, and oil & gas aptitude tests.
5. Check Eligibility Twice: You must be under 28 by Dec 31, 2026 and have completed NYSC.
6. Use Valid Contacts: Test invites come via SMS and email.
7. Avoid Disqualification: Don’t apply if you’re a current/past beneficiary of NAE or affiliate awards.
8. Tailor Your Course: Align your MSc with Geosciences, Engineering, Petroleum Economics, or Oil & Gas Law to match NAE’s needs.
Consequently, following these tips increases your odds for the NNPC/NAE PSC Postgraduate Scholarship Scheme 2026/2027.
Conclusion
The NNPC/NAE PSC Postgraduate Scholarship Scheme 2026/2027 is one of Nigeria’s most prestigious fully funded scholarships. With full tuition, living costs, and flights covered, it offers global exposure and career growth in energy and engineering. Since 2007, over 350 graduates have benefitted, and you could be next. However, you must act fast: secure admission, prepare documents, and apply on Scholastica before 7th May 2026. Ultimately, this scholarship positions you for global opportunities in oil, gas, and energy transition. Don’t miss the NNPC/NAE PSC Postgraduate Scholarship Scheme 2026/2027.
Official Application Website
Apply only via the official SCHOLASTICA portal below: https://candidate.scholastica.ng/schemes/NNPCNAE2026 .
This is the official platform for the 2026/2027 NAE Postgraduate Scholarship Award Scheme. For more details, visit the official webpage of the NNPC/NAE PSC Postgraduate Scholarship Scheme.
Frequently Asked Questions and Answers
Can I apply without an admission letter?
No. You must have secured admission into a Nigerian or Overseas university for a one-year Master’s programme. The admission letter must be for the course stated on your application.
Is the NNPC/NAE PSC Postgraduate Scholarship Scheme 2026/2027 fully funded?
Yes. It covers tuition, books, field trips, accommodation, living expenses, and return economy ticket for overseas.
What is the age limit?
You must not be above 28 years by December 31st, 2026.
When is the aptitude test?
Shortlisted candidates will write a Computer Based Test on 30 May 2026 using Remote Online Proctoring.
Can HND holders apply?
No. You need a minimum of Second Class Upper Bachelor’s degree from a recognized Nigerian university.
How many people are selected yearly?
30 beneficiaries: 10 for overseas, 20 for local.
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