Federal Government Bilateral Education Agreement (BEA) Scholarship Awards

The Federal Government of Nigeria is pleased to announce the opening of applications for the prestigious Bilateral Education Agreement (BEA) Scholarship Awards. This scholarship program, managed by the Federal Ministry of Education, provides a unique opportunity for Nigerian students to pursue undergraduate and postgraduate studies abroad across various fields.

This initiative aims to enhance Nigeria’s intellectual capital by supporting students with outstanding academic records and a passion for academic excellence. It also promotes international collaboration by facilitating education in countries with Bilateral Education Agreements with Nigeria.

Announcement by the Honourable Minister of Education

Speaking about the program, the Honourable Minister of Education, Dr. Morufu Olatunji Alausa, emphasized the Federal Government’s commitment to nurturing young Nigerians to achieve academic excellence and compete globally. He outlined the eligibility requirements, available fields of study, and application steps to guide interested candidates.

The BEA Scholarship Awards stand as a testament to the government’s efforts to build a stronger, knowledge-driven economy by providing opportunities for Nigerians to acquire advanced education and skills.

Programs Available Under the BEA Scholarship Awards

The scholarship awards are categorized into Undergraduate and Postgraduate programs, with specific countries and fields of study for each.

1. Undergraduate Scholarships

This category offers opportunities for Nigerian students to study in the following countries:

• Russia
• Morocco
• Hungary
• Egypt
• Algeria

Fields of Study:
Students can apply for programs in diverse fields, including but not limited to:

• Engineering: Specializations such as Civil, Mechanical, Electrical, and Computer Engineering.
• Sciences: Courses in Physics, Chemistry, Biology, and related fields.
• Mathematics and Statistics
• Agriculture: Including Agronomy, Animal Science, and Crop Production.
• Geology and Mining
• Environmental Sciences: Focused on sustainable development and environmental management.
• Law and Social Sciences
• Medicine: Including specialized fields such as Neurology, Surgery, and General Medicine.
• Biotechnology and Genetic Engineering
• Architecture
• Sports Science and Physical Education

2. Postgraduate Scholarships

This category provides opportunities for Master’s and PhD studies in the following countries:

• Russia
• China
• Hungary
• Serbia
• Romania

Postgraduate applicants must select advanced fields of study aligned with their undergraduate qualifications or professional experience.

Special Note:

• Nigerian students who completed their undergraduate studies in Russia are only eligible to apply for postgraduate scholarships in Russia.
• Programs emphasize research and innovation, offering candidates the opportunity to contribute to Nigeria’s development upon graduation.

Eligibility Criteria for Applicants

Applicants must meet the following academic and age requirements, as well as provide the necessary documentation.

For Undergraduate Applicants

1. Academic Performance:
   • Candidates must possess seven distinctions (A and B grades) in WAEC or WASSCE, including English Language and Mathematics.
   • Certificates must be recent:
     • 2023 or 2024 for non-African countries.
     • 2024 for African countries.
2. Age Limit:
   • Applicants must be between 17 and 20 years old.

For Postgraduate Applicants

1. Academic Qualification:
   • Applicants must hold a First Class or Second-Class Upper Division degree in their undergraduate program.
   • Completion of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) program is mandatory.
2. Age Limit:
   • Master’s: Applicants must be aged 35 years or younger.
   • PhD: Applicants must be aged 40 years or younger.
3. Required Documents:
   • NYSC discharge or exemption certificates.
   • Employer release letter, for those currently employed.

Application Procedure

The Federal Government has simplified the application process to ensure accessibility for all eligible candidates.

Steps to Apply:

1. Visit the Official Website:
   • Go to the Federal Ministry of Education website.
2. Locate the Federal Scholarship Board Icon:
   • This icon on the homepage will guide you to the scholarship application portal.
3. Complete the Online Application Form:
   • Carefully fill out the application form according to the provided guidelines.
4. Print a Copy of Your Completed Application Form:
   • Save a hard copy for your reference and documentation.

Important Notes for Applicants

1. Language Requirements:
   • Since most BEA partner countries use non-English languages for instruction, all candidates must undergo a mandatory one-year language course.
2. Country-Specific Guidelines:
   • Hungary: Applicants must submit their applications through the Stipendium Hungaricum portal, which closes on 15 January 2025.
   • Russia: Applicants must use the Education in Russia portal to apply. Postgraduate applicants must have completed their first degree in Russia.
3. Document Format:
   • All required documents must be scanned and uploaded in PDF format during the application process.

Required Documents for Successful Candidates

Applicants shortlisted for the scholarship awards must provide the following:

• Authenticated copies of academic certificates.
• A current international passport data page.
• Medical reports from government-approved hospitals confirming the candidate’s physical and mental health.
• A valid birth certificate and indigene letter (proof of state of origin).
• Police clearance certificates (if required by the host country).

Application Timeline and Contact Information

• Application Period:
  • The portal opens on 2 December 2024 and closes on 12 January 2025.
• Cost:
  • Applications are completely free of charge.
• Contact Information:
  • Phone Numbers: 08077884417 or 08023297547
  • Email Address: fsb@education.gov.ng

Why Apply for the BEA Scholarship?

The BEA Scholarship Awards are a golden opportunity for students seeking to:

• Gain international exposure in prestigious universities.
• Develop skills and knowledge in critical fields.
• Contribute to Nigeria’s development upon returning.

This program empowers young Nigerians to dream bigger, aim higher, and achieve excellence in their chosen fields.

Ensure you follow all instructions, upload required documents correctly, and complete your application before the deadline to avoid disqualification.