Scholarships and grants available for NYSC members (How to apply)

The National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) year is not just about serving your country — it is also an opportunity to prepare for your future.

Many local and international organizations provide scholarships and grants for NYSC members to support education, skill acquisition, and community projects.

1. PTDF Scholarship (Petroleum Technology Development Fund)

• Eligibility: Nigerian graduates (including serving corps members) pursuing Master’s or PhD programs in Oil & Gas–related fields.
• Benefits: Tuition, accommodation, and living expenses.
• How to Apply: Visit PTDF Scholarship Portal and upload NYSC ID card, call-up letter, and academic transcripts.

2. NNPC/Total Energies National Merit Scholarship

• Eligibility: Undergraduates and graduates (including NYSC members) in accredited Nigerian universities.
• Benefits: ₦150,000 yearly allowance until graduation.
• How to Apply: Go to TotalEnergies Scholarship Portal when open and upload NYSC + school documents.

3. Commonwealth Shared Scholarship

• Eligibility: NYSC members with a strong academic record who wish to study for a Master’s degree in the UK.
• Benefits: Full tuition, flights, and living stipends.
• How to Apply: Apply via Commonwealth Scholarship Website.

4. Chevening Scholarship (UK Government)

• Eligibility: NYSC members and young graduates aspiring for a fully funded Master’s in the UK.
• Benefits: Tuition, living expenses, and travel costs.
• How to Apply: Apply online at Chevening Website and showcase leadership/community service.

5. MTN Foundation Scholarship

• Eligibility: Undergraduate and postgraduate Nigerian students, including corps members pursuing further studies.
• Benefits: ₦200,000 yearly till graduation.
• How to Apply: Apply via MTN Foundation Portal.

6. Fulbright Scholarship (USA Government)

• Eligibility: NYSC members with excellent academic records seeking Master’s/PhD opportunities in the US.
• Benefits: Full funding including tuition, accommodation, and flights.
• How to Apply: Apply via Fulbright Program Nigeria.

7. Tony Elumelu Foundation (TEF) Grant

• Eligibility: Young African entrepreneurs (NYSC members can apply) with a business idea.
• Benefits: $5,000 seed funding, mentorship, and training.
• How to Apply: Apply through TEF Connect Platform.

8. Bank of Industry (BOI) NYSC Loan/Grant

• Eligibility: NYSC members with viable business ideas.
• Benefits: Loans up to ₦2 million (single) or ₦5 million (group).
• How to Apply: Visit BOI/NYSC Desk at your State Secretariat and submit a business plan.

9. Aga Khan Foundation Scholarship

• Eligibility: Young Africans (including NYSC members) pursuing Master’s/PhD.
• Benefits: Covers tuition and living expenses.
• How to Apply: Apply through Aga Khan Foundation.

Tips for Successful Applications

• Keep your NYSC ID card, call-up letter, and posting letter safe.
• Build a strong CV highlighting community service and leadership.
• Apply early before deadlines.
• Join NYSC-related groups to get updates on scholarship openings.
• Take free online courses (Coursera, Udemy, LinkedIn Learning) to boost your profile.

Conclusion

NYSC is more than just one year of service — it is a gateway to global opportunities.

By applying for scholarships and grants, corps members can secure funding for further studies, business ventures, or impactful community projects.