Petroleum Technology Development Fund (PTDF) 2026 Overseas Postgraduate Scholarship Scheme

The Petroleum Technology Development Fund (PTDF) Scholarship Scheme provides outstanding Nigerian students with the opportunity to study a Masters or PhD overseas, within designated fields at specially selected institutions. The University of Exeter is proud to be a partner university for PTDF sponsored Masters students.

The purpose of the PTDF scheme is to provide Nigerian students with the intellectual foundation and skill set that will enable them to participate actively in Nigeria’s energy sector at the conclusion of their studies. The sponsorship duration is twelve months for a Masters programme. There are no awards for undergraduate studies under the scheme.

Strategic Partnerships were developed to improve the Funds’ Overseas Postgraduate Scholarship Scheme by offering candidates the opportunity to benefit from a diversified pool of knowledge and the facilities offered by world-class institutions across the globe. Candidates are offered the chance to study in exceptional facilities, where they will also experience new cultures and work environments.

PTDF sponsorship includes return flight tickets, health insurance, tuition fees (and bench fees, where applicable) as well as allowances to meet the costs of accommodation and living expenses.

Entry requirements

Nigeria is the only eligible County of Domicile, with a verified National Identity Number (NIN) required.

Candidates' chosen Masters programme - for full-time, on-campus study beginning in September 2026 - must relate to the energy sector, for example: 

• Accounting & Finance
• Business & Management
• Computing/IT/AI
• Energy
• Engineering/Renewable
• Law
• Health/Life Sciences

PTDF scholarships are highly competitive and only candidates who are outstanding across the board are selected, on the basis of: 

• Academic merit as evidenced by quality of degrees, full academic transcripts, other professional qualifications and membership of professional bodies.
• The relevance of prior and proposed studies to the oil and gas industry and national development priorities.

The requirements for Masters applications are:

• A minimum of Second Class Upper (2.1) qualification in their first degree or a Second Class Lower (2.2) with relevant industry experience
• Must have completed the mandatory National Youth Service (NYSC)
• Must have 5 O/level credits including English Language and Mathematics
• Computer Literacy

The full guidelines are available here: PTDF - Guidelines

How to apply

Candidates are required to apply directly to PTDF for the scholarship and to the University of Exeter for their chosen relevant, one-year Postgraduate Taught (Masters) programme.

For your PTDF application, please visit: PTDF - How to Apply

The PTDF application includes the requirement to submit a Statement of Purpose (maximum 500 words) stating how your proposed studies are relevant to the oil and gas industry and will contribute to national development priorities.

For your University of Exeter Masters programme application, please visit Postgraduate Study at Exeter | A Top UK University. You are encouraged to apply promptly, in order to receive your Admission decision. 

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