Applications are now open for the 2026 Nigeria Higher Education Foundation (NHEF) Scholars Program, a leadership and career development initiative for outstanding Nigerian undergraduates.
This is a fully funded career development program organised by the Nigeria Higher Education Foundation (NHEF). It is not a cash scholarship in the traditional sense. Instead, it focuses on preparing high-performing Nigerian undergraduates for life after university through training, mentorship, and internship opportunities.
The program is meant for students in their penultimate year at selected Nigerian universities who have shown strong academic performance, leadership potential,,z and involvement beyond the classroom. NHEF’s goal is to help these students build practical skills, gain professional exposure, and transition more confidently into the workforce.
Below, you’ll find a clear explanation of what the NHEF Scholars Program is about, who can apply, what participants receive, the documents required, and how to submit a correct application for the 2026 cycle.
About the NHEF Scholars Program
The Nigeria Higher Education Foundation is a non-profit organisation that works with Nigerian universities and corporate partners to develop future leaders. Each year, NHEF selects a small group of students from its partner universities and supports them through a structured scholars program.
Selected scholars go through career-focused training designed to complement what they are learning in school. The idea is to close the gap between academic study and the real demands of professional work by exposing students to leadership development, workplace expectations, and industry networks early on.
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What the Program Offers
Students selected as NHEF Scholars receive structured support aimed at long-term career growth. This includes:
- Career development and leadership training sessions
- Professional skills workshops
- Mentorship and networking with experienced professionals and NHEF alumni
- Internship placements with partner organisations in Nigeria, usually lasting several weeks
It’s important to note that for the 2026 program, NHEF does not clearly list specific financial benefits such as stipends, flights, or accommodation on its official website. Applicants should rely on what is formally stated and not assume cash funding unless it is explicitly confirmed by NHEF.
Who Can Apply
To be eligible for the 2026 NHEF Scholars Program, applicants must:
- Be Nigerian undergraduates enrolled in an NHEF partner university
- Be in their penultimate year of study (for example, 300 level in a four-year program)
- Show strong academic performance
- Demonstrate leadership qualities, community involvement, and initiative
The official partner universities for this program are:
- Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria
- Bayero University, Kano
- University of Ibadan
- University of Lagos
- University of Nigeria, Nsukka
- University of Port Harcourt
Students outside these institutions are not eligible to apply.
Documents You’ll Need
Before starting your application, prepare the following documents in PDF format:
- A one-page CV
- A one-page cover letter
- Your most recent academic statement of results
Having these ready ahead of time is important because the application cannot be saved halfway.
How to Apply
Follow the steps below to apply for the 2026 NHEF Scholars Program:
- Visit the official NHEF application portal.
- Create an account using your full name, email address, phone number, and a password.
- Check your email inbox and verify your account by clicking the confirmation link sent by NHEF.
- Log in to the portal after your email has been verified.
- From your dashboard, click on the “Apply” tab to start your application.
- Fill in your personal and academic details accurately.
- Answer all the essay questions on the application form.
- Upload the required documents (CV, cover letter, and statement of results) in PDF format.
- Carefully review your application to make sure everything is correct.
- Submit your application before the deadline.
Important: The application form cannot be saved once you start. It’s best to prepare your essay answers in advance and complete the application in one sitting.
Application Deadline
The confirmed deadline for the 2026 NHEF Scholars Program is March 13, 2026.
Applications must be submitted before the portal closes on that date. Late applications are not considered.
Apply for the 2026 NHEF Scholars Program
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