Federal Scholarship Board (FSB): Bilateral Education Agreement (BEA) Explained

Are you looking to apply for the FSB Scholarship? Almost every Nigerian student has thought about “Japa” at least once. Whether it’s the unending ASUU strikes, the rising cost of tuition, or just the desire for a global degree, studying abroad is the dream.

But let’s face the reality: the exchange rate is crazy. Paying tuition in Dollars or Pounds when earning in Naira is almost mission impossible for the average family.

So, let’s talk about the FSB Scholarship Nigeria, specifically the Bilateral Education Agreement (BEA). What it is and how to apply for it.

This scholarship is one of the “Golden Ticket” scholarships that promises full tuition, accommodation, and a monthly stipend in countries like Russia, Morocco, and Hungary. But is it too good to be true?

Do you need a “connection” in Abuja to get it? And what’s the latest gist about the government suspending it?

I’m going to break it all down for you, so you can be able to appy if you want to.

Disclaimer: Scholarship policies in Nigeria change faster than the weather. Always verify the latest status on the official Federal Ministry of Education portal. This guide is for educational purposes.

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What is the FSB BEA Scholarship?

The Bilateral Education Agreement (BEA) is a fancy name for a “swap” deal. Foreign countries agree to educate talented Nigerian students for free, and in return, the Nigerian government pays for your upkeep (stipend) and travel.

It is managed by the Federal Scholarship Board (FSB), which operates under the Federal Ministry of Education.

Where can you go? Typically, the scholarship covers undergraduate and postgraduate studies in non-English speaking countries. If you get selected, you will spend your first year learning the local language (e.g., Russian or Arabic).

• Undergraduate: Russia, Morocco, Hungary, Egypt, Algeria.
• Postgraduate: Russia (mostly), China, Hungary, Serbia, Romania.

The “Suspension” Gist: Is It Still On?

In 2025, news broke that the Federal Government might be “suspending” or “reviewing” the BEA program because of the high cost of Forex.

• What this means for you: Don’t put all your eggs in this basket. The program might be paused, or the number of slots might be drastically reduced.
• What to do: Keep checking the portal. If it opens, apply immediately. If it’s paused, look for alternatives (like the PTDF scholarship or MTN Foundation Scholarship).

Eligibility Requirements (Can You Apply?)

The FSB scholarship is usually strict, so take note and be prepared. This isn’t for “let my people go” results. You need to be sharp.

For Undergraduate Applicants:

1. WAEC/NECO: You need a minimum of Seven (7) Distinctions (As & Bs) in relevant subjects (English & Math included).
   • Real Talk: If you have a ‘C’ in Mathematics or your core science subject, don’t bother wasting data to apply. They pick the best of the best.
2. Age Limit: You must be between 17 and 20 years old.
3. Certificate Age: Your WAEC result must not be older than two years.

For Postgraduate Applicants:

1. Degree: First Class or Second Class Upper (2:1).
2. NYSC: You must have your discharge or exemption certificate.
3. Age: Not more than 35 years (Masters) or 40 years (PhD).

READ ALSO: PTDF Undergraduate Scholarship for Nigerian Students: How to Apply

How to Apply for the FSB Scholarship

When the portal opens (usually between November and January), here is how to apply without stress.

1. Visit the Official Portal Go to scholarship.education.gov.ng or fsbn.com.ng.

Warning: There are many fake sites. Ensure the URL ends in .gov.ng or is the official portal announced in the news.

2. Create an Account Register with your active email. Pro Tip: Use a Gmail address that looks professional (e.g., david.nwaeze@gmail.com, not sexyboydavid@gmail.com).

3. Fill the Form Enter your biodata, WAEC results, and school choices carefully.

• Choosing a Country: Russia usually has the most slots but is very cold. Morocco is closer to home and has a similar climate to parts of Nigeria. Hungary is in the EU (great for travel access). Choose wisely.

4. Upload Documents Scan your documents clearly. A blurry WAEC result can get you disqualified.

• WAEC/NECO Certificate.
• Birth Certificate (from National Population Commission, not just a hospital receipt).
• NIN Slip.
• State of Origin Certificate.

5. Print Everything Once you submit, print the Application Slip. You will need this for the BEA interview.

READ ALSO: NNPC/Chevron Scholarship 2026: Application Guide & Past Questions

The BEA Scholarship Interview: How to “Scale” It

Congratulations If you got shortlisted, you will be invited for a zonal interview. This is where the real battle happens.

• Dress Code: Dress like you already have the scholarship. For guys, a suit and tie (Corporate). For ladies, a smart suit or corporate dress. Do not wear jeans or sneakers.
• The “Current Affairs” Trap: The interviewers love to ask general knowledge questions.
  • Who is the Minister of Education?
  • What is the capital of the country you applied to?
  • Who is the Governor of your state?
  • What is the “Change” or “Renewed Hope” agenda?
• Subject Knowledge: They will ask basic questions on your field (Biology, Math, etc.). Brush up on your SS3 notes.

Street Tip: Be confident but humble. If you don’t know an answer, say “I’m not sure at the moment, sir,” instead of guessing wild nonsense.

The Pros & Cons of the FSB Scholarship

Before you pack your bags, you need to know what you are signing up for.

The Good (Pros)	The Bad (Cons)
Study Abroad for Free: Tuition is 100% covered.	Stipend Delays: The Nigerian Govt is infamous for paying stipends late (sometimes 6-8 months late).
Global Exposure: You learn a new language and culture.	Language Barrier: Learning Russian or Hungarian is hard.
Networking: You meet students from all over the world.	Climate Shock: -20°C in Russia is no joke for a Nigerian.

In Summary

The FSB Scholarship Nigeria is a life-changing opportunity, but it requires patience and smart preparation. Don’t let the news of “suspension” discourage you completely, government policies change overnight.

Keep your documents ready, keep your grades high, and keep checking the portal.

And remember, even if the stipend comes late, a degree from Europe or North Africa is something no one can take away from you.

Over to you: Which country would you choose if you got the scholarship? Russia or Morocco? Drop a comment below!

READ ALSO: NLNG Scholarship Award: Worth & Application Process

FAQs About the FSB Scholarship

Is the FSB Scholarship form out for 2026?

Dates fluctuate. Typically, the portal opens between November and January. However, keep an eye on news regarding the “suspension” of the BEA program by the Federal Ministry of Education.

Does FSB require IELTS or TOEFL?

No. Since most BEA countries are non-English speaking (Russia, Morocco, etc.), they do not require IELTS. You will take a language year in the host country instead.

Can I apply if I am already in a Nigerian University?

Yes, provided you are within the age limit (17-20) and have the required WAEC results. Many students leave Nigerian unis (Japa) once they get this scholarship.