Are you looking to apply for the PTDF Overseas Scholarship (MSc)? you’ve come to the right place. Before you apply, you need to know all the strategic courses first.
With the way the Naira is dancing against the Dollar and Pounds right now, funding a master’s degree abroad from your parents’ pocket is almost mission impossible for the average Nigerian family.
Despite all that, the dream to japa, escape ASUU strikes, and get world-class education remains valid.
This is where the PTDF overseas scholarship enters the chat.
The Petroleum Technology Development Fund (PTDF) is widely regarded as the “Holy Grail” of federal scholarship schemes in Nigeria.
It is fully funded, we are talking tuition, flight tickets, health insurance, and a monthly stipend that makes you live like a king compared to the hustle back home.
However, here is the catch: PTDF doesn’t fund just any course. You can’t apply for International Relations or Sociology and expect them to pick you. To win, you must align with their mandate.
In this guide, we will break down the exact list of strategic courses that qualify for MSc funding, discuss the interview process, and give you the “Campus Hustle” edge to secure your spot.
READ ALSO: 5 Fully Funded Undergraduate Scholarships in USA for Nigerians
Table of Contents
What is the PTDF Overseas Scholarship Scheme?
The Petroleum Technology Development Fund (PTDF) is a Nigerian government agency with a mandate to develop indigenous human capacity in petroleum technology.
Basically, they want to train Nigerians to run the oil and gas masters sector so we rely less on expatriates.
Over the years, the scope has widened. It’s no longer just about drilling oil; it now includes renewable energy, environmental management, and the technology that powers these industries.
Campus Hustle Note: This is not a loan. It is a grant. But they expect you to return to Nigeria to contribute to the economy (though we know many scholars eventually find global opportunities).
READ ALSO: PTDF Undergraduate Scholarship for Nigerian Students: How to Apply
Why “Strategic” Courses Matter
Many brilliant Nigerian students fail the initial screening phase simply because they applied for a course that isn’t on the “menu.”
The PTDF categorizes its scholarships based on the immediate needs of the Nigerian Oil and Gas industry.
If your undergraduate degree is in Mass Communication, you might need to look for other opportunities, unless you are pivoting into specialized tech or management roles specifically within the energy sector (which is rare).
To increase your chances, you need to apply for an oil and gas masters or related engineering/science program.
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The Official List of Strategic Courses for PTDF (MSc)
Below is the categorized list of courses usually prioritized by the PTDF. Please note: Course titles may vary slightly depending on the University (e.g., in the UK vs. France).
1. Engineering & Technology (The Core)
This is the bread and butter of the scholarship. If you have a B.Eng, this is your playground.
- Petroleum Engineering
- Chemical Engineering
- Mechanical Engineering
- Electrical/Electronic Engineering
- Civil/Structural Engineering (Offshore structures)
- Subsea Engineering
- Pipeline Engineering
- Naval Architecture & Marine Engineering
- Materials & Corrosion Engineering
- Control & Instrumentation Engineering
2. Geosciences & Environmental Science
The industry needs people who can find the oil and manage the mess drilling creates.
- Geology / Petroleum Geology
- Geophysics
- Geomatics / Remote Sensing
- Environmental Science / Management (Specific to Oil & Gas)
- Health, Safety, and Environment (HSE)
- Waste Management
3. Computing & Information Technology
The world is going digital, and so is the PTDF. They are looking for tech bros and sis who can digitize the energy sector.
- Computer Science
- Information Technology
- Cybersecurity (Critical for infrastructure protection)
- Software Engineering
- Data Science / Artificial Intelligence (Energy analytics)
- Information Systems Management
4. Renewable Energy & Sustainability
With the global shift from fossil fuels, PTDF is heavily funding “Energy Transition” courses.
- Renewable Energy Engineering
- Solar Energy
- Wind Energy
- Energy Systems & Management
- Carbon Capture and Storage
5. Management (Restricted)
Note: Management courses are usually reserved for the PhD level or specific strategic partnerships. However, technical management degrees are sometimes considered for MSc.
- Energy Economics
- Oil and Gas Management
- Supply Chain Management (Energy focused)
ALSO: Check out other Masters Scholarships for Nigerian Students
Study in UK/France/Germany
When applying, you will usually be asked to choose a preferred country. Here is the tea on the locations:
The United Kingdom (UK)
This is the most popular choice for Nigerians because of the language and the 1-year duration of MSc programs. The PTDF has partnerships with top schools like Cranfield, Manchester, and Robert Gordon University.
- Pros: Fast, English-speaking, large Nigerian community.
- Cons: Highly competitive.
France & Germany (Strategic Partnerships)
To study in UK/France or Germany often requires a different mindset.
- Germany: Known for rigorous engineering.
- France: PTDF has a strong partnership with schools like IFP School.
- The Advantage: Fewer Nigerians apply here compared to the UK because of the “language barrier fear.” However, many of these MSc programs are taught in English! Applying here might statistically increase your chances.
The PTDF Interview: How to Scale Through
So, you’ve submitted your application, your documents are correct, and you’ve been shortlisted. Congratulations! But don’t celebrate yet; the ptdf interview is where the real battle happens.
Usually held across the six geopolitical zones in Nigeria, this interview determines who gets the cash.
Tips to Ace the Interview:
- Know Your Proposed Research: You will be asked to defend why you want to study that specific course. “I want to japa” is not an answer. You must link your course to solving a problem in the Nigerian Oil and Gas sector.
- Current Affairs: Know the Minister of State for Petroleum Resources. Know what the “Petroleum Industry Act (PIA)” is.
- Confidence: The panel is made of professors and industry experts. Speak clearly. Dress cooperatively.
What Does MSc Funding Cover?
This is a federal scholarship, and they don’t do things by halves. If you win, here is what lands on your table:
- Tuition Fees: Paid directly to the school (no middleman).
- Flight Tickets: Return tickets (Nigeria to your school and back).
- Health Insurance: Full coverage.
- Living Allowance (Upkeep): Paid in Pounds or Dollars. This covers your rent and feeding. Insider tip: If you manage your funds well, you can save significant money here.
- Allowances: Includes funds for a laptop and research/fieldwork.
Scholarship Eligibility & Requirements
Before you start scanning your documents, ensure you meet these criteria:
- Nationality: Must be a Nigerian.
- NYSC: You must have your Discharge Certificate. No “Exemption” or “Awaiting” usually allowed.
- Academic Grade: Minimum of Second Class Upper (2.1) in your first degree. (First Class gives you a massive boost).
- O’Levels: At least 5 credits including English and Math.
- NIN: Your National Identity Number is now mandatory.
READ ALSO: Agbami Medical & Engineering Professionals Scholarship
In Summary
The PTDF overseas scholarship is a life-changing opportunity. Yes, the process is rigorous, and the competition is high, but thousands of Nigerians, just like you, have won it and are currently doing great things abroad.
Review the list of strategic courses above. If your background fits, polish your CV, get your transcripts ready, and prepare to shoot your shot.
The worst that can happen is they say no. The best that can happen? You’ll be tweeting from Manchester or Paris next year.
Which course on the list matches your background? Let us know in the comments section below!
FAQs About the PTDF Overseas Scholarship
Can I apply for the PTDF scholarship with a 2.2?
Generally, the PTDF requires a minimum of a Second Class Upper (2.1). However, in rare cases, applicants with a 2.2 who have relevant industry experience or exceptional postgraduate qualifications might be considered, but it is very competitive.
Is the PTDF Overseas Scholarship open every year?
Yes, the application portal usually opens typically between December and February. It is important to keep checking the official PTDF website for the exact dates.
Does PTDF require GRE or IELTS?
For the initial application, PTDF usually does not demand IELTS or GRE. However, the University you are applying to in the UK or Germany might require it for admission.
Since you need admission to utilize the scholarship, having them is an added advantage.
DISCLAIMER: Campus Hustle NG is an information platform. We are not the PTDF. Scholarship policies, deadlines, and course lists can change based on federal government directives.
Always verify information on the official portal: scholarship.ptdf.gov.ng. Never pay anyone money to process a PTDF scholarship for you. The application is FREE.
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