Required Documents for Scholarship Applications (Full Checklist for Nigerians)

One of the biggest reasons Nigerians get disqualified from scholarships is incomplete documentation. In 2025, having the right papers ready can save you stress and improve your chances. Here’s a full checklist of documents you’ll likely need.

1. Academic Transcripts

• Official transcripts from your university or polytechnic
• Secondary school results (WAEC/NECO) if applying for undergraduate scholarships

Tip: Request transcripts early, as Nigerian schools can delay.

2. Degree Certificates

• Bachelor’s or Master’s certificate (for postgraduate scholarships)
• Statement of result if certificate is not yet available

3. International Passport

• Must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your intended start date
• Some programs require scanned bio-data page

4. Curriculum Vitae (CV)

• Highlight academic background, work experience, leadership, and skills
• Keep it professional and no longer than 2 pages

5. Statement of Purpose (SOP) or Personal Statement

• Explains your academic journey, goals, and motivation
• Tailored to each scholarship program

6. Letters of Recommendation

• Usually 2–3 letters from lecturers, employers, or mentors
• Should be on official letterhead and signed

7. Proof of English Proficiency

• IELTS, TOEFL, or PTE scores (if required)
• Some countries accept WAEC English credit instead

8. Research Proposal (for PhD Applicants)

• Should outline your research topic, methodology, and impact

9. Medical Report (Sometimes Required)

• Some scholarships ask for a medical fitness certificate
• Must be from a recognized hospital

10. Other Supporting Documents

• Birth certificate or age declaration
• National ID (NIN card or slip)
• Work experience letters (if relevant)

Final Thoughts

The exact requirements vary by scholarship, but preparing these documents in advance will give you a smooth process. For Nigerians applying in 2025, the key is to stay organized and request official documents early.