The Federal Scholarship Board (FSB) under Nigeria’s Federal Ministry of Education oversees all government-funded scholarship programs, both local and international. From Bilateral Education Agreement (BEA) awards to Commonwealth and local bursaries, the FSB connects talented Nigerian students with life-changing educational opportunities. This guide explains how to apply for the 2025 Federal Government Scholarship, eligibility requirements, benefits, and ongoing issues affecting scholars.
Understanding the Federal Scholarship Board (FSB)
The Federal Scholarship Board is a department of the Federal Ministry of Education responsible for implementing and managing national and international scholarship programs. Its mission is to promote equitable access to higher education by supporting exceptional students through financial aid, bursaries, and academic exchange opportunities.
Created to harmonize scholarship management across Nigeria, the FSB coordinates with foreign governments, international organizations, and local institutions. It also ensures that scholarship policies align with Nigeria’s education development goals and human capital strategy.
Mandate and Functions
The core responsibilities of the FSB include:
- Administering federal scholarship schemes at home and abroad
- Overseeing selection, verification, and monitoring of scholars
- Managing bilateral and multilateral scholarship agreements
- Advising on education-related financial aid policy
- Supervising state scholarship boards to ensure consistency
Divisions within the board include the Bilateral Education Agreement (BEA), Nigerian Awards, Commonwealth Scholarships, and General Duties.
Types of Scholarships Managed by the Federal Scholarship Board
Bilateral Education Agreement (BEA) Scholarships
The BEA program funds Nigerian students to study abroad in countries such as Russia, China, Hungary, and Morocco. These scholarships are based on agreements between Nigeria and partner countries that provide tuition while the FSB handles stipends and welfare.
BEA scholarships typically cover undergraduate and postgraduate studies in science, technology, medicine, and engineering. However, payment delays and forex issues have affected scholars abroad, leading to complaints and public outcry.
Nigerian Awards and Local Scholarships
Local awards target Nigerian students studying within the country. They support undergraduates, NCE, HND, and postgraduate candidates with tuition subsidies and stipends. These programs promote educational access across federal and state universities.
Commonwealth and Special Scholarships
The Commonwealth and PRESSID (Presidential Special Scholarship Scheme) programs are designed for postgraduate scholars pursuing advanced studies in strategic disciplines. These international awards enhance Nigeria’s capacity building by nurturing talent in research, technology, and public service.
How to Apply for the Federal Government Scholarship (FSB 2025)
Applying for the 2025 Federal Scholarship Board award is straightforward when done through the official portal.
Step-by-Step Application Process
- Visit the FSB portal: https://fsbn.com.ng
- Choose your scholarship category (BEA, Local, or Commonwealth).
- Fill in personal and academic details accurately.
- Upload all required documents.
- Submit the form and print the confirmation slip for recordkeeping.
Required Documents
- Academic transcript or WAEC/NECO result
- Admission letter
- National ID or international passport
- Two recommendation letters
- Passport photograph
Eligibility and Selection Criteria
The Federal Scholarship Board awards are strictly merit-based and open to Nigerian citizens enrolled full-time in recognized institutions. Applicants must:
- Hold Nigerian citizenship and a valid identification document
- Possess a minimum of Second Class Upper or equivalent for postgraduate applications
- Maintain strong academic performance throughout the scholarship period
- Study priority disciplines such as education, engineering, health sciences, and ICT
Selection is based on merit, federal character balance, and program availability in partner countries.
Benefits and Allowances for FSB Scholars
Successful candidates receive comprehensive benefits covering tuition, accommodation, stipends, and research support.
Local scholars receive allowances through direct bank transfers, while BEA scholars are paid in foreign currency through the Federal Ministry of Finance. Unfortunately, delayed or reduced stipend payments have sparked complaints and media investigations.
For instance, some BEA scholars reported stipend cuts from $500 to $220 monthly in 2024, leading to a House of Representatives probe into FSB management.
Challenges and Controversies Facing the FSB
Despite its noble mission, the Federal Scholarship Board has faced recurring administrative and financial issues.
Unpaid Stipends and Financial Mismanagement
Reports from Premium Times and TheCable reveal long delays in disbursing stipends to BEA scholars abroad. Many scholars have struggled to pay rent or tuition, with some forced to seek asylum or temporary jobs to survive.
Legislative Probe and Calls for Reform
In 2025, Nigeria’s House of Representatives opened an inquiry into alleged mismanagement and unpaid stipends within the FSB. The investigation called for improved transparency, digital disbursement systems, and strict accountability for scholarship funds.
Impact and Outcomes of FSB Scholarships
Over the years, the Federal Scholarship Board has sponsored thousands of Nigerian students, producing engineers, doctors, and researchers who contribute to national development.
Some scholars return to Nigeria to serve in academia, government, or industry, while others remain abroad, fueling the brain drain debate. Despite these challenges, the program continues to represent one of Nigeria’s most important educational investments.
Future Outlook and Recommendations
The future of the Federal Scholarship Board depends on reform and modernization. To improve effectiveness:
- Introduce digital dashboards to track payments and scholar progress
- Strengthen financial oversight and automate disbursements
- Establish partnerships with private and donor agencies
- Review scholarship frameworks for sustainability and transparency
By adopting these reforms, Nigeria can transform its scholarship system into a reliable, transparent mechanism for nurturing talent.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the Federal Scholarship Board?
The FSB is a department under the Federal Ministry of Education responsible for managing scholarships for Nigerian students at home and abroad.
How do I apply for the Federal Government Scholarship 2025?
Visit https://fsbn.com.ng, select your scholarship type, fill in the online form, upload documents, and submit before the deadline.
Is the BEA Scholarship still available?
Yes. The BEA scholarship continues under bilateral agreements with countries like Russia, China, and Hungary, though some programs have faced temporary funding delays.
How much is the FSB stipend for foreign scholars?
BEA stipends vary by country but average between $220 and $500 monthly, depending on funding and cost of living.
When will unpaid stipends be released?
The Ministry of Education and Finance have pledged to clear arrears in 2025 as part of ongoing reforms.
Can I apply for more than one FSB scholarship?
No. Applicants are advised to apply for only one scholarship type per cycle to avoid disqualification.
What are the major eligibility criteria?
Applicants must be Nigerian citizens enrolled full-time in recognized institutions, with a minimum 2:1 CGPA or its equivalent.
How can I contact the FSB?
Contact details are available on education.gov.ng or the FSB portal for program-specific inquiries.
Conclusion – Rebuilding Trust in Nigeria’s Scholarship System
The Federal Scholarship Board remains a cornerstone of Nigeria’s educational policy, empowering thousands of students to achieve their academic dreams. Yet, persistent issues like delayed stipends and weak oversight threaten its credibility.
For FSB to fulfill its potential, the government must prioritize transparency, digital reform, and timely funding. When managed effectively, the board can drive inclusive education, human capital growth, and global competitiveness for Nigeria’s youth.