Applications Now Open for the 2026 NHEF Scholars Program | Link to Apply
The Nigeria Higher Education Foundation (NHEF) is pleased to announce the launch of the 2026 NHEF Scholars Program, marking a decade of impact in developing Nigeria’s future leaders.
This flagship programme is designed to equip high-performing Nigerian students with the skills, experiences, and professional networks required to excel as leaders across diverse sectors.
The NHEF Scholars Program identifies exceptional students in their penultimate year of study and provides them with access to:
- Exclusive Internship Opportunities: Meaningful professional experiences with leading organisations across Nigeria.
- Leadership & Career Development: Participation in high-impact training sessions, workshops, and career development activities.
- Mentorship & Networking: Direct access to accomplished professionals and NHEF alumni thriving across various industries.
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Eligibility Criteria
To be considered for the 2026 NHEF Scholars Program, applicants must:
- Be penultimate-year students enrolled at an NHEF Partner University, namely:
Ahmadu Bello University, Bayero University, University of Ibadan, University of Lagos, University of Nigeria, or University of Port Harcourt. - Demonstrate excellence across academics, extracurricular activities, and professional pursuits.
- Show a strong commitment to community service, philanthropy, and positive societal impact.
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Key Dates
- Application Opens: February 2, 2026
- Application Deadline: March 13, 2026 (11:59 p.m. WAT)
Submission Procedure
All applications must be submitted online via the NHEF Application Portal:https://portal.thenhef.org/
Application Portal Guide
- Visit the NHEF application portal: https://portal.thenhef.org/
- Register by creating an account using your first and last name, email address, phone number, and password.
- Verify your email address by clicking the confirmation link sent to your inbox.
- Log in using your verified email address and password.
- Click the APPLY tab on the dashboard to begin your application.
- Complete all bio-data fields and respond to the programme essay questions.
- Upload the required supporting documents (all in PDF format):
- One-page Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- One-page Cover Letter
- Most recent Statement of Result
- Review your responses carefully and submit your application.
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Important Note:
The application cannot be saved, so applicants are strongly advised to prepare all responses in advance using a separate document (e.g., Word). Candidates should complete their applications using a laptop or desktop computer and ensure access to a stable internet connection to avoid disruptions.
Confirmation of Successful Submission
Applicants can confirm successful submission through the following:
The dashboard will display the message:
“Scholars Program – Application Submitted on YY-MM-DD at [time].”
A confirmation email will be sent to the applicant’s registered email address.
The Scholars Program application tab will no longer be accessible on the dashboard.
All three indicators confirm that the application has been successfully submitted.
Application Resources
Eligible candidates are encouraged to invest time in preparing a strong and thoughtful application, as the programme is highly competitive. Selection is based on eligibility and overall application quality.
Helpful resources include:
- How to Write a Strong CV and Cover Letter – Getting Started (NHEF)
- Frequently Asked Questions – NHEF FAQs
- Industry Areas & Partner Firms – NHEF
Why Apply?
By becoming an NHEF Scholar, you join a transformative programme that has supported over 468 outstanding alumni in achieving their professional and leadership aspirations.
