Are you dreaming of becoming a medical doctor but worried about the astronomical cost of medical education in Nigeria? You’re not alone! The good news is that numerous universities across Nigeria are offering Scholarships for Medicine and Surgery to help brilliant students achieve their dreams without breaking the bank.
Medical education can cost anywhere from ₦2 million to ₦15 million depending on the institution, but with the right Scholarships for Medicine and Surgery, you can pursue your medical degree completely free or at significantly reduced costs.
In this comprehensive guide, I’ll walk you through the top 15 universities in Nigeria that offer Scholarships for Medicine and Surgery in 2025, including application requirements, deadlines, and insider tips to increase your chances of success.
Why Are Scholarships for Medicine and Surgery So Important?
The cost of medical education in Nigeria continues to rise each year, making it increasingly difficult for talented students from average-income families to pursue their dreams of becoming doctors.
Scholarships for Medicine and Surgery serve multiple purposes beyond just financial relief. They ensure that Nigeria continues to produce qualified medical professionals regardless of their economic background, helping to address the country’s healthcare challenges.
These scholarship programs also help retain Nigeria’s brightest minds within the country, preventing the brain drain that has affected the medical sector for decades.
Most importantly, Scholarships for Medicine and Surgery create opportunities for students who might otherwise never have access to quality medical education, ultimately benefiting the entire healthcare system.
Types of Scholarships for Medicine and Surgery Available in Nigeria
Before we dive into the specific universities, let’s understand the different types of Scholarships for Medicine and Surgery available:
Merit-Based Scholarships
These are awarded based on academic excellence, typically requiring high JAMB scores and excellent O’Level results. Most Scholarships for Medicine and Surgery fall into this category.
Need-Based Scholarships
Designed for students from low-income families who demonstrate financial need but have good academic standing.
State Government Scholarships
Many state governments offer Scholarships for Medicine and Surgery specifically for their indigenes studying in accredited institutions.
Federal Government Scholarships
Programs like PTDF and TETFund provide comprehensive Scholarships for Medicine and Surgery for qualifying students.
Private Foundation Scholarships
Corporate organizations and philanthropic foundations also offer targeted Scholarships for Medicine and Surgery.
READ ALSO: Best Way to Get a Job Overseas in 2025 (No Visa Sponsorship? No Problem)
Top 15 Universities Offering Scholarships for Medicine and Surgery 2025
1. University of Ibadan (UI), Oyo State
The University of Ibadan stands as Nigeria’s premier institution and offers some of the most comprehensive Scholarships for Medicine and Surgery in the country.
Available Scholarships:
- UI Merit Scholarship Program
- Oyo State Government Bursary
- Federal Government Scholarship Scheme
- Private Foundation Scholarships
Scholarship Coverage: Full tuition fees, accommodation allowance, book allowance, and monthly stipends ranging from ₦50,000 to ₦150,000.
Eligibility Requirements:
- JAMB score of 300 and above
- Minimum of 5 credits in O’Level including English, Mathematics, Biology, Chemistry, and Physics
- Must be admitted into the Medicine and Surgery program
Application Process: Submit applications through the UI scholarship portal alongside your JAMB application.
2. University of Lagos (UNILAG), Lagos State
UNILAG offers extensive Scholarships for Medicine and Surgery through various channels, making medical education accessible to deserving students.
Available Scholarships:
- UNILAG Scholarship Scheme
- Lagos State Bursary Award
- Shell Nigeria Scholarship
- Access Bank Scholarship
Scholarship Coverage: Up to 100% tuition coverage plus ₦100,000 annual allowance for top performers.
Special Features: UNILAG partners with several multinational companies to provide Scholarships for Medicine and Surgery with guaranteed internship opportunities.
3. Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), Ile-Ife
OAU has a rich tradition of supporting medical students through comprehensive Scholarships for Medicine and Surgery programs.
Available Scholarships:
- OAU Vice-Chancellor’s Scholarship
- Osun State Scholarship Scheme
- Federal Government Scholarship
- Alumni Association Scholarship
Scholarship Coverage: Full tuition remission and monthly allowances of ₦75,000 for undergraduate medical students.
Unique Advantage: OAU offers automatic scholarship renewal for students who maintain a CGPA of 4.5 and above.
4. Ahmadu Bello University (ABU), Zaria
ABU provides numerous opportunities for Scholarships for Medicine and Surgery, particularly for students from Northern Nigeria.
Available Scholarships:
- ABU Merit Scholarship
- Kaduna State Scholarship Board
- Northern Nigeria Development Program
- Federal Character Scholarship
Scholarship Coverage: Complete fee waiver plus ₦60,000 monthly stipend for selected students.
Regional Focus: Special consideration given to applicants from educationally disadvantaged states.
5. University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN)
UNN offers robust Scholarships for Medicine and Surgery through partnerships with government and private organizations.
Available Scholarships:
- UNN Foundation Scholarship
- Enugu State Scholarship Scheme
- Federal Government Scholarship
- Dangote Foundation Scholarship
Scholarship Coverage: Full tuition coverage and accommodation support worth up to ₦2 million annually.
6. University of Benin (UNIBEN), Edo State
UNIBEN provides comprehensive Scholarships for Medicine and Surgery with emphasis on academic excellence and community service.
Available Scholarships:
- UNIBEN Scholarship Program
- Edo State Scholarship Board
- Shell Petroleum Scholarship
- Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) Scholarship
Scholarship Coverage: 80-100% tuition coverage plus research grants for outstanding students.
7. University of Calabar (UNICAL), Cross River State
UNICAL offers targeted Scholarships for Medicine and Surgery focusing on students from the South-South region.
Available Scholarships:
- UNICAL Excellence Scholarship
- Cross River State Scholarship
- NDDC Scholarship Program
- MTN Foundation Scholarship
Scholarship Coverage: Full tuition fees and monthly allowances of ₦85,000 for medical students.
8. University of Ilorin (UNILORIN), Kwara State
UNILORIN provides accessible Scholarships for Medicine and Surgery with flexible application processes.
Available Scholarships:
- UNILORIN Scholarship Scheme
- Kwara State Scholarship Board
- Federal Government Scholarship
- Private Sector Scholarships
Scholarship Coverage: Complete fee remission and book allowances for deserving students.
9. University of Port Harcourt (UNIPORT), Rivers State
UNIPORT offers substantial Scholarships for Medicine and Surgery particularly for students interested in tropical medicine research.
Available Scholarships:
- UNIPORT Foundation Scholarship
- Rivers State Scholarship Scheme
- NDDC Development Scholarship
- International Oil Companies Scholarships
Scholarship Coverage: Full academic fees plus research funding opportunities.
10. Bayero University Kano (BUK), Kano State
BUK provides comprehensive Scholarships for Medicine and Surgery with special focus on rural healthcare development.
Available Scholarships:
- BUK Merit Scholarship
- Kano State Scholarship Board
- Federal Character Scholarship
- Islamic Development Bank Scholarship
Scholarship Coverage: 100% tuition coverage and accommodation support.
11. University of Jos (UNIJOS), Plateau State
UNIJOS offers Scholarships for Medicine and Surgery through various government and private partnerships.
Available Scholarships:
- UNIJOS Excellence Award
- Plateau State Scholarship
- Federal Government Scholarship
- Mining Companies Scholarships
Scholarship Coverage: Full academic fees and monthly stipends for qualified students.
12. Federal University of Technology, Akure (FUTA), Ondo State
Although primarily known for technology, FUTA’s College of Health Sciences offers Scholarships for Medicine and Surgery.
Available Scholarships:
- FUTA Foundation Scholarship
- Ondo State Scholarship Scheme
- TETFund Scholarship Program
- Private Foundation Awards
Scholarship Coverage: Complete tuition coverage and research grants.
13. Lagos State University (LASU), Lagos State
LASU provides affordable medical education with numerous Scholarships for Medicine and Surgery for Lagos State indigenes and non-indigenes.
Available Scholarships:
- LASU Scholarship Program
- Lagos State Bursary Award
- Corporate Sponsorship Programs
- Merit-Based Financial Aid
Scholarship Coverage: Up to 75% tuition reduction plus textbook allowances.
14. Rivers State University (RSU), Port Harcourt
RSU offers comprehensive Scholarships for Medicine and Surgery with emphasis on community medicine and public health.
Available Scholarships:
- RSU Foundation Scholarship
- Rivers State Government Scholarship
- Oil and Gas Companies Scholarships
- NDDC Educational Support
Scholarship Coverage: Full tuition fees and monthly allowances of ₦70,000.
15. Nnamdi Azikiwe University (UNIZIK), Awka
UNIZIK provides extensive Scholarships for Medicine and Surgery through multiple funding sources.
Available Scholarships:
- UNIZIK Merit Scholarship
- Anambra State Scholarship Board
- Federal Government Programs
- Alumni Association Scholarships
Scholarship Coverage: Complete academic fee coverage and research support grants.
See Also: How Nigerian Students Can Secure Free Canadian Scholarships 2025 Without IELTS
Government-Sponsored Scholarships for Medicine and Surgery
Federal Government Scholarships
The Nigerian government provides several Scholarships for Medicine and Surgery through various agencies:
PTDF Scholarship Program: The Petroleum Technology Development Fund (PTDF) Scholarship is an opportunity every Nigerian undergraduate student should be aware of, though it primarily focuses on oil and gas-related fields.
TETFund Scholarships: TETFund Scholarship for Academic Staff (TSAS) provides opportunities for academic staff development, which indirectly benefits medical education.
State Government Scholarships
Most state governments offer Scholarships for Medicine and Surgery for their indigenes:
- Lagos State Scholarship Board
- Ogun State Scholarship Scheme
- Rivers State Human Development Program
- Cross River State Education Development Fund
- Kaduna State Scholarship and Loans Board
How to Apply for Scholarships for Medicine and Surgery
Step 1: Research Available Opportunities
Start by identifying all available Scholarships for Medicine and Surgery that match your profile. Create a spreadsheet to track application deadlines, requirements, and contact information.
Step 2: Prepare Required Documents
Most Scholarships for Medicine and Surgery require:
- Academic transcripts and certificates
- JAMB result slip
- Birth certificate and local government identification
- Bank statements or financial need documentation
- Letters of recommendation
- Personal statement or essay
- Passport photographs
Step 3: Meet Academic Requirements
Ensure you meet the minimum academic standards for Scholarships for Medicine and Surgery:
- JAMB score typically above 280
- O’Level results with minimum of credits in required subjects
- Maintain high academic performance throughout your studies
Step 4: Submit Applications Early
Don’t wait for deadlines to approach. Early applications for Scholarships for Medicine and Surgery often receive more favorable consideration.
Step 5: Follow Up Regularly
Stay in touch with scholarship committees and provide any additional documentation requested promptly.
Tips to Increase Your Chances of Getting Scholarships for Medicine and Surgery
Academic Excellence
Maintain outstanding academic performance as most Scholarships for Medicine and Surgery are merit-based. Aim for JAMB scores above 320 and excellent O’Level results.
Community Service
Demonstrate commitment to healthcare and community development through volunteer work, especially in underserved areas.
Leadership Experience
Showcase leadership roles in academic, social, or religious organizations to stand out among Scholarships for Medicine and Surgery applicants.
Write Compelling Essays
Craft personal statements that clearly articulate your passion for medicine, career goals, and how the scholarship will help you contribute to Nigeria’s healthcare system.
Apply Broadly
Don’t put all your eggs in one basket. Apply for multiple Scholarships for Medicine and Surgery to increase your chances of success.
Seek Mentorship
Connect with current medical students or doctors who have benefited from Scholarships for Medicine and Surgery for guidance and insights.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Applying for Scholarships for Medicine and Surgery
Missing Deadlines
Late applications for Scholarships for Medicine and Surgery are typically rejected regardless of qualifications.
Incomplete Applications
Ensure all required documents are submitted as incomplete applications won’t be considered.
Generic Applications
Customize each application to match specific Scholarships for Medicine and Surgery requirements and values.
Poor Essay Quality
Invest time in writing compelling, error-free essays that demonstrate your commitment to medicine.
Neglecting Follow-Up
Stay engaged with the application process and respond promptly to any requests for additional information.
Benefits Beyond Financial Support
Scholarships for Medicine and Surgery offer advantages beyond monetary assistance:
Networking Opportunities
Connect with other scholarship recipients, mentors, and industry professionals who can support your career development.
Research Opportunities
Many Scholarships for Medicine and Surgery include research components that enhance your medical education experience.
Career Guidance
Scholarship programs often provide mentorship and career counseling to help recipients navigate their medical careers successfully.
Community Impact
Participate in community outreach programs that allow you to give back while gaining practical experience.
Scholarship Application Deadlines 2025
Federal Government Scholarships:
- PTDF scholarship application closes six (6) weeks after the application form opens. Application for 2025 is yet to commence but it usually starts in March
State Government Scholarships:
- Most state scholarship applications open between March and June 2025
- Deadlines typically range from July to September 2025
University-Specific Scholarships:
- Applications usually open alongside JAMB registration (November 2024 – February 2025)
- Deadlines vary by institution, typically closing between March and June 2025
Private Foundation Scholarships:
- Application periods vary throughout the year
- Some have rolling admissions while others have fixed deadlines
Frequently Asked Questions About Scholarships for Medicine and Surgery
Can I apply for multiple scholarships simultaneously?
Yes, you can and should apply for multiple Scholarships for Medicine and Surgery to maximize your chances of success. However, be sure to inform scholarship providers if you receive multiple awards, as some may require you to choose one.
Do I need to maintain specific grades to keep my scholarship?
Most Scholarships for Medicine and Surgery require recipients to maintain minimum CGPA requirements, typically between 3.5 and 4.5 on a 5.0 scale. Some also require community service commitments or research participation.
Are there scholarships available for postgraduate medical programs?
Yes, several Scholarships for Medicine and Surgery extend to postgraduate programs including residency training, master’s degrees in medical fields, and specialized medical certifications. The PTDF and TETFund programs particularly support postgraduate medical education.
What happens if I fail to complete my medical program?
Most Scholarships for Medicine and Surgery include clauses requiring repayment if recipients fail to complete their programs without valid reasons. However, provisions often exist for students who face genuine academic or health challenges.
Can international students apply for these scholarships?
The majority of Scholarships for Medicine and Surgery listed are specifically for Nigerian citizens. However, some private foundation scholarships and international partnerships may accept applications from students of other nationalities studying in Nigerian universities.
Conclusion
Pursuing a medical degree in Nigeria doesn’t have to be financially impossible. With over 15 universities offering comprehensive Scholarships for Medicine and Surgery, deserving students have multiple pathways to achieve their dreams of becoming medical doctors.
The key to success lies in early preparation, maintaining excellent academic performance, and applying strategically to multiple Scholarships for Medicine and Surgery programs. Remember that these scholarships aren’t just about financial support – they’re investments in Nigeria’s healthcare future.
Don’t let financial constraints prevent you from pursuing your medical career. Start researching and applying for Scholarships for Medicine and Surgery today. The earlier you start, the better your chances of securing the funding you need to become the doctor you’ve always dreamed of being.
With determination, excellent academics, and strategic applications, you can join the ranks of scholarship-supported medical students who are building Nigeria’s healthcare system while pursuing their passion for healing and saving lives.
Important Application Information
Key Application Deadlines for 2025:
- Federal Government Scholarships: March – June 2025
- State Government Scholarships: March – September 2025
- University-Specific Programs: November 2024 – June 2025
- Private Foundation Awards: Varies throughout the year
Official Application Links:
- PTDF Scholarship Portal: https://scholarship.ptdf.gov.ng/
- TETFund Guidelines: https://tetfund.gov.ng/index.php/guideline-4/
- Individual University Scholarship Portals: Check respective university websites
- State Scholarship Boards: Contact your state’s scholarship board directly
For the most current information about Scholarships for Medicine and Surgery, always verify details on official university and government websites, as requirements and deadlines may change.
