Fully Funded Master’s Programs with NAE’s Highly Coveted Scholarship

For Nigerian graduates seeking an opportunity to further their education through a prestigious postgraduate scholarship, look no further than Nigerian Agip Exploration Limited’s annual award scheme. Offering fully sponsored Master’s programs both locally and abroad, this initiative cultivates the next generation of industry leaders across crucial STEM fields.

In this feature, we explore all the key details surrounding NAE’s 2024/2025 scholarship opportunity. From eligibility criteria and course of study options, to selection processes and benefits afforded to awardees. By learning more about the life-changing possibilities on offer, candidates can determine if they have what it takes to secure one of these highly competitive awards.

About NAE

As a major offshore oil and gas exploration and production company jointly owned by the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation and Eni, NAE plays an integral role in the country’s energy sector. Based in Port Harcourt, they are committed to developing Nigerian talent and expanding local skill sets through strategic training programs.

Their annual Postgraduate Scholarship Award Scheme is one such initiative supporting the next generation of Nigerians to pursue advanced degrees at esteemed institutions worldwide. Now in its 12th year, hundreds of professionals have had their careers launched through this prestigious opportunity.

Eligibility Criteria

To be considered for NAE’s 2024/2025 awards, candidates must fulfill the following criteria:

• Possess a minimum Second Class Upper Division Nigerian bachelor’s degree
• Be aged 28 years or younger as of December 31st, 2024
• Have secured admission for a one-year Master’s program commencing September 2024
• Have completed the mandatory NYSC program (for Nigerian graduates)
• Hold a valid international passport if applying for an overseas award

Only candidates pursuing degrees in petroleum-related fields including geosciences, engineering specialties and petroleum economics will be accepted onto the program.

Selection Process

Applications for the 2024/2025 cycle will be accepted from May 1st – 21st, 2024 online at the NAE recruitment portal. Candidates will then be shortlisted based on academic merit and the relevance of the intended course of study to the oil and gas sector.

Shortlisted candidates will be invited to a qualifying entrance examination assessing English proficiency, comprehension and analytical thinking skills. The top-scoring applicants will be selected to advance in the process, undergoing panel interviews before final awardees are chosen.

Program Benefits

Successful scholars receive exceptional benefits befitting this unparalleled opportunity:

• Fully funded tuition, registration, and subsistence allowance
• Return airfare sponsorship for overseas programs
  -Book and research allowances
  -Medical insurance coverage
  -Opportunity to join NAE’s Graduate Internship Program upon graduation

For individuals selected, it launches an accelerated career while gaining a respected Master’s credential. Doors open to advanced roles both within NAE and across the wider energy industry.

Overseas vs. Local Awards

Scholarships are divided into overseas and local categories to suit each awardee’s circumstances and goals:

• Overseas Awards sponsor world-class programs abroad (e.g. UK, EU, Canada, USA)
• Local Awards support Nigeria’s top engineering and business schools

Both paths provide a premium educational experience elevating recipients’ skill sets and resumes for industry success in Nigeria or globally.

Competitive Edge Factors

Given the selectivity of this program, candidates can bolster their profiles in several impactful ways:

• Pursuing energy-focused Bachelor’s degrees from reputable Nigerian universities
• Securing higher CGPAs and First Class degrees where possible
• Engaging relevant work/internship experience
• Exhibiting strong English proficiency and CV/writing samples
• Pursuing qualifications from target institutions for desired programs
• Demonstrating passion for Nigeria’s oil/gas industry and development goals

Standing out from the pool starts from the undergraduate level by optimizing profiles for the exceptional opportunity that NAE’s scholarship presents.

In Conclusion

For ambitious Nigerian graduates aspiring to elevate their careers through a globally recognized Master’s, pursuing one of NAE’s coveted annual awards presents an unparalleled launchpad. Enabling candidates to study at esteemed institutions both locally and overseas fully sponsored, it is among the nation’s most competitive and rewarding scholarship programs.

Those interested in applying their skills to Nigeria’s dynamic energy sector would be remiss not to consider enhancing profiles and seizing this unique chance while applications remain open. Success could unlock a lifetime of opportunity within the industry.