Dreaming of studying abroad on a fully funded scholarship? The Nigerian Federal Government Bilateral Education Agreement (BEA) Scholarship 2026 opens doors to undergraduate and postgraduate programs in countries like Russia, China, Hungary, Serbia, Turkey, and Morocco. Awarded annually by the Federal Ministry of Education, this merit-based opportunity covers tuition, flights, health insurance, and living stipends—zero out-of-pocket costs for successful candidates.
Applications typically launch in October–November 2025 for the 2026/2027 academic session. Last year’s cycle saw over 15,000 applicants, with only top performers securing awards. Don’t leave your success to chance. This complete BEA 2026 application checklist ensures you’re 100% ready when the portal opens at education.gov.ng
What is the BEA Scholarship?
The BEA is a diplomatic education exchange between Nigeria and partner nations. It targets:
- Undergraduate studies (4–6 years, including language prep).
- Postgraduate (MSc/PhD) programs (1.5–3 years).
Fields include engineering, medicine, sciences, agriculture, languages, and social sciences. Awards are non-renewable for undergraduates but extendable for postgraduates with strong academic performance.
BEA 2026 Eligibility Requirements
Before gathering documents, confirm you qualify:
For Undergraduate Applicants:
- Minimum 5 credits in WAEC/NECO (including English & Mathematics) in one sitting.
- Age: 17–20 years by October 2026.
- No prior degree.
For Postgraduate Applicants:
- First degree with minimum Second Class Upper (2:1).
- Completed NYSC (or exemption letter).
- Age: ≤35 (MSc), ≤40 (PhD) by October 2026.
All applicants must:
- Be Nigerian citizens.
- Have a valid international passport (or proof of application).
- Not hold dual citizenship or prior BEA awards.
Step-by-Step BEA 2026 Application Checklist
Follow this exact order to avoid disqualification:
1. Verify Exam Results
- WAEC/NECO: Scratch card PINs required for online verification.
- Print result checker confirmation page.
2. Prepare Academic Certificates
- Undergraduate: WAEC/NECO certificate + testimonial from secondary school.
- Postgraduate: Degree certificate + transcript (sealed by university registrar).
3. Secure Medical Fitness Report
- Obtain from a government hospital.
- Must state: “Fit to study abroad” + blood group, genotype, HIV status.
- Signed and stamped by a doctor.
4. Police Character Certificate
- Apply at any police station (₦2,000–₦5,000).
- Addressed to: The Director, Federal Scholarship Board, Abuja.
5. Birth Certificate
- From National Population Commission (NPC).
- Sworn affidavit not accepted.
6. Local Government Identification
- Letter from your LGA Chairman/Secretary.
- Must include your full name, state of origin, and signature.
7. International Passport
- Data page photocopy.
- If unavailable: Proof of application + receipt.
8. Passport Photographs
- 12 copies (white background, 2×2 inches).
- Write name and course on the back.
9. Indigene Letter
- Confirms your state of origin.
- Signed by LGA Chairman.
10. NYSC Certificate (Postgraduate Only)
- Discharge or exemption certificate.
How to Apply When the Portal Opens
- Visit education.gov.ng → “Federal Scholarship Board” → “BEA Application”.
- Create a profile with your email + NIN.
- Select 2026 BEA Award and your preferred country/course.
- Upload scanned documents (PDF, <2MB each).
- Print completed application form and sign.
- Submit hard copies to:
Federal Scholarship Board
Plot 245, Samuel Ademulegun Street,
Central Business District, Abuja
Deadline: Usually 6 weeks after portal opens (likely December 2025).
BEA 2026 Selection Process
- Document Screening (November–December).
- Computer-Based Test (CBT): 100 questions (English, General Knowledge, course-specific).
- Oral Interview (January 2026, Abuja only).
- Final List: Published on FSB website + national dailies.
Tip: Past questions are available on education forums—practice daily.
Country-Specific Notes
| Country | Language Prep | Popular Courses |
|---|---|---|
| Russia | 1-year Russian | Medicine, Engineering |
| China | 1-year Chinese | Sciences, Agriculture |
| Hungary | English medium | IT, Economics |
| Turkey | English/Turkish | Social Sciences |
Choose realistically—language barriers affect completion rates.
Top 5 Mistakes to Avoid
- Using affidavits instead of NPC birth certificate.
- Submitting photocopies without originals for verification.
- Applying for medicine without 5 credits in one sitting.
- Missing the Abuja interview (no online option).
- Choosing unavailable courses—check the official list.
Final Checklist Summary
- WAEC/NECO + PIN
- Degree/Transcript (PG)
- Medical Report
- Police Clearance
- Birth Certificate (NPC)
- LGA Letter
- Indigene Letter
- Passport Data Page
- 12 Passport Photos
- NYSC (PG)
- Signed Printout
Start Preparing Today
The BEA 2026 is your ticket to global education—but only if you’re ready. Bookmark the FSB portal, join BEA WhatsApp groups, and follow @FedSchBoard on X for real-time updates.
Have questions? Drop them below—past awardees often reply!
