Tetfund Scholarship Application – How to Apply

The Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFUND) is dedicated to enhancing public tertiary education in Nigeria by managing and disbursing education taxes. The TETFund Scholarship application is for Academic Staff and it is through this program that university lecturers in Nigeria receive funding to pursue master’s or doctorate degrees at approved universities in Nigeria or abroad.

Established by TETFUND in 2008, the TSAS programme is a comprehensive scholarship initiative designed to support university lecturers in Nigeria. This program offers full tuition coverage and living expenses, ensuring that recipients can focus entirely on their Master’s or Doctorate studies without financial stress. By providing this robust financial support, the TSAS programme empowers lecturers to advance their academic qualifications and contribute more effectively to the educational landscape in Nigeria.

Beneficiaries of these scholarships are nominated by their employing institutions. These beneficiary institutions are responsible for nominating scholars for sponsorship to pursue a Master’s degree (MA, MEd, MSc) or a Doctorate (PhD) at any university, whether in Nigeria or abroad. Additionally, institutions can recommend scholars who are already pursuing a Doctorate in Nigeria for sponsorship to conduct research work abroad in the science field, for a duration ranging from three (3) to twelve (12) months. This ensures that scholars have the opportunity to gain international experience and exposure, enhancing their academic and research capabilities.

Submissions for this sponsorship must ensure a balanced representation, with 60% allocated to science and technology-based courses and the remaining 40% dedicated to arts and social science courses. This allocation aims to foster a well-rounded academic environment, encouraging advancements in both scientific innovation and the humanities.

All prospective scholars seeking sponsorship from the Fund and planning to commence their study programs by September must submit their applications for sponsorship no later than May 31st. For those beginning their studies in January of the new year, applications must be submitted to the Fund for processing by December 31st. Timely submission ensures that all applications are processed efficiently, allowing scholars to embark on their academic journeys without delay.

When applying for the TETFUND Scholarship, both beneficiary institutions and prospective TETFund scholars must adhere to specific guidelines. In this article, I will provide a comprehensive overview of everything you need to know about the TETFUND Scholarship for University Lecturers, ensuring you are well-prepared to navigate the application process and take full advantage of this valuable opportunity.

Benefits of the Tetfund Scholarship

The TETFUND scholarship award provides the following grants to successful lecturers enrolled in the TSAS program:

Sponsorship for a Ph.D. in a science-based discipline is N1,500,000.00 per annum, while other disciplines receive N1,200,000.00 per annum. Similarly, sponsorship for Master’s degree programs in science-based disciplines is N1,500,000.00, whereas other disciplines are awarded N1,200,000.00.

Ph.D. Programs:

• Science-based disciplines: N1,500,000.00 per annum
• Other disciplines: N1,200,000.00 per annum

Master’s Degree Programs:

• Science-based disciplines: N1,500,000.00
• Other disciplines: N1,200,000.00

The allocation is structured as follows:

• 30%: Postdoctoral Fellowship
• 30%: Foreign Scholarships
• 30%: Sponsorship at Nigerian Universities
• 10(maximum): Bench Work

Tetfund Scholarship Requirements

Under the TSAS program supported by TETFUND, the following conditions apply:

1. Program Limitations: Scholarships are not available for online or part-time Master’s and PhD degree programs. Only courses offered by universities accredited by the National Universities Commission (NUC) in Nigeria are accepted.
2. Institutional Restrictions: Scholars cannot pursue studies at their current place of employment to prevent inbreeding.
3. Study Abroad Guidelines: Applicants intending to study abroad must:

• Seek admission to universities ranked higher than those in Nigeria according to university league tables.
• Ensure that the chosen institution and course of study align with the initial application; changes are not permitted after the scholarship award. Non-compliance will result in refunding the scholarship grant and may lead to exclusion from future Fund support.

These guidelines ensure that scholars maximize their educational opportunities while maintaining the integrity and effectiveness of the scholarship program.

Tetfund Scholarship for MSc

The TETFUND Scholarship enables university lecturers to obtain funding for their master’s programs at either a Nigerian university or a selected university abroad.

Here’s how the process works:

1. Recommendations/Nominations: Institutions submit their recommendations for the master’s program along with the minutes of the selection committee meeting. The scholar also submits relevant documents.
2. Approval and Disbursement: Upon approval by the board, the tuition fees are sent directly to the scholar’s institution, which manages the funds accordingly.
3. Funding Allocation: Sponsorship for master’s degree programs in science-based disciplines is N1,500,000.00, while other disciplines receive N1,200,000.00.
4. Duration of Programs:

• Master’s programs in Nigeria: Not to exceed two years.
• Master’s programs in Europe: Not to exceed one year.
• Master’s programs in Malaysia, India, Taiwan, Thailand, North America, and the United Arab Emirates: Can be up to two years.

These guidelines ensure that scholars receive comprehensive support to pursue advanced studies both locally and internationally, fostering academic excellence and professional development.

Tetfund Scholarship for PhD

The TETFUND Scholarship program extends its support to PhD scholars with the following provisions:

1. Nomination Process: The beneficiary institution submits the names of nominees for PhD programs, whether in Nigeria or abroad, adhering to TETFUND guidelines.
2. Financial Support: Upon approval, scholars pursuing a PhD in a science-based discipline receive N1,500,000.00 annually, while those in other disciplines receive N1,200,000.00 annually. These funds cover tuition and living expenses, with tuition fees paid directly to the institution by TETFUND.
3. Living Expenses: PhD scholars receive annual living expenses contingent upon satisfactory academic progress reports submitted to TETFUND by their institution.
4. Dissertation Submission: Successful returnee scholars submit their PhD dissertations in both soft and hard copies to TETFUND. The Fund’s Book Development Committee evaluates these dissertations for potential publication.
5. Duration of Sponsorship: Sponsorship for PhD programs under the Fund is now extended to 4 years, ensuring scholars have adequate time to complete their research and studies.

These measures ensure that PhD scholars supported by TETFUND receive comprehensive financial backing and academic recognition, fostering their scholarly pursuits and contributions to knowledge development.

Tetfund Scholarship for Undergraduate

The TETFUND Scholarship program exclusively supports university lecturers pursuing Master’s and Doctoral degrees to advance their academic careers. As such, the scholarship is not available for undergraduate students. This focused initiative aims to enhance the academic qualifications and capabilities of lecturers in Nigerian universities, thereby contributing to the overall improvement of higher education standards in the country.

How to Apply for the Tetfund Scholarship

To apply for the TETFUND Scholarship, beneficiary institutions must follow a detailed process:

1. Recommendations and Documentation:

• Institutions submit their recommendations along with the minutes of the selection committee meeting, which could be the TETFund Interventions Implementation Committee, the Academic Board Committee, or the Committee of Deans & Directors.

2. Application Processing Times:

• Applications will be processed en bloc twice a year:
  • For those starting in September, processing occurs in May.
  • For those starting in January, processing occurs in October.

3. Required Documents:

i). Admission Letter.

• Filled TETFund Nomination Form.
• Applicant’s Academic Resume.
• Schedule of fees from the University.
• Bond Form.
• Medical Certificate.
• Bank Details.

ii). Tuition Fee Invoice:

• Prospective beneficiaries obtain a tuition fee invoice from their institution.
• The invoice should include:
  • Full name of the prospective scholar.
  • Bank account details of the institution for tuition payment.
  • Total amount payable for the entire course duration.
  • Sort Code, ABA Routing No (for USA Institutions), SWIFT/BIC Code or IBAN No (for European and UK Institutions), Transit code (for Canadian Institutions), and IFSC Number (for Indian Institutions).

4. Submission Details:

• Submissions must be made in hard copy along with an Excel sheet containing required details on a memory stick.
• Copies should also be sent to specified email addresses: es@tetfund.gov.ng and ast&ddept@tetfund.gov.ng.

5. Approval Process:

• Scholars must seek approval from TETFUND before starting their programs.
• Expenses incurred without TETFUND approval will not be reimbursed.

i). Communication of Approval:

• Upon completion of the vetting process, TETFUND communicates approval or non-approval to the beneficiary institution and individual scholars.

ii). Disbursement:

• Successful scholars receive their living expenses through their institutions.
• Institutions release scholars to commence their study programs upon receipt of funds.

Adhering to these guidelines ensures that applicants meet all requirements for TETFUND Scholarship consideration, facilitating a smooth application and approval process.

Upon approval of your TETFUND Scholarship, the following procedures and conditions apply:

1. Scholarship Award Letter: A scholarship award letter will be issued to the beneficiary through their institution, detailing entitlements, fees, and other relevant conditions.
2. Payment for Foreign-based Scholars:

• Foreign-based scholars will receive their funds through a domiciliary account established by their beneficiary institutions.
• Tuition fees will be paid directly to the foreign institution by TETFUND.

Annual Progress Reports:

• The Fund requires annual progress reports on each scholar from their respective institutions, using an approved reporting template.
• These reports are crucial as they determine the continuation of fund disbursements, particularly if the scholar’s academic performance is unsatisfactory.

These measures ensure transparency and accountability in the administration of TETFUND Scholarships, aiming to support scholars effectively in their academic pursuits both locally and abroad.

FAQS

Who is Eligible for this Scholarship?

To qualify for the TETFund Scholarship (TSAS intervention), nominees must meet the following eligibility criteria:

1. Employment Status: You must be a full-time Nigerian academic staff member employed at a Nigerian university.
2. Nomination: You must be nominated by your institution.
3. Admission: You must have secured admission to pursue a full-time Master’s or Doctoral program at a university that meets the TETFUND scholarship guidelines.
4. Previous Degrees: You should not be pursuing a second Master’s or Doctorate degree.
5. Bond Period: If applying for a doctoral scholarship and you have previously received a scholarship from TETFUND for your Master’s degree, you must have completed the bond period of the Master’s degree before applying.
6. Other Scholarships: You should not have received any other scholarship.
7. Medical Fitness: You must provide evidence of medical fitness from a Public Hospital.

Meeting these eligibility requirements ensures that nominees are considered for the TETFund Scholarship, supporting their academic and professional development in Nigerian universities.

How to apply for a TETFUND grant:

1. Institutional Recommendation: Your institution must nominate you for the TETFUND grant and submit your application to a selection committee.
2. Domiciliary Account: Institutions must establish a domiciliary account to facilitate funds management for their foreign-based scholars. Evidence of this compliance should be sent to TETFUND upon setup.
3. Required Documents: Ensure your submission includes:

• Admission Letter.
• Filled TETFund Nomination Form.
• Academic Resume.
• Schedule of fees from the University.
• Bond Form.
• Medical Certificate.
• Bank Details.

How Much Does Tetfund Pay in Nigeria?

Masters Degree Program:

• Science-based disciplines: N1,500,000.00
• Other disciplines: N1,200,000.00

Ph.D. Program:

• Science-based disciplines: N1,500,000.00 per annum
• Other disciplines: N1,200,000.00 per annum

The TETFUND Scholarship program provides critical financial support for Nigerian university lecturers pursuing advanced degrees, addressing the challenges many face in funding their education solely from their salaries. This initiative underscores TETFUND’s commitment to enhancing academic qualifications and fostering career advancement among Nigerian educators.

As of January, The Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund) approved a total sum ofN761,491,924.80 for 12 Nigerian lecturersfrom public tertiary institutions to undertake doctoral and PhD studies on science-related disciplines in France. News Telegraph in a news article dated 30th January 2024:

“The TEFund boss stated that the 12 scholars were approved by the management of TETFund from 8 beneficiary institutions and explained that the approval was Cohort 1 and was a sequel to the call for the presentation of eligible prospective scholars earlier communicated to all TETFund beneficiaries institutions”.

Before you continue to apply for this scholarship, you must prepare thoroughly, meet all criteria, and submit a complete application to maximize your chances of securing the TETFund scholarship for your academic advancement. Also, work closely with the relevant committees or departments within your institution to secure their endorsement.

Once you are ready, you can proceed to apply now and continue to explore other scholarship opportunities here.