Going to school while working full-time is extremely challenging. The financial burden of paying for tuition, books, and other expenses can seem overwhelming when you’re already stretched thin. However, there are scholarships available specifically for working students that can provide much-needed financial assistance.
In this blog post, we’ll discuss the benefits of scholarships for working students and provide an overview of some of the top scholarship opportunities available in Nigeria.
We’ll also provide tips for finding and successfully applying for relevant scholarships as a working student.
The Benefits of Scholarships for Working Students
Pursuing higher education while employed full-time provides numerous professional and personal benefits. However, the double demands of work and school can take a toll financially. Scholarships aimed at working students help alleviate the monetary pressures of furthering one’s education. Benefits of scholarships for working students include:
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Alleviating financial stress
Scholarships help cover the costs of tuition, books, transportation, and other school-related expenses. This allows working students to focus more on their education and career goals.
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Avoiding student loan debt
Scholarships reduce the need to take out additional student loans to pay for school. This prevents being overburdened by debt after graduation.
- Gaining recognition
Scholarships reward dedication to advancing one’s education despite the demands of full-time work. This recognition can boost standing when applying for jobs.
- Opening doors
Access to scholarship funding increases the ability to pursue academic goals. This leads to more career opportunities down the road.
- Building skills
The process of researching and applying for scholarships develops valuable skills like writing, research, time management, and persistence.
Scholarships make obtaining a degree or professional certification more feasible for working students by easing financial constraints. Students can devote more energy towards succeeding academically and professionally when scholarship funding helps cover educational costs.
Overview of Scholarships for Working Students in Nigeria
Several scholarship programs exist in Nigeria tailored specifically to students who work full-time while enrolled in higher education. These scholarships help provide access to funding without requiring students to bear an overwhelming financial burden. Here is an overview of some of the top scholarship opportunities for working students in Nigeria:
Shell Niger Delta Post Graduate Scholarship Scheme – This scholarship program is open to Nigerian students from the Niger Delta region pursuing postgraduate studies in Nigeria or internationally. Applicants must have at least a 3.0 GPA and be enrolled full-time while working at least 20 hours per week.
Nigerian Agip Oil Company Scholarship – This is awarded to full-time Nigerian students who want to pursue postgraduate studies related to the oil and gas industry. Applicants must have at least a Second Class Upper degree and be employed in the industry.
MTN Foundation Scholarship Scheme – MTN offers scholarships annually to Nigerian students pursuing undergraduate or postgraduate degrees in STEM fields. Applicants must have a minimum of Second Class Upper degree and be working full-time.
Nigerian Liquefied Natural Gas (NLNG) Scholarship Award – The NLNG scholarship is for Nigerian students seeking to complete postgraduate degrees related to the company’s field. Applicants should have a minimum 3.0 GPA and work full-time in a relevant industry.
Tony Elumelu Foundation Entrepreneurship Programme – Students who own or work for small businesses and want to pursue degrees can apply for funding through TEF. Entrepreneurship training is also provided.
Lagos Business School Foundation Scholarships – These scholarships are awarded to exceptional working professionals admitted into LBS’s MBA and executive education programs based on merit and financial need.
Tips for Finding and Applying for Scholarships as a Working Student
Finding and securing scholarships tailored for working students takes effort and strategic planning. Here are some tips to improve your chances of obtaining valuable scholarships as a working student in Nigeria:
- Thoroughly research scholarships you may be eligible for. Look beyond general scholarships to ones meant specifically for employed students, part-time students, or students in your field of study.
- Check with professional organizations and unions related to your job or industry for applicable scholarship programs. Many provide awards for members pursuing degrees.
- Talk to your employer’s HR department about continuing education scholarships or tuition assistance programs your company may offer.
- Contact schools you are interested in attending to inquire about potential scholarships for part-time, employed, or non-traditional students.
- Look for local community, religious, ethnic, and cultural organizations that offer scholarships and grants.
- Seek scholarships that have less competition. Consider smaller awards that are not as well-known as big national scholarships that receive thousands of applicants.
- Ask for letters of recommendation from managers, colleagues, or professors who can speak to your work ethic and dedication to learning.
- Start the application process early. Give yourself plenty of time to request transcripts, letters of recommendation, and any other required materials.
- Follow all application instructions precisely and pay close attention to deadlines. Submit organized, complete applications.
- Proofread all application materials multiple times before submitting. Ask someone else to review as well to spot any errors.
Taking advantage of scholarships enables working students to pursue degrees and expand the skill sets necessary for career advancement. With perseverance and planning, working students can access funding to help realize their academic and professional goals.
Conclusion
Pursuing higher education while employed full-time provides long-term benefits, but can present financial challenges in the short term. Scholarships geared towards working and non-traditional students serve as critical sources of financial assistance, making degree attainment more feasible. For students in Nigeria, scholarships can significantly ease the burden of advancing one’s education and career while working. Conducting thorough research, exploring all options, and taking care of applications can help working students secure valuable scholarships to support their academic journey.
