If you are a student from Borno State seeking financial aid for your higher education, the Borno State Scholarship could be exactly what you need. Managed by the Borno State Scholarship Board (BSSB), this government-sponsored program has been supporting indigene for decades helping young men and women attend universities, polytechnics, colleges of education, and even aviation training schools across Nigeria and abroad.
The official application portal for the Borno State Scholarship Board is bssb.bo.gov.ng All applications must be submitted through this website.
What Is the Borno State Scholarship?
The Borno State Scholarship is a financial assistance program sponsored by the Borno State Government to reduce the cost of higher education for indigenous students. Administered through the Borno State Scholarship Board (BSSB), the program awards bursaries and full scholarships to qualifying students who have gained admission into accredited tertiary institutions in Nigeria — and in some special cases, abroad.
The primary goal of the initiative is to combat illiteracy, promote academic excellence, and uplift Borno State indigenes who lack the financial resources to fund their own education. Over the years, thousands of students have benefited from this government scholarship, making it one of the most impactful educational development programs in northeastern Nigeria.
Under the governorship of Professor Babagana Umara Zulum, the Borno State Government has continued to expand and modernize the scholarship program, launching new categories such as the Zulum Female STEM Scholarship and the Pilot Training Scholarship, demonstrating a clear commitment to inclusive and forward-looking educational policy.
Brief History of the Borno State Scholarship Board (BSSB)
The Borno State Scholarship Board was not always an independent body. Until January 1989, it operated as a division within the Borno State Ministry of Education. Recognizing the growing need for a dedicated educational funding authority, the state government upgraded it to an autonomous agency through Edict No. 3 of 1989, which came into effect on 13th April 1989.
Since gaining autonomous status, the BSSB has been responsible for:
- Conducting interviews and screening for scholarship awards
- Disbursing bursaries and allowances to eligible Borno State students
- Managing both local (domestic) and foreign scholarship sponsorships
- Overseeing students on government-funded programs both within Nigeria and overseas
The Board is headquartered in Maiduguri, the capital city of Borno State, and it operates an online portal that makes it easier than ever for students across the 27 local government areas to apply without having to travel to the state capital.
Types of Borno State Scholarships Available
The Borno State Scholarship Board offers multiple categories of scholarships tailored to students at different academic levels and career paths. Here is a breakdown of the major scholarship types currently available:
For first-year students in Nigerian universities, polytechnics, and colleges of education. Provides an annual bursary to support tuition and academic expenses.
Postgraduate Scholarship
Available to indigenes admitted into Master’s and research postgraduate programmes, particularly in Education, Arts, Social Sciences, Humanities, and Management Sciences.
Pilot Training Scholarship
A unique opportunity for young Borno indigenes to train as professional pilots at a globally recognised aviation school. Open to SSCE holders aged 18–23.
Zulum Female STEM Scholarship
Exclusively for female indigenes who scored 250 and above in the JAMB UTME and wish to pursue STEM or technical/vocational programmes.
| Scholarship Type | Target Beneficiary | Level | Key Requirement |
|---|---|---|---|
| Undergraduate Bursary | First-year university/poly students | 100L, ND I, HND I, NCE I | Newly admitted, registered student |
| Postgraduate Scholarship | Master’s degree candidates | PG (Master’s) | Admitted to PG programme in listed fields |
| Pilot Training Scholarship | SSCE holders, 18–23 years | Post-SSCE | 75%+ in WAEC (5 core subjects) |
| Zulum Female STEM | Female JAMB candidates | Undergraduate | 250+ UTME score, STEM course |
Eligibility Criteria for the Borno State Scholarship
To qualify for the Borno State Government Scholarship, applicants must satisfy a set of requirements that vary slightly by scholarship type. However, the following criteria apply across most programs:
General Eligibility Requirements
- You must be a bonafide indigene of Borno State — evidenced by a Certificate of Origin or Local Government Area identification
- You must be a newly admitted student in your first year of study (100 Level for universities, ND I / HND I for polytechnics, NCE I for colleges of education)
- You must be a duly registered student at a recognised Nigerian tertiary institution (university, polytechnic, monotechnic, or college of education)
- You must be resident across any of the 27 local government areas of Borno State
- Students with disabilities are strongly encouraged to apply regardless of study level
Postgraduate students are generally not eligible for the standard undergraduate bursary. They must apply specifically for the postgraduate scholarship, which operates under separate criteria and deadlines.
Additional Criteria for Specific Programs
Pilot Training Scholarship: Must be between 18 and 23 years of age, hold a valid National Identity Card, and have scored at least 75% in WAEC across five core subjects: English Language, Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry, and Geography.
Zulum Female STEM Scholarship: Exclusively for female Borno State indigene who scored 250 or above in the 2025 JAMB Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) and who are seeking to study a Science, Technology, Engineering, or Mathematics (STEM) course, or a technical/vocational programme.
Postgraduate Scholarship: Applicants must have been admitted into a Master’s programme in fields including Education, Arts, Social Sciences, Humanities, and Management Sciences at a recognised Nigerian or overseas institution.
Scholarship Benefits and Award Amount
The Borno State Scholarship offers meaningful financial support to successful candidates. Here is what you can expect as a beneficiary:
- Annual bursary of ₦30,000 for students enrolled in Nigerian universities directly covering a portion of tuition and academic expenses
- Some programs offer bursary payments of up to ₦50,000 per academic year until graduation
- Fully funded pilot training at a globally recognised aviation school for pilot scholarship recipients
- Potential access to international scholarships and foreign sponsorship for outstanding students
- After graduation, students with an excellent CGPA may be exposed to job placement opportunities facilitated by the Board
- Recognition of academic excellence that can strengthen a student’s career profile
While the bursary amount may seem modest, it is renewable on an annual basis as long as new scholarship announcements are made. Many students also combine this with other state and federal scholarship programs to maximise their funding.
Required Documents for the Borno State Scholarship Application
Before you begin your online application, ensure you have scanned digital copies of the following documents ready for upload. Submitting incomplete documents is one of the most common reasons applications are rejected or delayed.
| # | Document | Required For |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Passport photograph (red background) | All applicants |
| 2 | Admission letter from institution | All applicants |
| 3 | School registration payment receipt | All applicants |
| 4 | First School Leaving Certificate (FSLC) | All applicants |
| 5 | Certificate of Origin / LGA identification | All applicants |
| 6 | Birth certificate or National Identity Card | All applicants |
| 7 | WAEC / NECO / NABTEB certificate | Most programs |
| 8 | JAMB admission letter (where applicable) | University undergraduates |
| 9 | Academic transcripts / Statement of results with CGPA | Postgraduate / continuing students |
| 10 | NIN (National Identification Number) | Portal registration |
| 11 | BVN (Bank Verification Number) | Portal registration |
The BSSB explicitly states that it will not entertain any complaints or grievances related to erroneous registrations. Double-check all uploaded documents and personal details before final submission.
How to Apply for the Borno State Scholarship 2025/2026 — Step-by-Step Guide
All applications for the Borno State Scholarship are completed entirely online through the official BSSB portal. Follow these steps carefully to ensure a smooth and successful application:
- 1
Visit the Official PortalGo to bssb portal using any internet-enabled device. Avoid third-party websites or unofficial links.
- 2
Create an AccountClick the “Sign Up” or “Register” button. Provide your full name, email address, phone number, NIN, BVN, LGA of origin, and date of birth.
- 3
Verify Your Email AddressA verification link will be sent to your email. Click the link to activate your account. Note: If you do not verify within 24 hours, your account will be automatically deleted.
- 4
Complete Your ProfileLog in to your account and fill in your personal details, academic information, and upload your passport photograph (red background required).
- 5
Select a ScholarshipClick the “Apply” button on your dashboard. Browse the list of available scholarships and select the one that matches your level of study and eligibility.
- 6
Upload Required DocumentsUpload all required documents including your admission letter, registration receipt, Certificate of Origin, FSLC, and other specified documents. Ensure files are clear and readable.
- 7
Pay the Application FeePay the required scholarship application fee as indicated on the portal. Keep your payment receipt as proof of payment.
- 8
Print Your Application FormAfter completing and submitting your application, print a copy of your application form for your records.
- 9
Monitor Your Application StatusLog in to your dashboard regularly to check the status of your application (Pending, Approved, or Rejected). Results will be posted on the portal.
Application Deadlines for the Borno State Scholarship 2025
Meeting application deadlines is critical, the BSSB does not accept late submissions under any circumstances. Below are the known deadlines for the 2025 scholarship cycles:
| Scholarship Type | Application Opening | Deadline |
|---|---|---|
| Postgraduate Scholarship (2024/2025) | Early 2025 | 28 February 2025 |
| Undergraduate Bursary (2024/2025) | 7 July 2025 | 14 August 2025 |
| Pilot Training Scholarship (Pilot 2025) | January 2025 | 30 January 2025 |
| Zulum Female STEM Scholarship | Based on 2025 UTME cycle | Check BSSB portal |
Deadlines change every year. Always visit the official BSSB portal to confirm the latest application window for your scholarship category.
Tips to Strengthen Your Borno State Scholarship Application
With many students applying each year, making your application stand out and error-free is essential. Here are practical tips to boost your chances of success:
- Apply as early as possible — do not wait until the last day; portal traffic is highest near deadlines and technical issues can arise
- Use a valid, regularly checked email address — important notifications and verification links are sent here
- Scan documents clearly — blurry or cropped documents are a common reason for rejection; use a scanner or a good camera with good lighting
- Use a red background passport photo — the BSSB specifically requires this; a wrong background colour may render your application invalid
- Double-check your LGA details — your LGA of origin must be verifiable and consistent across all documents
- Do not apply under multiple names — your name on all documents must match exactly as registered on the portal
- You can apply for multiple scholarships — as long as their eligibility criteria and deadlines do not conflict, you are permitted to apply for more than one scholarship at a time
- Keep print copies — always print and store your submitted application form and all uploaded documents
How to Check Your Borno State Scholarship Application Status
Once you have submitted your application, you do not need to visit the BSSB office in Maiduguri to find out if you have been approved. The application dashboard on the portal provides real-time updates on your status:
- 1
Log In to Your AccountGo to bssb portal and sign in with your email address and password.
- 2
Navigate to Your Application DashboardClick on “My Applications” or the dashboard home to see all submitted applications.
- 3
Check the Status ColumnYour application status will be shown as Pending, Approved, or Rejected. If approved, further instructions on collecting or receiving your bursary will be displayed.
Borno State Scholarship Board Contact Information
If you encounter any issues with your application or have questions that are not addressed on the portal, you can reach the BSSB through the following channels:
| Contact Method | Details |
|---|---|
| Official Website / Portal | https://bssb.bo.gov.ng |
| Support Email | support@bssb.bo.gov.ng |
| Office Location | Maiduguri, Borno State, Nigeria |
For any technical issues with the online portal, the BSSB support team can be contacted via the support email above. They typically respond as quickly as possible during the active application window.
Other Scholarships Available to Borno State Students
In addition to the BSSB scholarship, Borno State students can also explore a range of national and international scholarship opportunities. Here are some notable options worth considering alongside the state scholarship:
- Federal Government Scholarship (BEMEF) — The Federal Ministry of Education’s Bilateral Education Agreement and Scholarship Program for Nigerian students to study abroad in countries like China, Russia, Morocco, and others
- NLNG Undergraduate Scholarship Scheme — Offered by Nigeria LNG Limited to outstanding Nigerian undergraduate students in science and engineering disciplines
- Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) Scholarship — Though targeted at Niger Delta states, it serves as a model for understanding state-funded scholarship frameworks
- MTN Foundation Scholarship — Merit-based scholarship open to Nigerian undergraduates with strong academic performance
- Jim Ovia Foundation Scholarship — For high-achieving Nigerian undergraduates from various disciplines
- Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program — Fully funded scholarships for academically talented but economically disadvantaged African students to study at top universities
Combining the Borno State bursary with one of these other scholarships can significantly reduce the financial burden of pursuing higher education.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
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To be eligible, you must be a bonafide indigene of Borno State (from any of the 27 LGAs), be in your first year of study at an accredited Nigerian tertiary institution, and be a duly registered student. Specific programs like the Pilot Training Scholarship and Zulum Female STEM Scholarship have additional requirements.
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The standard undergraduate bursary is ₦30,000 per year, while some programs offer up to ₦50,000 per academic year until graduation. The Pilot Training Scholarship may offer full coverage of training costs at an aviation school.
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Yes, but postgraduate students are not eligible for the standard undergraduate bursary. There is a separate Postgraduate Scholarship specifically for Master’s students in fields such as Education, Arts, Social Sciences, Humanities, and Management Sciences. The postgraduate deadline typically closes earlier than the undergraduate window.
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Yes. You are allowed to apply for multiple scholarships on the BSSB portal as long as their eligibility criteria do not overlap and their deadlines are different. Each scholarship has its own application process, so you must meet the individual requirements for each one.
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The official portal is https://bssb.bo.gov.ng. All applications must be submitted through this website. Beware of fake websites or third-party portals asking for your personal data.
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Log in to your account on the BSSB portal and visit your application dashboard. The status of your application will be displayed as Pending, Approved, or Rejected. You do not need to visit the BSSB office in Maiduguri to check your status.
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Yes, the BSSB portal indicates that there is a scholarship application fee that must be paid as part of the application process. The specific amount should be confirmed on the official portal during the application window.
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The BSSB has made it clear that it will not entertain complaints or grievances related to erroneous registrations. It is therefore essential to review all your details carefully before final submission. Always double-check your name, LGA, and document uploads.
Conclusion
The Borno State Scholarship is one of the most accessible and impactful financial aid opportunities available to indigenous students from northeastern Nigeria. From the standard undergraduate bursary to the innovative Pilot Training Scholarship and the gender-inclusive Zulum Female STEM award, the Borno State Scholarship Board has designed programs to serve students at multiple levels and in diverse fields of study.
If you are a Borno State indigene who has been admitted into an accredited institution — whether a university, polytechnic, college of education, or even an aviation school — you owe it to yourself to apply. The process is fully online, the eligibility requirements are straightforward, and the financial support can make a real difference in your academic journey.
Be sure to visit the official BSSB portal prepare your documents in advance, and submit your application before the stated deadline. Good luck.