How to Prepare for PTDF Scholarship Interview (2025 Edition)

If you received an email inviting you to the PTDF scholarship interview for 2025, congratulations! You're now in the final selection stage. Many students applied, but only a few got to this point. Your next step is to prepare carefully and make a great impression at the interview.

This blog post is written in simple English to help you understand what to do before, during, and after your interview. It also includes important instructions sent in the official PTDF email.

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Part 1: Before the Interview – Get Everything Ready

Preparation is the key to success. Here’s what you need to do before your interview date:

1. Understand the Purpose of the Interview

PTDF (Petroleum Technology Development Fund) uses this interview to:

• Learn more about you

• Assess your academic and professional background

• Understand your motivation and career plans

• See if you’re a good fit for the scholarship

They are looking for focused, driven candidates who are serious about contributing to Nigeria’s development—especially in oil, gas, energy, and related fields.

2. Carefully Read the Interview Invitation Email

The PTDF interview invitation contains very important instructions, including what to bring and when to arrive. According to the email:

You must come with the original copies of the following documents:

• O'Level result (WAEC/NECO/NABTEB)

• BSc certificate

• NYSC certificate or discharge letter

• Local Government Identification

• Master’s certificate (for PhD candidates)

• Evidence of membership of a professional body (if any)

These documents will be cited (i.e., checked), so make sure they are original, valid, and in good condition.

Also:

You must arrive at the venue 30 minutes before your scheduled interview time.

Being late can hurt your chances, so plan your movement ahead of time.

3. Arrange Your Documents Neatly

Organize all required documents in a file or folder. Don’t forget to carry valid means of identification, such as:

• National ID Card

• International Passport

• Voter’s Card

• Driver’s License

Also carry a printed copy of your invitation email, just in case.

4. Review Your Application Details

Re-read your PTDF application form, personal statement, and CV. Be familiar with:

• The course and university you selected

• Your academic history

• Your work experience (if any)

• What you wrote in your personal statement or statement of purpose

If you're applying for a PhD, be ready to briefly discuss your research proposal.

5. Practice Answering Common Interview Questions

Here are some questions you may be asked:

• Tell us about yourself.

• Why did you choose this course?

• Why did you choose that university?

• How will your studies benefit Nigeria?

• What do you know about the oil and gas sector?

• What are your long-term career goals?

• Are you willing to return and work in Nigeria after your studies?

Write your answers down and practice saying them out loud. Keep your answers clear, confident, and professional.

6. Research PTDF and Your Chosen Field

Know what PTDF does and what it stands for. Learn how your chosen course fits into national development. Also, know the basics of current trends in the oil and gas, energy, or environmental sectors.

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Part 2: During the Interview – Make a Great Impression

The interview might be physical or virtual, depending on the location. Either way, your attitude and presentation matter.

1. Dress Smartly

Wear clean, neat, and professional clothes. For men: a shirt and trousers with covered shoes. For women: a smart blouse, skirt or trousers, and low shoes. Avoid casual or flashy clothes.

2. Arrive Early

You are expected to arrive at the venue at least 30 minutes before your interview time. This helps you settle down, avoid stress, and shows that you’re serious.

If it’s an online interview, test your internet connection, audio, and camera beforehand.

3. Greet and Speak Respectfully

Be polite to everyone you meet, especially the interview panel. Greet properly and maintain a calm, confident tone.

4. Answer Clearly and Honestly

Speak clearly and avoid rushing your words. Answer questions with confidence. If you don’t know the answer to something, it’s okay to say so politely.

Don’t exaggerate or give false information—it’s easy for the panel to tell.

5. Explain How You Will Give Back to Nigeria

PTDF wants to support people who will use their knowledge to help Nigeria grow. Explain how your studies can support:

• The oil and gas sector

• Renewable energy development

• Environmental sustainability

• Local job creation

• Policy improvement

Be specific and realistic.

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Part 3: After the Interview – What Happens Next?

Once the interview is over, you can breathe a bit—but don’t relax too much yet. Here are the next steps:

1. Stay Positive

Even if you feel you could’ve done better, don’t panic. Many candidates come out of interviews unsure and still get selected.

2. Keep Checking Your Email and Phone

PTDF will contact successful applicants by email or SMS. Keep your phone on and check your email (including spam folders) daily.

3. Do Not Fall for Scams

PTDF does not ask for money at any stage. Be careful of fraudsters claiming they can “help you get selected.” Only trust information from the official PTDF website or verified email addresses.

4. Start Getting Ready Mentally

If you get selected, things may move fast—especially for foreign scholarships. You may need to:

• Get your international passport ready

• Apply for a visa

• Prepare for relocation (if studying abroad)

If you’re offered a local scholarship, you may need to resume school shortly.

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Bonus Tips

• Bring a small notebook and pen – in case you want to jot anything down.

• Be humble – Confidence is good, but arrogance can be a red flag.

• Keep your phone on silent – It should not ring during the interview.

• If online, sit in a quiet room with good lighting and a plain background.

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Final Thoughts

The PTDF scholarship is a life-changing opportunity. If you’ve been shortlisted for the interview, that means you’ve already done something right. Now, it’s time to show that you are ready for the next step.

✅ Be prepared
✅ Be professional
✅ Be passionate about your field and Nigeria’s development

We wish you the very best in your PTDF 2025 interview!