20 USA Scholarships for Nigerian Students

Education has the power to change lives. For many Nigerian students, studying abroad in the United States is not just a dream. It’s an opportunity to see the world from a new perspective. Get a quality education and live a fulfilling life.

But most of the time, these beautiful dreams are interrupted by high tuition and living expenses. That’s why we took the trouble to compile 20 USA scholarships for Nigerian students like you, our readers.

In this article, we take a look at 20 scholarships you can apply for to achieve your academic goals. We will also briefly explain the eligibility criteria and how to apply. Some are fully funded, while others cover only part of the cost.

The best part? These scholarships are available for different levels of study, including bachelor’s, master’s, doctoral, and fellowship programs.

Let’s explore these opportunities together.

Many of these scholarships are funded by the U.S. government, while others are funded by private U.S. organizations. Take a look at these opportunities:

Introduction to American Scholarships

USA scholarships are financial aids that help students from Nigeria and other countries study in the United States. These scholarships cover tuition, accommodation, and sometimes some or all of living expenses.

Scholarships in USA for Nigerian students are offered by various organizations including the US government and private organizations. Receiving a scholarship in the United States makes it easier for students to receive a high-quality education, experience diverse cultures, and pursue career goals without worrying about financial implications.

Additionally, studying in the United States allows you to explore new things, grow personally, and connect with people from all over the world. Most importantly, this scholarship will help you realize your dream of studying in the United States.

How to get a scholarship to study in the US

In order to receive a scholarship to study in the United States, it is important to plan and prepare well. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

• Find scholarships that fit your academic level (e.g. bachelor’s, master’s, doctoral) and interests.
• Each scholarship has specific requirements such as academic achievement, English language proficiency, and sometimes financial need. Make sure you qualify before applying.
• Gather important documents such as academic transcripts, test scores (SAT, ACT, GRE, TOEFL, IELTS), letters of recommendation, and personal statements explaining your goals and accomplishments.
• To receive most scholarships, you must apply to a U.S. university or program. Research universities that offer scholarships to international students and submit your application accordingly.
• Many scholarships require an essay or personal statement. Use this opportunity to highlight your strengths, ambitions, and why you are the best fit for the scholarship.
• Scholarship deadlines vary, so start the application process early to ensure you have enough time to complete everything.
• Explore other types of financial support available, including grants, fellowships, and university assistantships.
• Please review the application instructions carefully and submit all required documents accurately and on time.
• Some scholarships may require an interview. Become more confident by researching scholarship providers and practicing common interview questions.
• Competition can be difficult, so don’t let setbacks discourage you. Continue to apply for scholarships and try new opportunities to achieve your goals of studying in the United States.

Read: 10 Cybersecurity Scholarships for Nigerian Students | 2024

USA Scholarships for Nigerian Students

Find below 20 USA Scholarships for Nigerian Students in 2024 and how to apply:

#1. Fulbright International Student Program

The Fulbright Foreign Student Program provides graduate students, young professionals, and artists from around the world the opportunity to study and research in the United States. It operates in more than 160 countries around the world and awards Fulbright scholarships to approximately 4,000 international students each year.

The grant covers the recipient’s flight costs to and from the United States, a settlement allowance, monthly stipend, housing costs, books and computers. You are also covered by the University’s basic health insurance and additional Fulbright ASPE health benefits.

The competition is open to students in science, engineering, technology, arts, journalism, public relations, media studies, agriculture, food science, economics, environmental science, international relations, political science, public administration, public policy, public health and tourism.

Eligibility Criteria

To qualify for the Fullbright International Student Program:

• You must be a citizen or national of Nigeria and a permanent resident holding a valid Nigerian passport.
• You must be pursuing a PhD or PhD and must have completed a significant portion of your studies at a Nigerian university. Your home institution must approve your application.
• Note: This program does not accept applications from master’s or bachelor’s degree students.
• Excellent academic records and strong English language skills are required.
• The first TOEFL test must be completed by May 2023.
• You must achieve a minimum score of 90 on the required standardized test (TOEFL: 90).
• You must demonstrate strong motivation and a serious commitment to complete the program on schedule and return to Nigeria.
• Only applicants who submit a compelling research proposal outlining the purpose, methodology, duration, and reasons for conducting research in the United States will be considered for an interview.
• Preference will be given to applicants who have not previously studied in the United States.

How to apply

Please carefully prepare the following documents and submit them through the link below.

• Written Research Objectives
• professional resume
• Three letters of recommendation describing the candidate’s personal, academic, and professional abilities (submitted electronically and attached to the online application)
• If available, scanned copies of transcripts from each college attended.
• TOEFL score report.

apply

#2. Japan/World Bank Joint Graduate School Scholarship Program

JJ/WBGSP scholarships are available to citizens of certain developing countries with relevant professional experience and a track record of contributing to the development of their country. Designed for those applying to master’s programs focusing on development-related topics.

There are 53 participating master’s programs at 27 universities in the United States, Europe, Africa, Oceania, and Japan. The program covers important areas such as economic policy management, tax policy, and infrastructure management.

The scholarship has two application windows. Window 1 closed on February 29, 2024, with selected applicants announced in March 2024. Window 2 closed on 24 May 2024, applications are currently under review and the names of selected candidates will be announced in late June 2024.

If awarded a JJ/WBGSP Scholarship, it provides the following benefits:

• Economy class air travel from your home country to the host university is included at the start of your studies and after the end of the scholarship period. You will also receive a travel allowance of $600 for each trip.
• This includes graduate program tuition and basic health insurance provided through the university.
• You will receive an on-campus allowance each month to help cover living expenses during your scholarship period.

Eligibility Criteria

To qualify for this scholarship:

• You must be a citizen of a developing country listed by the World Bank.
• You should not have dual citizenship from a developed country. You must be in good health.
• Must have earned a bachelor’s degree or equivalent at least three years prior to the application deadline.
• You must be employed full-time in a development-related job when submitting your scholarship application.
• You must receive unconditional admission (excluding funding) to at least one of the participating master’s programs listed in JJ/WBGSP outside your country of citizenship and residence by the scholarship application deadline.

How to apply

JJ/WBGSP 2024 application period has ended. Information regarding the 2025 application will be posted here in the fall. Please come back later for more information.

#3. Brookings 2024 Internship Program for Undergraduate and Graduate Students

Want to jump-start your career in a meaningful way? Brookings offers paid internships to approximately 150 degree-seeking students and recent graduates each year, with cohorts beginning in the spring, summer, and fall.

Brookings Internship Programs are designed for degree-seeking students and sometimes recent graduates, giving them the opportunity to explore careers and develop new skills. The program aims to provide practical, hands-on work experience relevant to the student’s field of study or career interest.

As an intern, you will participate in the day-to-day operations of Brookings and be exposed to curated learning experiences. Therefore, you are encouraged to attend internal and external events, connect with local networks, engage in social and community activities, and engage in professional development with Brookings staff.

The 2024 program schedule is as follows.

Fall 2024 Program Schedule	date
Internship Job Openings Posted	Week starting May 27, 2024
Application Deadline	June 23, 2024
optional	Week of August 12, 2024
Cohort start date	September 16, 2024 or October 1, 2024
Cohort end date	December 13, 2024 or December 27, 2024

Eligibility Criteria

Brookings Internships are offered for the following purposes:

• People from different backgrounds and experience levels.
• Students enrolled in undergraduate and master’s programs (Ph.D. students cannot apply). In some cases, recent graduates may also be considered.
• Certain internship postings offer opportunities to recent graduates.
• Selected interns must have graduated within the past year.
• International students who are visa sponsored by their university or authorized to work in the United States are eligible.
• Eligibility Requirements:
  • I am receiving a work permit.
  • I am currently an F-1 or J-1 student and plan to apply for OPT or CPT if selected for the Brookings internship.

How to apply

To be considered, you must submit your application before the stated deadline. Applications will only be considered once the internship is listed online. A complete application consists of:

• self-introduction
• resume
• Transcript (official or unofficial)
• If specified in the job description: Writing sample.

apply

People Also Read: 27 Best Scholarships for Catholic Students in 2024

#4. Portland State University International Student Retention Scholarship

Portland State University (PSU) welcomes students from around the world to study in Oregon. Attracting international students enriches our campus and community with diverse cultures.

The International Student Retention Scholarship (ISRS) is funded by the State of Oregon and provides annual partial tuition scholarships to eligible students from a variety of countries.

Qualification Requirements

To qualify for this:

• Must complete at least three semesters at PSU and maintain a GPA of at least 2.75.
• Must complete at least one semester at PSU with a GPA of at least 2.75.
• Must complete at least one semester at PSU with a GPA of at least 3.00. Students who are jointly enrolled at another USCIS-approved institution are also eligible.
• You must have a clear degree goal and be making satisfactory progress toward degree completion.
• ESL students may apply after meeting the English proficiency requirement.
• U.S. citizens, resident aliens, students receiving U.S. federal financial aid, payers of in-state tuition, recipients of other fee waiver benefits (including graduate assistantships and ICSP), and persons in possession of work authorization documentation (other than financial hardship) are not eligible for this scholarship.

How to apply

Applicants must collect the following documents as required:

1. online application
2. Essay (up to 2 pages) covering personal background, academic and career goals, and financial situation, including family income.
3. Two recent letters of recommendation from instructors or academic advisors.

apply

#5. Central Washington University (CWU) International Student Scholarship

One way CWU promotes its goal of building a diverse and inclusive community of learners is through the CWU International Student Scholarship. Designed to support international students, these scholarships are available to undergraduate and graduate students with outstanding academic records.

If you are interested in applying for a CWU International Student Scholarship, it is important to note the following deadlines:

• August 1, 2024: Open to current students and students starting in fall 2024.
• December 1, 2024: For students starting in winter 2025.
• March 1, 2025: For students starting in spring 2025.

Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible for the CWU International Student Scholarship, applicants must meet the following requirements:

• Undergraduate students: Maintain a minimum GPA of 2.7.
• Graduate students: Maintain a minimum GPA of 3.4.
• Must be classified as an international student paying non-resident tuition at CWU.
• Must be enrolled in a degree program at CWU.
• To be eligible for a full scholarship, you must be a full-time student (12 or more undergraduate credits and 9 or more graduate credits).

How to apply

To apply for this scholarship at Central Washington University (CWU), you must first apply for admission to CWU. After that, you must fill it out and submit it. Scholarship Application Online.

#6. Laura Bassi Scholarship 2024 in USA

Laura Bassi Scholarship is one of the USA scholarships for Nigerian students that we list. This provides a unique opportunity for graduate students (both master’s and doctoral) and early career scholars (within 5 years of full-time work experience) to receive editorial support for research projects focused on underexplored topics in the field.

This scholarship is open to researchers in all academic fields, including literature, history, science, and engineering, and is awarded three times a year (December, April, and August).

You can apply for this scholarship while pursuing a graduate or research level program at a US university. We offer a variety of editing support depending on your specific requirements.

• Up to $750 for master’s students
• Up to $2,500 for PhD students
• Up to $500 for early career scholars

Eligibility Criteria

Eligibility is open to anyone currently enrolled in a Masters or PhD program or within the first five years of their academic career, regardless of university, department or nationality.

How to apply

To apply, please follow these steps:

• Click the “Apply” button on the scholarship’s official website to fill out the online application. You must upload a resume (CV) as part of your application.
• There is an optional application fee of USD 10, which helps with administrative costs. If you cannot afford the fee, the application portal offers a waiver option.
• Please submit all application materials through the portal. You can update your application by uploading new documents using the email address you originally used for US Scholarships for Nigerian Students.

apply

#7. Columbia Business School MBA Scholarship

Columbia Business School in New York, USA proudly offers partial tuition assistance to many qualified candidates, including local and international students, for its MBA program. Columbia Business School MBA Scholarships 2025 are available to students pursuing master’s level studies. This opportunity is open to students from all countries.

To determine if a student is eligible for need-based financial aid, Columbia Business School considers a variety of financial resources, including:

• Save and Invest Cash
• Money market accounts, IRAs, retirement funds
• Certificates of Deposit (CD) and Trust Funds
• real estate assets
• GI and Social Security Benefits
• Student and Spouse Income
• Other Family Resources
• income tax refund
• employer sponsorship
• previous education debt

How to apply

To apply for a scholarship, please follow these steps:

• Gather all necessary documents.
• Submit application here

See also: 7 Common Requirements for Scholarships: Everything You Need to Know

#8. UNICAF Scholarship 2024/2025 (for BS, MS and PhD)

UNICAF Scholarships for 2024/2025 are open to international students pursuing a Bachelor’s, Master’s or PhD programme. These scholarships support a variety of fields of study offered by universities in the UK, USA, Africa and Europe.

UNICAF partners with the region’s top universities to provide thousands of students with the opportunity to earn undergraduate and graduate degrees through online programs. This approach helps students gain valuable skills and knowledge, advance their careers, and achieve personal growth.

Eligibility Criteria

• You must meet the entry requirements for your chosen degree program at one of UNICAF’s partner universities. These requirements are listed on the university website.
• The scholarship is aimed at students experiencing financial hardship. Therefore, you must demonstrate that you cannot afford the full cost of tuition without financial aid.

How to apply

• Make sure you meet the academic requirements of the program you are applying to.
• Write a detailed resume that highlights your skills and experience.
• Please provide copies of academic certificates and transcripts.
• If your previous education was not in English, you must demonstrate English language proficiency through a test such as TOEFL or IELTS.
• Submit the above documents and scholarship application form. here

#9. Marconi International University Miami USA Scholarships 2024

Marconi International University Miami USA Scholarships are available to international and domestic students. This scholarship supports undergraduate, masters and doctoral studies in all subjects offered at Marconi International University.

Anyone from the United States or any other country can apply for this scholarship, and a non-immigrant visa is not required to qualify.

To qualify, you must meet certain criteria. This often includes a good academic record, certain nationality or residency requirements, and sometimes age or work experience. Choose a program that suits your qualifications and background.

apply

#10. Postdoctoral Fellow for International Students at Cancer Institute

The Cancer Research Institute (CRI) offers the CRI Irvington Postdoctoral Fellowship 2024-2025, a full scholarship for international students wishing to undertake postdoctoral research in the field of immunology or cancer immunology. This fellowship provides a stipend of up to $59,000 per year and is designed to support innovative research in the field.

Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible for this fellowship, you must meet the following criteria:

• You must be proficient in English.nation: Students from all countries can apply.
• Your research should focus on immunology or cancer immunology.
• You must have a PhD by the time your fellowship begins. Your research must be conducted under a sponsor who holds an official position at the host institution.
• Must have less than 5 years of relevant postdoctoral experience. For MD applicants, the number of years of residency is not calculated.
• The fellowship can be completed in the United States or abroad, but must be done at a non-profit institution. There are no citizenship restrictions.

How to apply

To apply for a CRI Irvington Postdoctoral Fellowship, please follow these steps:

1. Complete the PDF application and obtain all required signatures.
2. Scan the completed form and upload it as a PDF and other required documents to our online application system.
3. Upload your resume, project summary, research proposal, letters of recommendation, and other required materials.

apply

#11. Trinity Leadership Fellow, USA 2024

The Trinity Leadership Fellows program provides a unique opportunity for people around the world to receive free training. This fully funded program aims to develop leaders from diverse backgrounds, including different nationalities, races, religions and cultures. We focus on helping our community through faith-based efforts.

Eligibility Criteria

• The program is open to professionals and community leaders from a variety of religious backgrounds, including ordained leaders.
• Preference will be given to those with up to 15 years of professional experience, especially if they have held leadership roles.
• Applicants must be proficient in English.
• You must be at least 18 years old to apply.

How to apply

• Make sure you meet the program requirements.
• Complete the application online. You will be asked to submit a resume, a short response about your leadership experience, and an essay describing your faith-centered leadership journey.

apply

#12. Obama Foundation Leaders Program for International Students 2024, USA.

The Obama Foundation Leaders Program is a fantastic opportunity to strengthen your leadership skills, connect with others who share your passion, and empower you to bring real change to your community. The program invites emerging leaders aged 24 to 45 from selected countries in Africa, Asia Pacific, Europe and the United States to participate in a life-changing experience.

The program is fully funded, which means all costs, including travel and accommodation, are covered.

Participants will participate in a variety of activities such as workshops, coaching, and mentoring to develop leadership capabilities.

Eligibility criteria for Nigerian students

To apply, you must:

• You must be between 24 and 45 years old.
• Actively participate in projects that drive positive change.
• You must have at least 3 years of relevant experience in your field or area of ​​interest.
• You must be proficient in both speaking and writing English.

How to apply

The application process is simple.

• Sign up here Obama Foundation website.
• Please provide details about your background, experience, and leadership goals.
• Submit two essays highlighting your leadership experience and vision to make a positive impact.
• Please provide two references who can vouch for your leadership potential.

#13. Hansen Leadership Institute 2024, USA

Another American scholarship for Nigerian students, the Hansen Leadership Institute (HLI) is currently accepting applications for the Hansen Summer Exchange Program. This prestigious, fully funded, three-week program welcomes international students and U.S. citizens to participate in an innovative experience at the University of San Diego.

To make it easier for participants to enter the United States, Hansen Summer Institute covers all U.S. visa costs and removes financial barriers.

Eligibility Criteria

• Must be an undergraduate or graduate student with at least two years of college education.
• Must have a professional interest in international relations, diplomacy, and international economic development.
• You must be between 20 and 25 years old when you start the program.
• Participating in leadership activities is very important. Selection does not depend on CGPA.
• A recommendation letter from your advisor is required.
• You must have a valid international passport.
• Preference is given to people who have never visited the United States before.

#14. High Potential USA Scholarships 2024/2025

The University of Michigan’s High Potential Scholarship Program for 2024/2025 aims to support exceptionally talented international students pursuing undergraduate, master’s or doctoral programs.

This scholarship provides significant financial support, up to $35,000 per academic year. This amount includes tuition reduction and a monthly stipend to the beneficiary.

The program consists of two main components: High Potential Scholarship, funded by the University Scholarship Fund, and the Albright Scholarship, supported by a partnership between the Vanderbilt Institute and the J. Morgan Grant.

Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible for this competitive scholarship, applicants must meet the following criteria:

• You must be a citizen of a country other than the United States, the EU/EEA, Switzerland, or Suriname, and meet U.S. visa and residence permit requirements.
• You must not hold dual citizenship of an EU/EEA country.
• You must apply to a full-time undergraduate, master’s, or doctoral program at the University of Michigan for the 2024-2025 academic year.
• You must meet the specific admission requirements of your chosen program.
• Applicants must be under 45 years of age by September 1, 2023.

How to apply

• Enroll in a program at UM from our list of eligible programs.
• Log in with your UM account and complete the application. Make sure all documentation and referee contact information is up to date. Please submit the following documents in .doc, .docx or PDF format.
• resume
• motivational letter
• Proof of academic excellence (transcript or letter from department chair)
• Personal Statement of Financial Need
• letter of recommendation
• Contact information for one judge

apply

#15. Peace Scholarship Program

The Peace Scholar Fellowship program provides non-residential fellowships to doctoral students at U.S. universities conducting dissertation research in conflict management, peacebuilding, and security studies.

In collaboration with the Minerva Research Initiative, the program supports up to 18 fellows each year. These fellowships will assist you in both the research and writing phases of your paper.

This fellowship will run for 10 months starting in September. Students from any country can apply.

When the application process begins in September, there are two main steps:

1. registration: First, you must register an account. It is best to register early as you will receive login information for the application portal within 72 hours of registration.
2. application: Submit your application through the Fluxx online system. On the form, you will choose whether you would like to be considered for the Minerva Research Initiative Peace and Security Fellowship, a USIP Peace Scholar Fellowship. Both fellowships use the same forms, deadlines, and selection procedures. Only the source of funding is different. You must also include three letters of recommendation (one letter of recommendation from your thesis advisor and two letters of recommendation from a current professor).

Registration and application deadlines are announced each year at the start of the competition in September. The account registration link is below. This is for when the next application round opens in September.

apply

#16. Yale Young Global Scholars Program 2024

The Yale Young Global Scholars (YYGS) program is currently accepting applications for next year. This exciting US scholarship for Nigerian students offers 12 academic sessions covering a variety of topics from humanities to biology.

In two weeks, you will get a taste of college life by attending lectures and seminars, meeting students from around the world, and talking with Yale professors.

Qualification Requirements

• Must be 16 years of age or older by July 21, 2024 (the first day of Session III).
• Must be able to follow and participate in an academic program taught in English.
• Must be currently a sophomore or junior in high school (or equivalent in your country).
• If you live in the Northern Hemisphere, you must graduate in May/June 2025 or 2026. If you live in the Southern Hemisphere, you must graduate in November/December 2024 or 2025.
• This must be your first time participating in YYGS. If you attended a YYGS session in a previous summer (2023 or earlier), you will not be eligible to participate in YYGS 2024.

However, if you have previously applied to YYGS but were not accepted or were unable to attend and you meet the above criteria, you can reapply for YYGS 2024.

apply

Related Article: Applying for a Scholarship Before or After Admission? All questions answered

#17. Future Global Leaders (FGL) Fellowship 2024, USA

The Future Global Leaders Fellowship warmly welcomes students from all over the world. We are seeking motivated first-year undergraduate students, especially those from low-income backgrounds.

The FGL Fellowship journey begins each year in early August with an essential and exciting 20-day leadership workshop. This workshop includes practical experiences that push your mental and physical limits in a natural setting.

Eligibility Criteria

To participate in the Future Global Leaders Fellowship, you must:

• Be a student in any country.
• I am currently in my first year of undergraduate studies in any field.
• Be the first in your family to go to college or come from a low-income background.
• I have an outstanding academic record both in high school and in my current studies.
• Demonstrate evidence of leadership through personal projects or school or community involvement.

apply

#18. TechWomen Leadership Program

The U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs (ECA) is pleased to announce the latest round of the TechWomen Leadership Program. This program is part of America’s strong commitment to supporting the talents and dreams of women and girls around the world.

For over 10 years, TechWomen has been empowering women in Africa, Central Asia, South Asia, and the Middle East, especially in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields. To achieve this, we connect you with experts in the United States.

Eligibility Criteria

• It is generally open to women who are professionals in their early to mid-career years.
• Must have at least two years of full-time work experience in a STEM field.
• Must have a bachelor’s degree or equivalent in a STEM-related field.
• You must be fluent in English to fully participate and communicate with your mentor and colleagues.
• Must be a citizen and permanent resident of an eligible country in Africa, Central Asia, South Asia, or the Middle East at the time of application and for the duration of the program.
• Must qualify for a U.S. J-1 Exchange Visitor Visa.
• You must not have applied for a U.S. immigrant visa in the past five years, except for certain programs such as the Diversity Immigrant Visa.
• You cannot be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident.
• Must have a proven track record of leadership and an unwavering commitment to the community. A willingness to participate in an exchange program is also required.
• You must plan to return to your home country to share the knowledge and experience gained through the program.

apply

#19. American University Global Leader Scholarship

AU Emerging Global Leader Scholarship 2024 is available to those pursuing a bachelor’s or master’s degree from American University. This fully funded scholarship opportunity for the 2024-25 academic year is open to international students from around the world.

Scholarships are available for four years for undergraduate students and two years for masters. interestingly? You can choose from the university’s list of fields and majors.

Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible for American University Global Leader Scholarship 2024, you need to look at the following conditions:

• If you are applying to a master’s degree program, you must have a bachelor’s degree.
• Must have a strong academic record. Preference will be given to those who have demonstrated leadership qualities.
• You must maintain a minimum GPA of 3.0 during the first two semesters of your master’s program.

Apply for an undergraduate scholarship here

Apply for Masters Scholarship here

#20. Full Ride USA Scholarship 2024 (Fully Funded)

Full Ride USA Scholarship 2024 is a fantastic opportunity that is currently open for applications from many universities across the United States. This scholarship is available for bachelor’s, master’s or doctoral programs and provides full financial support.

This scholarship is especially beneficial for international students because it covers tuition and other essential expenses such as accommodation, meals, books, travel, supplies, etc. To receive a full scholarship, you will need to cover approximately $200,000 worth of expenses.

Full Ride USA Scholarship Eligibility Criteria

Most full scholarships are merit-based, meaning they are awarded to students with excellent academic performance. This is often judged by GPA, SAT, ACT, or a combination of these criteria.

List of Universities Offering Full Scholarships in USA 2024

FAQs on Scholarships in USA for Nigerian Students

conclusion

USA scholarships for Nigerian students will make your dream of studying in the USA come true.

You should look at each carefully, taking into account your unique eligibility criteria and application requirements, and try out which one best suits you.

References

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