The Pan‑Atlantic University Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program 2026 for young Africans (Fully Funded)

شروط الأهلية

Applicants must demonstrate academic excellence, leadership potential, financial need, and have passed WAEC/NECO/GCE/NABTEB with 5 credits (including English and Mathematics) in not more than two sittings. A minimum UTME score of 220 is required. Priority is given to young women in STEM, internally displaced youths, and young people with disabilities.

نظرة عامة على البرنامج

## The Pan-Atlantic University Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program 2026 ### Overview The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at Pan-Atlantic University (PAU) offers comprehensive scholarships to exceptional young Africans facing significant financial or socio-economic barriers. This program is designed to provide world-class education and leadership development opportunities. As the first Nigerian university to partner with the Mastercard Foundation, PAU is committed to educating 650 Scholars over a decade. The program prioritizes young women, refugees, displaced youths, and young persons with disabilities, fostering inclusive access to higher education. The goal is to develop ethical, service-driven leaders who will contribute positively to their communities and the African continent. This initiative aims to welcome an additional 70 Scholars in the upcoming application cycle, continuing its mission to empower future leaders. ### Benefits The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program provides extensive support to ensure the academic and professional success of its Scholars. This comprehensive assistance goes beyond just financial aid to include crucial developmental opportunities: * **Full tuition coverage:** All academic fees are paid directly by the scholarship. * **Accommodation and living expenses:** Scholars receive support for their housing and daily living costs. * **Mentorship and leadership development:** Access to programs designed to hone leadership skills and provide guidance throughout their academic journey. * **Internship and career support:** Opportunities for professional experience and assistance in launching successful careers post-graduation. * **Networking opportunities:** Chances to connect with fellow Scholars, mentors, and professionals, building a valuable network. * **Socio-economic support:** Additional assistance to help Scholars transition smoothly into university life and prepare for their future careers. ### Eligibility To be considered for the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program, applicants must meet specific academic, leadership, and financial criteria: * **Academic Excellence:** Applicants must demonstrate strong academic performance. * **Leadership Potential:** Candidates should exhibit leadership qualities and a commitment to making a positive impact in their communities. * **Financial Need:** Applicants must clearly demonstrate a need for financial assistance. * **O-Level Credits:** Must have passed WAEC/NECO/GCE/NABTEB with 5 credits, including English and Mathematics, and three other relevant subjects in Arts, Sciences, or Social Sciences, obtained in no more than two sittings. * **UTME Score:** A minimum score of 220 in the UTME is required. The required UTME subjects are English Language and any three Social Science, Arts, or Science subjects. **Priority Applicants:** The program particularly encourages applications from: * Young women interested in STEM programs. * Internally displaced young people. * Young people living with disabilities. Eligible applicants who do not fall within these priority groups are also welcome to apply. ### Required Documents The specific required documents are not explicitly listed in the provided text. However, based on the application process described, applicants will likely need to provide documents that verify their personal, academic, and background information when completing the online application form. It is highly recommended that applicants prepare the following: * **Academic Transcripts/Certificates:** Proof of WAEC/NECO/GCE/NABTEB results. * **UTME Result Slip:** Verification of their JAMB UTME score. * **Identification Documents:** Such as a national ID or birth certificate. * **Proof of Financial Need:** Documents that substantiate their socio-economic barriers. * **Personal Statement/Essays:** To demonstrate leadership potential and commitment to community impact. * **Letters of Recommendation:** Though not explicitly stated, these are common for scholarship applications. Applicants should carefully review the online application form for a definitive list of all required supporting documents. ### How to Apply The application process for the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at Pan-Atlantic University involves several key steps: 1. **Meet Academic Requirements:** Ensure you have a minimum of five (5) O’Level credits, including Mathematics and English Language, obtained in not more than two sittings. 2. **Fill Out the Application Interest Form:** If you do not yet have your UTME result, complete the Interest Form to indicate your interest and begin the screening process. 3. **Write the JAMB UTME:** Applicants must sit for the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME). A minimum score of 220 is required to proceed. 4. **Complete the Online Application Form:** Eligible candidates with current-year UTME results should complete the main application form, providing personal, academic, and background information, along with all required documentation. 5. **Screening and Shortlisting for Interviews:** Applications are reviewed for alignment with eligibility criteria. Shortlisted candidates will be invited for an interview, which may be conducted in-person or virtually. 6. **Admission and Scholarship Award:** Successful candidates will receive notifications of admission to Pan-Atlantic University and a formal scholarship award offer. There is no application fee required. ### Key Dates It is crucial for prospective applicants to adhere to the given deadlines to ensure their application is considered: * **Applications Open:** April 27th. * **Applications Close:** May 22nd, 2026. Early application is strongly encouraged due to the competitive nature of admissions and limited class sizes. Applicants should aim to submit all required forms and documents well in advance of the closing date. ### Selection Criteria The selection process for the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program is rigorous and aims to identify individuals who not only excel academically but also possess strong leadership qualities and a genuine commitment to social impact. Key criteria include: * **Academic Excellence:** Demonstrated strong performance in O-Level examinations and a qualifying UTME score. * **Leadership Potential:** Evidence of leadership abilities and a desire to effect positive change within their communities. * **Commitment to Impact:** A clear articulation of how they intend to contribute to their communities and the African continent. * **Financial Need:** Verification of socio-economic barriers, indicating a genuine need for scholarship support. * **Alignment with Program Priorities:** Preference given to young women interested in STEM, internally displaced young people, and young people living with disabilities. ### Tips Applying for a competitive scholarship like the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program requires careful preparation and attention to detail. Here are some tips for prospective applicants: * **Start Early:** Begin your application process as soon as possible to allow ample time for gathering documents, writing essays, and reviewing your submission. * **Understand Eligibility:** Thoroughly review all eligibility criteria to ensure you meet them before applying. * **Highlight Leadership and Impact:** During the application, clearly articulate your leadership experiences and your vision for making a positive impact in your community and Africa. * **Demonstrate Financial Need:** Provide comprehensive and honest information regarding your financial situation to substantiate your need for the scholarship. * **Prepare for UTME:** Achieve a strong UTME score, as a minimum of 220 is a prerequisite for progressing in the application. * **Proofread Everything:** Ensure all your forms and essays are free of grammatical errors and typos. A polished application reflects professionalism. * **Seek Assistance:** If available, ask teachers, mentors, or counselors to review your application before submission. * **Contact the Program:** If you have any questions, do not hesitate to reach out to the program contacts for clarification. ### Official Source For the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding The Pan-Atlantic University Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program 2026, please refer to the official university website: [https://pau.edu.ng/mastercard-foundation/](https://pau.edu.ng/mastercard-foundation/) Additionally, for specific inquiries, you can contact the program via email or phone: * **Email:** mastercardfoundationscholar@pau.edu.ng * **Phone:** * Ndidi: +234 708 864 1465 * David: +234 701 782 5427 * Lekan: +234 813 555 1765

يبقى الوصف التفصيلي للجهة المانحة بالإنجليزية لأنها لغة ملف التقديم.

منح مشابهة

• NNPC/Chevron JV National University Scholarship Awards (Nigeria) — Nigeria
• NNPC/Seplat JV National Undergraduate Scholarship (Nigeria) — Nigeria
• PTDF In-Country Scholarship Scheme (ISS) for Nigerian Students — Nigeria
• The Afreximbank Creative Africa Nexus programme (CANEX) short film competition 2026 — Nigeria
• National Disaster Management Centre External Bursary 2027 — South Africa
• Gbowee Peace Foundation Africa Local University Scholarship — Liberia