UndergraduateFully-funded (full tuition coverage, accommodation, living expenses, mentorship, leadership development, internship and career support, networking opportunities)

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

Last verified 12 May 2026 by the Scholarships for Africans editorial team

The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at Pan-Atlantic University offers full scholarships to exceptional young Africans facing financial or socio-economic barriers, emphasizing leadership development and community impact. The program prioritizes young women, refugees, displaced youths, and young persons with disabilities, providing comprehensive support for academic and professional success.

Provider: Pan-Atlantic University
Host country: Nigeria
Deadline: May 22nd, 2026
Region: Africa

Official source Track this application

Topics

Applying from your country? See your edition: Kenya · Nigeria · Ghana · Ethiopia · Uganda · Tanzania · Rwanda · Angola · Mozambique · São Tomé & Príncipe · Senegal · Cameroon · Ivory Coast · Benin · Togo · DR Congo

Eligibility & requirements at a glance

Review the recorded eligibility, funding and deadline information below. Confirm the current award conditions on the provider's official source.

Who can apply: 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.
Funding: Fully-funded (full tuition coverage, accommodation, living expenses, mentorship, leadership development, internship and career support, networking opportunities)
Study level: Undergraduate
Deadline: May 22nd, 2026

Key eligibility criteria

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.

Recorded funding information

Fully-funded (full tuition coverage, accommodation, living expenses, mentorship, leadership development, internship and career support, networking opportunities)

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

## 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

Funding information

The funding information below is recorded in this listing; it does not establish additional covered components. Check amounts, caps, exclusions and conditions on the official source.

Fully-funded (full tuition coverage, accommodation, living expenses, mentorship, leadership development, internship and career support, networking opportunities)

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

Always cross-check eligibility against the sponsor's official site before applying — sponsor rules can change between intakes.

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.

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

No explicit document checklist is recorded here. If an application is required, prepare only the materials the provider requests.

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

Follow the provider's stated process. The checks below are guidance, not additional application requirements. Any original editorial instructions remain in the description above.

1
Check the provider's process
Consult https://pau.edu.ng/mastercard-foundation/ to confirm whether consideration is automatic or requires an application, and follow only the process stated there.
2
Check eligibility and any requested materials
Listed eligibility: 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.. Confirm the current criteria and, if submission is required, use the provider's own checklist.
3
Check dates and next steps
Listed deadline information: May 22nd, 2026. Confirm any cutoff, time zone and follow-up process with the provider.

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

Provider deadline information: May 22nd, 2026. This text cannot be safely converted to a countdown; check the official source for its meaning. The earlier milestones are optional planning suggestions only.

Planning suggestion: 12 months out
Check the current call and decide whether this opportunity fits your plans.
Planning suggestion: 6 months out
If the provider requires tests or documents that take time, plan for them using its published instructions.
Planning suggestion: 3 months out
If an application is required, review the provider's process and prepare only the materials it requests.
Planning suggestion: 1 month out
If submission is required, allow time to check your materials and any stated cutoff.
Provider deadline
May 22nd, 2026
Provider deadline information: May 22nd, 2026. Confirm the current instructions and any cutoff or time zone on the official source; no additional time is assumed here.

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Frequently asked questions

Who can apply for the The Pan‑Atlantic University Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program 2026 for young Africans (Fully Funded)?+

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.

What funding does the The Pan‑Atlantic University Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program 2026 for young Africans (Fully Funded) offer?+

Listed funding: Fully-funded (full tuition coverage, accommodation, living expenses, mentorship, leadership development, internship and career support, networking opportunities). Confirm amounts, exclusions and conditions on the official source. This label does not establish any additional benefit components.

When is the application deadline?+

Provider deadline information: May 22nd, 2026. Confirm the current cutoff and any time zone on the official source; no additional cutoff or late-submission policy is assumed here.

What documents do I need to apply?+

No explicit document checklist is recorded here. If an application is required, prepare only the documents requested by the provider; requirements may differ from admission requirements.

How do I check the application process?+

Consult https://pau.edu.ng/mastercard-foundation/ to confirm whether consideration is automatic or requires an application, and follow only the process stated there. Listed eligibility: 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.. Confirm the current criteria and, if submission is required, use the provider's own checklist. Listed deadline information: May 22nd, 2026. Confirm any cutoff, time zone and follow-up process with the provider.

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