How to Apply for the MTN Foundation Scholarship 2026 (Step-by-Step Guide)

MTN Foundation Scholarship 2026: Education in Nigeria is expensive, and many students struggle to pay tuition and fees while keeping up with living expenses. To ease this burden, the MTN Foundation Scholarship has become one of the most respected and competitive scholarships in the country.

Every year, MTN Nigeria, through its foundation, offers financial assistance to high-performing students in Nigerian universities, polytechnics, and colleges of education. Thousands apply, but only the best are selected.

If you’re a student looking to fund your studies in 2026, this guide explains everything you need to know—from eligibility criteria to the application process and selection procedures.

Eligibility Requirements for MTN Scholarship 2026

Before applying, ensure you meet the basic conditions. MTN usually sets clear requirements, which remain similar each year with slight adjustments.

For 2026, candidates must:

  1. Be a full-time student in a recognized Nigerian public university, polytechnic, or college of education.

  2. Be in their 200-level or 300-level (for universities on a 5-year program). Yes, the applicant must have finished their 200-level first semester’s examinations and those in 300-level.

  3. Have a minimum CGPA of 3.5 (Second Class Upper) or its equivalent in polytechnics (Upper Credit).

  4. Be studying science, technology, engineering, or mathematics (STEM) courses. Some non-STEM courses are also accepted depending on MTN’s annual priority list.

  5. Not currently benefit from any other major scholarship.

Example: If you are in UNILAG, UI, UNN, or FUTA studying Engineering with a CGPA of 4.2/5.0 in 200-level, you are eligible to apply.

Interestingly, the scholarship is also available to blind students. Yes, the MTN Scholarship for Blind Students (SBS) application is open to 200 and 300 level blind students in any Nigerian Public Tertiary Institutions (Universities, Polytechnics, & Colleges of Education). Although for blind students studying Law, which is a 5 years course, only 300 level students can apply.

Also read: Latest JAMB Cut-Off Marks for All Nigerian Universities 2025

According to the MTN Foundation, the MTN Scholarship for Blind Students (SBS) is for applicants in the Universities or Colleges of Education with a minimum Cumulative Grade Point Average (CGPA) of 2.5 and those in Public Polytechnics with a minimum Cumulative Grade Point Average (CGPA) of 2.0 from the Ordinary National Diploma (OND) Program.

Scholarship Benefits (Amount, Duration, Courses)

The MTN Foundation Scholarship is one of the most generous in Nigeria. Successful students enjoy:

  • ₦300,000 per year (covering tuition, books, and living costs).

  • Renewable annually until graduation, provided the student maintains good academic standing.

  • Open to STEM fields (Engineering, Mathematics, Computer Science, Medicine, Pure Sciences, etc.), though a few non-STEM courses may also qualify depending on MTN’s focus for the year.

Over the years, MTN has sponsored over 10,000 Nigerian students, making it a highly competitive but rewarding opportunity.

Documents Needed for Application

To avoid delays, prepare the following documents before applying:

  • A recent passport photograph.

  • Valid student ID card issued by your institution.

  • Admission letter from JAMB or your school.

  • O’Level result (WAEC/NECO) showing at least 5 credits including Mathematics and English.

  • Official statement of result or transcript showing your current CGPA.

  • Birth certificate or sworn age declaration.

  • Proof of local government or state of origin certificate.

Step-by-Step Application Process

Follow these steps carefully to apply:

1. Visit the Official Portal

First off, you will need to go to the MTN Foundation Scholarship portal: www.mtn.ng/scholarships.

2. Create an Account

  • Once you are on the MTN scholarship registration portal, locate and click on “Apply for MTN foundation scholarship 2026” button. Now, you will need to register with a valid email and password

How to Apply for the MTN Foundation Scholarship 2025 (Step-by-Step Guide)

  • Verify your email before proceeding.

3. Fill in Personal Information

Enter your full name, phone number, date of birth, gender, state of origin, and local government.

4. Provide Academic Details

  • Institution name (e.g., UNIBEN, FUTMINNA, LASU).

  • Matriculation number.

  • Course of study and level.

  • Current CGPA.

5. Upload Required Documents

Make sure your documents are clear, properly scanned, and below the required file size.

6. Review and Submit

Double-check all details before submitting. Mistakes (e.g., wrong CGPA entry) may lead to disqualification.

7. Confirmation

After submission, you will get an email confirmation. Keep it safe as proof of application.

Application Deadline and Portal Link

Tip: Apply early. Many students rush to apply in the final week, which can cause server delays.

Selection Process & Announcement of Winners

The MTN Foundation uses a strict selection method:

  1. Initial Screening – Applications are reviewed for eligibility (CGPA, course, documents).

  2. Aptitude Test – Shortlisted candidates are invited to an online/offline test covering verbal, quantitative, and logical reasoning.

  3. Final Selection – Candidates with top performance in the test are awarded the scholarship.

  4. Announcement – Results are published on the MTN Foundation website and successful candidates are notified via email/SMS.

Conclusion

The MTN Foundation Scholarship 2026 is a golden opportunity for hardworking Nigerian students to reduce financial stress and focus on their academics. If you meet the requirements, gather your documents early and submit your application before the deadline.

Education is an investment, and MTN is helping students secure a brighter future. Don’t miss out—apply today.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) on MTN Foundation Scholarship 2026

1. What is the MTN Foundation Scholarship?
It is a yearly financial aid program by MTN Nigeria to support bright but financially challenged students in Nigerian institutions.

2. How much is the MTN Scholarship worth in 2026?
Each beneficiary receives ₦300,000 per session until graduation.

3. Who funds the MTN Scholarship?
It is fully sponsored by the MTN Nigeria Foundation as part of its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR).

4. How many students benefit each year?
On average, 500–1,000 students are awarded annually.

5. Can I apply if I’m a 100-level student?
No. Only 200-level or 300-level (for 5-year courses) students can apply.

Eligibility

6. What CGPA do I need to qualify?
A minimum of 3.5/5.0 (Second Class Upper) or its equivalent in polytechnics (Upper Credit).

7. Are private universities eligible?
No. The scholarship is only for students in public universities, polytechnics, and colleges of education.

8. Can part-time students apply?
No. Only full-time students are eligible.

9. What courses are accepted?
Mostly STEM fields (Engineering, Computer Science, Medicine, Mathematics, Pure Sciences, etc.), though some non-STEM courses may be considered.

10. Can postgraduate students apply?
No. It is strictly for undergraduate students.

Application Process

11. Where can I apply for MTN Scholarship 2026?
On the official portal: www.mtn.ng/scholarships.

12. Is the application free?
Yes. MTN does not charge any fee. Beware of scammers.

13. Can I edit my application after submission?
No. Review carefully before submitting, as edits are not allowed.

14. What happens if I submit fake documents?
You will be disqualified, and your institution may be notified.

15. Can I apply with a phone instead of a laptop?
Yes, as long as your documents are properly scanned and uploaded.

Selection & Results

16. How are candidates shortlisted?
Based on eligibility, CGPA, and proper documentation.

17. Is there an exam?
Yes. Shortlisted candidates write an aptitude test.

18. How can I prepare for the test?
Practice verbal reasoning, logical reasoning, and quantitative aptitude questions.

19. How will I know if I am shortlisted?
MTN will send an email and SMS to selected applicants.

20. How are winners announced?
Names are published on the official MTN Foundation Scholarship portal.

After Winning

21. How is the ₦300,000 paid?
Directly into the student’s bank account.

22. Is the scholarship renewable?
Yes. Winners keep receiving it every year until graduation if they maintain the required CGPA.

23. Can I combine MTN with other scholarships?
No. Beneficiaries must not be on any other major scholarship scheme.

24. Will my school be notified if I win?
Yes. MTN often confirms details with institutions.

25. Can I lose the scholarship after winning?
Yes, if your CGPA falls below the minimum requirement or if you violate MTN’s rules.

Deadlines & Miscellaneous

26. When does the application open?
Usually around June 2026.

27. When is the deadline?
Around July 2026, though dates may change.

28. Can foreign students apply?
No. It is only for Nigerian citizens studying in Nigeria.

29. Does the scholarship cover postgraduate studies abroad?
No. It is strictly for undergraduates in Nigeria.

30. Who can I contact for help?
Visit the official portal or contact MTN Foundation via their support email.

This comprehensive guide should make your post rank higher on Google and give Nigerian students all the information they need about the MTN Scholarship 2026.

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