Jim Ovia Scholarship (MustE) for Nigerian Undergraduates

As a student in Nigeria, you need to apply for the Jim Ovia Scholarship and get that funds. Between the skyrocketing cost of handouts, hostel fees hitting the roof, and the constant fear of ASUU strikes delaying your graduation, “sapa” is a real enemy.

But what if I told you there’s a way to secure your funding so you can focus on your books instead of worrying about your next school fee receipt?

The Jim Ovia scholarship isn’t just any regular funding; it is one of the most prestigious private sector scholarships in Nigeria, backed by the founder of Zenith Bank, Mr. Jim Ovia.

Whether you are a fresh 100-level student or returning for another session, this scholarship is a lifeline designed to empower the youths of this country.

In this guide, we will break down exactly how to ace the MustE application, what documents you need, and how to position yourself to win.

Note: Competition for this scholarship is fierce, thousands apply every year. Read this guide to the end to get the “Campus Hustle” advantage.

READ ALSO: NNPC/Chevron Scholarship 2026: Application Guide & Past Questions

What is the Jim Ovia Scholarship (MustE)?

The Jim Ovia Foundation Leaders Scholarship (formerly and popularly known as MUSTE) is an initiative born out of a desire to invest in the future of Africa.

It is a premier banking scholarship funded by Mr. Jim Ovia, aimed at providing funding for youth who have the brainpower but lack the financial muscle to push through the Nigerian university system.

Unlike some federal government scholarships where you might wait months for disbursement, private scholarships like this are generally more consistent.

If you are selected, you become part of a network of “Jim Ovia Leaders”, a title that looks incredible on your CV even before you graduate.

ALSO: See More Undergraduate Scholarships Here

Eligibility: Who Can Apply for this Scholarship?

Before you rush to the cyber café or open your laptop, let’s make sure you qualify. The foundation is looking for future leaders, not just anyone.

To apply for the Jim Ovia scholarship, you generally need to meet these criteria:

1. Citizenship: You must be a Nigerian citizen.
2. Institution: You must be enrolled in a recognized Nigerian Federal or State University. (Private universities are sometimes excluded depending on the specific cohort, so check the portal).
3. Level of Study: Open to undergraduates (100-level and above) and sometimes postgraduates.
4. Academic Standing:
   • You usually need a strong academic record. A Second Class Upper (2.1) or a First Class is highly advantageous.
   • For freshers, a high JAMB score is a major booster.
5. Leadership: They want to see funding for youth who will change Nigeria. You need to demonstrate leadership qualities and a desire to contribute to society.
6. Duration: The scholarship is renewable annually, provided you maintain good grades and good conduct.

How Much is the Scholarship Worth?

While the exact figure can change based on the economic reality (we all know how the Naira fluctuates), the Jim Ovia scholarship is known to be substantial.

Typically, it covers:

• Tuition Fees: Paid directly or reimbursed to the student.
• Personal Allowance: A stipend for accommodation and books.

In previous years, beneficiaries received up to N150,000 per annum, but recent partnerships (like with the Africa-America Institute) have aimed to offer full tuition and accommodation costs for high-potential leaders.

Even at the base level, that is a huge relief for the average Nigerian family.

Required Documents for the MustE Application

You don’t want to start the application and get stuck because you can’t find your O’Level result. Gather these soft copies (scanned clearly) before you begin:

• Valid Student ID Card: Or your admission letter if you haven’t gotten an ID yet.
• Passport Photograph: Recent and clear white background.
• Birth Certificate: Or a sworn affidavit of age declaration.
• O’Level Result: WAEC or NECO certificate.
• JAMB Result: Original slip.
• Local Government of Origin Certificate: To prove your citizenship details.
• Letter of Recommendation: Ideally from your HOD or a community leader attesting to your character.
• Personal Statement/Essay: This is where you sell yourself (more on this below).

READ ALSO: MTN Foundation Scholarship: Requirements for 200 Level Students

How to Apply for the Jim Ovia Scholarship in 2026

Ready to secure that Zenith Bank scholarship (Jim Ovia Scholarship) funding? Simply follow these steps carefully.

Step 1: Visit the Official Portal

Go to the official Jim Ovia Foundation website. Do not use third-party links that ask for money.

Tip: Ensure you have a strong data connection. The portal can get congested, and you don’t want it to crash while uploading files.

Step 2: Create an Account

Locate the MustE application tab. You will need to register with an active email address. Use a professional email (e.g., david.nwaeze@gmail.com, not sexyboydavid@yahoo.com).

Step 3: Fill in Personal & Academic Details

Input your matric number, department, CGPA, and contact details accurately. Any mismatch between this and your uploaded documents will lead to disqualification.

Step 4: Write the Essay

You will likely be asked why you deserve the scholarship.

• Don’t: Beg or write a “sob story” about poverty alone.
• Do: Focus on your ambition. How will this scholarship help you become a leader? How will you help Nigeria in the future? Mention your interest in the private sector scholarship ecosystem and how you plan to give back.

Step 5: Upload Documents

Scan your documents clearly. No blurry cam-scanner photos taken in a dark room! Use a flatbed scanner at a business center if you have to.

Step 6: Review and Submit

Double-check everything. Once you hit submit, you usually cannot edit.

READ ALSO: PTDF Undergraduate Scholarship for Nigerian Students: How to Apply

Scholarship Tips to Boost Your Chances to win

Look, this is Nigeria. Being qualified isn’t enough; you have to be smart.

• Apply Early: Don’t wait for the deadline day. That is when the server usually crashes because everyone is rushing.
• Social Proof: If you are the Class Rep, a fellowship leader, or run a small business on campus, put it in your CV/Application. They love proactive students.
• Check Your Email: Check your Spam folder regularly. You don’t want to miss the interview invite because Google thought it was junk.

Important Disclaimer & Safety Warning

The Jim Ovia Foundation does NOT charge money for the application. If anyone asks you to pay N2,000 for a “processing fee” or to “buy the form,” run!

That is a scammer trying to eat your hard-earned money. Always verify information on the official foundation website.

Also, applying for this scholarship does not guarantee you will get it. It is highly competitive. Do not rely on it as your only plan for school fees.

Keep your side hustles and other scholarship applications active.

FAQs on Jim Ovia Scholarship (MustE)

Is the Jim Ovia Scholarship (MustE) currently open?

Scholarship windows open annually, usually towards the end of the year or early in the new academic session.

Keep an eye on the Jim Ovia Foundation website or subscribe to Campus Hustle NG updates to know immediately when the portal opens.

Can polytechnic students apply for the Jim Ovia scholarship?

Historically, the MUSTE scholarship has been focused on University undergraduates. However, criteria can change.

It is best to check the specific guidelines released for the current year’s cohort.

Does the scholarship cover students in Private Universities?

Generally, the focus is on Federal and State institutions due to the cost structures, but high-performing students in some private networks have been considered in specific partnership programs.

Is this the same as the Zenith Bank Scholarship?

They are often used interchangeably because Mr. Jim Ovia is the founder of Zenith Bank. The funds come from his personal foundation, but the values align closely with the excellence associated with the bank.

READ ALSO: Full List of Undergraduate Scholarships for Nigerian Students

In Summary

The Jim Ovia scholarship is more than just free money; it is a validation of your potential as a Nigerian youth.

Winning this private sector scholarship can relieve the burden on your parents and give you the peace of mind to chase that First Class degree.

Don’t screen yourself out. Gather your documents, write a killer essay, and submit that MustE application. The worst that can happen is they say no.

The best that can happen? You graduate debt-free.

Have you applied for this scholarship before? Or do you have questions about the essay? Drop a comment below, and let’s rub minds!

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