One of the most popular scholarships for Nigerian students is the MTN Foundation Scholarship. So, i’m going to help you prepare for it and win the scholarship.
Being a Nigerian student is not easy, especially when you don’t have a rich parent or uncle to sponsor you through school.
A lot of challenges awaits you as a student, between ASUU strikes messing up the calendar, the price of handouts going up, and the constant “billing” from every angle, “sapa” (being broke) is a constant threat to your GP.
But what if I told you that your late-night reading and those TDBs (Till Day Break) could actually pay off, literally?
The MTN Foundation Scholarship is an opportunity you shouldn’t miss. This is widely regarded as one of the “Holy Grails” of undergraduate funding in Nigeria.
It is not just a one-time payment; it is a partnership that supports you until you graduate, provided you keep your grades up.
If you are currently in your 200 Level (or equivalent in Poly) and you have been hunting for a lifeline, you are in the right place.
In this guide, we are going to break down everything you need to know about the MTN Foundation Scholarship, from the tricky CGPA requirement to navigating the MTN scholarship portal without tears.
READ ALSO: NNPC/Chevron Scholarship 2026: Application Guide & Past Questions
Table of Contents
What is the MTN Foundation Scholarship?
The MTN Foundation Scholarship is a CSR initiative by MTN Nigeria. The goal is simple: to reward academic excellence. They aren’t looking for the student with the best connections; they are looking for the student with the best brain.
Since its inception, this scheme has funded thousands of Nigerian youths. The beauty of this scholarship is the award amount.
Historically, scholars received N200,000 annually. However, recent updates suggest increments to N300,000 to help cope with current economic realities (always verify current figures on the official portal).
That money covers tuition, book allowances, and stipend. Imagine going through a whole session without calling home for urgent 2k? That is the peace of mind this scholarship offers.
MTN Scholarship Categories for Students
MTN separates this opportunity into two distinct paths. You need to know where you fit in before you start stressing about the application.
1. Science and Technology Scholarship
This is the most popular category. It is designed for students in public tertiary institutions (Universities, Polytechnics, and Colleges of Education). If you are studying a STEM course, this is your zone.
Eligible courses usually include:
- Computer Science & ICT
- Engineering (Electrical, Civil, Mechanical, etc.)
- Basic Sciences (Physics, Chemistry, Geology)
- Mathematics and Statistics
- Agricultural Extension and Rural Development
2. Blind Student Scholarship
In a bid to be inclusive, MTN has a specific scheme for visually impaired students.
This blind student scholarship is tailored to support bright students who face the unique challenge of navigating the Nigerian education system with visual impairments.
Note: The requirements for the Blind Student category are often slightly adjusted regarding the CGPA to encourage participation, but the academic standard remains high.
What Are The Requirements to Qualify?
Here is where the rubber meets the road. Many students apply blindly and get rejected. Don’t be that person. Pay close attention to the CGPA requirement.
For Universities and Colleges of Education
- Level: You must be a full-time undergraduate in 200 Level.
- CGPA: You need a minimum Cumulative Grade Point Average (CGPA) of 3.5 on a 5.0 scale (Second Class Upper).
- Alternative Scale: If your school uses a 4.0 scale, you need a minimum of 3.0.
For Polytechnics
- Level: You must be a full-time student in ND 2 or HND 1.
- Result: Minimum of Upper Credit from your ND 1 (for ND 2 applicants) or ND result (for HND 1 applicants).
- Direct Entry: If you are a Direct Entry student in a University, you must have a minimum of Upper Credit from your diploma.
General Requirements (The Fine Print)
- Admission Letter: You must have a valid JAMB admission letter.
- No Carryovers: This is crucial. If you had a carryover in Year 1 that you are still dragging, the system will likely filter you out.
- Dual Scholarship Ban: You cannot hold the MTN scholarship if you are already enjoying another scholarship (like Chevron, PTDF, or Total).
ALSO: Check out other Scholarship Opportunities here
How to Apply on the MTN Scholarship
Applying for this scholarship is a process. The MTN scholarship portal usually opens once a year (often around June-August, but dates vary due to academic calendar disruptions).
Follow these steps to ensure your application doesn’t get “lost in transit.”
- Gather Your Documents:
- Two recent passport photographs.
- Valid Student ID card.
- Admission Letter from JAMB and your Institution.
- Result statement for 100 Level (signed by HOD or Exams Officer).
- LGA Identification Letter.
- Visit the Portal: Go to the official MTN Foundation website. (Ensure you are on the secure site: usually
foundation.mtnonline.com). - Create an Account: Sign up using a valid email address and phone number (preferably an MTN line, it just makes sense, right?).
- Fill the Form: Enter your personal details, academic history, and bank details accurately.
- Pro-Tip: Double-check your Matric Number and CGPA entry. A typo here can disqualify you.
- Upload Documents: Scan your documents clearly. Fuzzy or dark images will get your application tossed out.
- Submit and Pray: Once you submit, you will get a confirmation email. Keep it safe.
How to Crush the Aptitude Test
Getting shortlisted is only Stage 1.
Stage 2 is the Aptitude Test. This is where the real battle happens.
- The Format: The test is usually organized by Dragnet. If you know Dragnet, you know they love logical reasoning, verbal reasoning, and numerical reasoning (Maths).
- Time Management: It is a speed test. You don’t have time to press a calculator for 5 minutes on one question.
- Past Questions: Start practicing with GMAT or Dragnet past questions immediately you apply. Don’t wait for the shortlist email.
Important Warnings & Disclaimer
DISCLAIMER: Campus Hustle NG is an informational blog. We are not affiliated with MTN.
Safety Alert: The MTN Foundation Scholarship application is FREE. Do not pay anyone who promises to “process” the application for you. Anyone asking for money to “upgrade your CGPA” or “guarantee” the scholarship is a scammer. Report them. Always verify information on the official MTN Foundation website.
In Summary
Securing the MTN Foundation Scholarship is a game-changer. It transforms your university experience from “managing” to “thriving.”
It requires effort, a high CGPA in Year 1 and a sharp mind for the aptitude test, but the reward is absolutely worth it. N200,000+ might not buy a G-Wagon, but in this economy? It goes a very long way.
So, dust off those 100 Level results and start preparing.
Over to you: What is your current CGPA, and which other scholarships are you applying for this session? Drop a comment below, let’s rub minds.
See More Undergraduate Scholarship Opportunities
FAQs About the MTN Foundation Scholarship
Can 100 Level students apply for the MTN Scholarship?
No. The scholarship is strictly for 200 Level students (Universities) or ND 2/HND 1 (Polytechnics) because the board needs to see your first-year academic results to verify your CGPA.
Is the MTN Scholarship renewable every year?
Yes! Once you win, you keep receiving the fund until graduation, provided you maintain the required CGPA (usually 3.5) and stay out of disciplinary trouble.
Does the scholarship cover Law or Medicine?
Generally, the main scheme is the Science and Technology scholarship. However, blind students studying Law or Liberal Arts can apply under the Blind Student category.
Always check the current year’s guidelines as eligible courses can be updated.
When is the deadline for the MTN Scholarship?
The deadline varies annually. We advise subscribing to our newsletter or checking the MTN portal frequently.
Usually, the application window is open for 2-3 weeks once announced.
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