The Mastercard Foundation Scholarship 2026 at Pan-Atlantic University is a fully funded undergraduate program for academically talented but financially disadvantaged young Africans, especially Nigerians. It covers full tuition, accommodation, living expenses, mentorship, and career support, aiming to develop ethical, service-driven leaders.
Pan-Atlantic University (PAU) is the first Nigerian university to partner with the Mastercard Foundation. Over ten years, the program will support 650 scholars, with 60 already enrolled. PAU focuses on inclusive education, prioritizing young women, refugees, displaced youths, and persons with disabilities.
Mastercard Foundation Scholarship Benefits
- Full tuition coverage
- Accommodation and living expenses
- Mentorship and leadership development
- Internship and career support
- Networking opportunities
Mastercard Foundation Scholarship Eligibility Criteria
- Demonstrate academic excellence
- Show leadership potential and a commitment to making a positive impact in their communities
- Demonstrate financial need
- Have passed WAEC/NECO/GCE/NABTEB with 5 credits, including English and Mathematics, and three other relevant subjects in Arts, Sciences, or Social Sciences (in not more than two sittings)
- Have a UTME minimum score of 220 (Required UTME subjects: English Language and any three Social Science, Arts, or Science subjects)
- Priority given to young women interested in STEM programmes, internally displaced young people, and young people living with disabilities
How to Apply for Mastercard Foundation Scholarship?
- Step 1: Meet the Academic Requirements – Applicants must have a minimum of five (5) O’Level credits, including Mathematics and English Language, obtained in not more than two sittings.
- Step 2: Fill Out the Application Interest Form – Interested candidates who DO NOT yet have their UTME result should complete the Interest Form to indicate their interest.
- Step 3: Write the JAMB UTME – Applicants must sit for the JAMB UTME and achieve a minimum score of 220.
- Step 4: Complete the Online Application Form – Eligible candidates with current-year UTME results should complete the application form with personal, academic, and background information.
- Step 5: Screening and Shortlisting for Interviews – Applications are reviewed; shortlisted candidates are invited for an interview (in-person or virtual).
- Step 6: Admission and Scholarship Award – Successful candidates receive admission into Pan-Atlantic University and a formal scholarship award offer.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are the most frequently asked questions about the Mastercard Foundation Scholarship at Pan-Atlantic University. These answers cover eligibility, benefits, deadlines, and how to apply.
Is there any fee required to apply?
No. Applying to the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at Pan-Atlantic University does not require any fee.
What does the Mastercard Foundation Scholarship cover?
The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at Pan-Atlantic University provides comprehensive support, covering tuition, accommodation, and learning resource costs. It also offers socio-economic support to help scholars transition smoothly into university life and prepare for successful careers.
What’s it like to be a Mastercard Foundation Scholar?
Mastercard Foundation Scholars are leaders and changemakers, both during their studies and after graduation. A core principle is giving back to their communities through various volunteer and community service opportunities at Pan-Atlantic University.
Who can apply for this Mastercard Foundation Scholarship?
Applicants must demonstrate academic excellence, leadership potential, and financial need. They must have at least 5 O’Level credits including English and Mathematics, and a UTME score of 220 or above. Priority is given to young women in STEM, internally displaced persons, and persons with disabilities.
What is the application deadline?
Applications open on April 27th and close on 22nd May 2026. Early application is strongly encouraged as admissions are competitive and class sizes are limited.
How do I apply for the Mastercard Foundation Scholarship?
First, meet the academic requirements. Then fill out the interest form if you don’t have your UTME result yet. Write the JAMB UTME and score at least 220. Complete the online application form with your details and documents. Shortlisted candidates will be interviewed, and successful ones will receive admission and a scholarship offer.
What are the benefits of the scholarship?
The scholarship includes full tuition coverage, accommodation and living expenses, mentorship and leadership development, internship and career support, and networking opportunities.
Is this scholarship for undergraduate or postgraduate studies?
This scholarship is for undergraduate studies at Pan-Atlantic University.
Who is the host institution?
The host institution is Pan-Atlantic University (PAU) in Lagos, Nigeria. PAU is the first Nigerian university to partner with the Mastercard Foundation for this program.
How many scholars does the program aim to support?
Over the next decade, the program aims to support 650 scholars. To date, 60 scholars have joined the first cohort, and the next cycle aims to welcome an additional 70 scholars.
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