Are you a Nigerian student seeking financial support to boost your academic journey? The MTN Foundation offers a fantastic opportunity through its MTN Scholarships Program, specially designed to recognize and reward high-performing students across Nigeria’s public tertiary institutions. This comprehensive article aims to help you understand the various categories of scholarships available and how you can apply to get this golden chance.
Categories of MTN Scholarships
The MTN Scholarships Program comprises of three distinct categories:
- MTN Science and Technology Scholarship (MTN STS): This scholarship Initiated in 2010 supports 300-level (third year) students enrolled in science and technology related courses. Each eligible student receives a generous award of N300,000 annually until graduation, only if they maintain required grades.
- MTN Scholarship for Blind Students (MTN SBS): Since 2012, this scholarship caters specifically to blind students at the 200 and 300 levels (second and third year), regardless of their field of study. From 2024, 100 deserving students will receive N300,000 each year until they graduate, depends on the academic performance.
- Top 10 UTME Scholarship: If you’re among the top 10 scorers in the UTME, you automatically qualify for this scholarship, which covers your tuition from first year through to graduation. What’s more, from 2024, the award amount has been increased to N300,000 per annum. This scholarship is open irrespective of your chosen course or the nature of your institution whether its public or private.
Eligibility Criteria
To apply for these scholarships, you need to meet specific eligibility criteria tailored to each category:
Institution of Study:
You must be at a public tertiary institution in Nigeria (like a university, polytechnic, or college of education).
Course of Study:
- For the MTN STS, you need to be a 300-level (third-year) student in a science or technology field.
- For the MTN SBS, blind students in any field can apply, whether they are in their second or third year (200 and 300-level).
Level of Study:
- The MTN STS is available to students transitioning from 200 to 300 level, as well as those currently in their 300 level.
- The MTN SBS is open to blind students at the 200 and 300 levels, including Law students in their 300 level.
Cumulative Grade Point Average (CGPA):
- MTN STS candidates in universities and colleges must have a minimum CGPA of 3.0/4 or 3.5/5. Those in polytechnics must have a CGPA of 3.0 from the OND program and be admitted into the HND program.
- MTN SBS candidates need a minimum CGPA of 2.5 in universities or colleges and 2.0 in polytechnics, also from the OND program with admission to the HND program.
Application Process
Make sure you gather all necessary documents and meet the eligibility criteria. Applications are typically submitted online through the MTN Foundation’s portal. Keep an eye on the official website for updates and deadlines for the 2024 scholarships.
