Over the years, MTN has provided scholarships to thousands of deserving students, recognizing academic excellence and helping to ease the financial burden of tertiary education. But how do you qualify for this scholarship? Let me walk you through everything you need to know.
Types of MTN Scholarships
The MTN Foundation offers three main scholarship programs, each targeting specific categories of students:
- MTN Science and Technology Scholarship (MTN STS): This is the most popular scholarship category. It’s designed for 300-level students studying science and technology-related courses in Nigerian public universities, polytechnics, and colleges of education.
- MTN Scholarship for Blind Students (MTN SBS): Created to support visually impaired students, this scholarship is open to 200- and 300-level blind students enrolled in any course at Nigerian public tertiary institutions.
- Top 10 UTME Scholarship: If you’re one of the top 10 highest scorers in the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME), you automatically qualify for this scholarship. It doesn’t matter what course you’re studying or whether you’re in a public or private institution—your high score secures the spot!
Eligibility Requirements
Before applying, you need to ensure you meet the criteria for the specific scholarship you’re interested in.
General Requirements:
- Nigerian Public Institutions Only: Applicants must be enrolled in Nigerian public universities, polytechnics, or colleges of education. Private school students, unfortunately, are not eligible for most categories.
- Academic Performance: MTN places a strong emphasis on grades. Below is a breakdown based on the scholarship type:
- MTN STS:
- For universities and colleges of education: Minimum CGPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale or 3.5 on a 5.0 scale (Second Class Upper).
- For polytechnics: Minimum CGPA of 3.0 (Upper Credit) from the Ordinary National Diploma (OND) program. You must also have secured admission into a Higher National Diploma (HND) program.
- MTN SBS (for blind students):
- For universities: Minimum CGPA of 2.5.
- For polytechnics: Minimum CGPA of 2.0 from the OND program and admission into the HND program.
- Top 10 UTME Scholarship: No CGPA requirement. You just need to be among the top 10 highest scorers in the UTME.
Application Process
Applying for the MTN scholarship is pretty straightforward. Here’s how to go about it:
- Create an Account: Head to the MTN Foundation Scholarship Portal to create your account. You’ll need to provide basic information like your name, email, and phone number.
- Fill Out the Application Form: Once logged in, complete the application form with accurate personal and academic details. Double-check for any errors.
- Upload Required Documents: Prepare your documents in advance. These typically include:
- A recent passport photograph.
- A valid means of identification (e.g., school ID or national ID).
- Admission letter.
- Academic transcripts.
- Letter of recommendation (optional but beneficial).
- Submit and Wait: After filling out the form and uploading your documents, hit submit. MTN will review your application, and shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
Scholarship Benefits
The MTN Scholarship is more than just a financial aid program—it’s a lifeline for many students. Successful applicants receive an annual sum of ₦300,000, which can be used to cover tuition fees, textbooks, and living expenses. Even better, the scholarship is renewable every year until you graduate, provided you maintain the required academic performance.
Important Notes
Here are a few things to keep in mind when applying:
- Deadline: The application period usually opens around May or June each year, with deadlines typically in June. Always check the MTN website for updates.
- Selection Process: Shortlisted candidates are often required to meet with a panel for further assessment. Be prepared to present yourself professionally.
- Exclusivity: If you’re already receiving another scholarship, you might not be eligible for the MTN Scholarship. MTN prefers to assist those who don’t have other forms of financial aid.
In conclusion, MTN Foundation Scholarship is one of the most reputable and generous scholarship programs in Nigeria. If you meet the eligibility criteria, don’t hesitate to apply. Not only does it offer financial relief, but it also adds a prestigious recognition to your academic achievements.
Have you applied for the MTN Scholarship before? Share your experience in the comments below! And if you have any questions, feel free to ask—I’ll be happy to help.