The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at Pan-Atlantic University (PAU) is a transformative, fully funded scholarship initiative designed to provide access to world-class education, leadership development, and career opportunities for exceptional young Africans facing financial and socio-economic barriers.
As part of a long-term partnership with the Mastercard Foundation, Pan-Atlantic University is committed to nurturing ethical, service-driven leaders who will drive meaningful change across Africa. This initiative reflects a strong commitment to inclusion, equity, and sustainable development by prioritizing underserved and underrepresented groups.
Overview of the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at Pan-Atlantic University
The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at PAU is a prestigious initiative aimed at empowering talented African youth through education and leadership training. The program focuses on individuals who demonstrate:
- Strong academic potential
- Leadership capacity
- A commitment to community impact
- Financial need
Pan-Atlantic University is the first Nigerian university to partner with the Mastercard Foundation, with a goal of supporting 650 scholars over a ten-year period.
Current Impact and Cohort Statistics
The program has already made significant strides:
- 60 Scholars enrolled in the first cohort
- 80% are young women
- 20% are young men
- 6.7% are persons with disabilities
- 3.3% are refugees or displaced youths
With the next intake, the university aims to admit an additional 70 scholars, further expanding its impact.
What Makes This Scholarship Unique?
This program is not just a scholarship—it is a holistic development pathway that combines academic excellence with leadership training and career readiness. It is specifically designed to remove barriers that prevent talented African youth from accessing higher education.
Key Benefits of the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program
Selected scholars will receive comprehensive support throughout their academic journey, including:
1. Full Financial Support
- Full tuition coverage
- Accommodation
- Living expenses
2. Leadership and Personal Development
- Structured mentorship programs
- Leadership training and capacity building
- Exposure to ethical leadership practices
3. Career and Professional Opportunities
- Internship placements
- Career guidance and support
- Access to professional networks
4. Networking and Global Exposure
- Engagement with a network of Mastercard Foundation Scholars
- Opportunities to connect with global leaders and changemakers
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must meet the following academic and personal requirements:
Academic Requirements
- Must demonstrate academic excellence
- Must have passed WAEC, NECO, GCE, or NABTEB with:
- At least 5 credits, including:
- English Language
- Mathematics
- Three other relevant subjects
- At least 5 credits, including:
- Results must be obtained in not more than two sittings
UTME Requirements
- Minimum UTME score of 220
- Required subjects:
- English Language
- Any three subjects from Arts, Sciences, or Social Sciences
Personal Requirements
- Demonstrated leadership potential
- Proven commitment to community impact
- Demonstrated financial need
Priority Groups
While the program is open to all qualified applicants, priority is given to:
- Young women, especially those interested in STEM fields
- Internally displaced persons and refugees
- Young people living with disabilities
However, applicants outside these categories are still encouraged to apply if they meet the eligibility criteria.
Program Goals and Vision
The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at PAU aims to:
- Promote Inclusive Education
- Ensure access for marginalized and underserved groups
- Develop Ethical Leaders
- Equip scholars with values-driven leadership skills
- Foster Community Impact
- Encourage scholars to contribute to societal development
- Strengthen Africa’s Future Workforce
- Prepare graduates for impactful careers across sectors
Selection Process
The selection process is highly competitive and designed to identify candidates who demonstrate:
- Academic excellence
- Leadership ability
- Passion for social impact
- Financial need
Applicants are encouraged to present strong applications that reflect both their academic achievements and their commitment to community development.
Why You Should Apply
The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at Pan-Atlantic University offers a rare opportunity to:
- Access fully funded higher education in Nigeria
- Gain leadership and professional development skills
- Join a powerful network of African changemakers
- Build a career focused on impact and transformation
This program is ideal for young Africans who are passionate about making a difference and are ready to take the next step in their academic and leadership journey.
Application Deadline
The deadline for application is 22nd May, 2026.
Interested persons should CLICK HERE to submit their applications.
Contact Information
For further inquiries or application support, applicants can reach out via:
Email:
Phone:
- Ndidi: +234 708 864 1465
- David: +234 701 782 5427
- Lekan: +234 813 555 1765
General University Contacts:
Office Hours:
- Monday to Friday
- 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM
Location:
- Pan-Atlantic University
- Km 52, Lekki-Epe Expressway
- Ibeju-Lekki, Lagos, Nigeria
To learn more about the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at Pan-Atlantic University 2026, visit HERE.
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