The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at Pan‑Atlantic University provides full scholarships to exceptional young Africans facing financial or socio‑economic barriers. The program prioritizes young women, refugees and displaced youths, and young persons with disabilities, ensuring inclusive access to world-class education and leadership development.

As the first Nigerian university to partner with the Mastercard Foundation, PAU is committed to educating 650 scholars over ten years. To date, 60 Scholars have joined the first cohort—

80% young women

20% young men

6.7% persons with disabilities

3.3% refugees/displaced youths

With the next application cycle, PAU aims to welcome an additional 70 scholars, continuing its mission to develop ethical, service‑driven leaders who will transform their communities and the African continent.

ELIGIBILITY:

Applicants should meet the following 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 Applicants:

The programme particularly encourages applications from:

Young women interested in STEM programmes

Internally displaced young people

Young people living with disabilities

Eligible applicants who do not fall within these priority groups are also welcome to apply.

Applicants must have a minimum of five (5) O’Level credits, including Mathematics and English Language, obtained in not more than two sittings.

Interested candidates who DO NOT yet have their UTME result should complete the Interest Form to indicate their interest in applying and to begin the screening process.

Applicants must sit for the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board – Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (JAMB UTME).

A minimum score of 220 is required to proceed to the next stage

BENEFIT:

The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program provides comprehensive support to ensure your academic and professional success, including:

Full tuition coverage

Accommodation and living expenses

Mentorship and leadership development

Internship and career support

Networking opportunities