Top NGO Scholarships in Nigeria for 2026: A Comprehensive Guide
Nigerian students seeking educational advancement have numerous opportunities through non-governmental organization scholarships available in 2026. These merit-based and need-based programs provide substantial financial support, covering tuition, accommodation, living expenses, and mentorship. Prominent initiatives include the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program, Tony Elumelu Foundation Entrepreneurship Programme, and SHE Soars Scholarship, among others.
Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program
Established in 2012, this fully funded scholarship targets undergraduate and graduate students across Nigeria. Partnering with institutions like Pan-Atlantic University, the program covers comprehensive costs including tuition, accommodation, and living expenses. Applicants must meet specific academic requirements, such as obtaining five credits in WAEC, NECO, GCE, or NABTEB examinations and achieving a minimum UTME score of 220. The 2026 application cycle is currently open, with opportunities available at prestigious universities including African Leadership University, Ashesi University College, and University of Oxford.
Tony Elumelu Foundation Entrepreneurship Programme
Launched in 2015, this initiative supports young entrepreneurs aged 18 and above across Africa, including Nigeria. While not a traditional scholarship, it offers extensive business training, mentorship, access to entrepreneurial networks, and $5,000 in non-refundable seed capital. The program focuses on empowering aspiring business leaders through practical skills development and financial support.
SHE Soars Scholarship Program
Founded in 2019, this need-based scholarship specifically targets female graduates from Nigerian public secondary schools. Valued at ₦300,000 annually, it covers tuition costs, educational materials, and monthly living stipends. Applicants must provide verifiable proof of admission into public Nigerian universities. The 2026 application window is currently closed.
Michael Taiwo Scholarship
This scholarship, established in 2019, supports graduates and final-year students from recognized Nigerian institutions. Benefits include full payment for GRE/GMAT examinations, coverage of IELTS/TOEFL fees, graduate school application costs, and personalized mentoring. Eligibility requires a minimum CGPA of 4.0 on a 5-point scale. The 2026 application period is closed.
Additional Notable NGO Scholarships
The Wole Soyinka Foundation Scholarships provide residencies, study-abroad opportunities, and training for young writers, artists, and researchers through partnerships with international institutions.
The Chevron Nigeria Limited Foundation Scholarship supports full-time second-year degree students in Nigerian tertiary institutions, requiring a minimum CGPA of 3.5.
The IG Aguowo Health and Academic Foundation Scholarship offers comprehensive support covering 100% tuition fees and additional allowances for primary, secondary, and tertiary students.
The MOK Foundation Scholarship sponsors 1,000 qualified students for the 2026 JAMB examination and WAEC program, with applications available through participating schools.
The I-Scholar Initiative Scholarship assists Nigerian graduates with Second Class Upper grades by covering standardized test vouchers for GRE, GMAT, and TOEFL examinations.
2026 Application Status and Eligibility
Several NGO scholarships remain open for 2026 applications, including the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program, MOK Foundation Scholarship, and I-Scholar Initiative. Need-based support is available through programs like the MOK Foundation and IG Aguowo Health and Academic Foundation, which provide assistance for administrative fees and educational materials.
These NGO scholarships represent vital opportunities for Nigerian students to access quality education without financial constraints. Prospective applicants should carefully review eligibility requirements and application deadlines to maximize their chances of success.
