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.
Who can Apply? Applicants who:
Demonstrate academic excellence
Demonstrate leadership potential
Demonstrate financial need
Demonstrate a commitment to giving back to their community
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, especially those 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.
Key Features and Benefits
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
Step 1: Meet the Academic Requirements
Applicants must have a minimum of five (5) O’Level credits, including Mathematics and English Language, obtained in not more than two sittings.
Step 2: Fill Out the Application Interest Form
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.
Step 3: Write the JAMB UTME
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
Step 4: Complete the Online Application Form
Eligible candidates with current-year UTME results should complete the application form when it opens in May, providing their personal, academic, and background information, along with the required documentation.
Step 5: Screening and Shortlisting for Interviews
Applications are reviewed to ensure alignment with eligibility criteria and the goals of the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program.
Shortlisted candidates are invited for an interview, which may be conducted in-person or virtually, depending on location and circumstances.
Step 6: Admission and Scholarship Award
Successful candidates will be notified of admission into Pan-Atlantic University and a formal scholarship award offer under the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program.
Applications open in May, immediately after the JAMB results are released. Please check back for updates.