OPay ₦1.2B 10‑Year Scholarship Programme Application Guide

Key Details of the Scholarship

What It Covers

The scholarship payment (₦300,000 per student annually) is intended to cover tuition, books and other academic‑related expenses. It aims to ease the financial burden so that the student can focus more on studies.

In addition, the programme includes partnerships with institutions to foster improved employability, digital skills, and innovation capacity in alignment with OPay’s mission to support youth empowerment.

Who Is Eligible

To be considered for this scholarship you should typically meet the following eligibility criteria:

• Be an undergraduate student in one of the beneficiary institutions listed under the OPay programme.

• Demonstrate academic competence. Institutions may set particular grades or performance requirements. (While OPay does not publicly publish a universal grade cutoff, academic achievement is a factor in selection.)

• Be committed to completing the course of study at the institution.

• Provide any required documentation, which may include proof of enrollment, academic results, identity verification, and possibly financial need statements.

Participating Institutions

Here are some of the schools already participating in the scheme:

• University of Maiduguri

• University of Calabar

• University of Ilorin

• Obafemi Awolowo University

• Kwara State Polytechnic

• Benue State University

• Olabisi Onabanjo University

As the programme expands, more institutions will likely be added.

How to Apply

Here are steps and tips to apply successfully:

1. Check Your University
   Confirm whether your university is part of the OPay ₦1.2 billion scholarship scheme. If not yet included, monitor announcements as new institutions are being added.

2. Monitor Application Windows
   Each institution will have its own internal process. The scholarship is awarded yearly, so application periods may be announced at the beginning of each academic session. Stay alert for communications from your school’s scholarship or bursary office.

3. Prepare Strong Documents
   Typical documents needed include proof of current enrollment, academic transcripts, identity documentation, and possibly statements of need or purpose. See if your institution asks for additional materials.

4. Meet All Requirements
   Ensure you meet academic criteria, maintain good grades, and submit your application before the deadline. Late submissions are usually not entertained.

5. Follow Institutional Instructions
   Each university might have specific forms, selection criteria, or interview procedures. Follow all instructions carefully.

6. Leverage Additional Opportunities
   Apart from the scholarship, engage in extracurriculars, leadership roles, or innovation projects if possible. Some parts of the programme aim to link beneficiaries to internships or employability programmes.

Advantages of the OPay Scholarship Programme

• Long‑term security of support over a decade allowing consistent planning.

• Helps reduce the financial burden of tuition and academic costs on students and families.

• Includes students from diverse universities, including both major universities and polytechnics.

• Emphasis not only on grant but also empowerment, skills, and youth development.

• Encourages academic excellence and discipline because scholarships are competitive.

Potential Challenges and How to Overcome Them

Conclusion

The OPay ₦1.2 billion, 10‑year scholarship programme offers a transformative opportunity for many Nigerian students. With stable funding, institutional partnerships, and a commitment to youth development, the scheme reduces financial barriers and promotes academic excellence. Prospective applicants should verify if their institution is included, gather required documentation early, maintain strong academic performance, and follow application procedures carefully. With preparation and persistence this scholarship can provide critical support toward achieving academic and professional goals in Nigeria.