Jim Ovia Foundation Scholarship 2025 for Nigerian Undergraduates: Here’s Everything to Know
Jim Ovia Foundation Scholarship 2025 now open for Nigerian undergraduates
The 2025 Jim Ovia Foundation Scholarship has officially opened for applications, offering one of Nigeria’s most competitive fully funded undergraduate opportunities. Backed by billionaire philanthropist Jim Ovia, founder of Zenith Bank, the program provides full tuition, accommodation, and an annual ₦150,000 maintenance stipend to selected students across the country.
Since its establishment, the initiative has grown into a leading platform for developing future innovators, leaders, and socially responsible professionals in Nigeria.
Jim Ovia Foundation Scholarship: An Opportunity Designed for Future Leaders
Since launching in October 2010, the Jim Ovia Foundation has invested over ₦100 million, supporting more than 1,500 beneficiaries across various educational programs. The scholarship was created to build a strong pipeline of young leaders capable of competing globally while transforming their communities through knowledge, innovation, and leadership.
The foundation further expands its reach through additional initiatives, including the Jim Ovia ICT Entrepreneurs Program and the Jim Ovia Foundation Leaders Scholarship (JOFLS), which have collectively supported Nigerian youths with over ₦1 billion in grants.
Eligibility Requirements for the 2025 Jim Ovia Scholarship
Applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Be a citizen of Nigeria
- Be enrolled or seeking admission into a recognized tertiary institution
- Demonstrate strong academic performance and leadership qualities
- Show interest in community development and national impact
- Scholarships are awarded based on intellectual merit, leadership potential, and commitment to improving society.
These criteria ensure that selected scholars embody the foundation’s mission to build a generation of change-makers.
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Full Benefits: What Successful Applicants Receive
Awardees of the 2025 Jim Ovia Foundation Scholarship enjoy:
- Full tuition coverage
- Accommodation support
- Annual living stipend of ₦150,000
- Continuous financial support throughout the duration of their undergraduate studies
The foundation expects recipients to grow into professionals who will address national challenges in fields such as technology, health, finance, and ICT, aligning with its long-term vision for Nigeria’s development.
Required Documents for Application
Applicants must prepare the following:
- Completed personal details form
- Valid government-issued ID
- Passport photograph
- Official JAMB Certificate
- University Admission and Acceptance Letters
- UTME result
- Current school academic calendar (signed/stamped)
- Signed and stamped CGPA report (for medical students: most recent exam results)
- HOD recommendation letter (stating level, session, semester, and CGPA)
- School ID card
- Original O’Level Certificate (WAEC/NECO/GCE)
Important: Submitting forged or incorrect documents leads to automatic disqualification and blacklisting from future opportunities.
Step-by-Step: How to Apply for the Jim Ovia Foundation Scholarship 2025
- Visit the official application portal.
- Create an account or log in with an existing one.
- Complete the online application form.
- Upload all required documents.
- Ensure accuracy, submitted forms cannot be edited.
- Monitor your email for updates from the Foundation.
- Track your application status via your MUSTE account.
There is no application fee, and shortlisted candidates will be notified directly via email.
FAQs
1. Is the 2025 Jim Ovia Foundation Scholarship fully funded?
Yes. The scholarship is fully funded and covers tuition, accommodation, and a ₦150,000 yearly stipend for the entire duration of undergraduate studies.
2. Who can apply for the Jim Ovia Scholarship?
Only Nigerian citizens who are currently enrolled or seeking admission into accredited tertiary institutions in Nigeria are eligible. Applicants must also demonstrate strong academic performance and leadership qualities.
3. What documents are required for the Jim Ovia Scholarship application?
You must submit your JAMB certificate, O’Level certificate, admission letter, acceptance letter, UTME result, CGPA transcript, HOD recommendation letter, passport photo, school ID, and academic calendar.
4. How competitive is the Jim Ovia Foundation Scholarship?
It is highly competitive due to its full financial coverage and large applicant pool. Academic excellence and demonstrated leadership significantly improve selection chances.
5. When is the deadline for the 2025 Jim Ovia Scholarship?
The application deadline is November 28, 2025.
6. Are there application fees?
No. Applying for the scholarship is completely free, and no payment is required at any stage.
7. How long does the scholarship last?
Support continues throughout the student’s undergraduate program, provided they maintain satisfactory academic performance.
8. Can applicants be disqualified?
Yes. Submitting false, forged, or incorrect documents leads to immediate disqualification and long-term blacklisting.
9. How will successful applicants be notified?
Shortlisted applicants receive email notifications. It’s important to whitelist the foundation’s email addresses to avoid missing updates.
10. What makes the Jim Ovia Scholarship unique?
Beyond funding, it aims to build a community of future leaders with opportunities linked to ICT, entrepreneurship, and national development.
