Last Updated: June 2026
The Matthew Okpebholo Foundation Scholarship 2026 is currently accepting applications, and the deadline is only a few days away: June 5, 2026. This year’s program will award ₦100,000 each to 1,000 indigent final-year students of Edo State origin, making it one of the largest state-focused scholarship programs currently open in Nigeria. Source:
In my experience reviewing Nigerian scholarship opportunities, what makes this program unusual is that every applicant must immediately sit for a compulsory 30-question aptitude test after submitting the application. Many students focus only on eligibility and forget that the test determines who moves forward.
What Is the Matthew Okpebholo Foundation Scholarship 2026 in Nigeria?
The Rt. Rev. (Dr.) M.A. Okpebholo Foundation Annual Scholarship Award is a financial assistance program created to support indigent students from Edo State who are completing their studies in Nigerian universities and polytechnics.
The 2026 edition marks the program’s 30th anniversary. The foundation states that the award is non-political and non-religious. Applicants must already have an officially approved final-year project topic before applying.
Unlike many undergraduate scholarships that prioritize CGPA alone, this program combines eligibility screening with a scholastic aptitude assessment.
What Does the Scholarship Cover?
| Benefit | Coverage |
|---|---|
| Cash Grant | ₦100,000 |
| Number of Beneficiaries | 1,000 students |
| Tuition Coverage | No |
| Accommodation | No |
| Flights | No |
| Health Insurance | No |
| Research/Project Support | Indirectly supported through cash award |
The scholarship functions as a direct cash grant rather than a full scholarship package. Students can use the money for project expenses, academic materials, transportation, accommodation, or other education-related costs.
Who Is Eligible?
Eligibility Requirements Table
| Requirement | Details | Pass/Fail |
|---|---|---|
| Edo State Origin | Mandatory | Pass |
| Final-Year Student | Mandatory | Pass |
| Nigerian University/Polytechnic | Mandatory | Pass |
| Approved Project Topic | Mandatory | Pass |
| Financial Need | Mandatory | Pass |
| Complete Aptitude Test | Mandatory | Pass |
Applicants must:
- Be from Edo State.
- Study in a recognized Nigerian university or polytechnic.
- Be in final year.
- Have an approved project topic.
- Demonstrate financial need.
- Complete the online application before June 5, 2026.
- Sit for the compulsory aptitude test.
One common misconception is that high academic performance alone guarantees selection. The foundation specifically highlights indigent status and aptitude-test performance.
Required Documents and Information
The application portal requests personal and academic information rather than a large upload package.
Prepare:
- Full legal name
- Email address
- Mobile number
- Permanent address
- Institution details
- Course of study
- Matriculation number
- Expected graduation year
- Approved project topic
- Parent or guardian details
Practical Tip
Before opening the application form, keep your matriculation number, project title, and admission details ready. Many applicants lose time searching for these details while completing the form.
How to Apply for Matthew Okpebholo Foundation Scholarship 2026
Follow these steps carefully:
- Visit the official scholarship portal.
- Read all eligibility requirements.
- Gather your academic information.
- Enter your personal details accurately.
- Provide your institution and project-topic information.
- Review every field before submission.
- Submit the application.
- Immediately proceed to the aptitude test.
- Complete all 30 questions within the allotted time.
- Save confirmation details.
Many scholarship applicants rush through Step 6. That’s a mistake. Incorrect phone numbers and email addresses can prevent shortlisted candidates from receiving notifications.
How the Aptitude Test Works and How to Pass It
This is one section competitors rarely explain.
The foundation uses a compulsory 30-question CBT-style aptitude test lasting approximately 45 minutes.
Based on similar Nigerian scholarship assessments, expect questions covering:
- Quantitative reasoning
- Verbal reasoning
- Basic analytical thinking
- General academic aptitude
Preparation tips:
- Practice CBT tests beforehand.
- Use a stable internet connection.
- Complete the test in a quiet environment.
- Avoid guessing randomly during early questions.
- Manage time carefully.
The foundation states that no retakes are allowed.
How to Write a Winning Financial Need Statement
Although the portal mainly collects information, shortlisted stages may require verification of financial circumstances.
Avoid writing:
“I need money because my family is poor.”
Instead, explain specific educational challenges.
Example:
“My final-year project requires laboratory materials costing more than my family’s monthly income. This scholarship would allow me to complete the project and graduate on schedule.”
Strong applications focus on educational impact rather than emotional appeals.
Selection Criteria: What the Foundation Really Looks For
After reviewing official guidelines, three factors appear most important:
1. Eligibility Compliance
Applicants who fail basic requirements will not advance.
2. Genuine Financial Need
The scholarship specifically targets indigent students.
3. Aptitude Test Performance
The official process states that only successful candidates proceed after the scholastic aptitude test.
This suggests that test performance plays a major role in shortlisting decisions.
Common Mistakes That Lead to Disqualification
Paying Agents
The foundation repeatedly warns applicants not to pay anyone.
False Information
Incorrect academic details can trigger disqualification.
Missing the Deadline
Applications close on June 5, 2026.
Poor Internet During the Test
Because the aptitude test follows immediately after application, unstable internet can affect performance.
Incomplete Personal Information
Many applicants overlook contact details and institutional records.
Important Dates and Timeline
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Application Opens | May 25, 2026 |
| Application Deadline | June 5, 2026 |
| Aptitude Test | Immediately After Application |
| Award Ceremony | June 20, 2026 |
Students should apply early rather than waiting until the final day.
Final Thoughts
The Matthew Okpebholo Foundation Scholarship 2026 in Nigeria offers meaningful support to final-year students who need help completing their education. With 1,000 awards available and a straightforward application process, eligible Edo State students should take advantage of this opportunity before the deadline.
Apply only through the official foundation portal and prepare carefully for the aptitude test because that stage could determine whether you advance to the final selection list.
