Jim Ovia Foundation Scholarship 2025: Full Guide for Nigerian Students as Applications Open November 27
In a move that continues to shape Nigeria’s next generation of innovators, the Jim Ovia Foundation Scholarship has once again opened its doors—providing full financial support to exceptional Nigerian undergraduates. With benefits covering tuition, accommodation, and a yearly living allowance of ₦150,000, the programme stands among the country’s most competitive and impactful scholarship opportunities.
As the 2025 application cycle opens November 27 and closes November 29, thousands of students are preparing to secure one of the coveted spots. This comprehensive guide breaks down everything applicants need to know—from eligibility requirements to required documents and step-by-step application instructions.
What Is the Jim Ovia Foundation Scholarship?
Established by Mr. Jim Ovia, the Chief Executive Officer of Zenith Bank, the scholarship aims to build a powerful network of young Nigerian leaders equipped to solve real-world challenges in healthcare, technology, and finance.
The scholarship is fully funded and open to Nigerian citizens studying—or planning to study—at any accredited Nigerian university or approved higher institution. The programme prioritises:
- Strong academic excellence
- Demonstrated leadership
- A commitment to community development
Past beneficiaries of the scholarship have gone on to contribute significantly to Nigeria’s growing tech ecosystem, healthcare improvements, and financial innovation.
Who Can Apply? – Eligibility Requirements
To qualify for the 2025 Jim Ovia Foundation Scholarship, applicants must meet all of the following conditions:
- Be a Nigerian citizen
- Be enrolled in—or admitted into—an accredited university or tertiary institution in Nigeria
- Demonstrate outstanding academic performance
- Show leadership qualities through school, community, or youth initiatives
- Be committed to improving society
There is no restriction on the course of study—the scholarship is open to students in all academic fields.
Selection is based on:
- Intellectual ability
- Leadership potential
- Desire to serve Nigeria and the global community
Scholarship Benefits – What Successful Applicants Receive
Once selected, beneficiaries are entitled to:
- ???? Full tuition coverage
- ???? Accommodation support
- ???? ₦150,000 annual living allowance
These benefits continue throughout the entire degree programme provided the student maintains excellent academic standing and complies with scholarship guidelines.
Required Documents for the 2025 Application
Applicants must upload clear, high-quality scanned copies of the following documents:
Personal & Identity Documents
- Government-recognized ID card
- Birth certificate
- Recent passport photograph
Admission Documents
- Official JAMB admission letter
- University admission letter
- University acceptance letter
- UTME result
Academic Records
- Stamped academic calendar of the university
- Signed and stamped academic results from 100 level to date, including semester GPA and overall CGPA
Additional Requirements for Medical Students
- Academic grades converted to CGPA
- Document showing the university’s grading system
- Stamp & signature from school authorities
Other Mandatory Documents
- Head of Department (HOD) recommendation letter (not older than 4 months)
- Valid school ID card
- Original O’Level certificate (WAEC, NECO, or NABTEB)
Important: Missing any of these documents may result in automatic disqualification.
Key Application Rules Applicants Must Follow
Before submitting the form, students must note:
- No agents are allowed—applications must be submitted personally
- Applications are free—do not pay anyone
- Only one submission is allowed
- Forged documents lead to instant disqualification
Additional rules:
- Applicant must have completed secondary school
- Must have five O’Level credits
- Must provide reliable email and phone number
- Email must include first name + surname, and be Gmail or Yahoo
- Must be 16 years or older
- All scanned documents must be clear and readable
- Applicants should print their completed form for records
- Submission does not guarantee selection
- Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted
How to Apply for the 2025 Jim Ovia Scholarship
To complete a correct application:
- Carefully read all eligibility requirements
- Gather and scan all necessary documents clearly
- Ensure academic results follow required formats
- Visit the official online portal via the 2025 application link: 2025 Jim Ovia Scholarship application page on the foundation website.
- Fill all sections of the form truthfully
- Upload all required documents
- Review your application thoroughly
- Submit only one complete application
Applicants who meet all requirements and submit complete, accurate forms have the highest chance of progressing to the next stage.
2025 Application Dates and Deadline
- Opening Date: November 27, 2025
- Closing Date: November 29, 2025
With only a three-day application window, students are encouraged to prepare their documents well ahead of time to avoid last-minute rush or disqualification.
You may also like to read: Jim Ovia Foundation Opens 2024 Scholarship Applications: Here’s How to Apply
