MIVA Open University Scholarship 2026: Full Guide to Apply
If you are a young Nigerian who has been dreaming of getting a university degree but has been held back by tuition fees, JAMB scores, or the general cost of higher education, then you need to read this guide from start to finish. The MIVA Open University scholarship programs that have emerged in recent years are genuinely reshaping what is possible for Nigerian students, and the options available in 2026 are some of the most exciting yet.
This article covers everything you need to know: what MIVA Open University is, why it matters, the different scholarship programs available at the institution, who can apply, what the benefits are, what documents you need, and how to go about the application process. Whether you are a school leaver just finishing your O-level exams or someone who has been working for a few years but always wanted to complete a degree, there is likely a scholarship option here worth considering.
What Is MIVA Open University?
Before talking about scholarships, it helps to understand the institution itself. MIVA Open University is a private online university in Nigeria, established on March 10, 2023, by The uLesson Group, a Nigerian education technology company that operates in Nigeria and several other West African countries. The Chancellor of MIVA Open University is Sim Shagaya, who is also the founder and Group CEO of The uLesson Group.
On May 16, 2023, MIVA received its official license from the National Universities Commission (NUC), which is the federal agency responsible for overseeing and regulating university education in Nigeria. This licensing is important because it means that degrees earned at MIVA Open University are fully recognized and have the same standing as degrees from any other NUC-licensed institution in Nigeria.
The university operates entirely online through a digital learning platform called Online Distance e-Learning, or ODeL. Students learn through a combination of pre-recorded content, live sessions, digital courseware, and an e-library. There are also physical study centers located in Abuja, Lagos (Yaba), Port Harcourt, and Jos for students who want in-person academic support without attending formal lectures. Examinations for students in Nigeria are conducted at these centers, while international students take exams through proctored online arrangements.
One of MIVA’s most notable features is that it does not require JAMB or UTME scores for admission. Instead, students need to have WAEC, NECO, GCE, or NABTEB results showing a minimum of five credits in relevant subjects, including English and Mathematics, in not more than two sittings. This removes one of the most common barriers young Nigerians face when trying to get into university.
MIVA currently operates four schools: the School of Computing, the School of Management and Social Sciences, the School of Communication and Media Studies, and the School of Allied Health Sciences. It also has a School of Postgraduate Studies offering master’s degree programs in Business Administration (MBA), Public Administration (MPA), Information Technology (MIT), and Public Health (MPH).
Why MIVA Open University Scholarships Matter
In Nigeria, access to higher education remains a serious challenge. Millions of qualified young people miss out on university every year because of limited admission spaces, the JAMB bottleneck, the high cost of tuition, or simply because they cannot relocate to attend a traditional university. MIVA Open University was designed to address all of these barriers at once, and the scholarship programs that have partnered with the institution take things even further by removing the financial obstacle entirely for selected students.
What makes the MIVA Open University scholarship landscape particularly exciting is that it is not just one program. Multiple organizations, from commercial banks to philanthropic foundations, have partnered with MIVA to fund students. Each of these partnerships comes with its own criteria, focus areas, and benefits. Together, they have created what is arguably one of the most accessible pathways to an accredited university degree in Nigeria today.
The Sterling Bank “Beyond Education” Scholarship at MIVA Open University
The most prominent and widely publicized MIVA Open University scholarship is the one offered by Sterling Bank under its “Beyond Education” initiative. This is the scholarship that most people are referring to when they search for the MIVA Open University scholarship, so it deserves a thorough explanation.
Background and Purpose
The Beyond Education initiative is a corporate social responsibility program organized by Sterling Bank Limited in partnership with MIVA Open University. The program is part of Sterling Bank’s broader HEART strategy, which stands for Health, Education, Agriculture, Renewable Energy, and Transportation. These are the five sectors Sterling Bank has committed to investing in as part of its national development agenda.
The initiative represents a commitment of approximately 2 billion naira over 36 months to fund 600 full-tuition university scholarships for deserving Nigerians. The goal is to democratize access to university education by removing financial and institutional barriers, particularly for young Nigerians who want to earn an accredited degree but cannot afford the cost.
What the Scholarship Covers
The Sterling Bank scholarship at MIVA Open University is a full-tuition scholarship. It covers 100 percent of the university tuition fees for the entire duration of an approved undergraduate degree program. This means that if you are selected, you do not pay a single naira in tuition from your first year until you graduate.
However, it is important to understand what the scholarship does not cover. All other costs, including electronic devices, internet access, textbooks, and living expenses, remain the responsibility of the scholarship winner. Since MIVA is a fully online university, having a reliable device and internet connection is essential, so applicants should factor this into their planning before applying.
The scholarship is flexible and can be used for any course offered at MIVA Open University. Winners can choose any available program in the School of Computing, School of Management and Social Sciences, School of Communication and Media Studies, or School of Allied Health Sciences.
Eligibility Criteria
The eligibility requirements for the Sterling Bank scholarship at MIVA Open University are relatively straightforward. To qualify as a nominee, you must be a Nigerian citizen. Your age must be between 16 and 35 years at the time of nomination. You must be able to satisfy the standard admission requirements for MIVA Open University, which means you need the required O-level results (WAEC, NECO, GCE, or NABTEB) with a minimum of five credits in relevant subjects. As mentioned, JAMB or UTME scores are not required.
The scholarship is only for new entrants, specifically 100-level undergraduate students. You cannot apply if you are already enrolled in another degree-awarding institution. The scholarship would be revoked if a winner is found to be concurrently enrolled elsewhere during their study period at MIVA.
Winners must maintain good academic standing throughout their study period and abide by all university regulations. The scholarship can be revoked for poor academic performance or misconduct. After winning and completing final verification, winners must successfully enroll at MIVA Open University within two admission cycles to avoid forfeiture of the scholarship.
Who Can Nominate?
This is one of the more unique aspects of the Sterling Bank scholarship. To nominate someone (or yourself) for the scholarship, the nominator must hold an active personal savings or current account with Sterling Bank. However, you do not need a Sterling Bank account to be nominated. This means a family member, friend, teacher, or community member who banks with Sterling can nominate you even if you do not have an account with them.
Employees of Sterling Bank or MIVA Open University and their immediate family members are not eligible to nominate. Nominations must be submitted through the official Sterling Bank scholarship website during the designated nomination period.
How Winners Are Selected
The selection process is different from most scholarships because it includes a public voting component. After the nomination period closes, verified nominees are listed on the website, organized by state of residence. Sterling Bank account holders can then vote for their preferred nominees.
At the end of the voting period, the two nominees with the highest number of verified votes in each state and the Federal Capital Territory are declared provisional winners for that round. This means two winners per state, covering all 36 states plus the FCT, for a total of 74 winners selected in each cohort through the state-based voting process.
Provisional winners are contacted by the bank and must formally accept the award within ten business days. After acceptance and final verification, they proceed to enrollment at MIVA Open University within the next available admission cycle.
How to Apply for the Sterling Bank Scholarship at MIVA
The application process begins on the Sterling Bank scholarship portal. Here is the step-by-step breakdown.
First, visit the official Sterling Bank Beyond Education scholarship page and familiarize yourself with the program details and requirements. Then, either nominate yourself or ask someone with an active Sterling Bank savings or current account to nominate you. You will need to complete the nomination form, which asks for your personal details and supporting information.
After the nomination period closes, all verified nominees will be listed on the website under their respective states. You will then need to mobilize Sterling Bank account holders in your community, family, and network to vote for you. At the end of the voting period, the top two nominees in each state are declared provisional winners.
If you are selected, you will be contacted by Sterling Bank and will need to formally accept the award within the specified timeframe. You will then proceed to complete your admission at MIVA Open University.
The Olamilokun Foundation Scholarship at MIVA Open University
Another significant scholarship program at MIVA Open University is the one offered through the partnership between the Olamilokun Foundation and the university. This scholarship focuses specifically on digital technology education and is designed for students pursuing degrees in fields like Software Engineering, Data Science, and Cybersecurity at MIVA’s School of Computing.
The initiative kicked off with the September 2024 admission cycle and is designed to be an annual commitment, with new students joining every academic year and receiving full tuition support until graduation. The first cohort of beneficiaries was selected from underserved communities, and the scholarships were awarded based on both merit and financial need.
According to Harold Olamilokun, the President of the Olamilokun Foundation, this is a long-term mission rather than a one-time gesture. The Foundation has committed to finding new students every academic year through its ongoing partnership with MIVA Open University, and each selected student will have their tuition fully covered until they complete their undergraduate program.
Beyond tuition, students who receive the Olamilokun Foundation scholarship also benefit from career mentorship, internship placement opportunities, and access to the Foundation’s broader digital upskilling initiatives under the Literate Nigeria umbrella. This makes it a more holistic support package than a standard tuition-only scholarship.
The next scholarship cycle under this program is expected to open with nationwide outreach to identify promising candidates from low-income communities. Interested applicants are encouraged to follow the Olamilokun Foundation’s website and social media pages for updates on when applications open.
The Gbemisola Olowolafe Miva Scholarship
A third and more recently launched scholarship program at MIVA Open University is the Gbemisola Olowolafe Miva Scholarship, announced in March 2026 by the Tunji Olowolafe Foundation. This is a landmark initiative representing a 1 billion naira investment over five years, designed to support 1,000 students at MIVA Open University.
The scholarship targets talented individuals who demonstrate academic potential but face financial constraints that would otherwise prevent them from pursuing a university degree. It is a five-year collaboration between the Tunji Olowolafe Foundation and MIVA Open University, with new students being added each year.
Eligibility for the Gbemisola Olowolafe Miva Scholarship
To be eligible for this scholarship, applicants must have already been offered admission to study at MIVA Open University. This means you need to complete the MIVA admissions process first before applying for the scholarship separately.
You must be able to demonstrate financial need through appropriate documentation. You also need to have a strong academic record or show clear potential for academic excellence. A personal statement outlining your goals, aspirations, and how the scholarship will support your academic and career development is required as part of the application.
Applicants who have been involved in community service, leadership roles, or extracurricular activities may receive additional consideration during the selection process. The scholarship support goes beyond tuition funding, with recipients also receiving mentorship and career development support as part of the program.
Courses Available at MIVA Open University Under Scholarship Programs
One of the advantages of MIVA Open University scholarship programs is that they are generally not restricted to specific courses. Most scholarships, particularly the Sterling Bank scholarship, are valid for any undergraduate program offered by the university. Here is a breakdown of what you can study at MIVA.
School of Computing
This school offers programs in Computer Science, Cybersecurity, Data Science, Software Engineering, Cloud Computing, and Information Technology. These are among the most in-demand fields in today’s job market, and graduates from these programs are well-positioned for careers in technology both locally and internationally.
School of Management and Social Sciences
This school covers programs in Business Management, Economics, Accounting, Entrepreneurship, Public Policy and Administration, and Criminology and Security Studies. These programs combine theoretical knowledge with practical skills that employers value in sectors ranging from finance and government to business and consulting.
School of Communication and Media Studies
This school offers programs in Mass Communication and related disciplines. It prepares students for careers in journalism, public relations, broadcasting, digital media, and corporate communications.
School of Allied Health Sciences
This school offers programs in Nursing Science and Public Health. These programs are accredited and designed to prepare students for careers in healthcare, public health administration, and community health services.
School of Postgraduate Studies
For those who have already completed a bachelor’s degree, MIVA also offers master’s programs in Business Administration (MBA), Public Administration (MPA), Information Technology (MIT), and Public Health (MPH). While most scholarship programs at MIVA focus on undergraduate students, it is worth monitoring for postgraduate scholarship opportunities as the university continues to grow.
General Admission Requirements for MIVA Open University
Understanding the general admission requirements for MIVA Open University is essential because you need to be admissible to the university before any scholarship can be applied to your studies. Here is what you need to know.
You need a minimum of five credits in relevant O-level subjects from WAEC, NECO, GCE, or NABTEB. These credits must include English Language and Mathematics, and they must have been obtained in not more than two sittings. JAMB or UTME results are not required for admission.
Application to MIVA is free and done online through the university’s official portal. Once you receive your admission offer, you will need to enroll and make the required tuition payment unless you are already a scholarship recipient. The standard tuition fees at MIVA start from 350,000 naira per year for undergraduate students, with fees varying by program. For those without a scholarship, MIVA also offers flexible payment plans by semester to make fees more manageable.
The standard duration to earn a degree at MIVA is four years, which is the same as a traditional university. Admission cycles run three times a year, with classes starting in September, January, and May. Admission for the May 2026 cohort is currently ongoing, and the next cycle after that will begin in September 2026.
What It Is Really Like to Study at MIVA Open University
For many prospective students, especially those who have only ever considered traditional universities, the idea of studying fully online can feel unfamiliar. Here is what you actually experience as a MIVA student.
You learn primarily through a learning management system (LMS) that gives you access to pre-recorded lectures, course materials, discussion forums, multimedia content, and assessments. You can study at any time that works for you, which makes it ideal for people who are working, caring for family members, or living in areas far from a physical campus.
There are optional live sessions and engagement events where you can interact with faculty and other students. In-person attendance is not compulsory, but the study centers in Abuja, Lagos, Port Harcourt, and Jos are available for students who want a physical space to study or connect with peers.
Examinations are conducted at the physical study centers for students within Nigeria. This means that while your coursework is fully online, you will need to travel to your nearest study center for exams. For international students, examinations are handled through proctored online arrangements.
MIVA also provides an e-library, which is a virtual hub of books, journals, research papers, and multimedia resources to support academic work. Faculty members at the university are described as seasoned professionals who bring practical, real-world experience to their teaching, bridging the gap between theory and practice.
Is a Degree from MIVA Open University Worth It?
This is a fair question, and it deserves an honest answer. MIVA Open University is fully licensed by the NUC, which means its degrees carry the same legal standing as degrees from any other NUC-licensed institution in Nigeria. The university’s curriculum is regularly reviewed by industry and academic experts to ensure it meets current standards.
MIVA graduates are eligible to participate in the NYSC (National Youth Service Corps) programme, just like graduates of traditional universities. Employers increasingly recognize online degrees as valid qualifications, particularly as digital education gains global acceptance and as more top Nigerian institutions partner with online learning platforms.
The Chancellor himself, Sim Shagaya, is a widely respected name in Nigerian technology and business circles, having built and scaled The uLesson Group into one of West Africa’s leading edtech companies. The governance and academic leadership of the university has also been praised by notable figures including former Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, who spoke at MIVA’s 2024 Matriculation Ceremony, and NUC’s leadership, who have praised MIVA’s innovative approach to accessible education.
At the 2025 Matriculation Ceremony, over 8,000 new students were welcomed, a figure that reflects the scale of trust that Nigerians are placing in the institution. Babatunde Raji Fashola, former Lagos State Governor, delivered the keynote at that ceremony, urging students to embrace discipline, service, and leadership.
In short, if you are choosing between not having a degree at all and earning one from MIVA Open University on a full scholarship, the answer is clear. MIVA offers a credible, flexible, and increasingly respected pathway to higher education.
Tips to Improve Your Chances of Winning a MIVA Open University Scholarship
Whether you are applying for the Sterling Bank scholarship, the Olamilokun Foundation scholarship, or the Gbemisola Olowolafe Miva Scholarship, the following practical tips apply across the board and can meaningfully improve your chances of being selected.
Start by making sure you genuinely meet all the eligibility requirements before you apply. Review each criterion carefully and be honest with yourself. Applying when you do not meet the requirements wastes your time and the selectors’.
For the Sterling Bank scholarship specifically, the voting component means your community network matters. Before nominations even open, think about who in your life banks with Sterling and would be willing to vote for you. A larger and more active support network gives you a real advantage in the voting stage.
Make sure your nomination form or personal statement is well-written, clear, and honest. Tell your real story. Selectors read hundreds of applications and can tell the difference between a genuine, personal account and something generic or overly polished.
Gather your documents early. Having your O-level results, a clear passport photograph, and any other required certificates ready before you start the application saves you from last-minute stress. Documents should be properly scanned, not photographed with a phone, for clarity.
If you are applying for need-based scholarships like the Gbemisola Olowolafe Miva Scholarship, gather your financial documentation carefully. Be prepared to provide evidence of your household income situation accurately and completely.
Finally, follow through. Many scholarship applicants make the mistake of applying and then not following up or missing a communication from the scholarship body. Check your email regularly and respond promptly to any requests for additional information or verification.
Frequently Asked Questions About MIVA Open University Scholarships
Do I need JAMB to get a MIVA Open University scholarship?
No. MIVA Open University does not require JAMB or UTME for admission, and by extension, scholarship applicants do not need a JAMB score either. You only need your O-level results with five credits in relevant subjects including English and Mathematics.
Are MIVA Open University scholarships only for students in certain states?
The Sterling Bank scholarship selects two winners from each of the 36 states and the FCT through the public voting process, so students from all states are eligible. Other scholarship programs do not appear to have state-based restrictions and focus on merit and financial need nationwide.
Can I work while studying at MIVA on a scholarship?
Yes. One of the major advantages of MIVA’s online model is flexibility. Since there are no compulsory in-person lectures, many students hold jobs while studying. As long as you maintain good academic standing, there is no rule preventing you from working.
What happens if I fail my courses while on the Sterling Bank scholarship?
Winners must maintain good academic standing and abide by all university regulations. The scholarship can be revoked for poor academic performance or misconduct. If revoked, you would need to continue funding your studies independently or seek alternative support.
Can I apply to more than one MIVA scholarship at the same time?
Each scholarship program has its own rules, but in general, you should not receive two full-tuition scholarships simultaneously. If you apply for multiple programs, be transparent about your applications and follow the individual guidelines of each scheme.
Is the degree I get from MIVA Open University valid for NYSC?
Yes. MIVA Open University is licensed by the NUC, and its graduates are eligible to participate in the NYSC programme, just like graduates from traditional universities.
How long does it take to complete a degree at MIVA?
The standard duration is four years, the same as a traditional university. This applies to all undergraduate programs across the four schools.
How do I check if the MIVA scholarship nomination portal is open?
You can check the official Sterling Bank scholarship page or MIVA Open University’s official website and social media pages for updates on when nomination and application windows open. New cohorts are typically announced publicly across these channels.
How to Apply: Links and Next Steps
If you are ready to explore or apply for a MIVA Open University scholarship, here are the starting points depending on which program interests you most.
For the Sterling Bank Beyond Education Scholarship, visit the official Beyond Education by Sterling scholarship page to check whether the nomination window is open, review the requirements, and submit your nomination.
For admission to MIVA Open University (which is required before some scholarships can be applied), visit the MIVA Open University admissions page to start your application for the next intake.
For the Gbemisola Olowolafe Miva Scholarship, check the official MIVA website for the Gbemisola Olowolafe Scholarship details and application instructions.
For updates on the Olamilokun Foundation partnership scholarship and future cycles, follow both the Olamilokun Foundation and MIVA Open University on their official social media platforms, as new cycles are announced there first.
Final Thoughts
Access to quality university education in Nigeria has long been a challenge for millions of young people. Between the high cost of tuition, the competition for admission slots, the JAMB barrier, and the practical difficulties of leaving home to study, many talented Nigerians have been left behind. MIVA Open University, and the scholarship programs built around it, represent a genuine attempt to change that.
Whether it is Sterling Bank’s commitment of 2 billion naira to fund 600 students, the Olamilokun Foundation’s focus on digital technology education for underserved communities, or the Tunji Olowolafe Foundation’s 1 billion naira pledge to fund 1,000 students over five years, the message is consistent: higher education should not be the privilege of those who can afford it. It should be accessible to anyone with the ability and the will to pursue it.
If you meet the eligibility requirements for any of these programs, do not wait. Scholarship windows open and close, cohorts fill up, and the earlier you start, the better prepared you will be when the application portal goes live. Read the requirements, gather your documents, and take the first step toward earning your degree without the financial burden that holds so many others back.
For more scholarship opportunities in Nigeria and around the world, explore the other posts on this blog. New scholarships are added regularly, and the right opportunity for you may be closer than you think.
