Understanding the 2026 LONG Scholars Program

The 2026 LONG Scholars Program offers a significant opportunity for Nigerian students pursuing higher education. This scholarship aims to alleviate the financial burdens associated with university studies, providing support for tuition, accommodation, and living expenses. For many students from low-income families, securing funding for a university education can be a major hurdle. The LONG Scholars Program directly addresses this challenge, making higher education more accessible.

This program is designed to empower students who have demonstrated academic potential and a commitment to community involvement. By offering financial assistance, the LONG Empowerment Foundation seeks to foster future leaders and innovators within Nigeria. Understanding the program’s requirements, benefits, and application process is key for any eligible student looking to benefit from this valuable scholarship.

Program Overview and Benefits

The LONG Scholars Program is an initiative by the LONG Empowerment Foundation to support undergraduate students in Nigeria. The scholarship provides a substantial financial award, valued at a minimum of ₦350,000 per academic year. This funding is intended to cover essential educational costs, including tuition fees, accommodation, and daily living expenses.

A key aspect of this scholarship is its renewable nature. Successful applicants can have their scholarship renewed each academic year, provided they maintain satisfactory academic performance and continue to demonstrate financial need. This ensures ongoing support throughout their degree program. The program also does not require an IELTS test, making it accessible to a wider range of Nigerian students.

Eligibility Criteria for Applicants

To be considered for the 2026 LONG Scholars Program, candidates must meet specific age and academic requirements. Applicants must be between 16 and 26 years old. They must either have already secured admission into an accredited Nigerian institution for a Bachelor’s Degree program or be currently enrolled as a continuing student.

For continuing students, a minimum cumulative grade point average (CGPA) of 3.5 on a 5.0 scale, equivalent to a second-class upper division, is required. New students must provide proof of admission, which includes an admission and acceptance letter, a copy of their WAEC results with at least five credits, and their JAMB score, which must be a minimum of 200. Beyond academic achievements, applicants are expected to show evidence of leadership potential and involvement in community activities.

Financial Need and Documentation

A core component of the LONG Scholars Program is its focus on supporting students from low-income families. Applicants must demonstrate a genuine financial need, with a household annual income of less than ₦3 million. This financial need must be supported by evidence, which can include parents’ bank statements or a recommendation letter from the school’s bursar.

The application process requires several important documents to verify eligibility and assess the applicant’s profile. These include a completed application form, a letter of recommendation, a recent passport photograph, and a valid identification card. Additionally, candidates will need to submit scholarship essays, which are an opportunity to articulate their aspirations, leadership qualities, and reasons for needing financial assistance.

Application Process and Deadline

Applying for the 2026 LONG Scholars Program involves a straightforward online process. Interested and qualified candidates must visit the official application portal, which can be accessed via a provided link. Once on the dashboard, applicants need to fill out the application form accurately and upload all the necessary supporting documents.

The application window opens on May 22, 2026, and closes on June 18, 2026. It is crucial for all applicants to submit their applications within this period. The review process for eligible applications will be conducted by the foundation’s team, with scholarship offers typically being extended in late August. Early submission is often advisable to avoid any last-minute technical issues.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the 2026 LONG Scholars Program?

It’s a scholarship initiative by the LONG Empowerment Foundation to help Nigerian students with the costs of higher education, including tuition and living expenses.

How much financial support does the scholarship offer?

The scholarship provides at least ₦350,000 per academic year and can be renewed if academic performance and financial need are maintained.

What are the main eligibility requirements?

You must be 16-26 years old, either admitted or currently enrolled in a Nigerian university, have a minimum CGPA of 3.5 (for continuing students), and demonstrate financial need and community involvement.