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When the Michael Taiwo Annual scholarship was announced on October 1st, 2019, it was anticipated to receive approximately 100 to 150 applications. However, the response surpassed all expectations as an astounding number of over 1,000 applications flooded in within just a week. What makes this achievement even more extraordinary is the fact that no funds were allocated for extensive advertising or promotional campaigns.

The response to the scholarship was overwhelming and demonstrated an interest needed for educational support for aspiring students who want to fulfill their higher education. This also reflects the impact and reputation of the scholarship itself, which reaches a wider audience in various channels which results in the significance of the applications.

The provider notices that the challenges faced in Nigeria are similar to those in other developing countries. So, from 2021 onwards, they decided to include non-Nigerians in the scholarship program. This means that anyone, no matter where they’re from, can now apply for the scholarship. Whether you’re Nigerian or not, you have an equal opportunity to win the scholarship.

Source: Michael Taiwo Scholarships

Michael Taiwo Scholarship  Mission 

Their aim is to support ambitious and talented students from underprivileged backgrounds by offering financial assistance and mentorship opportunities, enabling them to pursue exceptional graduate education.

In 2019, they began awarding scholarships exclusively to indigent Nigerians, covering the costs of GRE or GMAT exams. In 2020, they expanded the scholarship program by increasing both the number of scholarships and their scope. They started covering school application fees as well. The following year, in 2021, they opened the scholarships to non-Nigerians, resulting in winners from countries like India and Ghana.

Looking ahead to 2022 and beyond, their plan is to award more scholarships to individuals from all nationalities. Furthermore, their mentoring program has been incredibly successful and plays a crucial role in the program’s effectiveness. To maintain a healthy ratio of mentors to mentees, they now intend to onboard more mentors.

Scholarship Benefits

To help talented students from developing countries who come from low-income backgrounds. Its main goal is to support them in achieving their dreams of getting a fully-funded graduate education at top universities around the world.

When it comes to applying to graduate schools, having a high score on the GRE or GMAT is crucial. These exams carry significant weight in the application process, even for schools that say they are optional. That’s why they offer scholarships specifically for GRE/GMAT preparation and cover the costs of school application fees and other necessary expenses for applying to fully-funded graduate programs in North America and beyond.

In addition to financial support, they also provide mentorship to the scholarship recipients. They will be guided through the entire process of applying to graduate school, offering valuable advice and assistance along the way. The successful students will have access to and networks with a world-class professionals that they will be serving as a mentor and role models.

Scholarship Summary 

• Applicant’s Nationality: All Nationalities
• Degree Level: Graduate Degree
• Number of Awards: Up to 47
• Scholarship Awards: Funds and Mentorship
• Scholarship Country: United States and Nigeria
• Renewable: No
• Offered Annually: Yes

Scholarship Eligibility

Before proceeding with the application, interested applicants must meet the following criteria:

• The scholarship is available to all recent graduates from any university, regardless of their field of study.
• Final-year students are also eligible to apply for the scholarship.
• Ideal candidates should have a minimum Cumulative Grade Point Average (CGPA) of 4.0 on a 5-point scale (or an equivalent CGPA if the grading scale is different).
• For final-year students, the minimum CGPA requirement should be met by the end of the penultimate year.
• However, the application process considers candidates holistically, so all eligible individuals are encouraged to apply regardless of their CGPA.

Selection Criteria 

• The scholarship committee utilizes multiple criteria to evaluate the initial applications of all eligible applicants.
• The main objective is to select a diverse and service-oriented group of individuals known as MT Scholars.
• The committee aims to identify candidates who have a high probability of excelling in a demanding graduate program.
• The selection process follows a similar approach to graduate school admissions committees when forming a well-rounded incoming class.
• They seek academically accomplished students who lack the financial means to cover the expenses associated with graduate school applications.
• Additionally, they value candidates who have demonstrated initiative and determination, proving their ability to handle the challenges of studying abroad in a rigorous graduate curriculum.
• They will prioritize achieving geographical and gender diversity, actively encouraging females and applicants from underrepresented regions to apply.

Application Process

The application can be found in an online portal provided on the official page of the provider. It is important to complete the personal information needed for the application including the required documents to support the application.

The application form will only take less than 30 minutes, the applicants are encouraged to complete the scholarship application form accurately and provide the necessary personal information, contact details, educational background, and any additional requested information.

To increase your chances of winning the scholarship, consider the following points:

• Answer all questions honestly and provide accurate information in your application.
• Understand that the scholarship committee uses multiple factors to screen applications.
• Highlight your strengths, achievements, and qualifications in your application to stand out among other applicants.
• Emphasize your dedication, motivation, and readiness to tackle the challenges of a rigorous graduate program.
• Follow the application instructions carefully and submit all necessary documents or materials before the deadline.

Application Deadline 

The application form will be available for submissions starting from Monday, June 26, 2023, at 5:00 AM GMT. The submission period will end on Thursday, July 6, 2023, at 11:59 PM GMT.