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SLEF Undergraduate Scholarship 2026: Application Process
ONGOING Undergraduate

SLEF Undergraduate Scholarship 2026: Application Process

If you're an undergraduate at Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU) or the University of Lagos (UNILAG) and financial hardship is threatening to derail your degree, the Sola Lawal EduFund (SLEF) Scholarship 2026 could be a lifeline. 

Now in its second year, this Nigerian founded initiative is built entirely around one goal: making sure a lack of money never forces a capable student to defer, suspend, or drop out.

About the Scholarship

The SLEF was established to honour Sola Lawal, who believed education was a gateway to endless possibilities and invested generously in the education of those around him throughout his life. 

The foundation's philosophy is simple but powerful: admission to a great university should be the hardest step, not paying for it; removing the financial barrier for students who have earned their place at OAU or UNILAG but cannot afford to stay. 

Notably, every naira donated goes directly to student scholarships, with the foundation keeping overheads lean so donor generosity reaches the student.

Scholarship Benefits

The SLEF Scholarship offers full tuition coverage, a stipend for academic expenses, and mentorship and career support.

Eligibility Criteria

To qualify for the 2026 cycle, applicants must:

  • Hold Nigerian citizenship

  • Be admitted to or currently enrolled at Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU, Ile-Ife) or the University of Lagos (UNILAG), both new and returning students from either university are encouraged to apply

  • Be facing financial hardship that puts them at risk of deferring, suspending, or abandoning their studies before completing their degree

Required Documents

When applying, be ready to submit:

  • Personal essay (500–800 words): addressing your academic and career goals, how your education will help you achieve them, and how the scholarship would support your aspirations; you can include personal experiences, characteristics, and financial circumstances that demonstrate need

  • Proof of acceptance or enrolment: for new students, proof of admission; for current/returning students, proof of enrolment at OAU and/or UNILAG

  • Two (2) letters of recommendation: from teachers, professors, or others who can speak to your potential, character, or skills

Application Process

  • Review the eligibility criteria carefully to confirm you qualify.

  • Gather all required documents (essay, proof of enrolment/admission, two recommendation letters).

  • Complete the online application form during the SLEF annual application cycle.

  • Submit before the cycle closes.

For OAU and UNILAG students facing that exact crossroads, SLEF offers more than tuition money. If you're eligible, don't sit on this one.