Applications are now open for the 20th edition of the famous MUSON Music Scholars Programme by the MTN Foundation.
The scholarship is completely funded for exceptional young Nigerians.
This landmark edition is celebrating 20 years of engagement between MTN Foundation and the Musical Society of Nigeria (MUSON) – one of the country’s longest running private sector initiatives in music education.
Since its launch in 2006, the initiative has enabled approximately 500 young Nigerians to pursue professional music education at the MUSON School of Music, supporting emerging musicians by reducing financial barriers to learning.
Now in its 20th year, the scholarship continues to equip the next generation of musicians with the skills, discipline and professional training to prosper in Nigeria’s creative industry
Also see: Enioluwa Tech Scholarship 2026 for Nigerians – Fully Funded Application Guide
Quick Summary of MTN Foundation MUSON Scholarship 2026/2027 for Nigerians
| Company | MUSON School of Music, Lagos, Nigeria |
| Sponsor | MTN Foundation |
| Type | Fully funded |
| Job title | MTN Foundation MUSON Scholarship 2026/2027 |
| Eligible Applicants | Nigerians aged 18–35 years |
| Eligible Countries: | Nigeria |
| Benefits | Fully Funded (Tuition, Books, and Approved Course-Related Expenses) |
| Application Deadline | August 23, 2026 |
About the MTN Foundation MUSON Scholarship
The MTN MUSON Music Scholars Programme is a full scholarship programme of the MTN Foundation in cooperation with the Musical Society of Nigeria (MUSON), the best music institution in Nigeria.
Selected applicants are provided an opportunity to receive an internationally recognized Diploma in Music at the MUSON School of Music.
This 2-year advanced programme provides conservatoire-standard musical training with the aim of producing well-rounded professional musicians eligible to enter or transfer to university degree programmes.
The scholarship covers tuition, books and all permitted expenditures related to the course for the term of studies.
Available Majors and Curriculum
The diploma is a comprehensive 2-year full-time course. Students specialize in a major instrument or voice and participate in ensemble training:
Majors Offered: Piano, Organ, Violin, Viola, Cello, Double Bass, Flute, Clarinet, Saxophone, Trumpet, Trombone, Percussion, Classical Guitar, and Voice.
Minors & Auxiliary Training: All students must take 2 terms of an instrument minor outside their primary instrument family. Vocal majors must achieve at least Grade 2 Piano, while instrumentalists must pass vocal techniques.
Ensembles: Choir membership is mandatory for all students. String majors are required to play in the Orchestra, while wind and percussion majors are required to join the Band.
Eligibility Requirements
To qualify for the MTN Foundation MUSON Scholarship 2026/2027, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Be a Nigerian citizen
- Be between 18 and 35 years old
- Hold a minimum academic qualification: General Certificate of Education (GCE) Ordinary Level or Senior Secondary School Certificate (SSCE) with credits in five (5) subjects, including English Language, obtained in not more than two sittings
- Possess Music Practical and Theory qualifications: Grade 5 or higher pass certificate from the MUSON School of Music or a recognized examining body such as ABRSM or Trinity College London
Important Note on Theory Deficiencies: Candidates who demonstrate exceptional practical musical ability but lack the required theory certification may still be admitted on the condition that they complete a remedial theory course during their first year.
Scholarship Benefits
The MTN Foundation MUSON Scholarship offers comprehensive benefits to successful applicants:
- Fully funded scholarship covering tuition, books, and approved course-related expenses
- Internationally recognized Diploma in Music
- Access to conservatoire-standard professional training at MUSON School of Music
- Expert mentorship from experienced music professionals
- Opportunity for direct entry/transfer into university degree programmes
- Ensemble training and performance experience
- Pathway to a professional career in Nigeria’s creative industry
Selection and Evaluation Process
Candidates who meet the entry criteria will undergo a 3-stage screening process:
- Written Examination: Tests Grade 5 standard Music Theory and general music knowledge
- Practical Audition: Performance on your major instrument or voice before a faculty jury (Grade 5 standard or higher)
- Oral Interview: A panel interview evaluating candidate commitment and goals
Admission is based strictly on merit. Shortlisted candidates will be contacted for further evaluation.
How to Apply
Interested applicants have until August 23, 2026, to submit their applications.
Application Steps:
- Visit the official MTN Foundation Portal at https://www.mtn.ng/muson/ or the MUSON admissions page
- Fill out the online application form completely before the deadline
- Upload all required credentials, including SSCE results, Music Grade certificates, and identification
- Only complete applications will be considered
- Successful applicants will receive examination numbers to participate in the entrance examinations, auditions, and interviews
Pro Tip: Applicants are encouraged to review the eligibility criteria carefully and submit all required documents before the application deadline.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the MTN Foundation MUSON Scholarship?
The MTN MUSON Music Scholars Programme is a fully funded scholarship that provides talented young Nigerians with the opportunity to earn an internationally recognized Diploma in Music at the MUSON School of Music.
Who can apply?
The scholarship is open to Nigerian citizens aged 18–35 years who hold an SSCE/GCE O’Level with credits in five subjects (including English) and possess a Grade 5 or higher Music Practical and Theory certificate.
What does the scholarship cover?
The scholarship covers tuition, books, and approved course-related expenses for the duration of the programme.
Do I need prior music qualifications?
Yes. You need a Grade 5 or higher pass certificate in Music Practical and Theory from MUSON, ABRSM, Trinity College London, or a recognized examining body. However, exceptional candidates without the theory requirement may be admitted conditionally.
What is the application deadline?
The application deadline is August 23, 2026.
How long is the programme?
The Diploma in Music programme typically lasts 2 years (full-time).
Where will the programme be held?
At the MUSON School of Music in Lagos, Nigeria