On the Edge 2026
Frequently asked questions.
What is On the Edge?
An annual tech competition Exodust runs for university students: you are handed a problem you were not prepared for, and you research, decide, build and defend your thinking under pressure. More about it.
Who can apply?
University students currently enrolled at a university in Lagos State who can be in Lagos for the whole competition and stay in the On the Edge house for its full duration. All six requirements.
Why is the 2026 competition limited to Lagos students?
Each edition has its own location, and the finalists have to be physically present for the competition. 2026 is the Lagos edition.
Can students from universities outside Lagos apply?
Not this edition, and please don’t travel into Lagos just to take part. Future editions may be hosted elsewhere, so leave your email and we’ll tell you when one opens.
Do I apply individually or as a team?
Individually. Teams are built after the qualification stage.
How are the teams created?
The two qualification winners each recruit two more eligible Lagos students, making two teams of three. Every team must include at least one female and one male student. The full process.
How many finalists will be selected?
Six. Two teams of three.
What is the Qualification Challenge?
The first stage: a challenge you answer in a slide deck and a recorded presentation posted on TikTok. Read the detail.
When will the qualification challenge be revealed?
October 5th, on the challenge page. The qualification winners are revealed on October 26th.
When can I apply?
Applications run from October 5th to the end of October 18th. Your application has to carry your recorded answer to the challenge, which is why the window starts on the day the challenge is revealed. The form opens and closes itself on this site.
When does the competition take place?
In Lagos, after the qualification stage. The exact dates are confirmed directly with the finalists, so you need to be free to take part if you are selected. It airs on YouTube in December.
How long can my qualification presentation be?
Under two minutes. Deciding what matters most in that time is part of the test.
Where do I submit my qualification video?
Post it on TikTok tagging @exodust_consulting, then paste the link into your application.
Is there a cost to apply?
No. Applying is free.
What happens if I qualify?
You lead one of the two teams, recruit two teammates, and everyone completes verification before the final six is confirmed. There’s a cinema outing before the work begins.
What is the “Best 8”?
The eight strongest applicants after the two winners. They get an airtime prize, priority for future editions, and a chance to take part virtually this year. Detail here.
When and where can I watch On the Edge?
YouTube, every Friday in December, with the finale on Christmas Day. Subscribe to @exodustconsulting.
How will student status be verified?
Applicants who progress complete a student and identity verification step. We explain exactly what’s needed when you get there.
What happens if I’m not selected?
We contact you either way using the details on your application. On the Edge runs every year, so you can apply again.
What happens during the final competition?
The main project is revealed on the day. Both teams research, build a working MVP, and defend it in front of the panel. Stage by stage.
Who judges On the Edge?
A panel of senior professionals in the tech industry. They are introduced to the finalists on the first day of the competition, in the On the Edge house, and they challenge each team on its research, decisions and recommendations at the finale.
What is the Grand Prize?
₦500,000 to the winning team.
Are there other prizes?
Yes. Other cash prizes are won throughout the competition, alongside the cinema outing for the qualification winners and an airtime prize for the Best 8.
Will On the Edge happen again?
Yes, it’s annual, and each edition may be hosted somewhere new.
Do I need to know the final project before applying?
No, nobody does. It’s revealed during the competition, and that’s the point.
Do I have to study technology to apply?
The requirements don’t restrict your course. You do need to be ready to work with a team to build a technology-enabled solution.