On the Edge 2027
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?
Students currently enrolled at Babcock University who can be present for the whole competition and stay in the On the Edge house for its full duration. All four requirements.
Why is this year’s competition limited to Babcock University students?
Each edition has its own school, and this year’s school is Babcock University, with the Babcock University Computer Club (BUCC) as university community partner. It will not always be Babcock.
Can students from other universities apply?
Not this year. The school changes from year to year, so leave your email and we’ll tell you when one opens.
Do I apply individually or as a team?
Individually. Exodust forms the teams after the qualification stage, so you apply on your own.
How are the teams created?
Six finalists are selected, then split into two teams of three, each including at least one female and one male student. You do not choose your teammates and you do not meet them before the competition. The full process.
Will I know my teammates before the competition?
No. The teams are drawn, and the six finalists meet each other at the competition. Working with people you have not worked with before, under pressure, is part of what On the Edge tests.
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. Read the detail.
When will the qualification challenge be revealed?
In January 2027, on the challenge page. The exact date will be announced.
When can I apply?
Applications open in January 2027. The exact date will be announced. Your application has to carry your recorded answer to the challenge, so applications open on the day the challenge is revealed.
When does the competition take place?
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.
How long can my qualification presentation be?
No more than five minutes. Anything longer is disqualified, so deciding what matters most within the time is part of the test.
Where do I submit my qualification video?
With your application. Paste the link to your presentation video into the application form.
Is there a cost to apply?
No. Applying is free.
What happens if I qualify?
You become one of the six finalists and complete student and identity verification, which confirms your place. Your team is drawn, and you meet your teammates at the competition.
What is the “Best 8”?
The eight strongest applicants after the six finalists. They are invited to take part in one part of the competition event and to attend the Finale live. Detail here.
When and where can I watch On the Edge?
On YouTube. The dates it airs will be announced. 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 teams meet for the first time, then the main project is revealed. 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.
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.