Spring 2026 Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at McGill University in Canada

Location: Canada

Program: Postgraduate (Master’s Degree)

Eligibility: African Countries

Duration: same with course

Deadline: Not Specified

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The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at McGill University represents one of the largest scholarship and leadership initiatives of its kind in Africa. This prestigious program, launched through a transformative partnership between McGill University and the Mastercard Foundation, is designed to empower exceptional African students to become the next generation of leaders who will drive positive change across the continent. From 2024 to 2034, the program will welcome gifted leaders and changemakers from across Africa pursuing master’s degrees, who aspire to improve and transform nutrition, public health, public policy, and sustainable agriculture across Africa. Since 2013, McGill University has proudly partnered with the Mastercard Foundation, supporting and empowering over 200 Mastercard Foundation Scholars from more than 20 African nations. Located in Montreal, Canada, McGill University is recognized globally as a world-class institution offering cutting-edge research opportunities and an inclusive, multicultural academic environment. The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program is more than just a scholarship—it is an immersive, transformative experience that combines comprehensive financial support, leadership development, mentorship, experiential learning, professional development, and career guidance. Approximately 35 scholarships are available annually across 11 graduate programs, providing scholars with the tools and resources needed to flourish academically and become ethical, entrepreneurial, and transformative leaders equipped to make meaningful, scalable impact across Africa and beyond.

Benefits of the Scholarship

The Mastercard Foundation Scholarship provides the following to recipients:

Full tuition fee coverage for your entire master’s program
Monthly living stipend to cover personal expenses
On-campus housing accommodation
Pre-arrival and immigration support including visa assistance
Travel funding including flight to and from Canada
Academic tools and resources including laptop, books, and research materials
Health and medical insurance
Post-graduation transition expenses covered
Leadership training and capacity building programs
Access to career resources and networking events
Opportunities for internships, fellowships, and job placements
Lifelong membership in the McGill Mastercard Foundation Scholars alumni network
Development of leadership and self-development skills
Other benefits

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Eligibility Criteria

Prospective applicants must qualify academically for admission to McGill University and meet the following minimum criteria:

Be admissible to one of the eligible programs at McGill University
Have NEVER registered for, nor completed a master’s degree
Be a citizen of and live in an African country
Have a valid passport and be admissible to Canada as an International Student
Have an exceptional record of service, leadership, and activity in your school and/or community
Demonstrate a desire to give back to your home community
Demonstrate that financial constraints have prevented or restricted your educational opportunities
Be 35 years or younger at the time of application
Be in good physical and mental health
Hold a bachelor’s degree (or equivalent) as recognized by McGill University in a subject closely related to the program selected for graduate studies
Note: Kindly check the official website for complete and detailed requirements.

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Selection Criteria

The selection process for the McGill Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program is based on academic merit, ensuring candidates meet McGill University’s admission standards; a proven track record of transformative leadership and community service; the quality of the application in alignment with the Foundation’s ethos and values; and the applicant’s potential impact on their home country’s development. Additional considerations include having faced significant barriers to education—whether social, financial, personal, or health-related—demonstrated leadership potential and commitment to positive change, strong community engagement and social responsibility, and clear alignment with the program’s focus areas, including nutrition, public health, public policy, and sustainable agriculture.