Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at McGill University in Canada

As the most extensive scholarship and leadership program of its kind in Africa, the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program leverages a vast network of universities and NGOs across the continent and globally. The program aims to enhance the higher education landscape by promoting inclusivity, accessibility, and innovation in academic practices. Moreover, it fosters research collaborations and partnerships across vital sectors and stakeholders. Since 2013, McGill University has been an active partner in this transformative program, nurturing and empowering 132 Mastercard Foundation Scholars hailing from more than 20 Sub-Saharan African nations.

The year 2024 marks a significant milestone as McGill University enters the second phase of its involvement with the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program. During this new chapter, the university will continue to welcome talented individuals poised to become future leaders and change-makers. These scholars share a common goal: to revolutionize and improve crucial fields such as nutrition, public health, public policy, and sustainable agriculture throughout Africa.

By cultivating these bright minds, the program not only invests in individual potential but also contributes to the broader development and progress of the African continent. Through this continued partnership, McGill University and the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program are working hand in hand to shape a brighter, more sustainable future for Africa and its people.

Benefits of the Mastercard Scholars Program at McGill University

• Pre-arrival and immigration support
• Full international student tuition
• On-campus housing
• Personal monthly stipend (food, personal expenses, transportation, etc.)
• Academic tools and resources (book allowance, laptop, tutoring, etc.)
• A tailored leadership and professional development program
• Post-graduation transition expenses (ex. convocation regalia, return flight, etc.)

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 non-thesis programs at McGill University.
• Have NEVER registered for, nor completed a master’s degree.
• Be a citizen of and live in a Sub-Saharan African Country (view eligible countries).
• Have a valid passport and be admissible to Canada as an International Student (requiring a Study Permit).  Those with dual citizenship, asylee, refugee or permanent resident status in the US, Canada, UK or EU are not eligible.
• Have an exceptional record of service, leadership, and activity in your school and/or community.
• Must be less than 35 years old at the time of application.

Applicants with First Class Honors or equivalent have a stronger chance of being admitted.

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You can also apply:

McCall MacBain Scholarships at McGill University in Canada, 2025

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Eligible Non-Thesis Programs

All applicants, regardless of country of origin or educational backgrounds, must:

1. Hold a bachelor’s degree (or equivalent as recognized by McGill University) in a subject closely related to the program selected for graduate studies.
2. Ensure your bachelor’s degree meets equivalency requirements. Applicants with First Class Honors or equivalent have a stronger chance of being admitted.

Meeting the minimum graduate admissions requirements does not guarantee eligibility for the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program or admission to McGill University. Consult each program page for any additional requirements. 

Application Timeline

Date	Action
September 16 – 20, 2024	Prospective applicants should attend a virtual info session to learn more about the eligibility requirements and application process.
September 23, 2024 (9:00 a.m. EST)	Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program applications open.
October 25, 2024 (5:00 p.m. EST)	Applications close. All applicants must have completed the first stage of the application and eligibility assessment. Applications will not be accepted beyond this date.
October 28 – November 15, 2024	Only successful pre-screened applicants will be invited to move on to the McGill University application for admission stage. Unsuccessful applicants will be notified.
December 1, 2024	Application deadline for programs in Public Health and Biostatics.
January 15, 2025	Application deadline for all other programs.
Early to mid-February 2025	Successful and unsuccessful applicants will be notified of their admission decision to McGill.
Mid-February – mid-March 2025	The McGill Mastercard Foundation Scholarship Committee will select scholarship recipients.
Mid-March – early April 2025	Successful and unsuccessful scholarship applicants will be notified.
April – August 2025	Support is provided by the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program team through the immigration processes.
August 2025	Orientation and academic programs begin.

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APPLY HERE

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You can also visit the Mastercard Scholars Program at McGill University Webpage for more information.