Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program 2026 at McGill University for African Students 

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Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program 2026 at McGill University for African Students: Overview

The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at McGill University offers fully funded master’s studies to academically qualified African students who demonstrate exceptional leadership, community service, and a commitment to returning home to contribute to Africa’s development. The program supports students facing significant educational barriers by providing financial, academic, and personal support. Applicants must first apply to the scholarship before being invited to apply to McGill University.

Scholarship Categories

• Non-Thesis Programs: Animal Science (Sustainable Agriculture), Bioresource Engineering (Environmental Engineering, Integrated Food & Bioprocessing, Integrated Water Resource Management), Biostatistics, Biotechnology, Food Science and Agricultural Chemistry (Food Science, Food Safety), Human Nutrition (Project), Public Health, Public Policy

• Thesis Programs: Animal Science, Bioresource Engineering

Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program 2026 at McGill University for African Students: Eligibility Criteria

• Citizen and resident of an African country (full list provided in program details)

• Hold a bachelor’s degree (or equivalent) in a field related to the intended program

• Must NOT have registered for or completed a master’s degree

• Admissible to an eligible program at McGill University

• Valid passport and admissible to Canada as an international student (study permit required)

• Exceptional record of service, leadership, and community engagement

• Demonstrated financial need

• 35 years or younger at the time of application

• First Class Honours or equivalent strongly preferred

Documents Required

• Completed Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program application form (access granted after attending an information session)

• Valid passport

• Academic transcripts and degree certificate

• Proof of community service/leadership activities

• Additional documents as requested during the pre-screening stage

Important Notes

• Attend an information session between July 3 – July 28, 2025, to access the application form

• Application opens: August 4, 2025 (9:00 a.m. EST)

• Application closes: August 31, 2025 (4:00 p.m. EST)

• Public Health & Biostatistics applicants notified by Nov 15, 2025; all other programs by Dec 10, 2025

• McGill University application deadlines: Public Health & Biostatistics – Dec 1, 2025; other programs – Jan 15, 2026

• Applicants must NOT contact supervisors directly for thesis programs; instructions will be provided after shortlisting

• Fee waivers provided for shortlisted candidates

Selection Process
Selection is based on academic merit, leadership potential, quality of application, alignment with the Mastercard Foundation’s mission, and potential for impact in the applicant’s home country. Only shortlisted candidates after the pre-screening stage will be invited to apply for admission to McGill University.