The prestigious McGill University, located in Montreal, Canada, in partnership with the Mastercard Foundation, offers the 2025 McGill University Mastercard Scholarship, a fully funded opportunity designed to empower academically talented students from Sub-Saharan Africa.
This scholarship targets those with strong leadership potential and a commitment to giving back to their communities, providing them with access to a world-class education and the resources needed to thrive both academically and professionally.
The McGill University Mastercard Scholarship program for 2025-2026 is now open, offering a fully funded opportunity to pursue a master’s degree in Canada.
Opportunity Summary
- Scholarship: McGill University Mastercard Scholarship
- Offered By: McGill University and the Mastercard Foundation
- Eligible Countries: Sub-Saharan African countries
- Study in: Canada
- Scholarship Type: Master’s degree
- Scholarship Value: Full tuition, living stipend, travel and research funding
- Application Deadline: October 25, 2024
- Number of Awards: Not specified
About the Scholarship
The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at McGill University aims to empower exceptional Sub-Saharan African leaders through education and leadership development.
Between 2024-2034, the program will bring together gifted changemakers at the master’s level who aspire to improve nutrition, public health, public policy, and sustainable agriculture across Africa.
In partnership with the Mastercard Foundation, McGill University has supported 132 scholars from over 20 Sub-Saharan African countries since 2013.
The scholarship provides a holistic set of financial, social, and academic support to foster entrepreneurship and social impact.
Courses Available
Applicants must apply to one of McGill’s eligible master’s programs in fields related to:
- Nutrition
- Public Health
- Public Policy
- Sustainable Agriculture
Consult each program page for specific requirements and eligibility criteria.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the McGill University Mastercard Scholarship, applicants must:
- Be a citizen and resident of a Sub-Saharan African country
- Be under 35 years old at the time of application
- Hold a bachelor’s degree (or equivalent) in a relevant field
- Meet McGill’s academic admission standards for the chosen program
- Have never pursued a master’s degree
- Demonstrate exceptional leadership, service, and community engagement
- Show a strong desire to give back to their home community
- Hold a valid passport and be eligible for a Canadian study permit
Note: Meeting graduate admissions requirements does not guarantee program admission or scholarship eligibility.
Who Should Apply
The McGill University Mastercard Scholarship is ideal for:
- Exceptional Sub-Saharan African leaders under 35
- Individuals with a track record of transformative leadership and community service
- Those who have faced significant barriers to education
- Applicants with First Class Honors or equivalent in their bachelor’s degree
- Candidates passionate about nutrition, public health, policy, or sustainable agriculture
- Those committed to driving positive change in Africa
Scholarship Benefits
The McGill Mastercard Foundation Scholars will receive:
- Full tuition fee coverage
- Living stipend and accommodation support
- Travel and research funding
- Comprehensive support network of mentoring and services
- Leadership training and development opportunities
- Access to career resources and networking events
- Opportunities for internships, fellowships, and job placements
- Lifelong connection to McGill and Mastercard Foundation alumni networks
This fully funded scholarship allows students to focus on their studies and leadership development without financial burden.
How to Apply
Follow these steps to apply for the 2025 McGill University Mastercard Scholarship:
- Click here to complete the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program Application Form.
- Once your application is pre-screened, provide additional documents through the McGill admissions process.
- Submit your application for the chosen master’s program before these deadlines:December 1, 2024 for Public Health and Biostatistics programs
- January 15, 2025 for all other programs
- If admitted to McGill, the Scholarship Committee will select recipients by mid-March 2025.
- Successful applicants will be notified by early April 2025.
Note: Only pre-screened applicants will be invited to apply for admission to McGill University.
Application Deadline
- Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program Application: October 25, 2024
- McGill Admission Application:December 1, 2024 for Public Health and Biostatistics
- January 15, 2025 for all other programs
Apply now to take advantage of this life-changing opportunity to study in Canada and become a leader in transforming Africa’s future!
For more information, visit the official McGill Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program website.
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