McGill University Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program
About this scholarship
The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at McGill University provides comprehensive, fully funded scholarships to academically talented young people from Sub-Saharan Africa who face financial barriers to education. McGill, consistently ranked among the world’s top 30 universities, offers scholars access to world-class education in Montreal, Canada. The program provides not just financial support but a holistic package including academic advising, mentoring, leadership development, and career preparation to develop Africa’s next generation of leaders.
Eligibility
- Must be a citizen of a Sub-Saharan African country
- Must be under 29 years old at the time of application (for undergraduate) or under 35 (for graduate)
- Must demonstrate strong academic potential and achievement
- Must come from an economically disadvantaged background with genuine financial need
- Must demonstrate leadership potential and commitment to giving back to African communities
- Must meet McGill's academic admission requirements
- Must commit to returning to Africa to work for at least 2 years after graduation
Benefits & Coverage
- Full tuition and mandatory university fees
- Living stipend covering accommodation
- Food
- And personal expenses
- Round-trip airfare to Canada
- Comprehensive health insurance
- Textbooks and educational materials
- Laptop or technology allowance
- Academic tutoring and mentoring
- Leadership development workshops
- Career coaching and internship support
- Transition and alumni networking support
Required Documents
Completed McGill admission application, Completed Mastercard Foundation scholarship application, Academic transcripts from all prior institutions, Degree certificates (for graduate applicants), Proof of financial need (family income documentation, affidavit of support), Personal statement on leadership, community engagement, and plans for Africa, Two recommendation letters (one academic, one community/professional), CV/Resume, Valid passport copy, English language proficiency results (IELTS 6.5+ or TOEFL 90+)
How to Apply
- Be a citizen and resident of an African country (no dual citizenship/PR/refugee status in the US, Canada, UK, or EU), under the age limit (around 35), holding a relevant bachelor's, with an exceptional record of leadership and community service, who has never registered for or completed a master's
- Apply to the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program first: register for and attend a mandatory information session to get the application link, complete the application form, and pass pre-screening
- Successful pre-screened applicants receive a fee waiver and are then invited to apply for admission to an eligible McGill graduate programme
