The UBC MasterCard Foundation Scholarship 2026 provides outstanding African students with a fully funded opportunity to pursue a Master’s degree at the University of British Columbia, Canada.
Supported by the MasterCard Foundation, this transformative program equips scholars with advanced academic knowledge, leadership development, and global exposure, enabling them to contribute to Africa’s social and economic progress.
Scholarship Summary
- Host Country: Canada
- Host University: University of British Columbia (UBC)
- Funded By: MasterCard Foundation
- Study Level: Master’s Degree
- Eligible Countries: Sub-Saharan Africa
Scholarship Details
The UBC MasterCard Foundation Scholarship 2026 provides outstanding African students with a fully funded opportunity to pursue a Master’s degree at the University of British Columbia, Canada.
The scholarship is specifically designed for academically excellent students who have demonstrated leadership potential, resilience, and a commitment to community impact. Beyond financial support, recipients benefit from mentorship, career development, and leadership training. The award covers all academic and living expenses, allowing students to focus on both personal growth and academic achievement.
Benefits of UBC MasterCard Foundation Scholarship 2026
Eligible Faculties and Programs at UBC
Eligibility Criteria
To be considered, applicants must:
- Be a citizen or refugee of a Sub-Saharan African country
- Have lived most of their life in Africa
- Be 35 years old or younger at the time of application
- Hold a Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field
- Not already hold a graduate or PhD degree
- Show evidence of academic excellence under challenging conditions
- Demonstrate financial need and economic disadvantage
- Exhibit strong leadership skills or potential
- Be committed to community service and social impact
- Require a Canadian study permit to study in Canada
- Not currently claim or plan to claim asylum status in Canada
- Commit to returning to Africa after completing the program
Scholarship Benefits
Successful applicants will enjoy:
- Full tuition fee coverage throughout the program
- Monthly stipend for living expenses in Canada
- Travel costs to and from Canada
- Housing and accommodation support
- Comprehensive medical and health insurance
- Leadership development and mentorship opportunities
Required Documents
Applicants must prepare and submit:
- Completed UBC MasterCard Foundation Scholars Program application form
- Short essays/personal responses (200–300 words each)
- Updated Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Two reference letters on official letterhead
- Unofficial academic transcripts (with English translations if needed)
- Completed checklist and signed declaration form
- Statements detailing personal background, leadership experience, community service, and financial need
Deadline
- Expression of Interest: September 12, 2025
- Final Faculty Application: November 26, 2025
How to Apply
To apply for this scholarship,
- Ensure you meet all eligibility requirements
- Gather transcripts, CV, references, and other required documents
- Fill out the official form with accurate information
- Provide clear and well-structured responses (200–300 words each)
- Include all required documents with the signed checklist and declaration
- If selected, proceed with a Canadian study permit application
- Ensure all applications are submitted on or before October 31, 2025
Click HERE to Apply for the scholarship
