Applications are now being accepted for the 2026 Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at McGill University. This transformative opportunity is designed to empower emerging leaders and changemakers from across Africa who are passionate about driving meaningful progress in areas like public health, sustainable agriculture, food systems, nutrition, and policy reform. It is a graduate-level program that brings together ambitious individuals determined to make a lasting difference in their home communities and across the African continent.

Each year, the initiative awards 35 fully funded graduate-level scholarships across a carefully selected group of 11 academic programs. To be considered, applicants must meet McGill University’s academic standards for admission and be applying to one of the eligible fields of study. Only those who have never previously enrolled in or completed a master’s degree will be considered. Candidates must be living in an African nation and hold citizenship from a country on the eligible list. A valid international passport and eligibility to study in Canada are required. Please note that individuals holding permanent residency, refugee status, or citizenship in Canada, the U.S., U.K., or any EU country are not qualified to apply.

The program is looking for individuals who have demonstrated outstanding leadership, active engagement in their community or academic environment, and a strong commitment to creating social impact. Applicants should show evidence of financial need and explain how limited financial access has previously hindered or delayed their academic pursuits. Only those who are 35 years old or younger at the time of submission will be eligible. While admission is competitive, applicants with a First Class Honors degree or its equivalent will be at an advantage.

To be eligible, all applicants must possess a bachelor’s degree or an equivalent qualification recognized by McGill University, and it should closely align with the master’s program of interest. Holding the minimum academic credentials does not automatically guarantee admission into McGill or selection for the scholarship. Each academic department may have additional entry requirements, and candidates are encouraged to carefully review them. Those interested in research-based (thesis) programs must apply first to the scholarship; successful candidates will then receive instructions on how to secure a supervisor—applicants are asked not to contact faculty members directly during the process.

Programs offered include both course-based and research-focused options in fields such as Environmental Engineering, Food Science, Public Health, Human Nutrition, Integrated Water Resource Management, Sustainable Agriculture, Biostatistics, and Public Policy, among others.

The Mastercard Foundation Scholarship at McGill covers far more than just tuition fees. Recipients will receive full financial support throughout their studies, including housing on campus, a personal living allowance, all required academic resources, and assistance with pre-departure logistics such as visa applications and travel arrangements. This is a life-changing opportunity that provides the tools, mentorship, and support system needed for African students to thrive academically and contribute meaningfully to the future of the continent.

Scroll down for more details and click on the official link attached below to apply now