Fully Funded to Canada! Apply for the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at McGill University (2026)
Transforming Africa Through Education: Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at McGill University (2024–2034)
Empowering Sub-Saharan Africa’s Next Generation of Leaders in Health, Agriculture, and Public Policy
Overview
The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program is a groundbreaking scholarship and leadership initiative—currently the largest of its kind in Africa. Designed to transform higher education and foster inclusive development across the continent, the program supports visionary, high-potential students from Sub-Saharan Africa to pursue graduate-level education at world-class institutions.
From 2024 to 2034, the program at McGill University in Canada will offer fully funded Master’s scholarships to exceptional changemakers committed to advancing solutions in nutrition, public health, sustainable agriculture, and public policy. It is more than just a scholarship—it is a platform for systemic change through leadership development, interdisciplinary learning, and collaborative action.
Program Mission
The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program aims to build a critical mass of ethical, entrepreneurial, and transformative leaders. By focusing on equity, inclusion, and innovation, the program directly supports the development of human capital that is needed to address Africa’s most pressing challenges. It enhances:
- Higher education access for underrepresented and marginalized communities
- Research capacity in critical sectors like health, agriculture, and governance
- Leadership training that fosters long-term impact and continental transformation
- Cross-sector collaboration between universities, governments, civil society, and industry
Why McGill University?
Located in Montreal, Canada, McGill University is one of the world’s leading academic and research institutions. Its strong global reputation, paired with its commitment to sustainability and public good, makes it an ideal host institution for the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program.
At McGill, scholars benefit from:
- Access to cutting-edge research and labs
- Global networks in public policy, health systems, and food security
- Diverse and inclusive academic environments
- Strong mentorship and professional development opportunities
Key Focus Areas of the Program
The program is tailored for individuals with a clear commitment to leading change in four high-impact areas:
1. Nutrition
Scholars will engage in interdisciplinary training to improve food systems, tackle malnutrition, and promote community-level interventions that enhance nutritional outcomes.
2. Public Health
Students will explore strategies for strengthening health systems, enhancing healthcare delivery, and advancing policies that reduce disparities across populations.
3. Public Policy
With a focus on evidence-based governance, scholars will be equipped to design, advocate for, and implement policies that foster equitable development.
4. Sustainable Agriculture
Future agricultural leaders will gain knowledge in agroecology, food security, and climate-resilient farming systems to support livelihoods and ecosystems across Africa.
Who Can Apply?
The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at McGill is open to graduate (master’s) level applicants who:
- Are citizens of a Sub-Saharan African country
- Have a strong academic record and demonstrated leadership potential
- Show a clear commitment to giving back and driving positive social change
- Aspire to transform sectors such as health, agriculture, and public policy in their communities and beyond
Candidates from marginalized or underrepresented communities—including women, refugees, and persons with disabilities—are strongly encouraged to apply.
What the Scholarship Covers
The Mastercard Foundation scholarship is fully funded, providing:
- Full tuition and academic fees
- Living expenses (including housing, meals, and health insurance)
- Travel support to and from Canada
- Laptop and research support
- Participation in leadership development programs and community-based projects
- Ongoing mentorship and career guidance throughout and after the program
Leadership and Lifelong Impact
What sets this program apart is its focus on long-term leadership development. Scholars engage in:
- Leadership seminars and workshops
- Internships and applied research linked to home communities
- Return-to-home strategies, where scholars apply what they’ve learned to real-world challenges
- Alumni networks and collaboration platforms that ensure lasting impact long after graduation
A Decade of Opportunity: 2024–2034
Over ten years, the program at McGill will cultivate a community of hundreds of visionary African leaders who are equipped with world-class education and the tools to drive meaningful, scalable impact across the continent.
The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program is not just about academic success—it’s a movement to transform Africa through empowered, values-driven leadership.
How to Learn More
Interested candidates should visit McGill University’s official Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program page to learn about:
- Available eligible master’s programs
- Application deadlines and timelines
- Selection criteria and guidance for a strong application
