2025/2026 McGill MasterCard Foundation Scholarships for African

About the McGill MasterCard Foundation Scholarships

McGill University in Canada, in partnership with the MasterCard Foundation Scholars Program (MFSP), is offering Master’s Scholarships for exceptional African students for the 2025/2026 academic year.

These scholarships provide full financial support to academically gifted students from economically disadvantaged backgrounds in Sub-Saharan Africa.

The MasterCard Foundation Scholars Program at McGill aims to develop the next generation of African leaders by granting access to a world-class education.

It offers full scholarships to students who demonstrate strong academic performance, leadership skills, and a commitment to community service.

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Beyond financial support, the program includes comprehensive mentoring, support services, and leadership development opportunities to ensure academic success and foster a positive impact upon their return to Africa.

This initiative seeks to promote transformative leadership and social entrepreneurship in Sub-Saharan Africa by empowering talented students to pursue graduate studies at McGill and equipping them to become change-makers in their communities.

Eligibility Criteria

To qualify for the McGill MasterCard Foundation Scholars Program, applicants must meet the following requirements:

1. Admissibility: Applicants must fulfill the entry requirements for one of McGill’s eligible Master’s programs.
2. No Prior Master’s Degree: Candidates must not have registered for or completed a Master’s degree before applying.
3. Nationality: Applicants must be citizens of a Sub-Saharan African country and currently reside there (please see the McGill website for eligible countries).
4. International Student: Applicants must hold a valid passport and be admissible to Canada as an international student, which requires obtaining a Study Permit. Those with dual citizenship or permanent resident status in the U.S., Canada, the UK, or the EU are not eligible.
5. Community Engagement: Applicants should have a strong record of leadership and community service, demonstrating a commitment to positively contributing to their home country after completing their studies.
6. Age Requirement: Candidates must be under 35 years old at the time of application.
7. Academic Excellence: Priority is given to applicants with First Class Honors or its equivalent, significantly enhancing their chances of admission.
   Selection Criteria

The selection process is highly competitive and based on the following criteria:

1. Academic Excellence: The applicant’s academic record must meet McGill’s admission standards.
2. Leadership and Service: Applicants should demonstrate leadership potential and a proven history of community engagement and service.
3. Alignment with Program Values: Goals and experiences should align with the ethos and values of the MasterCard Foundation Scholars Program.
4. Potential Impact: Applicants must illustrate how the knowledge and skills gained during the program will positively affect the development of their home country.
5. Barriers to Education: Preference is given to students who have overcome significant barriers to education, such as financial, social, personal, or health-related challenges.
   Benefits of the McGill MasterCard Foundation Scholarships

Scholars selected for the McGill MasterCard Foundation Program will receive:

1. Full Financial Support: The scholarship covers tuition fees, accommodation, books, and other necessary expenses throughout the Master’s program.
2. Comprehensive Support: In addition to financial aid, Scholars benefit from a holistic support network that includes:

— Mentorship: Scholars are paired with mentors to guide them academically and professionally.

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— Community Engagement: Scholars are encouraged and supported to participate in community service projects.

— Post-Graduate Support: Assistance is provided to facilitate a smooth transition into employment or entrepreneurial ventures upon returning to Africa after graduation.

How to Apply

To apply for the McGill MasterCard Foundation Scholars Program, applicants must follow a two-step process:

1. Pre-application for the MasterCard Foundation Scholars Program: Applicants must first apply directly to the MasterCard Foundation Scholars Program at McGill. During this phase, candidates will be pre-screened for eligibility.
2. Formal McGill University Application: Once pre-screened, successful candidates will be invited to apply to their chosen Master’s program through the McGill admissions process. Detailed application instructions for the program will be provided after the pre-screening phase.

Applicants must carefully follow the application procedure and ensure that all required documents are submitted on time.

Please note that the scholarship is highly competitive with limited spots available, so it is essential to highlight academic merit, leadership skills, and commitment to community service in the application.

The deadline for applications is October 25, 2024.

For detailed information on the application process, including specific deadlines and eligible programs, visit the official McGill University MasterCard Foundation Scholars Program website.

CLICK HERE TO APPLY

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