Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at the University of British Columbia

The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at the University of British Columbia (UBC) is now open for applications for the Fall 2025 intake. This prestigious program offers fully funded opportunities for talented students from Sub-Saharan Africa to pursue a master's degree at UBC. It provides not only financial support but also access to a vibrant academic community and opportunities to contribute to social change in their home countries.

In this comprehensive guide, we will walk you through the eligibility criteria, selection process, and application steps, ensuring that you have all the information you need to successfully apply for the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program.

Scholarship Eligibility

The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at UBC is highly competitive, and it is essential for applicants to meet the specified eligibility criteria to be considered. Below are the key requirements:1. Academic Qualifications

• Applicants must have completed a bachelor’s degree before applying for the master’s program.
• Applicants must not already hold a master’s degree.

2. Age Requirement

• Applicants must be 35 years old or younger at the time of application, meaning they must have been born in 1989 or later.

3. Citizenship Status

• Applicants must be citizens or refugees of a Sub-Saharan African country. Canadian citizens or permanent residents are not eligible for this award.
• A list of eligible Sub-Saharan African countries can be found on the program’s website.

4. Program of Study

• The scholarship is available only for specific master’s programs at UBC. These programs are offered by the Faculty of Land and Food Systems, the Faculty of Forestry, and the Faculty of Science (more details are provided in the next section).

5. English Language Proficiency

• If the applicant’s bachelor’s degree was not taught in English, they must take an English proficiency test (such as TOEFL or IELTS) and have the results sent directly to UBC.

Eligible Programs

One of the unique aspects of the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at UBC is that it is only applicable to a select group of master’s degree programs. Applicants must choose their program of interest from the following list:

Faculty of Land and Food Systems:

• Master of Food and Resource Economics (MFRE)
• Master of Food Science (MFS)
• Master of Land and Water Systems (MLWS)

Faculty of Forestry:

• Master of Sustainable Forest Management (MSFM)
• Master of International Forestry (MIF)
• Master of Geomatics for Environmental Management (MGEM)
• Master of Science or Master of Applied Science in Forestry (thesis-based)

Faculty of Science:

• Master of Data Science

Please note that the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program only covers the expenses of admitted scholars enrolled in the aforementioned programs. It cannot be applied to programs at other academic institutions or to programs not listed here.

Selection Process

The selection process for the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at UBC is comprehensive and rigorous. It is designed to identify candidates who demonstrate both academic merit and leadership potential. Below are the key steps and criteria involved in the selection process:1. Academic Merit

• Applicants must meet the minimum academic requirements for the master’s program they are applying to. UBC has specific requirements based on the country where the applicant completed their bachelor’s degree. You can check the academic credentials required for your country on UBC’s website.

2. Leadership and Service

• The program seeks individuals with a strong track record of leadership and service within their communities. Applicants must show a commitment to transformative leadership and social impact, particularly in areas related to the development of Sub-Saharan Africa.

3. Potential Impact

• The selection process also considers the potential impact that the applicant will have in their home country after completing the program. Applicants are encouraged to reflect on how their education at UBC will help them contribute to the development and progress of their home communities.

4. Overcoming Barriers

• Preference is given to candidates who have faced significant barriers to education, such as social, financial, personal, or health-related challenges.

Application Process

To ensure your application for the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program is complete, follow these steps carefully:

Step 1: Decide on Your Program of Interest

• Review the list of eligible programs and decide which master’s program aligns with your academic and career goals. Make sure to check the minimum academic requirements for your country.

Step 2: Complete the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program Application

• The first step in applying is to complete the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program application, which is due by October 31, 2024. This application is the first point of entry into the selection process.

Step 3: Prepare Supporting Documents

• You will need to submit the following supporting documents with your application:
  • Personal Statement: Succinctly answer each question in 200-300 words. Focus on your leadership experience, commitment to social change, and your goals for the future.
  • CV/Resume: Outline your academic qualifications, work experience, leadership roles, and community service activities.
  • Reference Letters: Provide two reference letters on official letterhead. These should be written by individuals who can speak to your academic achievements, leadership potential, and commitment to community service.
  • Transcripts: Submit official copies of your transcripts from your bachelor’s degree.

Step 4: Apply to UBC

• Once your Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program application is complete, eligible applicants will receive instructions to submit an online application to the University of British Columbia. Ensure that you follow the specific guidelines for the faculty and program you are applying to.
• Application Fee Waivers: If your citizenship and correspondence address is in one of the world’s 50 least developed countries, you may be eligible for a fee waiver. If your country is not on the list, you can request a fee waiver as part of your Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program application package.

To learn more and apply, visit University of British Columbia Official Page. 

Key Deadlines

It is crucial to meet all application deadlines to ensure your eligibility for the scholarship. The following are the key dates for the Fall 2025 intake:

• October 31, 2024: Deadline for submitting the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program application.
• UBC Program Application Deadlines: These vary by faculty and program, but you will be notified of the specific deadlines once you complete the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program application.

Financial Support

The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program is fully funded, covering the following expenses for successful applicants:

• Tuition Fees: Full coverage of tuition fees for the selected master’s program.
• Living Expenses: A monthly stipend to cover living expenses, including accommodation and meals.
• Travel Costs: Round-trip airfare from the scholar’s home country to Vancouver, Canada.
• Health Insurance: Comprehensive health insurance for the duration of the program.
• Study Materials: Funds to cover the cost of books, study materials, and a laptop.

The scholarship provides a comprehensive support system to ensure that scholars can focus on their studies and personal development without financial concerns.

Why Choose the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program?

The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at UBC offers more than just financial support. It is a transformative opportunity that empowers young leaders from Sub-Saharan Africa to pursue advanced education and contribute to the development of their home countries. Here are some key benefits:

• Global Network: Scholars join a global network of Mastercard Foundation Scholars and alumni who are working to drive change in their communities.
• Leadership Training: The program provides leadership development opportunities, mentoring, and networking events to help scholars develop the skills they need to become transformative leaders.
• Community Engagement: Scholars are encouraged to participate in community service and give back to their local and global communities during their studies.

The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at the University of British Columbia is an unparalleled opportunity for talented young leaders from Sub-Saharan Africa to pursue a master’s degree in Canada. With full financial support, leadership training, and a commitment to social impact, this program enables scholars to make a lasting difference in their home countries.

If you meet the eligibility criteria and are passionate about contributing to the development of your community, don’t hesitate—apply now for the Fall 2025 intake! The deadline for applications is October 31, 2024. Take the first step toward a brighter future for yourself and your community by applying to this life-changing scholarship program.

Click Here to Apply Now.