2025 Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at McGill University

The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at McGill University is open to talented leaders and changemakers at the graduate (master’s) level, from across Sub-Sharan Africa who aspire to improve and transform nutrition, public health, public policy, and sustainable agriculture sectors across Africa.   

• Table of Content
• About MasterCard Foundation
• Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program
• Aim and Benefits of Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program
• Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program Courses
• Requirements for Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program Qualification
• Interview date, Process and Venue for Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program
• Application Deadline
• How to Apply

About MasterCard Foundation

The Mastercard Foundation is an international non-governmental organization established by Mastercard in 2006. The organization, which is based in Toronto, Ontario, has supported work in 49 countries.In 2018, Mastercard Foundation shifted to a specific focus on Africa, through its Young Africa Works strategy. The foundation develops programs primarily focused on reducing gender and economic inequality, expanding access to quality education, increasing the opportunities for decent work, and supporting overall economic growth.Funding is primaril... continue reading

Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program

Aim and Benefits of Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program

• Full scholarship covering tuition, fees, living expenses, visa, and other associated costs.
• Leadership development opportunities and support during immigration processes.

Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program Courses

• Animal Science
• Biostatistics
• Biotechnology
• Food Science
• Human Nutrition
• Public Health
• Public Policy

Requirements for Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program Qualification

Prospective applicants must qualify academically for admission to McGill University and meet the following minimum criteria: 

• Be admissible to one of the eligible programs at McGill University. 
• Have NEVER registered for, nor completed a master’s degree. 
• Be a citizen of and live in a Sub-Saharan African Country (view eligible countries). 
• Have a valid passport and be admissible to Canada as an International Student (requiring a Study Permit).  Those with dual citizenship, asylee, refugee or permanent resident status in the US, Canada, UK or EU are not eligible. 
• Have an exceptional record of service, leadership, and activity in your school and/or community. 
• Demonstrate a desire to give back to your home community.
• Must be less than 35 years old at the time of application. 

Applicants with First Class Honors or equivalent have a stronger chance of being admitted. 

Interview date, Process and Venue for Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program

All applicants, regardless of country of origin or educational backgrounds, must: 

1. Hold a bachelor's degree (or equivalent as recognized by McGill University) in a subject closely related to the program selected for graduate studies. 
2. Ensure your bachelor’s degree meets equivalency requirements. Applicants with First Class Honors or equivalent have a stronger chance of being admitted. 

Meeting the minimum graduate admissions requirements does not guarantee eligibility for the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program or admission to McGill University. Consult each program page for any additional requirements. 

Application Deadline

How to Apply

For more details, visit McGill University website.