UBC MasterCard Scholarship: The University of British Columbia (UBC), in partnership with the Mastercard Foundation, is offering a transformative, fully funded scholarship program for exceptional African students. The UBC Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program for 2026 is designed to empower young leaders with the academic foundation, leadership skills, and global network needed to drive social and economic progress in their communities and across Africa.
Join Our Scholarship & Jobs Community
This prestigious program goes beyond financial support, providing a comprehensive ecosystem of mentorship, leadership development, and community engagement. It is ideal for academically gifted students who have demonstrated resilience, a commitment to giving back to their communities, and the potential to become catalysts for change.
Check, also: Top 10 Best Universities in Australia: A Comprehensive Guide to Higher Education Excellence
Details of UBC Mastercard Foundation Scholarship 2026
| Host Institution | University of British Columbia (UBC) |
| Host Country | Canada |
| Program Sponsor | The Mastercard Foundation |
| Study Level | Master’s Degree |
| Eligibility | Citizens and refugees from Sub-Saharan Africa |
| Official Website | UBC Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program |
Benefits of the Scholarship
The scholarship provides complete financial and holistic support to ensure scholars can thrive academically and personally:
- Full Tuition Coverage: All tuition and academic fees for the duration of the master’s program.
- Living Stipend: A monthly allowance to cover food, local transportation, and personal expenses.
- Housing: Accommodation support on or near the UBC campus.
- Travel Costs: Round-trip airfare to and from Canada.
- Health Insurance: Comprehensive medical coverage for the duration of the studies.
- Leadership Development: Access to specialized programming, workshops, and mentorship opportunities.
- Community Building: Becoming part of a vibrant network of Scholars and alumni across Africa.
Eligible Faculties and Programs
The scholarship is available for specific master’s programs within the following UBC faculties:
- Faculty of Forestry
- Master of Sustainable Forest Management (MSFM)
- Master of International Forestry (MIF)
- Master of Geomatics for Environmental Management (MGEM)
- 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 Science
- Master of Data Science (MDS)
Prospective applicants must apply directly to one of these eligible programs.
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must meticulously review and meet all the following criteria:
- Citizenship: Be a citizen or refugee from a Sub-Saharan African country.
- Age: Be 35 years of age or younger at the time of application (by December 2025).
- Academic History: Hold a Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field and must not already possess a graduate or PhD degree.
- Academic Excellence: Demonstrate a strong academic record, often achieved under challenging circumstances.
- Financial Need: Provide proof of economic disadvantage.
- Leadership & Community Service: Show a proven commitment to community service and strong leadership potential.
- Return Commitment: Demonstrate a genuine commitment to return to Africa after graduation to contribute to its development.
- Immigration Status: Require a study permit to study in Canada and must not have claimed (or intend to claim) asylum in Canada.
Required Documents Checklist
Applicants must prepare a comprehensive application package including:
- Completed UBC Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program application form.
- Short essay responses (200-300 words each) to application questions.
- An updated Curriculum Vitae (CV).
- Two letters of reference on official letterhead.
- Unofficial academic transcripts from all post-secondary institutions attended (with certified English translations if applicable).
- A completed and signed application checklist and declaration form.
- Statements detailing personal history, leadership experiences, community involvement, and financial background.
How to Apply for the UBC MasterCard Foundation Scholarship 2026?
The application process involves two key deadlines:
- Review Eligibility and Programs: Thoroughly confirm you meet all criteria and identify the eligible UBC master’s program you wish to pursue.
- Prepare Documents: Begin gathering all required documents well in advance. Contact your references early.
- Submit Expression of Interest (First Deadline): The first step is to submit an initial expression of interest by September 12, 2025.
- Complete UBC Application: Apply directly to your chosen eligible master’s program at UBC by its deadline.
- Submit Full Scholarship Application (Final Deadline): Compile and submit the complete Mastercard Foundation Scholars application package by November 26, 2025.
For the most accurate, detailed, and authoritative information, all prospective applicants must visit the official program website: UBC Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program.
Take care to avoid fraudsters!
🚫 You should never pay someone for a job application, an interview test, or an interview. A genuine employer will never request payment.