2025 Fully Funded University of British Columbia Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program for Study in Canada”l
The 2025 Fully Funded University of British Columbia (UBC) Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program is a prestigious opportunity for academically talented young people from Sub-Saharan Africa. UBC, in partnership with The Mastercard Foundation, aims to foster the next generation of African leaders. The program provides full scholarships to 351 students from Sub-Saharan Africa to study at UBC, allowing them to gain quality education and then return to their communities to contribute to economic growth and social transformation.
Key Features of the Program:
The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at UBC focuses on developing leaders who will drive change through sustainable leadership and community development. The program offers comprehensive support in four main areas:
- Access & Thrive: The program ensures young people, especially women, refugees, internally displaced persons, and individuals with disabilities, can access high-quality education. Scholars receive tailored support to help them become transformative leaders who will drive inclusive social and economic change in Africa.
- Community-Engaged Learning: UBC encourages students to apply their knowledge to solve critical social and environmental challenges. By partnering with diverse communities, the program provides scholars with practical learning experiences that align with community needs. Scholars also benefit from networks in Africa that will help them transition into meaningful careers.
- Dignified & Fulfilling Work: Scholars receive academic and social support through various programs that focus on personal development and well-being, ensuring they are prepared for success in their academic and professional journeys.
- Agency & Voice: Scholars are given opportunities to engage in hands-on learning experiences that develop their skills, mindsets, and confidence, helping them transition into meaningful employment or entrepreneurship.
Eligibility Criteria:
To be eligible for the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at UBC, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Have completed a Bachelor’s degree.
- Be 35 years old or younger at the time of application.
- Be a citizen or refugee from a Sub-Saharan African country.
- Have lived a significant part of their life in a Sub-Saharan African country.
- Present economically disadvantaged financial circumstances.
- Demonstrate academic excellence despite difficult circumstances.
- Show leadership qualities or potential to lead.
- Be committed to giving back to their home community after completing their studies.
- Require a Canadian study permit to study in Canada.
- Applicants who have claimed or plan to claim asylum status in Canada are not eligible.
Benefits of the Program:
The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program offers a wide range of benefits, including:
- Full coverage of tuition and books
- Flights and immigration support
- Room and board
- Stipends for living expenses
- Health insurance
- Career services and support
- Access to a global alumni network of Mastercard Foundation Scholars
- Access to the Social Entrepreneurship Fund, which supports scholars interested in starting ventures in Africa.
Application Process:
- Assess Your Eligibility: Review the list of programs and academic requirements to ensure you qualify for the program.
- Take Additional Tests: If your Bachelor’s degree was not taught in English, arrange to take an English proficiency exam (TOEFL or IELTS).
- Complete the MCFSP Application Package: Submit your Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program application by October 31, 2024, as a single PDF document via email to mcfsp.admissions@ubc.ca.
- UBC Faculty Applications: After submitting your MCFSP application, complete your application to UBC online as instructed. Review faculty application instructions and eligibility for fee waivers.
Application Deadline:
- The deadline to apply for the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at UBC is October 31, 2024.
For more information, visit the official website.
Visit The Official Website
This fully funded scholarship program provides a unique opportunity for young Africans to access world-class education and develop the skills needed to create meaningful change in their communities.