UBC MasterCard Foundation Scholarship in Canada | Fully Funded – 2026

Posted by: Smart || Categories: Scholarship

The University of British Columbia (UBC) is now accepting applications for the 2026 MasterCard Foundation Scholarship Program, a fully funded initiative designed to support outstanding yet economically disadvantaged students from Sub-Saharan Africa.

This prestigious scholarship provides full financial coverage, including tuition fees, housing, travel costs, living stipend, study materials, health insurance, and even a working laptop. Beyond funding, selected scholars also gain access to leadership training, academic mentorship, and career development opportunities to help them create meaningful impact in their home communities.

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Scholarship Summary

• Host Country: Canada

• University: University of British Columbia (UBC), Vancouver Campus

• Programs: Master’s Degree (select fields)

• Eligible Regions: Sub-Saharan Africa

• Funding Coverage: Fully Funded (Tuition, Accommodation, Living Stipend, Laptop, Travel, Study Materials)

• Application Opens: August 30, 2025

• Deadline: September 12, 2025

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About the UBC MasterCard Foundation Scholars Program

UBC is one of the first Canadian universities to join the MasterCard Foundation Scholars Program, a $500 million global education initiative. Over a ten-year period, UBC will host 163 scholars, including both undergraduate and master’s students, providing access to world-class education while preparing leaders who will drive change across Africa.

For the 2026 intake, the scholarship is open for Master’s programs in the following 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

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Eligibility Criteria

To qualify for the 2026 UBC MasterCard Foundation Scholarship, applicants must:

• Be a citizen or refugee of a Sub-Saharan African country.

• Have lived a significant portion of life in Sub-Saharan Africa.

• Hold a Bachelor’s degree (completed or final-year undergraduate at the time of application).

• Be 35 years old or younger (born in 1988 or later).

• Demonstrate financial need and limited access to higher education.

• Show academic excellence despite challenging circumstances.

• Exhibit leadership qualities and a strong commitment to giving back to their communities.

• Require a Canadian study permit to study in Canada.

• Commit to returning to Africa after graduation to contribute skills and knowledge for development.

📌 Note: Canadian citizens and permanent residents are not eligible for this scholarship.

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Scholarship Benefits

Selected scholars will receive a fully funded package that covers:

• Full Tuition Fees

• Free Housing & Meals

• Monthly Living Stipend

• Travel Costs (Roundtrip Airfare)

• Textbooks & Study Materials

• Health Insurance

• A Working Laptop

• Comprehensive Academic, Social, and Career Support

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Required Documents

Applicants must prepare the following documents for submission:

1. MasterCard Foundation Scholars Program Application Form

2. Personal Statements (200–300 words each):

   • Your story and background.

   • Meaningful involvement in your community.

   • Why you want to study at UBC and your career goals.

   • Overcoming a major challenge and lessons learned.

   • Explanation of your financial situation.

3. CV/Resume (highlighting education, work, and volunteer experience).

4. Two Reference Letters (on official letterhead).

5. Academic Transcripts (legible copies; translations required if not in English).

6. Signed Declaration & Checklist confirming all required documents.

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Application Process (Step by Step)

To apply for the 2026 UBC MasterCard Scholarship, candidates must follow these steps:

1. Submit an Expression of Interest by September 12, 2025.

2. Shortlisted applicants will be invited to complete the full application by October 15, 2025.

3. Submit an application to your chosen UBC Faculty by November 26, 2025. (Late applications will not be accepted.)

4. Complete the MasterCard Foundation Scholars application package, including personal statements, references, and documents.

5. Eligible applicants may qualify for a UBC application fee waiver if they reside in one of the world’s 50 least-developed countries.

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✨ The 2026 UBC MasterCard Foundation Scholarship is not just financial support — it is a leadership and empowerment opportunity for African students committed to transforming their communities. If you are passionate about creating lasting change, this scholarship could be your gateway to a brighter future.

APPLY HERE

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