Apply now for the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at the University of British Columbia for Winter 2026. Open to African students and refugees under 35. If you’ve been searching for a life-changing opportunity to study abroad, the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at the University of British Columbia (UBC) is here for you. Applications for the Winter 2026 intake officially open on August 30, 2025. This program empowers young African leaders by offering fully funded master’s degrees in select disciplines, while also supporting personal growth and community impact.
Eligibility Requirements
Before applying, ensure you meet the program’s requirements:
- Hold a Bachelor’s degree (not a master’s).
- Be 35 years old or younger (born in 1990 or later).
- Be a citizen or refugee of an African country.
- Apply for one of the eligible master’s programs.
- Meet UBC’s academic and English proficiency requirements.
If your degree was not taught in English, you’ll need to take an IELTS or TOEFL test.
Eligible Master’s Programs
This scholarship covers specific programs in three faculties:
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)
Department of Forestry
- Master of Sustainable Forest Management (MSFM)
- Master of International Forestry (MIF)
- Master of Geomatics for Environmental Management (MGEM)
- Master of Science/Master of Applied Science in Forestry (Thesis-based)
Faculty of Science
- Master of Data Science
Application Process
The application process for the UBC Mastercard Scholars Program has two main rounds:
Round 1 – Expression of Interest
- Submit an Expression of Interest by September 12, 2025.
- Eligible applicants will receive an invitation to apply by October 15, 2025.
Your application will be evaluated based on academic merit, leadership record, community service, and potential impact on your home country.
Round 2 – UBC Faculty Application
- Complete your faculty application by November 26, 2025.
- Prepare documents including a CV, transcripts, reference letters, and personal statements.
- You may be eligible for a fee waiver if you’re from one of the UN’s least developed countries.
Why Apply?
This is more than a scholarship; it’s a leadership journey. You’ll gain:
- World-class education at one of Canada’s top universities.
- Mentorship and networking with global leaders.
Support to contribute meaningfully to Africa’s development. The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at UBC is your gateway to academic excellence and leadership impact. If you’re ready to transform your future and your community, this is your chance.
Important Dates:
- Application opens: August 30, 2025
- Expression of Interest deadline: September 12, 2025
- Invitation to apply: October 15, 2025
Faculty application deadline: November 26, 2025. Don’t wait until the last minute! If you’re eligible, start your application today:
