UBC MasterCard Scholarship in Canada 2026 | Fully Funded

The University of British Columbia (UBC) MasterCard Foundation Scholarship 2026 is now open to qualified candidates from Sub-Saharan Africa seeking fully funded Master’s degree opportunities in Canada. This prestigious award is part of the global MasterCard Foundation Scholars Program, which provides academically talented yet economically disadvantaged students with access to world-class education, leadership development, and meaningful community engagement.

The scholarship goes beyond financial aid by offering mentorship, networking opportunities, and post-graduation support. Recipients not only benefit from full tuition and living costs but also acquire the skills to return home and contribute to sustainable development in Africa.

Summary of Key Points

• Host Country: Canada
• Host Institution: University of British Columbia (UBC)
• Eligible Countries: Sub-Saharan African nations
• Degree Level: Master’s Degree Programs
• Scholarship Coverage: Full tuition, housing, living stipends, travel costs, laptop, and study expenses
• Application Opens: August 30, 2025
• Application Deadline: September 12, 2025
• Study Abroad Category: Scholarships in Canada | Postgraduate Scholarships | Master’s Scholarships

About the UBC MasterCard Foundation Scholarship 2026

The UBC MasterCard Foundation Scholars Program is part of a $500 million global education initiative that partners with select universities worldwide to empower future African leaders. Since joining the initiative in 2013, UBC has hosted undergraduate and graduate scholars, providing them with academic, social, and career development support.

Over the 10-year program period, UBC will host 163 MasterCard Foundation Scholars, including both undergraduate and graduate students. The 2026 intake continues this legacy, welcoming new scholars into diverse fields across forestry, land and food systems, and data science.

Eligible Master’s Programs at UBC for 2026

The 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)

These programs align with global development goals and provide scholars with practical skills to address environmental, food security, and technological challenges in their home countries.

Eligibility Criteria for UBC MasterCard Foundation Scholarship 2026

To be considered for the UBC MasterCard Foundation Master’s Scholarship, applicants must:

1. Academic Requirements
   • Hold a completed Bachelor’s degree from a recognized institution.
   • Demonstrate strong academic achievement under challenging conditions.
   • Not already possess a graduate or doctoral degree.
2. Age and Citizenship
   • Be 35 years of age or younger (born in 1988 or later).
   • Be a citizen, refugee, or long-term resident of a Sub-Saharan African country.
   • Must require a Canadian study permit to pursue studies in Canada.
3. Leadership and Community Engagement
   • Exhibit proven leadership qualities or leadership potential.
   • Demonstrate a commitment to community service and social development.
   • Intend to return to Africa upon graduation to contribute to positive change.
4. Financial Circumstances
   • Show evidence of economic disadvantage and lack of alternative financial support.

Note: Canadian citizens, permanent residents, or asylum seekers in Canada are not eligible.

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Benefits of the UBC MasterCard Foundation Scholarship 2026

Recipients of the UBC MasterCard Foundation Scholarship will enjoy:

• Full tuition coverage for the chosen Master’s program.
• Travel expenses (to and from Canada).
• Comprehensive health insurance.
• Housing and accommodation on campus.
• Monthly living stipend for food and personal expenses.
• A working laptop and study-related costs.
• Academic, financial, and social support throughout the program.
• Post-graduation transition support to facilitate reintegration into their home countries.

This holistic package ensures scholars are not only educated but also equipped with the resources to thrive during and after their studies.

Required Documents for UBC MasterCard Foundation Scholarship Application

Applicants must prepare and submit the following documents:

1. Completed MasterCard Foundation Scholars Program Application Form.
2. Personal Statements (typed responses to specific questions within word limits).
3. Curriculum Vitae (CV)/Resume, highlighting academic achievements and relevant experiences.
4. Two Reference Letters on official letterhead, preferably from academic or professional referees.
5. Transcripts (official or unofficial, with English translations if required).
6. Signed Declaration and Checklist to confirm completeness of the application.

Personal statements must address topics such as:

• Personal story and background (200–300 words).
• Community involvement and roles played (200–300 words).
• Motivation for studying at UBC and long-term goals (200–300 words).
• Resilience in overcoming challenges (200–300 words).
• Financial circumstances (200–300 words).

Step-by-Step Application Guide for UBC MasterCard Foundation Scholarship 2026

1. Expression of Interest
   • Submit an Expression of Interest form by September 12, 2025.
2. Program Application Invitation
   • Shortlisted candidates will be invited to submit a full application to the MasterCard Foundation Scholars Program by October 15, 2025.
3. UBC Faculty Application
   • Apply directly to the relevant UBC faculty by November 26, 2025. Only applicants who complete both the MasterCard Foundation application and the UBC graduate application will be considered.
4. Final Review and Admission
   • Selected candidates will be notified via email with further instructions on how to finalize their enrollment.
   • Applicants from the world’s 50 least developed countries may request a waiver of the application fee.

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FAQs on UBC MasterCard Foundation Scholarship 2026

1. Who can apply for the UBC MasterCard Foundation Scholarship?
   Eligible applicants are academically talented, economically disadvantaged students from Sub-Saharan African countries who meet the program and age criteria.
2. Does the scholarship cover all costs?
   Yes, it is a fully funded award covering tuition, housing, living stipend, travel, health insurance, and study expenses.
3. Can Canadian citizens apply for the scholarship?
   No, Canadian citizens, permanent residents, or asylum seekers in Canada are not eligible.
4. Which programs are funded under this scholarship?
   Eligible Master’s programs are offered in the faculties of Forestry, Land and Food Systems, and Science.
5. Is there a commitment to return to Africa?
   Yes, successful applicants must commit to returning to their home countries after graduation to apply their skills for community development.

Conclusion

The UBC MasterCard Foundation Scholarship in Canada 2026 is more than just financial aid—it is a transformative opportunity for young African leaders to gain quality education, develop leadership skills, and create lasting impact in their communities. By combining academic excellence, mentorship, and comprehensive support, UBC and the MasterCard Foundation continue to nurture the next generation of changemakers.

For students from Sub-Saharan Africa who aspire to pursue a Master’s degree in Canada, this fully funded program represents a life-changing opportunity to achieve academic success while contributing to global and local development.