UBC MasterCard Scholarship 2026 | Fully Funded Master’s Study in Canada

For many students in Sub-Saharan Africa, the aspiration to study abroad is frequently impeded by financial limitations. Fortunately, initiatives like the MasterCard Foundation Scholars Program at the University of British Columbia (UBC) in Canada are helping to overcome these barriers by providing fully funded opportunities. Applications are now open for the UBC MasterCard Scholarship 2026, and this guide from The Opportunities Circle will provide you with all the crucial information you need to know.

About the UBC MasterCard Foundation Scholars Program

The University of British Columbia (UBC) was among the first Canadian universities to collaborate with the MasterCard Foundation Scholars Program, a $500 million global education initiative. Since its inception in 2013, the program has been aiding students from Sub-Saharan Africa by integrating academic achievement with leadership development and community involvement. Over a decade, UBC has pledged to host 163 MasterCard Foundation Scholars, encompassing both undergraduate and graduate students. This scholarship goes beyond covering tuition fees; it provides students with the tools, resources, and networks necessary to become influential figures in their communities upon returning home.

Eligible master’s Programs

A lot of programs are offered by the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program 2026 at UBC. However, not all programs at UBC are included in the scholarship. This opportunity is specifically designed for fields that can directly impact sustainable development and capacity building in Sub-Saharan Africa. The following programs are eligible for the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at UBC 2026 intake:

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)

Each of these programs is designed to equip students with the technical skills and global perspective needed to address real-world challenges in forestry, food security, natural resources, and data-driven decision-making.

Overview of Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program 2026 at UBC

The UBC MasterCard Foundation Scholars Program is structured to remove all financial barriers, allowing students to focus fully on their studies. Below, we have provided all the details of this prestigious scholarship. Here is an overview of the scholarship details:

• Type: Master’s Scholarship
• Location: Canada
• University: University of British Columbia (UBC)
• Funding: Fully Funded
• Eligible Applicants: Citizens or refugees from Sub-Saharan Africa
• Application Opens: August 30, 2025
• Application Closes: September 12, 2025

This is one of the few opportunities where everything is covered, from tuition to living expenses, making it a life-changing package for deserving students.

Benefits of the UBC MasterCard Scholarship

The scholarship goes beyond traditional financial aid. It is a holistic program designed to support the academic, social, and personal growth of each scholar. Some of the main benefits include:

• Full coverage of tuition fees, housing, food, and travel expenses.
• Provision of a laptop and academic resources.
• Comprehensive support for academic, financial, and social well-being.
• Leadership training, mentorship, and career development opportunities.
• Internship and community engagement programs to gain hands-on experience.

This all-rounded support ensures that scholars are not only successful academically but also prepared to make an impact when they return to their home countries.

Eligibility Criteria

To ensure the scholarship reaches those who need it most, UBC has outlined strict eligibility requirements. Interested applicants must read the requirements below to ensure that they are eligible before starting their application. The Application requirements are outlined below:

• Interested applicants must hold a bachelor’s degree (not a prior master’s or PhD).
• Also, to be eligible, applicants must be 35 years or younger (born in 1988 or later).
• Interested applicants must also be a citizen or refugee of a Sub-Saharan African country.
• You should have lived a significant part of your life in Sub-Saharan Africa.
• Furthermore, applicants must demonstrate financial need and economic disadvantage.
• Demonstrate academic excellence, particularly in challenging circumstances.
• Exhibit leadership qualities and commitment to community service.
• Plan to return to Africa after graduation to contribute to development.
• Require a Canadian study permit (not a Canadian PR or citizen).

Note: Applicants who have claimed asylum or protected status in Canada are not eligible. The funding only applies to UBC Vancouver programs.(alert-warning)

Required Documents for Application 

Applying for the scholarship requires careful preparation. You will need to provide the following documents:
Completed MasterCard Foundation Scholars Program Application Form.

• Personal statements (typed, not in essay format):
• Your personal story. (200–300 words)
• Community involvement. (200–300 words)
• Why did you choose UBC and your program? (200–300 words)
• A major challenge you have overcome.(200–300 words)
• Financial background. (200–300 words)
• Updated CV/Resume, including education and work experience.
• Two reference letters on official letterhead.
• Academic transcripts (unofficial copies accepted; translations required if not in English).
• Signed application checklist and declaration.

These documents give the selection committee a full picture of your academic record, personal journey, and motivation for applying.

Application Timeline and Guidelines

The application process for the UBC MasterCard Foundation Scholars Program is multi-staged. Here is what you need to know:

• Step 1: Submit an Expression of Interest by September 12, 2025.
• Step 2: Shortlisted candidates will be invited to apply to the MCF Scholars Program by October 15, 2025.
• Step 3: Submit your official application to your UBC Faculty by November 26, 2025.
• Step 4: If successful, you will receive an email invitation to complete the online UBC application.
  

  Applicants from the world’s 50 least-developed countries may qualify for an application fee waiver.(alert-success)

Why Consider the UBC MasterCard Foundation Scholarship?

In addition to financial support, this scholarship provides an opportunity to attend one of Canada's leading universities. UBC is renowned worldwide for its research and innovation, and studying there immerses you in a vibrant academic community. Scholars gain not only from exceptional teaching but also from cultural interactions, mentorship, and leadership training.

Graduates often return to their home countries ready to initiate change in areas such as agriculture, forestry, data science, and resource management. Thus, the scholarship is about personal development as well as contributing to wider social and economic advancements in Africa.

Tips for a Strong Application

The Competition for this scholarship is high. Here are some tips to improve your chances:

• Be authentic and personal in your statements; the committee values honesty.
• Highlight leadership and community service experiences.
• Clearly explain how your chosen program connects with your career goals and Africa’s development.
• Provide strong references from academic or professional mentors.
• Ensure all documents are accurate and submitted on time.
• Remember, the goal is to show not only that you need the scholarship, but also that you are prepared to use it to create impact.

Final Thoughts

The UBC MasterCard Foundation Scholars Program 2026 offers more than just financial aid—it serves as a catalyst for empowerment. It provides opportunities for talented and dedicated students from Sub-Saharan Africa who might not otherwise have the chance to pursue graduate studies abroad. With complete funding and extensive support, scholars are prepared to excel academically and return to their home countries as leaders poised to contribute to Africa's development.

If you meet the eligibility criteria, seize this chance. Begin organising your documents early, write thoughtful personal statements, and ensure your application is submitted before the deadline. This could be the transformative step that not only shapes your future but also impacts the future of your community.
Application Deadline: September 12, 2025.

(getButton)#text=(APPLY NOW)#color=(#44bd32)          (getButton)#text=(OFFICIAL WEBSITE)

Disclaimer: “The Opportunities Circle is an opportunities sharing platform that aims to connect youths and young professionals with global opportunities that will help in their personal and professional advancement. However, it is crucial to note that The Opportunities Circle does not award any of the scholarships and opportunities listed on our platform. We therefore, do not take responsibility for any fraud, damages, or any other issues that may arise from scholarship awarding institutions. While we thoroughly check and verify the opportunities before posting them, we cannot guarantee the authenticity or reliability of all opportunities. It is the responsibility of the applicant to do their own due diligence and research before applying to any opportunity. The Opportunities Circle is not liable for any loss or damage that may result from applying to or participating in an opportunity listed on our platform.”(alert-warning)