2026 UBC MasterCard Foundation Scholarship in Canada | Fully Funded

The University of British Columbia (UBC) MasterCard Foundation Scholarship 2026 is currently open for applications from talented and economically disadvantaged students across Sub-Saharan Africa. This fully funded scholarship offers young Africans the chance to pursue a Master’s degree in Canada, with all expenses covered, while gaining skills and experiences that will enable them to transform their communities.

About the UBC MasterCard Foundation Scholarship

The MasterCard Foundation Scholars Program at UBC is part of a global initiative valued at $500 million, launched in partnership with top universities around the world. UBC is one of the first Canadian institutions to participate, with the program running over ten years and supporting over 160 scholars from Sub-Saharan Africa. The scholarship focuses on academic excellence, leadership, and commitment to community development.

Scholarship Overview

Host Country: Canada
Host Institution: University of British Columbia (UBC)
Level of Study: Master’s Degree
Eligible Countries: Sub-Saharan African Countries
Scholarship Coverage: Full tuition, accommodation, living stipend, study expenses, travel costs, and a laptop
Application Opens: August 30, 2025
Application Deadline: September 12, 2025

Available Programs

The scholarship is available for Master’s degree programs at UBC’s Vancouver campus 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

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must meet the following requirements to be considered for the 2026 UBC MasterCard Foundation Scholarship:

Hold a Bachelor’s degree.
Not already possess a graduate or PhD degree.
Be 35 years old or younger (born in 1988 or later).
Be a citizen or refugee of a Sub-Saharan African country.
Have lived a significant part of life in Sub-Saharan Africa.
Be economically disadvantaged and unable to afford graduate education otherwise.
Show leadership qualities and a commitment to community service.
Commit to returning to Africa after studies to contribute to positive change.
Require a Canadian study permit to study in Canada.
Apply to one of the listed eligible Master’s programs at UBC.

Note: Canadian citizens and permanent residents are not eligible to apply. Funds from this scholarship cannot be used for studies at other institutions.

Scholarship Benefits

Full coverage of tuition fees, textbooks, and study materials.
Accommodation and living stipend.
Travel costs and a working laptop.
Financial, academic, and social support throughout the program.
Post-graduation support to build leadership and career opportunities.

Required Documents

Completed MasterCard Foundation Scholars Program Application Form.
Personal statements answering specific questions (200–300 words each).
Curriculum Vitae (CV) or resume with education and work experience.
Two reference letters on official letterhead.
Transcripts (with English translation if required).
Signed declaration and completed checklist.

How to Apply (Step by Step)

Submit an Expression of Interest: Deadline is September 12, 2025.
Invitation to Apply: Eligible candidates will be invited by October 15, 2025.
Apply to UBC Faculty: Submit your application by November 26, 2025.
Complete Online Application: Shortlisted candidates will be guided to submit their application to UBC.
Fee Waiver: Applicants from the world’s 50 least developed countries may be eligible for a fee waiver.