The University of British Columbia (UBC) Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program is set to open applications for the Winter 2027 intake, providing eligible young Africans with an opportunity to pursue selected master's degree programmes at one of Canada's leading universities.
Applications for the Winter 2027 intake will open on August 31, 2026. The opportunity is designed for talented African students and refugees who demonstrate strong academic potential, transformative leadership, community service, and a commitment to contributing to the development of their home countries.
The program is offered through UBC's Vancouver campus and is available only for applicants seeking admission to a specific list of eligible master's degree programmes within the Faculty of Land and Food Systems, Faculty of Forestry, and Faculty of Science.
Why You Should Apply
Benefit
Description
Fully Funded
Comprehensive funding coverage
Prestigious University
Top Canadian research university
Leadership Development
Transformative leadership training
Community Impact
Focus on development contribution
African Focus
Designed for African students and refugees
Global Network
Join Mastercard Foundation Scholars community
Career Growth
Advanced training in high-demand fields
Eligibility Criteria
Criteria
Requirements
Citizenship
Citizen or refugee of an African country
Age
35 years or younger (born 1990 or after)
Education
Completed Bachelor's degree
Master's Degree
Must not already hold a Master's degree
Academic Requirement
Meet minimum UBC program requirements
Leadership
Demonstrate transformative leadership and community service
Choose a program that fits your background and goals
Verify Academic Eligibility
Check your country's minimum requirements
Develop a Clear Leadership Story
Use specific examples of leadership and service
Connect Education to Development
Show link between studies and home country contribution
Prepare References Early
Give referees sufficient time
Review Personal Statements Carefully
Answer the specific questions asked
Prepare Academic Documents
Ensure transcripts are available and certified
Check English Requirements
Take TOEFL/IELTS early if needed
Frequently Asked Questions
Question
Answer
Q1. What is the UBC Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program?
Fully funded master's scholarship for African students at UBC.
Q2. Who can apply?
African citizens/refugees, aged 35 or below, with a Bachelor's degree.
Q3. What programs are eligible?
MFRE, MFS, MSFM, MIF, MUFL, MGEM, MSc/MASc Forestry, Master of Data Science.
Q4. What is the first step?
Submit an Expression of Interest by 6 September 2026.
Q5. Is there a separate application for the scholarship?
Yes, after the EOI, selected applicants are invited to apply.
Q6. What is the final deadline?
20 November 2026 for UBC Faculty application.
Q7. Are there application fee waivers?
Yes, for LDC countries and upon request.
Q8. What documents are required?
CV, personal statements, 2 references, academic transcripts.
Q9. What is the age limit?
35 years or younger (born 1990 or after).
Q10. What is the selection basis?
Academic merit, leadership, community service, development impact.
CareerFlora Expert Insight
The UBC Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program offers a transformative opportunity for African students to pursue advanced studies at one of Canada's leading universities. With a focus on academic excellence, transformative leadership, community service, and development impact, the program is designed for future leaders committed to their home countries' development.
The multi-stage application process requires careful attention to deadlines and document preparation. Applicants should begin early, select the right program, and ensure their application demonstrates both academic readiness and a meaningful record of leadership and service.
Best Opportunity For
Category
Suitable
African Citizens
Yes
African Refugees
Yes
Aged 35 or Below
Yes
Bachelor's Degree Holders
Yes
Food Systems Graduates
Yes
Forestry Graduates
Yes
Data Science Graduates
Yes
Future Leaders
Yes
Competition Level
Category
Level
Overall Competition
Very High
Selection Difficulty
Highly Competitive
Application Complexity
High
CareerFlora Recommendation
Area
Details
Scholarship Value
Excellent
Career Growth
Very High
Application Difficulty
High
Apply Early
Strongly Recommended
Final Call-to-Action
Apply for UBC Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program 2027 before 6 September 2026.
Visit the official UBC website
Review eligible programs and requirements
Select your preferred program
Submit Expression of Interest by 6 September 2026
Complete MCFSP application if invited (15-30 September 2026)
Submit UBC Faculty application by 20 November 2026
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