The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at the University of Toronto (U of T), Canada, is one of the most comprehensive and prestigious scholarships available for graduate studies in North America. This fully funded scholarship is exclusively designed for highly talented students who are citizens of Sub-Saharan African countries.
This complete guide provides all the necessary details on the scholarship benefits (which cover everything!), eligible programs, and the critical application steps you must follow before the tight deadline. The goal of the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program is to develop capacity and networks to engage in diverse healthcare professions in Africa.
Full Funding and Scholarship Benefits
The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at the University of Toronto offers complete financial assistance, ensuring that scholars face zero financial burden during their Master’s studies in Canada.
Comprehensive Scholarship Benefits
Scholars are provided with full financial assistance for the entire duration of their graduate studies, including:
- Tuition and Fees: Full coverage of all university tuition costs.
- Travel Expenses: Covers travel costs to Canada, including the fees for obtaining a passport and visa application.
- Living Costs: Full coverage of housing, food, and a grocery stipend.
- Health Coverage: Provision of health insurance.
- Learning Materials: Coverage for learning materials and other essential expenses.
READ ALSO: CCP Fellowships 2026: Apply to Germany Fully Funded
Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program Eligibility
The scholarship is primarily aimed at strengthening African healthcare systems. Candidates must meet the following general criteria:
- Target Audience: Citizens from Sub-Saharan Africa.
- Academic Level: Must be applying for a Graduate Studies (Master’s) program.
- Commitment: Must have the strong intention to return to their home countries upon completion to engage in health-related professions or self-employment to advance health outcomes.
- Partner Universities: Your university transcript must be from one of the U of T’s Health Collaborative Partner universities (including KNUST, ALU, Amref International University, etc.).
Eligible Programs and Application Deadline
For the 2026-2027 academic year, the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program will only accept applications for specific Master’s programs focused on health-related disciplines.
Accepted Programs for Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program 2026-2027
Candidates can apply for ONE of the following programs at the University of Toronto:
- Master of Engineering (Biomedical)
- Master of Financial Insurance
- MHSc Master of Health Administration
- MHSc Master of Health Informatics
- MPH: Health Promotion
- MPH: Occupational and Environmental Health
Critical Application Deadline
The application deadline is strict and must be adhered to precisely, based on Toronto time:
- Deadline: November 3, 2025, at 12:00 noon (Toronto time).
How to Apply for the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program
Applying for the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program requires two main actions: the supplementary application and the transcript submission.
Step-by-Step Application Guide
- Complete the Supplementary Application: Access and fill out the official Supplementary Scholarship Application form online:
- Application Link: https://forms.office.com/r/YbiwKLzWKc
- Submit University Transcript: After submitting your online application, your university transcript must be emailed directly to the scholarship office.
- Email Address: mcf.cie@utoronto.ca
- Note: The transcript must be from one of the U of T’s Health Collaborative Partner universities.
Scholars accepted into the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program will also benefit from extensive mentoring, orientation, and transition assistance programs.
Conclusion
The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at U of T is perhaps the most life-changing opportunity for African citizens seeking to specialize in health-related Master’s degrees in Canada. Given that the scholarship is fully funded, competition will be fierce.
You must ensure that your application is submitted before the strict deadline of November 3, 2025. Do not wait until the last minute!
Apply for the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program today and secure your fully funded Master’s degree in Canada!
