Ambitious young Africans who dream of studying abroad can now apply for the 2026–2027 Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at the University of Toronto (U of T) in Canada. This fully funded postgraduate scholarship supports talented students from Sub-Saharan Africa, including Nigerians, to pursue graduate studies at one of the world’s leading research universities.
The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at the University of Toronto aims to develop the next generation of transformative African leaders. The programme offers comprehensive financial support and mentorship to enable young scholars to contribute to social and economic change in their home countries after graduation.
Through a partnership between the Mastercard Foundation and the University of Toronto, scholars receive funding to pursue advanced degrees in fields that directly impact health systems and economic growth across Africa. The programme not only provides financial support but also fosters leadership, innovation, and community development.
Short note on the programme
The University of Toronto is one of the world’s top research-intensive universities, consistently ranked among the best for innovation, discovery, and academic excellence. As a Mastercard Foundation Scholar, recipients benefit from a rigorous education, mentorship from world-class faculty, and exposure to a global network of changemakers.
The programme focuses on healthcare-related disciplines, preparing scholars to become future leaders in the field of health, policy, and social impact across the African continent.
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Host country
Canada is home to one of the most respected education systems in the world, offering multicultural learning experiences and vast research opportunities.
Deadline
3 November 2025 (12:00 noon, Toronto time)
Eligibility
- Be citizens and current residents of a Sub-Saharan African country, including Nigeria.
- Be graduating or have graduated from a partner institution of the Africa Health Collaborative.
- Have not yet begun graduate studies.
- Be under 35 years of age at the time of application.
- Demonstrate strong academic excellence and leadership qualities during undergraduate studies.
- Meet the academic and admission requirements for one of the sponsored graduate programmes.
- Show a clear commitment to return home after completing their degree to contribute to social and economic progress in Africa.
Areas of Study
- 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
Benefits
- Full tuition coverage for the entire graduate programme.
- Travel expenses, including passport and visa application fees.
- Housing and accommodation throughout the study period.
- Food and grocery stipend.
- Health insurance and learning materials.
- Additional stipends to support living expenses.
Others
- Scholars will develop professional networks, leadership skills, and health-sector expertise to strengthen healthcare systems in Africa.
- Graduates are expected to return home after completing their studies to contribute to national development and improve health outcomes within their communities.
- There are no application fees, and shortlisted applicants will be contacted directly by the university.
How to Apply
- Visit the official Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program webpage at the University of Toronto.
- Submit their application before the deadline.
- After submitting, email their university transcript to mcf.cie@utoronto.ca (the transcript must be from a partner university of the Africa Health Collaborative).
- Ensure all required academic and reference documents are included.
APPLY FOR THE MASTERCARD FOUNDATION SCHOLARS PROGRAM AT UNIVERSITY OF TORONTO
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