The University of Toronto Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program 2026-27 offers a fully funded graduate scholarship opportunity for outstanding African students eager to pursue higher education in Canada. This transformative scholarship supports young leaders from Sub-Saharan Africa to study at one of the world’s top research-intensive universities and return to contribute meaningfully to their home countries’ development. If you dream of studying at the University of Toronto in health-related or social science fields, this program is your gateway.
Basic Information About the Scholarship
The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at the University of Toronto is a fully funded graduate scholarship for students from Sub-Saharan Africa. The program covers tuition, travel, accommodation, health insurance, and living expenses, supporting scholars throughout their studies.
- Application Deadline: November 3, 2025, at 12:00 noon (Toronto time)
- Scholarship Type: Fully Funded Graduate Scholarship
- Target Group: Citizens currently residing in Sub-Saharan Africa
- Academic Level: Graduate studies (Master’s degree)
University of Toronto: Institution Overview
The University of Toronto (U of T) is recognized globally as Canada’s premier research university, acclaimed for its innovation, academic excellence, and diverse learning environment. As a top-ranked institution, U of T nurtures academic talent and creates transformative opportunities in research and leadership.
Study Areas Available Under the Scholarship
Applications are accepted for ONE of the following graduate programs for the 2026-27 academic year:
Eligible Programs (choose one):
- Master of Engineering (Biomedical)
- Master of Financial Insurance
- MHSc in Health Administration
- MHSc in Health Informatics
- MPH in Health Promotion
- MPH in Occupational & Environmental Health
Africa Health Collaborative Partners:
- Addis Ababa University
- African Institute for Mathematical Sciences
- African Leadership University
- Amref International University / Amref Health Africa
- Ashesi University
- Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology
- Moi University
- University of Cape Town
These programs are designed to equip scholars with skills to impact healthcare and related fields in Africa.
University of Toronto Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program Benefits
The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program offers comprehensive support including:
- Full tuition fees for the entire graduate program
- Travel costs to and from Canada (including passport and visa application fees)
- Accommodation costs and a monthly living allowance to cover food, utilities, and groceries
- Health insurance throughout the duration of studies
- Learning materials and course-related expenses
- Covers passport and visa fees
- Meals
- Orientation and transition support programs
- Mentorship from academic and peer mentors to ensure academic and personal success
Benefits Not Included
- Costs related to dependents or family members accompanying the student are not covered.
- Personal expenses outside of standard living allowances (e.g., travel unrelated to study, luxury items) are not funded.
Eligibility Criteria for the University of Toronto Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program
Applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Be a citizen of a Sub-Saharan African country and currently residing there
- Applicants must have completed their undergraduate studies within the last 5 years from one of the eligible partner universities of Africa Health Collaborative.
- Be under 35 years of age as of the application deadline
- Demonstrate academic excellence and leadership potential during undergraduate studies
- Be academically admissible to one of the specified graduate programs at U of T
- Show a commitment to returning to Africa after graduation to contribute towards social and economic development
Required Documents for Application
Applicants need to submit:
- Completed Mastercard Foundation Scholarship application form
- Official university transcripts (to be emailed to the scholarship office)
- Proof of citizenship and residency in a Sub-Saharan African country
- Admission application to the University of Toronto graduate program (after initial scholarship approval)
- Letters of recommendation and personal statements as per department requirements
University of Toronto Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program Application Process: Step-by-Step Guide
- Check Program Eligibility: Review the admission requirements for your selected graduate program at U of T to confirm you meet academic qualifications.
- Application Link: Supplementary Scholarship Application Form
- Attend an Information Session: Register and attend virtual scholarship information sessions to understand the application process and ask questions.
- Complete the Mastercard Foundation Scholarship Application: Submit your scholarship application by the deadline of November 3, 2025.
- Submit Required Documents: Send your official transcripts and other required documents by the deadline.
- Wait for Scholarship Selection Decision: Shortlisted candidates will be contacted by early December 2025 for further steps.
- Apply to Graduate Program: Upon scholarship approval, proceed with application to the U of T graduate program through the School of Graduate Studies portal.
- Follow Program-Specific Application Procedures: Submit any additional documents or requirements as per your graduate department.
Tips for a Successful Scholarship Application
- Highlight your academic achievements and leadership roles clearly.
- Emphasize your commitment to returning and contributing to your home country in Africa.
- Prepare a compelling personal statement that outlines your career goals and how the scholarship will enable you to achieve them.
- Gather strong letters of recommendation that attest to your character, leadership, and academic prowess.
- Attend information sessions to gain insights and ask clarifying questions.
Monthly Living Expenses for International Students (in USD)
International students at the University of Toronto can expect living expenses approximately as follows (estimates):
- Accommodation (shared housing or university residence): $800 – $1,200 USD
- Food and groceries: $300 – $400 USD
- Transportation (public transit): $100 USD
- Health insurance and other fees: $100 – $150 USD
- Personal expenses (clothing, phone, entertainment): $150 – $200 USD
The scholarship provides a living stipend that covers these costs to ensure scholars focus on their studies without financial stress.
Why Choose the University of Toronto Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program?
- Fully Funded Graduate Studies: Comprehensive coverage of tuition, living expenses, and travel ensures zero financial burden.
- World-Class Education: Study at a leading research university with access to top faculty and cutting-edge resources.
- Leadership and Mentorship Support: The program fosters leadership development with mentors and peer support networks.
- Career Impact in Africa: The scholarship empowers scholars to become change-makers, addressing critical health and development challenges in their home countries.
- Global Networking Opportunities: Join a global community of Mastercard Foundation Scholars, opening doors to lifelong connections and collaborations.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What is the application deadline for the scholarship?
A: November 3, 2025, at 12 noon (Toronto time).
Q: Who is eligible to apply?
A: Citizens of Sub-Saharan Africa under 35 years, graduating from partner universities, academically qualified for specified graduate programs, and committed to returning home after studies.
Q: Does the scholarship cover family members?
A: No, it only covers the scholar’s expenses.
Q: Can I work while studying?
A: Scholars can work part-time on campus according to Canadian student visa regulations.
Q: How do I apply?
A: Complete the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program application and then apply to the University of Toronto graduate program upon scholarship approval.
Application Deadline: November 3, 2025, at 12:00 noon (Toronto time)
Official Link:
This comprehensive guide serves as the definitive resource for aspiring African graduate students interested in the University of Toronto Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program 2026-27. Prepare your application early and seize this life-changing opportunity to study in Canada with full financial support.
