Applications are now open for the 2024 Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at the University of British Columbia University (UBC), Canada. The University in partnership with Mastercard Foundation is providing the comprehensive scholarships to students from Sub-Saharan Africa to study in Canada.
The Program provides access to education for academically talented, yet economically marginalized young people. Scholars in the Program must demonstrate the commitment to give back to their communities and develop the leadership needed to contribute to social and economic transformation across the continent.
SCHOLARSHIP AT A GLANCE:
| Key Detail | Description |
|---|---|
| Scholarship Name | Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at UBC |
| Location | University of British Columbia (UBC), Vancouver, Canada |
| Eligibility Criteria | – Completed Bachelor’s degree – 35 years old or younger (born in 1988 or after) – Citizen or refugee of a Sub-Saharan African country – Economically disadvantaged – Demonstrates academic excellence under difficult circumstances – Leadership qualities or potential – Commitment to giving back to the home community – Requires a Canadian study permit – Not claiming asylum or protected status in Canada – Committed to returning to Africa to apply skills for betterment of others |
| Eligible Programs | 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 (MDS) |
| Required Documents | – Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program Application Form – Personal Statements – CV/Resume – Two reference letters on official letterhead – Transcripts – Checklist, signed declaration |
| Application Deadline | 31 October, 2024 |
| Submission Method | Electronically via email in a single PDF document to mcfsp.admissions@ubc.ca |
Fact About University of British Columbia (UBC)
- Global Prestige: UBC consistently ranks among the top 40 universities worldwide, attracting brilliant minds from every corner of the globe. With over 65,000 students, UBC is a beacon of academic excellence and innovation.
- Nobel Prize Connections: UBC boasts not one, but several Nobel Laureates among its alumni and faculty. From groundbreaking discoveries in physics to life-saving medical advancements, UBC has played a pivotal role in shaping world-changing ideas.
- Diversity at its Core: UBC is home to students from over 160 countries, making it one of the most diverse campuses globally. This melting pot of cultures and perspectives fosters a dynamic environment where new ideas and global solutions are born.
- Eco-Friendly Campus: UBC’s Vancouver campus is a model of sustainability, ranked as one of the most sustainable campuses in the world. With initiatives like zero waste and a commitment to reducing carbon emissions, UBC is leading the charge in environmental stewardship.
- Research Powerhouse: UBC is one of Canada’s top research institutions, with over $700 million annually in research funding. The university is at the forefront of advancements in quantum computing, climate change, and Indigenous studies, to name just a few.
- Innovation Hub: The university is not just about academics; it’s an incubator for innovation. UBC’s entrepreneurship programs have birthed over 200 start-ups, many of which are now global leaders in tech and health.
- Prime Location: UBC’s Vancouver campus is located on the stunning Pacific coast, surrounded by ocean and forest. This unique setting offers students the perfect balance of a bustling urban environment and serene natural beauty.
- Humanitarian Impact: The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at UBC isn’t just about education—it’s about transforming Africa. Scholars are empowered to return home as leaders ready to tackle some of the continent’s most pressing challenges.
- Global Alumni Network: UBC’s alumni network spans the globe, with graduates holding influential positions in government, business, and international organizations. Whether you’re in New York, Nairobi, or New Delhi, you’re likely to find a UBC alum making waves.
- Scholarships and Accessibility: UBC is dedicated to making education accessible to all, regardless of financial background. Through programs like the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program, UBC is helping to level the playing field for students from Sub-Saharan Africa, offering fully funded opportunities to achieve their dreams.
Eligibility Criteria For Mastercard Foundation Scholarships at UBC, 2024/2025
To be considered for the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program for Sub-Saharan African Students, applicants are expected to meet the following conditions:
- Applicants must have completed a Bachelor’s degree;
- Applicants must not already have a graduate or PhD degree;
- Applicants must be 35 years old or younger at the time of application (i.e. born in 1988 or after);
- Be a citizen or a refugee of a Sub-Saharan African country (listed here);
- Have lived a significant part of their life in a Sub-Saharan African country;
- Present economically disadvantaged financial circumstances
- Have achieved academic excellence under difficult circumstances
- Show leadership qualities or potential;
- Demonstrate an interest in and commitment to giving back to their home community
- Be a person who requires a Canadian study permit to study in Canada;
- Not be a person who claimed or will claim asylum or protected person status after arriving in Canada;
- Commit to returning to Africa in order to apply their training and skills to the betterment of others;
- Be applying for a Master’s degree in one of the following faculties and eligible programs (below) at UBC’s Vancouver campus;
Eligible Field For Mastercard Foundation Scholarships at UBC, 2024/2025
The following faculties and programs are eligible for the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at the University of British Columbia University 2024 (link to each program available at official website);
1. Faculty of Forestry:
- Master of Sustainable Forest Management (MSFM)
- Master of International Forestry (MIF)
- Master of Geomatics for Environmental Management (MGEM)
2. 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)
3. Faculty of Science:
- Master of Data Science
Required Documents For Mastercard Foundation Scholarships at UBC, 2024/2025
- Complete the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program Application Form.
- Submit the Personal Statements.
- Submit a CV/resume.
- Provide two reference letters.
- Transcripts.
- Submit the Checklist, Application Form, Personal Statements, CV, two reference letters on official letterhead, transcripts, and signed declaration