Mastercard Foundation Scholarship at UBC: Full Funding for Africans

If you're an African student dreaming of pursuing your Master's degree in Canada but worried about the cost, I have incredible news for you. There's a scholarship opportunity that can completely transform your educational future — one that covers everything from tuition to living expenses.

The Mastercard Foundation Scholarship at UBC#

The Mastercard Foundation Scholarship at the University of British Columbia is exactly what you need to hear about. This isn't just partial funding — this scholarship can cover your full cost of attendance, meaning it will pay for your tuition, fees, and living expenses. In other words, you can get a complete ride to study in Canada for your Master's degree.

This is similar to the opportunities I've covered in my guide about 100 percent scholarships for international students in the USA, but specifically designed for African students heading to Canada.

Eligibility Requirements#

Before you get too excited, let me walk you through the specific criteria you need to meet:

Academic Requirements#

• Have a bachelor's degree (completed)
• Must not have completed a Master's degree previously
• Be under 35 years old at the time of application

Background Requirements#

• Be a citizen of an African country OR be a refugee residing in Africa
• Apply for a Master's degree in one of the eligible programs (the university provides a specific list of qualifying programs)

This scholarship is particularly valuable for students who come from challenging economic backgrounds where affording a Master's degree would otherwise be impossible. If you're also considering opportunities in the United States, check out my comprehensive list of 25 universities offering 100 percent scholarships for Master's international students.

Application Process and Timeline#

Here's exactly how the application process works, step by step:

Step 1: Expression of Interest (September)#

You'll need to submit an expression of interest form first. The university provides a specific link for this, and it typically happens in September.

Step 2: Scholarship Application (October)#

Eligible candidates who submitted the expression of interest will be invited to apply to the Mastercard Foundation Scholarship around October. During this phase, you'll need to:

• Complete the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Programme application form
• Submit your CV
• Provide two letters of reference
• Submit your academic transcripts

Step 3: University Application#

Successful scholarship applicants will receive an email with instructions to submit an online application to the University of British Columbia.

Step 4: Interview and Results#

• December-January: Interview period
• February: Final results announced

Important Timeline Notes#

Applications are currently closed for this year, but they will be opening around August. This gives you time to prepare your application materials thoroughly.

Just like with the opportunities I discuss in my 3 steps to get a full scholarship in America guide, preparation is absolutely crucial for success.

How to Prepare Your Application#

Since applications open in August, here's what you should be doing now:

1. Research eligible Master's programs at UBC
2. Gather your academic transcripts
3. Identify potential referees for your letters of recommendation
4. Update your CV with relevant experience
5. Start drafting your personal statement

Why This Scholarship Matters#

This scholarship represents a life-changing opportunity, especially if you come from a background where financing a Master's degree seems impossible. The fact that it covers both tuition and living expenses removes the two biggest financial barriers to international study.

For context on similar opportunities, you might also want to explore tuition-free universities for international students in America, though the Canadian system offers its own unique advantages.

Related Resources#

If you're exploring multiple scholarship options, these guides will help:

• 25 schools offering full scholarships for Master's international students in the USA
• 3 golden steps to free college for international students in the USA
• 100 percent scholarships for international students in the USA Part 2
• 30 universities with 100 percent scholarships for international students

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Get More Help#

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