The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at the University of Toronto (U of T) is a fully funded initiative designed to support graduate studies at one of Canada’s top institutions for education, research, and innovation. Recognized globally as a leading research-intensive university, U of T is committed to fostering new discoveries and advancements.
Program Overview
The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program aims to empower future scholars from Sub-Saharan Africa by providing them with the education, skills, and networks needed to engage in various healthcare professions and ecosystems in Africa. The goal is for these scholars to return to their home countries upon graduation to contribute to health sectors, either through self-employment or by working in healthcare roles that improve health outcomes in their communities.
This program offers comprehensive support to enable African students to access quality education at the University of Toronto, making it a transformative opportunity for aspiring professionals who want to make a difference.
Scholarship Summary
- Host Institution: University of Toronto, Canada
- Funded by: The Mastercard Foundation
- Eligibility: Open to both International and Domestic Students from Sub-Saharan Africa
- Application Deadline: November 4th
Scholarship Benefits
Recipients of the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at U of T receive full financial coverage for their entire graduate studies. The scholarship benefits include:
- Travel Expenses: Covers the cost of travel to Canada, passport fees, and visa application costs.
- Tuition: Complete tuition fee coverage.
- Accommodation: Housing expenses for the duration of the program.
- Living Expenses: Includes food, health insurance, and other daily expenses.
- Learning Resources: Provision of laptops, learning materials, and other educational resources.
Eligible Study Programs for the 2025-2026 Academic Year
Applications are open for the following master’s programs at the University of Toronto:
- Master of Occupational and Environmental Health
- Master of Social and Behavioural Health Sciences
- Master of Health Administration
- Master of Financial Insurance
- Master of Engineering (Biomedical)
- Master of Biotechnology (May 2026 intake)
These programs are strategically selected to align with the needs of healthcare ecosystems in Africa, preparing students for impactful careers in their respective fields.
Africa Health Collaborative
The University of Toronto has partnered with eight prominent African universities to form the Africa Health Collaborative, a network aimed at training the next generation of healthcare professionals. This partnership emphasizes creating job opportunities, especially for women, within the growing health sectors in Africa.
Collaborative Partners:
- Addis Ababa University
- Ashesi University
- African Institute for Mathematical Sciences
- African Leadership University
- Amref International University
- Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology
- Moi University
- University of Cape Town
This collaboration aims to strengthen Africa’s healthcare workforce by supporting innovative training and development programs tailored to local needs.
How to Apply for the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program 2025
Ready to take the next step in your educational journey? Here’s a step-by-step guide to applying for the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program:
- Start Your Application: Click on the “Apply Now” button to begin your application process.
- Complete the Form: Carefully fill out the application form, ensuring that all required information is accurate.
- Document Submission: Attach the necessary documents, such as academic transcripts and personal statements.
- Reference Letters: Ensure that your referees upload their letters of recommendation directly to the application portal.
- Submit the Application: Make sure to submit your application before the deadline of November 4th.
- Graduate Program Application: After completing the scholarship application, you must also apply to the specific graduate program at the University of Toronto that aligns with your academic and career goals.
- Virtual Information Sessions: Take advantage of the free virtual information sessions offered by the University of Toronto to guide you through the application process.
For detailed information on program-specific requirements and deadlines, visit the official University of Toronto website.
Apply Now
Interested in becoming a part of the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at the University of Toronto? Click on the Apply Now button to start your application process and take the first step towards transforming your future.
Official Website
