Imagine being granted a fully funded master’s scholarship in one of the world’s top research universities — one that covers tuition, living expenses, travel, and offers rich support — all because you’re driven to transform health systems in Africa. The 2026 University of Toronto Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program makes that possible for talented young Africans.
In this ultimate guide, you’ll find:
What the scholarship offers (benefits, coverage)
Who is eligible (requirements, nationalities)
The fields of study accepted
How to apply (step by step)
Tips & strategies to make your application stand out
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
And next steps + call to action
By the end, you’ll have everything you need to prepare a top-notch application for this fully funded scholarship in Canada for Africans.
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Why This Scholarship Matters
Fully Funded Support: It relieves the financial burden so scholars can focus fully on academic excellence and impact.
Top-tier University: University of Toronto is among world-leading research institutions.
Targeted to Africa’s Health Sector: The program emphasizes health and related disciplines to help scholars return and contribute meaningfully.
Network & Mentorship: Scholars benefit from orientation programs, mentoring, peer networks, and professional development.
Return to Home Impact: One key requirement is a commitment to return to Africa and use your training to effect change.
This scholarship is more than financial aid — it’s a leadership journey designed to nurture change agents for health transformation across the continent.
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Scholarship Benefits & Coverage
Scholars accepted into the Mastercard Foundation Program at U of T receive comprehensive support for the full duration of their graduate studies. This includes:
Full tuition fees for the master’s program
Travel expenses to Canada (visa, passport, airfare)
Housing / accommodation costs
Food / groceries / stipend for living expenses
Health insurance coverage
Learning materials, including books, supplies, and possibly a laptop
Pre-arrival orientation & transition support, mentoring, and professional development resources
In short, you should not need to pay out of pocket for your core academic or living needs if selected.
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Eligible Disciplines (Fields of Study)
For the 2026 cycle, the scholarship invites applications in health-related and allied fields. Some of the recent eligible programs include:
Master of Engineering (Biomedical)
Master of Financial Insurance
Master of Health Administration (MHSc)
Master of Health Informatics (MHSc)
Master of Public Health (MPH) — Health Promotion, Occupational & Environmental Health
It’s critical you check the current cycle’s announcement to confirm eligible programs, as they may evolve year to year.
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Eligibility Criteria
To apply, you must meet all the following (or equivalent) standards:
1. Citizenship & Residence
Must be a citizen of a Sub-Saharan African country and currently reside there.
2. Undergraduate Graduation Timeline
You should have graduated or be graduating within the past 5 years (or equivalent period) from a partner institution in Africa.
3. Partner Institution
Your undergraduate must have been from one of the Africa Health Collaborative partner universities. (These include Addis Ababa University, Ashesi University, African Leadership University, Amref, AIMS, KNUST, University of Cape Town, Moi University, etc.)
4. Academic Excellence & Leadership
Strong academic record, leadership experience, extracurricular involvement, community engagement, etc.
5. Admissibility to Graduate Program
Must qualify for admission to one of the eligible graduate programs (meet university department requirements).
6. Commitment to Return & Impact
Demonstrate a clear intention to return to your home country after studies and contribute to health system development there.
7. English Proficiency / Other Requirements
Some programs may require TOEFL/IELTS or similar. Confirm per department.
If any one of these is missing, your application risks disqualification. Be meticulous in verifying your eligibility before applying.
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Application Timeline & Deadline
For the 2026–2027 cycle, the application deadline is November 3, 2025 (Toronto time) at 12:00 PM.
The application link typically opens earlier (in previous cycles, around mid-October).
You must also attend (or register) for virtual information sessions offered by U of T.
After application review, shortlisted candidates may be invited for further stages (interviews, departmental application, etc.).
Always watch the official U of T scholarship page for updates.
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How to Prepare & Submit Your Application
Here is a step-by-step roadmap:
1. Review Eligibility & Program Fit
Confirm your undergrad institution is a partner, your degree is acceptable, and you meet all criteria.
2. Register for Information Session
Attend virtual sessions; sometimes the application link is shared there.
3. Collect Required Documents
Typical documents include:
Academic transcripts and degree certificate
Curriculum Vitae / Resume
Letters of Recommendation (usually 2–3)
Personal statement / motivation essay
Research proposal (if applicable)
Proof of citizenship/residency
English language test results (if required)
Other documents as specified
4. Complete the Scholarship Application
Fill all fields accurately, upload documents, respond to essays.
5. Apply to the University Department / Graduate Program
In parallel or after the scholarship application, apply for admission to your chosen master’s program through the U of T School of Graduate Studies.
6. Shortlisting & Interview
If shortlisted, you may be asked to interview or submit additional materials. Be ready to articulate your vision, leadership, and plan to return to Africa.
7. Acceptance & Visa / Travel
If successful, follow instructions for acceptance, visa application, travel arrangements, and orientation.
8. Prepare for Transition
Engage with orientation, scholarship mentor programs, and peer networks to ensure smooth adjustment to life in Toronto.
Click here to apply
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Tips to Strengthen Your Application
Tell a compelling story: Go beyond facts — show your passion, purpose, and how this scholarship is key to your impact plan in Africa.
Show leadership & community impact: Emphasize any initiatives, volunteering, health advocacy, or projects you’ve led.
Research alignment: If your research or interest links to pressing health issues in Africa, highlight it clearly.
Strong recommendations: Choose referees who know your academic, leadership, and personal integrity. Provide them with your CV, draft essay, and context.
Proofread & polish: Avoid grammatical errors and inconsistencies.
Start early: Deadlines aren’t forgiving. Begin documents, reading, test prep months ahead.
Engage with alumni / past scholars: If possible, reach out for insights or tips on their experience.
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Case Studies & Success Profiles
Jessica Kumah (Ghana): A Mastercard Foundation scholar studying environmental health, she shared how the scholarship transformed her academic dreams into real impact.
Isdora Bonaventure Msigwa (Tanzania): Pursuing Biomedical Engineering, she highlights the holistic support and community at U of T.
John Ndolo (Kenya): Studying financial insurance, his story embodies blending technical skills with social purpose.
These stories reflect how the program doesn’t just build scholars — it builds changemakers.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Is this scholarship only for health-related degrees?
A: Yes, the U of T Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program focuses primarily on disciplines tied to health, health systems, biomedical, health informatics, etc.
Q2: Can I apply if I’m already studying for a Master’s elsewhere?
A: No — applicants should not have already started graduate studies. You should apply as a fresh candidate.
Q3: Are applicants who are not from Africa eligible?
A: No — this particular program is targeted at citizens of Sub-Saharan African countries.
Q4: Do I need a research proposal?
A: In many cases yes — especially for programs with research components. Always check the particular department’s requirements.
Q5: Will I need to pay any fees in the application process?
A: Some admission or test fees may apply. But if your application is successful, such costs may be reimbursed.
Q6: When will the next application open after 2026?
A: The cycle typically follows annually. Expect the application link to open in October, with a November deadline. Always monitor the official U of T page.
Q7: What if my undergraduate institution is not a partner?
A: That may disqualify you under current rules. You might consider transferring, partnering, or checking alternate scholarships.
If you have other specific questions, let me know — I can help clarify.
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Conclusion & Call to Action
This 2026 University of Toronto Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program is a life-changing opportunity for Africans passionate about health, innovation, and impact. With full funding, mentorship, and a high-impact mission, it’s one of the most competitive and meaningful scholarships you can pursue.
Here’s what you need to do right now:
1. Bookmark the official U of T Mastercard Foundation page and check it often for announcements and updates.
2. Confirm your eligibility against all the criteria.
3. Gather your documents, register for info sessions, and start drafting your essays now.
4. Network with past scholars or faculty in your field to gain insights.
5. Submit your application before the November 3, 2025 deadline (Toronto time).
Click now to apply
Your future as a health innovator in Africa could start with this scholarship. Don’t wait — begin your journey today.
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