For the 2026-27 intake, the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at the University of Toronto offers an exceptional opportunity for talented young professionals from sub-Saharan Africa to pursue fully funded graduate education in Canada. This program is geared toward emerging leaders who are passionate about health-related fields, innovation, and creating real impact back in their home countries.
Through this scholarship, recipients gain access to world-class education, full financial coverage, mentorship, leadership development and a network of global professionals — all at one of Canada’s premier research universities.
About the University of Toronto
Located in Toronto, Ontario, the University of Toronto is one of the world’s leading research institutions, known for academic excellence, innovation and a diverse, international community. Established in 1827, it is consistently ranked among the top universities globally. This makes it an ideal destination for high-achieving graduate students looking to maximize their potential and global impact.
Scholarship Overview
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Host Institution: University of Toronto, Canada
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Program: Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program – Graduate (2026-27 intake)
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Degree Level: Master’s (Graduate studies)
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Scholarship Type: Fully funded scholarship
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Target Applicants: Citizens of sub-Saharan African countries residing in Africa
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Fields of Study: Health-related and professional programs such as Biomedical Engineering, Health Administration, Health Informatics, Financial Insurance, Health Promotion, Occupational & Environmental Health
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Approximate Number of Awards: Up to 20 scholarships for the 2026-27 cohort
What the Scholarship Covers
This scholarship offers comprehensive support to ensure recipients can fully engage in their studies and personal development, with minimal financial concern. Coverage includes:
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Full tuition fees for the selected graduate program
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Living expenses, including housing, food/groceries, books and materials
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Health insurance and other student services
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Travel costs, including round-trip airfare to Canada and visa fees
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A summer orientation program to ease the academic and cultural transition into the University of Toronto environment
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Mentorship, leadership training, and access to a global network of alumni dedicated to social impact
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program 2026-27 at the University of Toronto, applicants must meet key criteria:
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Be a citizen of and currently living in a sub-Saharan African country
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Have graduated or be graduating from a partner institution in the Africa Health Collaborative network
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Be admitted to, or eligible to apply for, one of the designated graduate programs at the University of Toronto
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Be under the age of 35 years
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Demonstrate academic excellence and leadership potential
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Show a strong commitment to returning to Africa and contributing to the development of their country / region after graduation
Eligible Programs for 2026-27
For the 2026-27 intake, the scholarship covers selected graduate programs, such as:
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Master of Engineering (Biomedical)
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Master of Financial Insurance
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MHSc Master of Health Administration
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MHSc Master of Health Informatics
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MPH: Health Promotion
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MPH: Occupational and Environmental Health
Applicants should ensure they meet the academic requirements of the chosen program before submitting their scholarship application.
Application Process & Timeline
Step-by-Step:
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Check admission requirements of your selected graduate program at the University of Toronto.
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Prepare your documents, including transcripts, letters of recommendation, CV/resume, statement of purpose, proof of leadership and community impact.
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Submit the scholarship application by the specified deadline (typically November of the preceding year) — ensure you meet eligibility and residency criteria.
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Apply for the graduate program at U of T, quoting your scholarship application as required.
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Attend orientation and begin studies once admitted and selected.
Important Dates (for 2026-27):
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Scholarship application deadline: November 3, 2025, at 12:00 noon (Toronto time)
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Notification to successful applicants: Early December 2025
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Program commencement: 2026 academic year
Why This Scholarship Is Truly Valuable
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Fully funded premium scholarship at a top-ranked university — rare and high-impact.
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Focus on health and innovation in Africa, aligning education with real-world change.
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Access to global networks, leadership training, and mentorship beyond mere academic study.
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A pathway for scholars to become change-makers in their home communities, combining academic excellence with social impact.
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High visibility, prestige and future career benefits — ideal for ambitious professionals seeking international growth.
Tips for a Strong Application
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Highlight how your career goals, leadership experience and community involvement align with African health development.
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Demonstrate academic achievement in your undergraduate studies and clear readiness for graduate work.
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Show a commitment to returning to your country and contributing to its development after your degree.
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Choose the best fitting graduate program and ensure you meet every admission requirement.
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Prepare a compelling personal statement that conveys your purpose, vision and motivation.
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Submit well before the deadline and make sure all documentation is complete and accurate.
Final Thoughts
The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at the University of Toronto for 2026-27 is more than a scholarship—it’s a transformational opportunity. It empowers young African professionals to pursue advanced studies in high-impact health and professional disciplines, fully funded, at one of the world’s most prestigious universities.
If you meet the eligibility criteria, are driven by leadership and social impact, and are ready to take your next big step, this scholarship could be your gateway to excellence and global contribution.
