Mastercard Foundation Graduate Scholarships 2026-27 at University of Toronto: A Complete Guide for International Students
The Mastercard Foundation Graduate Scholarships 2026–27 at the University of Toronto provide an extraordinary opportunity for recent graduates and alumni from Sub-Saharan Africa. Designed to nurture exceptional talent in health-related disciplines, these scholarships offer full financial coverage and a structured support network to help students succeed academically while preparing them to contribute meaningfully to Africa upon graduation.
This guide is your complete roadmap to understanding eligibility, programs, application steps, benefits, and tips to maximize your chances of winning this prestigious scholarship.
Why the Mastercard Foundation Scholarships Are Unique
The Mastercard Foundation Graduate Scholarships are more than just funding. They aim to empower young African leaders who demonstrate:
- Academic excellence in health-related or associated disciplines.
- Leadership qualities and personal initiative.
- A strong commitment to giving back to their home countries after completing their studies.
Selected scholars become part of a global network of change-makers, with access to mentorship, orientation programs, and professional development opportunities at the University of Toronto.
Africa Health Collaborative Partner Universities
Applicants must be alumni or graduating students from one of the following partner institutions:
- Addis Ababa University
- African Institute for Mathematical Sciences
- African Leadership University
- Amref International University / Amref Health Africa
- Ashesi University
- Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology
- Moi University
- University of Cape Town
These partner universities are recognized for their academic rigor and commitment to producing graduates ready to make a societal impact.
The Award: Comprehensive Support for Scholars
This scholarship is fully comprehensive and covers:
- Full tuition for your selected graduate program.
- Travel expenses to and from Toronto.
- Accommodation and housing costs.
- Living expenses including food and books.
- Additional support for academic and professional development.
Beyond financial coverage, scholars benefit from:
- A two-week orientation program to prepare for graduate life at the University of Toronto.
- A strong support network including mentorship, academic guidance, and peer connections.
- Preparation for returning to Africa to make a meaningful impact in health and social development.
Graduate Programs Covered by the Scholarship
For the 2026–27 academic year, up to 20 scholarships will be awarded across the following graduate programs:
- Master of Engineering (Biomedical)
- Master of Financial Insurance
- MHSc: Master of Health Administration
- MHSc: Master of Health Informatics
- MPH: Health Promotion
- MPH: Occupational and Environmental Health
When choosing your program, ensure that you meet all academic requirements and that your motivation and career goals align with the scholarship’s mission of giving back to Africa.
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must meet the following six eligibility criteria:
- Be a citizen and currently residing in a Sub-Saharan African country.
- Be graduating or have graduated from a partner university of the Africa Health Collaborative and have not yet started graduate studies.
- Be under 35 years of age.
- Demonstrate academic excellence and leadership qualities during undergraduate studies.
- Be academically admissible to one of the sponsored graduate programs.
- Show a commitment to return home after graduation to contribute to Africa’s growth and social development.
Application Procedure: Step-by-Step
Step One: Check Program Requirements
Before applying, ensure that your chosen graduate program’s admission requirements are fully met. Links to each program are provided by the University of Toronto’s School of Graduate Studies.
Step Two: Apply for the Scholarship
Complete the Mastercard Foundation Scholarship application after attending one of the virtual information sessions. All applications and attachments must be submitted by Monday, November 3, 2025, at 12 noon (Toronto time).
Early December notifications will be sent to successful applicants who meet the eligibility criteria, inviting them to move to the next step.
Step Three: Submit Your Graduate Application
Once selected, begin your graduate application via the University of Toronto, School of Graduate Studies website. Each department will provide instructions for uploading documents and additional requirements. Follow these carefully to ensure your application is complete.
Virtual Information Sessions
Two sessions will be offered for prospective applicants:
- Tuesday, October 14, 2025, at 9:00 AM EST (Register Here)
- Tuesday, October 14, 2025, at 12:00 PM EST (Register Here)
Applicants can convert session times to their local time zones using the provided links. Questions can be directed to [email protected].
Benefits and Opportunities for Scholars
- Full financial support for tuition, living, and travel expenses.
- Comprehensive mentorship and academic guidance throughout the program.
- Integration into a network of scholars and alumni contributing to Africa’s development.
- Two-week orientation program to ensure a smooth transition into graduate studies.
- Preparation for professional impact in Africa post-graduation.
Selection Criteria
Applications are assessed based on:
- Academic Excellence: Performance in undergraduate studies and relevant qualifications.
- Leadership Potential: Demonstrated leadership and initiative during academic or professional experiences.
- Commitment to Africa: Strong motivation and plan for contributing to economic and social development in home countries.
- Program Fit: Alignment of career goals with chosen graduate program.
FAQs for International Applicants
1. Who can apply for the Mastercard Foundation Scholarship?
Students under 35, citizens and residents of Sub-Saharan Africa, and alumni of partner universities in the Africa Health Collaborative.
2. How much financial support is provided?
The scholarship is fully comprehensive, covering tuition, living expenses, travel, books, and other essential costs.
3. Do I need to apply separately to the graduate program?
Yes. After the scholarship pre-selection, you must submit your application to the University of Toronto graduate program of interest via the School of Graduate Studies portal.
4. Can this scholarship support multiple years of study?
Yes, for the duration of the graduate program selected, provided the student maintains academic performance and fulfills program requirements.
5. What if I am not an African student?
This scholarship is specifically designed for Sub-Saharan African applicants from partner universities. Other funding options at the University of Toronto are available for international students.
Why This Scholarship is Life-Changing
The Mastercard Foundation Graduate Scholarships not only remove financial barriers but also create a nurturing environment for African leaders to thrive academically, professionally, and socially. Scholars leave Toronto equipped with the skills, knowledge, and network needed to drive innovation, improve healthcare, and strengthen communities in Africa.
Practical Tips to Strengthen Your Application
- Demonstrate clear motivation for choosing your field and your graduate program.
- Show evidence of leadership and initiative during your undergraduate studies.
- Highlight community impact and commitment to Africa.
- Follow all application instructions carefully and meet deadlines.
- Participate in the virtual information sessions to clarify questions and learn insider tips.
Important Dates to Remember
- Scholarship Application Deadline: Monday, November 3, 2025, 12 noon EST
- Scholarship Notification: Early December 2025
- Graduate Program Application Submission: As per department deadlines (after scholarship pre-selection)
Conclusion
The Mastercard Foundation Graduate Scholarships 2026–27 at the University of Toronto are designed to empower Africa’s future leaders in health and related disciplines. With full financial coverage, mentorship, and integration into a supportive academic network, this scholarship is more than funding—it’s a life-changing opportunity to study at a top global university and return home ready to make an impact.
For official details and application instructions, visit the University of Toronto Mastercard Foundation Graduate Scholarship PDF:
Mastercard Foundation Graduate Scholarships 2026-27 – Official PDF
