The University of British Columbia is accepting applications for its fully-funded UBC Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program.
About the University of British Columbia and Scholarship
Established in 1908, the University of British Columbia (UBC) stands as the oldest university in British Columbia, with campuses located near Vancouver and Kelowna. UBC has evolved into a public research university with a steadfast commitment to advancing knowledge and fostering global citizenship. With an impressive annual research budget of $759 million, UBC actively supports and funds over 8,000 projects each year.
UBC has garnered global recognition as a distinguished institution for research and teaching, consistently securing its position among the world’s best universities. The university’s vision extends beyond traditional academic boundaries, aiming to create an exceptional learning environment that nurtures global citizenship, promotes a civil and sustainable society, and drives outstanding research. This vision aligns with UBC’s commitment to serving the people of British Columbia, Canada, and the world at large.
The UBC Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program is a testament to the university’s dedication to inclusive education and global impact. Spanning a decade, this program aims to support a total of 171 Mastercard Foundation Scholars, encompassing both undergraduate and master’s students. By providing comprehensive educational opportunities, UBC strives to empower the next generation of leaders, contributing to the advancement of knowledge, social sustainability, and the betterment of communities locally and around the world.
Details about the UBC Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at the University of British Columbia:
Scholarship Sponsor: University of British Columbia, Canada
Scholarship Value: Fully funded
Number of awards: Several
Study level: Postgraduate/Masters
Host Institution(s): University of British Columbia, Canada
Eligibility Criteria for the UBC Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program
Applicants are advised to meet the following prerequisites to be eligible for the UBC Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at the University of British Columbia:
- Possess a Bachelor’s degree finished;
- Must not hold a PhD or graduate degree already;
- Be 35 years of age or younger (born in 1988 or later) at the time of application;
- Be a citizen or a refugee of a Sub-Saharan African nation (mentioned here);
- Have spent a substantial portion of their lives in a nation in Sub-Saharan Africa;
- The current financial situation, which is economically disadvantageous
- Have succeeded academically under challenging conditions
- Display the ability or capability for leadership;
- Show that they care about and are dedicated to supporting their local community.
- Be an individual who needs study permission from Canada to study there;
- Not be someone who, after entering Canada, has claimed or intends to seek refugee status or asylum;
- Pledge to go back to Africa and use their knowledge and abilities to improve the lives of others;
- Be submitting an application for a Master’s degree at UBC’s Vancouver campus in one of the following colleges and programs;
- Faculty of Forestry
- Faculty of Land and Food Systems
- Faculty of Science
- Only the accepted scholars’ costs are paid for by the Mastercard Foundation Scholarship Program.
- Nominations for this award are not accepted from citizens or Permanent Residents of Canada.
- It is not possible to use funds from the UBC Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program to enroll in courses at other universities.
Interview Date, and Process for UBC Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program
The dates shown here might not match the ones seen on faculty web pages. Please be aware that the deadlines listed below are for submitting all of your application materials, including reference letters, if you’re applying to UBC’s Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program.
Step 1: Assess Your Eligibility
Step 2: Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program Application December 1, 2023
Step 3: UBC Faculty Applications:
- Forestry: January 11, 2024
- Land and Food Systems: January 9, 2024
- Science: January 9, 2024
*The various deadlines for these programs should be taken into account by applicants. The school won’t accept entries that are too late.
Required Documents:
- Submit the Personal Statements, CV, two reference letters on official letterhead, Checklist, Application Form, transcripts, and signed declaration
Application Process for UBC Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program
Step One: Assess Your Eligibility
- Choose your desired program or programs from the list that is presented.
- For information on your academic eligibility, see the country-by-country list of Minimum Academic Requirements/International Credentials for Graduate Students.
- Check the program webpage to make sure you have the necessary prior experience.
Step Two: Additional Tests
- Make plans to take an English Proficiency Exam (TOEFL or IELTS) if English was not the primary language of instruction for your bachelor’s degree.
Step Three: MCFSP Application Package
- Finish the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program Application by December 1, 2023.
- Submit the package electronically in a single PDF document through email to mcfsp.admissions@ubc.ca.
Step Four: UBC Faculty Applications
- After filling out the MCFSP Application, apply online as directed.
- Examine the guidelines for faculty applications and your eligibility for fee exemptions.
Step Five: Reviewing Process
- Faculty members will suggest applicants for admission to the Mastercard Foundation Scholarship in February 2024.
- Applications will be ranked by a university-wide selection committee, which will also choose the prize recipients.
- In April 2024, those who made the shortlist will be called for a video interview.
You can also visit the MCFScholars website for further details.
The Submission Deadline is: December 1, 2023
Not interested in this particular scholarship? See other Canada scholarships here.