University of Toronto Mastercard Scholarships 2026 for Sub-Saharan Students
Are you a passionate student from Sub-Saharan Africa looking to advance your education at one of the world’s most prestigious universities? The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at the University of Toronto has officially opened its graduate scholarship recruitment for the 2026–2027 academic year. This is a life-changing opportunity designed to empower outstanding African students who are committed not only to academic excellence but also to returning home to drive meaningful social and economic change.
About the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program
The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program is a global initiative that supports talented students from economically disadvantaged communities across Africa. At the University of Toronto, this program focuses on building the next generation of African leaders, particularly in health-related fields. Scholars are not only given the resources to succeed academically, but they are also equipped with the mentorship, networks, and leadership training required to become impactful professionals once they return to their home countries.
For the 2026–2027 intake, applications are open to recent alumni and graduating students of the Africa Health Collaborative partner universities.
List of Mastercard Partner Institutions in the Africa Health Collaborative:
- Addis Ababa University
- African Leadership University
- African Institute for Mathematical Sciences
- Ashesi University
- Amref International University/Amref Health Africa
- Moi University
- Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology
- University of Cape Town.
What Does the Scholarship Cover?
This is a fully funded scholarship that leaves nothing to worry about financially. Successful applicants will receive:
- Full tuition fees for the entire program
- Travel costs to and from Toronto
- Housing and meals throughout their studies
- Books, learning resources, and personal expenses
- Access to a support network for academic and personal success.
In addition, scholars will take part in a two-week summer orientation program before classes begin. This orientation is designed to help them adjust to life in Toronto, connect with peers and faculty, and prepare for their academic journey.
Graduate Programs Available at University of Toronto in 2026
Up to 20 mastercard scholarships will be awarded across the following graduate programs at the University of Toronto:
- Master of Engineering (Biomedical)
- MHSc Master of Health Informatics
- MHSc Master of Health Administration
- MPH: Occupational and Environmental Health
- MPH: Health Promotion
- Master of Financial Insurance.
Applicants are strongly encouraged to choose a program that matches both their career aspirations and their motivation to make an impact back in Africa.
Eligibility Requirements
To be considered for this opportunity, applicants must meet all six (06) criteria:
- Citizenship – Be a citizen and currently residing in a Sub-Saharan African country.
- Education – Be graduating or recently graduated from one of the partner institutions listed above.
- Graduate-level status – Not have started graduate-level studies yet.
- Age limit – Be under 35 years of age.
- Academic and leadership excellence – Show strong academic records and proven leadership potential.
- Commitment – Demonstrate the intention to return home after graduation to contribute to Africa’s growth and development.
Apply: https://internationalexperience.utoronto.ca/global-experiences/global-scholarships/mastercard-foundation-scholars
Call: https://internationalexperience.utoronto.ca/wp-content/uploads/Graduate-MCF-Announcement-2026-27-1.pdf
Application Deadline
Applicants interested in the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at the University of Toronto 2026–2027 should keep track of the important dates. Two virtual information sessions will be held on Tuesday, October 14, 2025, at 9:00 AM EST and 12:00 PM EST to guide students through the application process.
The last date to submit the Mastercard Foundation Scholarship application is November 3, 2025, at 12:00 PM (Toronto time). Successful candidates will be notified of results in early December 2025, and the selected scholars will officially begin their graduate studies at the University of Toronto in September 2026.
Why Apply?
This is not just a scholarship; it is an investment in Africa’s future. Beyond funding, the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at the University of Toronto creates a community of changemakers. As a scholar, you will:
- Gain a world-class graduate education at Canada’s top-ranked university.
- Join a powerful alumni network of professionals committed to Africa’s transformation.
- Develop leadership skills and practical experience to support your long-term impact.
Visit daadscholarship.com for More Fully-funded Scholarships 2026 News.
