Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at the University of Toronto

The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at the University of Toronto is a fully funded global scholarship designed to support academically talented students from Sub-Saharan Africa who face financial barriers to higher education. The program goes beyond funding, focusing on leadership development, community impact, and long-term transformation in scholars’ home countries.

What’s Offered

• Full financial support, including tuition, living expenses, accommodation, books, and health insurance

• Leadership training and professional development programs

• Mentorship, academic advising, and access to a strong global alumni network

• Opportunities for experiential learning, internships, and community engagement

Eligibility Criteria

• Applicants must be citizens of a Sub-Saharan African country

• Must demonstrate academic excellence and leadership potential

• Applicants must show financial need that would otherwise prevent them from studying at UofT

• Strong commitment to giving back to their community or country after graduation

• Must apply and gain admission to an eligible undergraduate or graduate program at the University of Toronto

Fields of Study

• Available across a wide range of disciplines, including:

  • Social Sciences and Humanities

  • STEM and Health Sciences

  • Business, Public Policy, and Education

  • Environmental and Global Development Studies

Program Structure

• Scholars are selected through a holistic and highly competitive process

• The program integrates academic study with leadership labs, service learning, and impact-driven projects

• Scholars are supported throughout their studies and continue engagement as alumni

Deadline

• Application timelines align with the University of Toronto admissions cycle, with additional internal deadlines for the scholarship