Apply For UBC Mastercard Scholarship 2024/2025 To Study In Canada
The University of British Columbia (UBC), in partnership with the Mastercard Foundation, is on the quest to change the future of young talent in Africa through education.
The program has already provided support for 171 scholars, and it is set to provide support for 351 more bright minds in Sub-Saharan Africa to attend one of Canada’s foremost universities. After acquiring these skills in foreign universities, these scholars are supposed to take their skills to their home countries to foster economic and social development.
About the UBC Mastercard Scholarship
The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program is not just a scholarship; it is a dream. The objective of this program was to train the future leaders of Africa by focussing on the education needs of the youths in Africa, mostly those who come from poor economic backgrounds. This one aims at increasing access to secondary and tertiary education for students, especially those from Sub-Saharan Africa.
In Africa, which is the world’s youngest continent, more than 60% of the population is under the age of 25. Economic and political progress has been visible in the recent past; however, the overall picture of education, specifically in higher learning institutions, is still in its infancy.
The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program is currently working to change the narrative by supporting the enrolment of poor, talented students globally to achieve academic success and global competitiveness.
Overview of the UBC Mastercard Scholarship
- Host Country: Canada
- Study Abroad: Yes, study in Canada
- Host University: University of British Columbia (UBC)
- Scholarship Level: Postgraduate, including Masters
- Eligible Countries: Sub-Saharan African nations
- Benefits: Full scholarship covering tuition, living stipends, travel costs, accommodation, laptop, and health insurance
- Application Opens: August 30, 2024
- Application Deadline: October 31, 2024
What the Scholarship Covers
This scholarship package is quite broad, with the willingness to help lessen the financial pressures on students as they pursue their education. Here’s what you can expect:
- Tuition & Books: All educational costs, including books, are covered.
- Flights & Immigration Support: Assistance with travel arrangements and visa processes.
- Room and Board: Accommodation is fully paid for, ensuring a comfortable living environment.
- Living Expenses: A stipend to cover daily expenses so you can focus on your studies without financial stress.
- Health Insurance: Comprehensive health coverage during your study period in Canada.
- Career Services & Support: Guidance and support to prepare you for life beyond graduation.
- Alumni Network Access: Join a global network of Mastercard Foundation alumni, opening doors to opportunities worldwide.
- Social Entrepreneurship Fund: For scholars with an entrepreneurial spirit looking to start a business or social venture back in Africa.
Available Programs at UBC for the Mastercard Scholarship
If you’re eyeing a Master’s degree, UBC has several programs eligible for the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program, each designed to equip you with skills for impactful careers:
Faculty of Forestry:
- Master of Sustainable Forest Management (MSFM)
- Master of International Forestry (MIF)
- Master of Geomatics for Environmental Management (MGEM)
Faculty of Land and Food Systems:
- Master of Food and Resource Economics (MFRE)
- Master of Food Science (MFS)
- Master of Land and Water Systems (MLWS)
Faculty of Science:
- Master of Data Science
The University of British Columbia (UBC) is one of the first Canadian universities to get involved in this global project, launching a $500 million cooperation with 14 other partners in education. In the next ten years, the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at UBC will enroll 163 scholars at both undergraduate and graduate levels.
Eligibility Criteria and Application Process
If you’re interested in applying, here’s what you need to know about eligibility and how to get started:
Eligibility Requirements:
- Must have completed a Bachelor’s degree.
- Cannot already hold a graduate or Ph.D. degree.
- Applicants need to be 35 years old or younger when they apply.
- You must hold citizenship or refugee status in a Sub-Saharan African nation.
- Must have spent a significant portion of life in a Sub-Saharan African country.
- Must demonstrate financial need and come from an economically disadvantaged background.
- Must have excelled academically, often in challenging circumstances.
- Should exhibit leadership qualities or potential.
- Must show a commitment to giving back to their home community.
- You’ll need to secure a Canadian study permit to be eligible to study in Canada.
- Must commit to returning to Africa to apply their skills post-graduation.
- Should not be seeking asylum or protected status in Canada.
Application Deadline: October 31, 2024
For further inquiries, contact: mcfsp.admissions@ubc.ca
How to Apply for the Scholarship
- Assess Your Eligibility: Please visit the program list and compare it to the minimum academic requirements for your country on UBC’s graduate admissions page.
- Additional Tests: If your previous education wasn’t in English, arrange to take an English proficiency test (TOEFL or IELTS).
- MCFSP Application Package: Complete and submit the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program application by October 31, 2024. Your application must be in a single PDF document, sent via email to mcfsp.admissions@ubc.ca.
- UBC Faculty Applications: Follow the specific instructions for applying to your chosen faculty. Some may offer fee waivers.
- Review Process: UBC faculties will nominate candidates, and a selection committee will evaluate and rank applications. If you make it to the shortlist, you’ll be invited for a video interview.
For additional information on how to apply, check the official website of the UBC Mastercard Foundation Scholarship Program 2024/2025.
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