Apply Now for the Fully Funded 2026-2027 Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at the University of Toronto – Global South Opportunities

Empowering Africa’s Future Health Leaders Through Fully Funded Graduate Education
The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at the University of Toronto (U of T) is a prestigious and fully funded scholarship opportunity designed to support exceptional young leaders from Africa. Through this transformative initiative, Mastercard Foundation is investing in the next generation of change-makers who are committed to improving health outcomes across the African continent.
As part of its broader mission to foster financial inclusion, equitable access to education, and sustainable development, the Mastercard Foundation partners with leading universities and organizations worldwide.
At its core, the Foundation believes that the future of Africa lies in the hands of its youth—particularly those who demonstrate academic excellence, leadership potential, and a deep commitment to giving back to their communities.
Hosted by Canada’s top-ranked and globally respected university, the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at U of T is focused on empowering talented African students to become leaders in healthcare and health systems. The program is part of the university’s broader goal to support international development and social innovation.
The scholarship supports students pursuing graduate-level degrees in health-related disciplines, enabling them to gain critical knowledge, build professional networks, and develop the skills needed to lead change across health ecosystems in their home countries.
Upon completion of their studies, Scholars are expected to return to their home countries to:
This emphasis on return and reintegration is a key pillar of the program’s long-term impact.
The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at the University of Toronto is fully funded and includes:
Beyond financial support, Scholars become part of a global network of Mastercard Foundation alumni who are engaged in driving social change, innovation, and development throughout Africa.
To be eligible for the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at U of T, applicants must meet the following requirements:
Applicants who demonstrate a commitment to community service, equity in healthcare, and youth empowerment are especially encouraged to apply.
The application process for the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at the University of Toronto consists of two main steps:
Applicants are encouraged to highlight their past contributions to community health and their plans to support health innovation in Africa after graduation.
In addition to the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program, students may also explore related fully funded opportunities such as:
Each scholarship has distinct eligibility criteria, and prospective students are encouraged to review all options available at the University of Toronto.
The application deadline for the 2026-2027 Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at the University of Toronto will be on November 3, 2025 at 12 noon (Toronto time). Interested applicants can register to attend one of the virtual information sessions detailed on the Announcement(opens in a new tab). The Scholarship Application will open on October 14 following these information sessions.
The Mastercard Foundation, headquartered in Toronto, Canada, is one of the largest philanthropic foundations in the world. Its work centers on advancing inclusive education and financial systems that enable young people especially in Africa to realize their potential.
Through innovative partnerships and a commitment to systemic change, the Foundation is helping to shape a more equitable, prosperous, and healthy future.
Disclaimer: Global South Opportunities (GSO) is not the hosting organization. For any inquiries, please contact the official organization directly. Please do not send your applications to GSO, as we are unable to process them. Due to the high volume of emails we receive daily, we may not be able to respond to all inquiries. Thank you for your understanding.
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