The University of British Columbia (UBC) has partnered with The Mastercard Foundation to help develop future African leaders. Through this collaboration, the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program aims to provide young people from Sub-Saharan Africa with opportunities for higher education. In the first phase, UBC supported over 171 Mastercard Foundation Scholars. Now, the program will extend its reach, offering 351 more students the chance to receive quality education at UBC.
The University of British Columbia Mastercard Scholarship
The University of British Columbia (UBC) Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program provides a comprehensive range of benefits to ensure that scholars can focus entirely on their studies and personal growth without worrying about financial burdens. Here’s what the scholarship covers:
- Tuition & Books: The scholarship fully covers all tuition fees for the duration of the program, ensuring that scholars have access to quality education at UBC. Additionally, the cost of required textbooks and academic materials is also included, ensuring that scholars have everything they need to succeed academically.
- Flights & Immigration Support: The scholarship provides round-trip airfare for students from their home countries to Canada. Additionally, scholars receive immigration support to assist with visa applications and other legal processes needed to study in Canada.
- Room and Board: Scholars are provided with on-campus accommodation throughout their studies at UBC. The cost of meals and living essentials is also covered.
- Stipend for Living Expenses: A monthly stipend is given to cover daily living expenses such as personal items, transportation, and other basic needs.
- Health Insurance: The scholarship includes comprehensive health insurance to cover any medical needs during the scholar’s stay in Canada.
- Career Services & Support: Scholars receive career guidance and professional development support throughout their time at UBC. This includes access to career workshops, networking opportunities, internships, and other resources that help prepare scholars for their future careers.
- Access to a Global Mastercard Foundation Alumni Network: After graduation, scholars become part of a global alumni network of Mastercard Foundation Scholars. This network provides continued support and opportunities for collaboration with other scholars and professionals around the world, promoting ongoing learning and community engagement.
- Social Entrepreneurship Fund: For scholars who are enterprising and have plans to start their own ventures back in Africa, the program offers a Social Entrepreneurship Fund. This initiative provides financial and practical support to help scholars launch projects that address social and economic challenges on the continent.
Scholarship Requirements
To be eligible for the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Master’s Degree Program at UBC, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Bachelor’s Degree: Applicants must have completed a Bachelor’s degree from a recognized institution.
- No Previous Master’s Degree: Applicants should not already have a Master’s degree. The scholarship is intended for those pursuing a Master’s for the first time.
- Age Requirement: Applicants must be 35 years old or younger at the time of application. Only candidates born in 1989 or later are eligible.
- Citizenship: Applicants must be citizens or refugees of a Sub-Saharan African country. This scholarship is aimed at individuals from this region, and the list of eligible countries can be found on here
- Eligible Master’s Programs: Applicants must apply for a Master’s degree in one of the programs listed as eligible by UBC. This ensures that their field of study aligns with the scholarship’s goals.
These are the key requirements for applying to the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at UBC.
Application Process
The application process for the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at UBC involves several key steps. Each step is crucial to ensure eligibility and successful submission.
1. Verify Academic Eligibility: Before applying, check the UBC Minimum Academic Requirements/International Credentials for graduate students. These requirements are listed by country to help you determine if your academic background qualifies you for the program and the scholarship.
2. English Proficiency (If Required): If your Bachelor’s degree was not taught in English, you must take an English Proficiency Exam such as TOEFL or IELTS. Be sure to send your test results directly to UBC. You can visit the UBC website to confirm whether you meet their English language requirements.
3. Submit the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program Application: Before applying to UBC, you must complete the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program Application. This application is due by October 31st, 2024. Late or incomplete applications will not be accepted, and UBC is not responsible for any submissions that fail to meet the deadline.
- Complete the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program Application Form.
- For the personal statements, answer each question in 200-300 words.
- Submit a CV/Resume outlining your academic and professional background.
- Provide two reference letters on official letterhead. Attach these letters to your application package, as they should not be emailed separately.
- Submit your Transcripts from previous academic institutions.
4. Apply to Your UBC Faculty: After submitting your Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program application, eligible candidates will receive an email with instructions on how to apply to their respective UBC faculty.
- Review the application instructions for your faculty and follow the steps provided in the email.
- You may be eligible for a fee waiver if you are from one of the 50 least developed countries, as defined by the United Nations. Visit the website provided to check if your country is listed.
- If your country is not on the list, request a fee waiver during the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program application process.
- If invited to the UBC Faculty Application step, you will receive detailed instructions on how to apply the fee waiver.
- Ensure the fee waiver is applied before submitting your application, as refunds cannot be provided if the fee is paid by mistake.
This process ensures that all eligible candidates can complete their application for both the scholarship and UBC faculty in an organized manner.
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Selection Criteria
The selection process for the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program is based on several key criteria. Each factor is carefully evaluated to ensure that the most deserving candidates are chosen for the scholarship:
1. Academic Merit: The academic achievements of the applicant play a significant role in the selection process. Candidates must meet the admission requirements for their chosen Master’s program at UBC, demonstrating strong academic performance.
2. Leadership and Community Service: Applicants must have a proven track record of leadership and service within their community. This includes taking initiative to drive positive change, showing dedication to helping others, and being recognized as a transformative leader.
3. Alignment with the Program Theme: The quality of the application is assessed based on how well it aligns with the themes of the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program. Applicants must clearly demonstrate their commitment to the program’s values and objectives, particularly in terms of leadership and social impact.
4. Potential Impact on Home Country: The selection process considers the potential impact the applicant will have on the development of their home country. Candidates who can show how their education will contribute to economic growth and social transformation in their community or country are given priority.
5. Overcoming Barriers to Education: Applicants who have faced significant challenges in accessing education are given special consideration. These barriers may be social, financial, personal, practical, or health-related. The program seeks to support those who have demonstrated resilience and determination in overcoming these obstacles.
Deadline
The deadline to submit the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program application for the University of British Columbia is October 31st, 2024. It is important to ensure that all required documents and forms are submitted by this date, as late or incomplete applications will not be accepted.
