Mastercard Foundation Scholarships for African Students in Agriculture, Food Science, Forestry and Related Fields

The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program is a prestigious initiative designed to provide young Africans with the opportunity to study at some of the world's top universities, including those in Canada and the UK. If you have a background in agriculture, food science, forestry, or a related field, this program offers a pathway to higher education in these crucial sectors. As the application cycle for 2025 will open in September/October, it's an excellent time to begin preparing for the next round of applications. Here’s everything you need to know about the scholarship opportunities, the application process, and how to prepare for the upcoming cycle.

What is the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program?

The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program is a transformative scholarship initiative aimed at providing financial, academic, and leadership support to talented young Africans who face significant barriers to education. The program partners with prestigious universities in Canada, the UK, and Africa to offer scholarships at various academic levels, including undergraduate and master’s degrees.

The core goals of the program are to enhance educational opportunities for young Africans, develop leaders who can drive social change in their communities, and contribute to the economic development of Africa. In addition to covering tuition fees, accommodation, and other expenses, the scholarship also provides access to leadership training, mentorship, and career development resources.

The Mastercard Foundation is committed to supporting 100,000 scholars by 2030, with a strong focus on promoting gender equality, as over 70% of the current scholars are women.

Partner Universities in Canada and the UK

Canada

1. McGill University
   McGill University, located in Montreal, Canada, is one of the key partners in the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program. The university offers scholarships for students from Africa pursuing graduate degrees, particularly in fields that focus on sustainable agriculture, food security, and public health. McGill provides a robust support system for scholars, including mentorship and leadership development programs.

2. University of British Columbia (UBC)
   UBC in Vancouver is another key partner. The university supports scholars in disciplines that focus on sustainable agriculture, forestry, water management, and other areas critical to the development of African communities. UBC’s program offers full scholarships, including tuition, living expenses, and additional support to ensure scholars thrive both academically and professionally.

United Kingdom

1. University of Cambridge
   The University of Cambridge, in partnership with the Mastercard Foundation, provides scholarships for African students pursuing postgraduate studies. The scholarships cover a range of subjects, including agricultural sciences, food systems, environmental management, and public health. The university offers a comprehensive support system, including mentorship, networking opportunities, and leadership training.

2. University of Oxford
   The University of Oxford also collaborates with the Mastercard Foundation to offer scholarships to talented African students. While the focus is on addressing critical issues such as food security, sustainable agriculture, and environmental conservation, the scholarships are also open to various other fields related to global development and leadership.

Fields of Study Relevant to Agriculture, Food Science, and Forestry

If you have a background in agriculture, food science, forestry, or related fields, you can apply for scholarships in the following disciplines:

• Agricultural Sciences: Programs focused on improving farming practices, crop production, soil health, and agricultural economics.
• Food Science and Technology: Degrees related to food processing, nutrition, food safety, and sustainable food systems.
• Forestry and Environmental Management: Programs that cover forest conservation, biodiversity, climate change mitigation, and land use management.
• Public Health and Nutrition: Courses that focus on the intersection of health and agriculture, including food security, malnutrition, and public health policy.

These fields are directly aligned with the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program’s goal of addressing key challenges in Africa, such as food insecurity, climate change, and sustainable agricultural practices.

How to Apply for the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program

The application process for the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program varies by partner university. However, the general steps involved are as follows:

1. Choose Your University: Select one of the partner universities in Canada or the UK that offers the program aligned with your field of study.
2. Review Eligibility Criteria: Each university has its own set of requirements, so it’s important to carefully review the eligibility criteria for the program you are interested in.
3. Submit Your Application: Complete the online application form for the university of your choice. Be sure to submit all required documents, such as academic transcripts, letters of recommendation, a personal statement, and proof of English proficiency if necessary.
4. Prepare for Interviews: Shortlisted candidates may be invited to participate in interviews. Prepare by familiarizing yourself with the scholarship program and thinking about how your background, skills, and future goals align with the scholarship’s objectives.
5. Wait for Results: After submission, you will need to wait for the university to notify you of the outcome. Successful applicants will receive a comprehensive scholarship package that covers tuition fees, living expenses, and other costs.

Key Dates for the 2025 Application Cycle

While the exact dates may vary, the application cycle for the 2025 intake is expected to open around September/October 2025. It's important to start preparing well in advance. Below are the general steps to take in preparation for the application cycle:

• September 2025: Application period begins.
• November 2025: Deadline for submitting applications (dates may vary by university).
• February 2026: Shortlisted candidates may be invited for interviews.
• April 2026: Final results announced, and scholarship offers extended.

How to Prepare for the Application Cycle

1. Research the Program: Familiarize yourself with the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program and the specific scholarship opportunities available at each partner university.
2. Gather Documents: Ensure you have all required documents ready, such as academic transcripts, letters of recommendation, and a personal statement.
3. Start Writing Your Personal Statement: This is an important part of your application. Your personal statement should demonstrate your passion for your field, your leadership potential, and your commitment to making a positive impact in Africa.
4. Seek Guidance: Contact the admissions offices of the universities you’re interested in for any clarifications about the application process.

Additional Resources

• Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program Overview
• McGill University Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program
• University of British Columbia Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program
• University of Cambridge Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program
• University of Oxford Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program

Conclusion

The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program offers a life-changing opportunity for African students in agriculture, food science, forestry, and related fields. By partnering with universities in Canada and the UK, the program provides a comprehensive scholarship package, including financial, academic, and leadership support. If you're planning to apply for the next cycle starting in September/October 2025, now is the time to begin preparing. Research the partner universities, gather your documents, and start crafting a strong application that demonstrates your passion and commitment to driving positive change in Africa.