Frequently Asked Questions#

These are the questions I get asked the most. If yours is not here, drop a comment and I will add it.

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Can I apply to both the McCall MacBain and Mastercard Foundation at McGill?#

Check the specific rules for the year you are applying. Both scholarships are administered through McGill, and there may be restrictions on holding concurrent applications or awards. Read the fine print on both scholarship websites carefully, or contact McGill's scholarship office directly to confirm. Rules can change year to year, so do not rely on outdated information.

I am not from Africa — can I still get a full scholarship for a Master's in Canada?#

Yes. The McCall MacBain Scholarship is open to all nationalities. It does not matter where you are from — Africa, Asia, Latin America, Europe, anywhere. If you meet the academic requirements and demonstrate the qualities they are looking for, you can apply.

The Mastercard Foundation programs at McGill and UBC are specifically for students from Sub-Saharan Africa. So if you are not from that region, McCall MacBain is your strongest option for a full ride.

What if I am a refugee?#

UBC's Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program has a specific stream for refugees and displaced persons. This is rare and valuable. If you are a refugee, look into this stream specifically — it is designed for your situation.

McCall MacBain does not have a refugee-specific stream, but your refugee experience and resilience would be a powerful part of your application story.

Can I work while studying in Canada?#

Yes. As an international student with a valid study permit, you can work:

• On-campus: no hour limit
• Off-campus: up to 20 hours per week during regular academic sessions
• Full-time during scheduled breaks (winter break, summer break)

Your scholarship covers your expenses, but Canadian work experience is extremely valuable for your career and your future immigration applications.

Do I need to speak French for McGill?#

No. McGill is an English-language university. All your courses, assignments, and interactions will be in English. McGill happens to be located in Montreal, Quebec, where French is the primary language of the city. But the university itself operates in English.

That said, learning some basic French will make your daily life in Montreal much easier and more enjoyable. But it is not required for admission or for your studies.

What programs are eligible for these scholarships?#

This varies by scholarship:

• McCall MacBain: covers most Master's and professional programs at McGill. Check their website for the full list — some programs are excluded.
• Mastercard Foundation at McGill: covers specific Master's programs aligned with the foundation's focus areas. The list is published each application cycle.
• UBC Mastercard Foundation: covers select graduate programs at UBC. Check the program list on their website.

Do not assume your program is covered. Verify before you apply.

What if I do not get any of these 3 scholarships?#

First, do not give up on studying abroad. These are not the only options.

Consider MPOWER Financing for student loans that do not require a cosigner or collateral. They work with 400+ schools in the US and Canada.

You can also look at funded Master's programs in the USA — I have a separate course on that: Study for FREE in the USA — Master's. Many US universities offer full funding through assistantships and fellowships.

And keep applying next year. Many successful scholars applied more than once before they were selected.

How competitive are these scholarships?#

Very competitive. The McCall MacBain Scholarship selects approximately 85 finalists from thousands of applications worldwide. The Mastercard Foundation programs at McGill and UBC are equally selective.

But here is what I want you to remember: someone gets selected every single year. Those people were once sitting where you are right now, wondering if they had a chance. They applied anyway. Why not you?

Can I defer my scholarship if I am accepted?#

Mastercard Foundation: generally no. If you are selected, you are expected to enroll for that academic year.

McCall MacBain: deferrals may be possible in limited circumstances (serious medical issues, for example), but this is not guaranteed. Do not count on being able to defer.

If you are not ready to start, it may be better to apply in a future cycle when you are fully prepared.

What happens after I graduate?#

This is the exciting part:

• Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP): after a 2-year Master's program, you can get a work permit for up to 3 years. Work for any employer, anywhere in Canada.
• Permanent Residency: with a Canadian Master's degree, Canadian work experience, and strong English skills, you are a top candidate for Express Entry. Many graduates get PR within 1-2 years after graduation.
• Citizenship: after living in Canada as a PR for 3 years, you can apply for Canadian citizenship.

A Master's scholarship in Canada is not just a degree. It is a pathway to a completely new future.

Is Montreal expensive to live in?#

Montreal is one of the most affordable major cities in Canada. Expect to spend roughly $1,000 to $1,500 CAD per month on rent, food, transportation, and personal expenses. This is significantly cheaper than Vancouver or Toronto.

Your scholarship covers living expenses, so this should not be a concern. But it is good to know what things cost so you can budget any extra spending.

Do these scholarships cover travel to Canada?#

• Mastercard Foundation (McGill and UBC): yes, travel costs to and from Canada are covered.
• McCall MacBain: travel to Montreal for the finalist interview weekend is covered by the scholarship. Travel to Canada for the start of your program — check the specific terms of your award.

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Those are the most common questions. If you have gone through this entire course, you now know more about full scholarships for a Master's in Canada than 99% of applicants. The information is here. The opportunity is real. Now it is up to you to take action.