Montreal, Quebec — Canada
McGill University
Home of the McCall MacBain Scholarship and the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program — Canada's biggest fully funded master's awards.
Last updated July 2026. Always confirm details on the school's official page before applying.
McGill University in Montreal hosts two of the best full scholarships in Canada for master's students. These are not partial awards or tuition discounts — they cover your tuition, your accommodation, and give you a monthly stipend to live on. If your country is affected by the US travel ban, McGill is one of the strongest alternatives for a world-class, fully funded master's degree.
McCall MacBain Scholars Program
Merit-based · Master's · ~80 scholars per year
What it covers
- Full tuition and fees for your entire master's program
- $2,300 per month living stipend
- Relocation grant covering your travel to Montreal
- Mentorship and leadership programming with a network of scholars
Who qualifies
International students from any country. Selection is based on leadership, character, and community engagement — not financial need.
Key deadlines
How to apply
- 1Apply for the scholarship first, before applying to McGill for admission — the portal is at mccallmacbainscholars.org.
- 2Complete the online application form and upload your CV/resume.
- 3Provide your transcripts.
- 4Submit two reference letters — one academic, and one that speaks to your character and leadership.
- 5Current students and recent graduates must get an endorsement from their university before submitting.
- 6If selected as a finalist, apply to your chosen McGill master's program and attend in-person interviews in Montreal (travel costs covered).
Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program
Merit-based · Master's · ~35 scholars per year
What it covers
- Full tuition and fees
- On-campus housing
- Living stipend
- Visa and immigration support
Who qualifies
Exclusively for students from African countries who demonstrate academic excellence and financial need.
How to apply
- 1Apply for admission to an eligible McGill master's program.
- 2Submit the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program application with your academic records.
- 3Demonstrate financial need and your commitment to giving back to your community.
Good to know
- Montreal's cost of living is significantly lower than Toronto or Vancouver — the McCall MacBain stipend comfortably covers living expenses.
- Canada offers a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) for up to 3 years after graduation, plus immigration pathways through Express Entry.
Frequently asked questions
How much does the McCall MacBain Scholarship pay?
The McCall MacBain Scholarship covers full tuition, provides a $2,300/month living stipend, and includes a relocation grant to cover travel costs to Montreal.
Is the Mastercard Foundation Scholarship at McGill open to all international students?
No. The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at McGill is exclusively for students from African countries. Around 35 scholarships are awarded each year.
Should I apply to McGill before applying for the McCall MacBain Scholarship?
No — apply for the scholarship first. The McCall MacBain application opens before McGill's program applications, and finalists then apply to their chosen McGill master's program.
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McCall MacBain Scholarship: Full Funding for Master's at McGill
Mastercard Foundation Scholarship at McGill University 2026
3 Full Scholarships in Canada for Master's Students (Travel Ban Alternative)
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