McCall MacBain Scholarship 2026 Canada

At Izaranet, we’re passionate about connecting ambitious minds with life-changing opportunities and the McCall MacBain Scholarship is one of the most prestigious chances out there for students dreaming of studying abroad. This fully funded scholarship offers more than just a free education: it opens doors to world-class leadership training, global mentorship, and an empowering academic journey at McGill University, one of Canada’s most respected institutions.

Launched in 2019 through a historic donation of CA $200 million, the largest-ever gift in Canadian scholarship history, the McCall MacBain Scholarship was created to empower future leaders who care deeply about community service, global impact, and meaningful change. It’s not just about having excellent grades. It’s about who you are, what you stand for, and how you're preparing to shape the world.

Each year, up to 30 full scholarships are awarded to students from across the globe, while dozens more receive regional or finalist awards. But what truly sets this scholarship apart is the ecosystem it builds: scholars participate in an intensive leadership development program, benefit from mentorship by professionals and public leaders, take part in regular seminars and retreats, and engage in real projects that impact communities, both locally and globally.

Whether you’re finishing your undergraduate degree, recently graduated, or already a young professional under 30, the McCall MacBain Scholarship invites you to take the next bold step. If you have a passion for service, a desire to lead with purpose, and the determination to grow beyond the classroom, this scholarship could be your gateway to transforming your future and contributing meaningfully to your country and the world.

Scholarship Details

  • Country: Canada 🇨🇦
  • Host University: McGill University, Montreal
  • Program Type: Master’s Degree / Second-Entry Professional Degree
  • Funding Type: Fully Funded
  • Duration: Varies by program (typically 1–2 years)
  • Application Deadline:
    • International applicants: August 21, 2025
    • Canadian/US applicants: September 25, 2025

Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible for the McCall MacBain Scholarship, you must meet one of the following:

  • Completing your first bachelor’s degree maximum by August 2026
  • Earned your first bachelor’s on or after January 2020
  • Earned your first bachelor’s over five years ago and were 30 years old or younger as of January 2025

In addition, applicants must show:

  • Strong academic performance
  • Demonstrated leadership and commitment to community
  • A clear sense of purpose and motivation
  • Eligibility for their chosen graduate program at McGill
  • English or French language proficiency (depending on program requirements)

Scholarship Benefits

  • Full tuition and fees for an eligible master's or professional program at McGill
  • A living stipend of CA $2,300 per month during academic terms
  • A one-time relocation grant for moving to Montréal
  • Free beginner to advanced French language courses offered through McGill
  • Scholars not pursuing an academic term during the summer may apply for up to CA $5,000 to pursue meaningful summer initiatives
  • Mentorship from professionals and community leaders
  • Leadership training, skill-building workshops, and a vibrant community of global changemakers

Required Documents

  • Transcripts of current and/or previous university studies
  • Curriculum Vitae (CV) or Resume
  • Two reference letters:
    • One academic
    • One focused on leadership or character
  • Personal statements and short essays (on motivation, leadership, and service)
  • Language test results (if applicable: TOEFL, IELTS)
  • McGill application (only submitted after progressing to the finalist stage)

Available Study Programs

The scholarship supports more than 150 eligible full-time programs at the Master’s or Second-Entry Professional level at McGill University, including but not limited to:

  • Public Policy
  • Education
  • Law (BCL/JD)
  • Engineering
  • Environment
  • Arts
  • Science
  • Social Work
  • Business (MMA, MMR, etc.)
  • Public Health
  • Urban Planning

Application Process

  1. Prepare early: Gather your transcripts, draft your CV, and choose your references.
  2. Apply online for the McCall MacBain Scholarship before the deadline.
  3. Submit your McGill University admission application for an eligible program only if you’re selected as a finalist.
  4. Shortlisted candidates will be invited to regional interviews (online or in person).
  5. Finalists will be invited to final interviews in Montreal (travel covered).
  6. Selected scholars will begin their studies at McGill in Fall 2026.

Application Deadline

  • International applicants: August 20, 2025 (4 PM ET)
  • Canadian and US applicants: September 24, 2025 (4 PM ET)

Tip: Start working on your application as early as possible to have time to revise and polish your materials.

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