SCHOLARSHIP OVERVIEW
Program: McCall MacBain Scholarships
University: McGill University
Location: Montréal, Canada
Application Opens: June 1, 2025
Deadline:
- August 20, 2025 (for applicants from other universities)
- September 24, 2025 (for Canadian/U.S. university graduates and Canadians abroad)
Number of Awards: 30 Full Scholarships + 100 Finalist/Regional Awards
Study Start Date: Fall 2026
Scholarship Type: Fully Funded Master’s & Professional Degree Scholarships
About the McCall MacBain Scholarships
The McCall MacBain Scholarships are Canada’s first fully funded, leadership-driven graduate awards. Launched in 2019 through a historic CAD $200 million gift from John and Marcy McCall MacBain, the program supports students who combine exceptional character, community engagement, leadership, and intellectual curiosity.
Scholars join a dynamic, global cohort and receive world-class mentorship and leadership training while pursuing a master’s or second-entry professional degree at McGill University.
What the Scholarship Covers
| Component | Details |
|---|---|
| Tuition & Fees | Full tuition and fees for eligible programs |
| Living Stipend | CAD $2,300/month (during academic terms; updated annually) |
| Relocation Grant | One-time support to move to Montréal |
| Summer Funding | Up to CAD $5,000 for a meaningful summer project |
| Interview Travel | Return airfare & accommodation for finalists invited to Montréal |
| Leadership Development | Mentorship, leadership curriculum, and coaching |
Award Categories for 2026 Cohort
| Applicant Type | Full Scholarships | Finalist Awards | Regional Awards |
|---|---|---|---|
| Canadian Applicants | 20 | 30 × CAD $10,000 | 30 × CAD $5,000 |
| International Applicants | 10 | 25 × CAD $20,000 | 15 × CAD $10,000 |
| Total Awards | 30 full + 100 partial awards |
Eligibility Criteria (2026 Intake)
Academic Background
You must meet one of the following:
- Be completing your first bachelor’s degree by August 2026
- Have earned your first bachelor’s on or after January 2020
- If your degree is older, you must have been 30 or younger on January 1, 2025
Additional Requirements
- Intend to enroll full-time in a master’s or second-entry professional program at McGill in Summer/Fall 2026
- Meet McGill graduate admission standards (GPA, prerequisites, language)
- Show exceptional character, leadership, service, and academic strength
Eligible Degrees
All full-time McGill master’s programs and select professional degrees qualify:
- MA, MSc, MEng, MBA, MPP, etc.
- BCL/JD, DMD, MDCM
Applicants may list up to five eligible programs in one scholarship application. You must gain admission to at least one.
Application Timeline
| Stage | Dates |
|---|---|
| Application opens | June 1, 2025 |
| Application deadline | Aug 20 (Intl.); Sep 24 (Canada/U.S./Abroad) |
| Regional interviews | October–November 2025 (Virtual) |
| Final interviews | March 2026 (In-person, Montréal) |
| Offers released | April 2026 |
| Program start | September 2026 |
Application Components
- Online form with 5 short-answer essays
- 2 reference letters:
- Academic Reference: intellectual curiosity
- Character/Community Reference: leadership & service
- Résumé (max 2 pages)
- Academic transcripts (unofficial accepted for review)
- Optional video introduction
- McGill program application (Oct–Dec 2025 if shortlisted)
What Happens Next?
- Paper Review – Assess fit with scholarship values
- Regional Interview – 20-minute virtual panel
- Final Interviews – 3 in-person interviews + group activities
- Awards Granted – Final selection for scholars and awardees
Selection Criteria
| Dimension | Reviewers Look For |
|---|---|
| Exceptional Character | Integrity, humility, empathy, perseverance |
| Community Engagement | Long-term service addressing real needs |
| Leadership Potential | Guiding others, learning from setbacks |
| Entrepreneurial Spirit | Initiatives launched or shaped in any sector |
| Academic Strength | Strong performance + deep curiosity beyond academics |
Five Application Tips
- Start Early – June launch; references take time
- Map Your Impact – Quantify service/leadership outcomes
- Own Your Failures – Reflect honestly and show growth
- Demonstrate Vision – Why McGill? Why now?
- Edit Ruthlessly – Word limits are strict; seek feedback
FAQs
- Over 30? Only eligible if first degree was ≤5 years ago
- French Required? No; free classes available in Montréal
- Deferrals Allowed? No; must start in 2026
- Didn’t Win? You may still receive CAD $5,000–$20,000 entrance award
- Stipend Taxable? Yes in Canada; consult a tax expert
How to Apply
Application Portal Opens: June 1, 2025
Official Resources
For more information and to verify program prerequisites early Sign up for email alerts to receive workshop dates, reminders, and application tips.
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